Halloween Party; open enrollment just around the corner
Published on September 19, 2022 at 12:53pm CDT
Senior News
By Diane Kittelson, Pope County Senior Services Consultant/Coordinator
Hello, seniors! Halloween is right around the corner! Mark your calendars now to attend the Pope County Senior Citizens Halloween Party. It is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 27, 2022, at the Minnewaska House. You are welcome to dress in costume or casually, either way it is sure to be a blast! Watch for more information in the coming weeks.
Open enrollment is also around the corner; Oct. 15 until Dec. 7, 2022. You can set up an appointment now to review your options at Western Prairie Human Services (formerly Pope County Human Services). It is not too early to get started, and remember not all plans or premiums stay the same.
Volunteers are needed as they play a crucial part for seniors in our communities. We all live busy lives, and it can be hard to find time to volunteer but the benefits can be enormous. Besides offering vital help to health and well-being of many, volunteering can help to protect your physical and mental health. It can keep a person mentally stimulated and provide a sense of purpose that helps to reduce stress and combat depression.
The number of family caregivers are on the rise! It is reported the average duration of caregiving is 4.5 years, and 29% of caregivers have been in the role for more than five years. Even with a supportive network of family and friends; it can be beneficial sharing experiences and insight with those experiencing the same or similar situations. Caregiver support groups are held monthly in Pope County. Resources are also available for caregivers and family members to help assess the current situations as well as plan for the future. In many situations the level of care and types of care can change rapidly putting more and more expectations on caregivers. Please remember you are not alone and there is help to support you.
If you would like more information about any of our options and resources for seniors or to learn more about volunteering, call me at Western Prairie Human Services 320-634-7837.
