There are many opportunities for Heights seniors to keep active. Volunteering is an option that can benefit both your neighbors and your community. Learn about local opportunities by contacting the Heights Emergency Food Center at 216-381-0707, Meals on Wheels at 216-291-2737, the Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging Senior Companion Program at 216-391-9500, the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program at 800-942-2677, HandsOn Northeast Ohio at 216-432-9390 and many local churches and synagogues.

Seniors Helping Seniors, an in-home care company, hires seniors to work with others seniors who are in need of help. The caregivers are paid for their services, and assist with a variety of tasks to help keep their peers living independently in their homes. No previous experience is necessary, and caregivers in the Heights area are needed. Call 440-759-0319 for information.

Taking a class is another way to stay active. The Cleveland Heights Senior Activity Center (SAC) offers a variety of classes in many different subjects. There are also several clubs and interest groups you can join. Call the SAC at 216-691-7377 for more information.

Computer classes are a good way to learn how to stay connected with family members. You can also learn how to use the Internet to do your banking or read a book. Tech Deity, a husband-and-wife computer education team, will come to your home to give you one-on-one training. Owner Mely Sato said, “We help seniors embrace technology and the many benefits it offers them.” Call Tech Deity at 440-454-6042.

Other interesting classes and programs may be found by contacting the Case Western Reserve University Lifelong Learning Program at 216-368-2090, the University Heights Library Senior Spot Program at 216-321-4700, and the University Heights Senior Citizen Happenings.

The AARP offers a Driver Safety Program that teaches seniors how to adjust their driving for age-related vision and hearing changes, how medications may affect driving, and how to be more careful on the road. The class may also entitle you to an insurance discount. Contact the AARP at 888-227-7669.

Special-interest clubs are a good way to get out of the house and meet other like-minded people. Contact the Shaker Lakes Nature Center at 216-321-5935, the Cuyahoga Astronomical Association at 440-572-0464, or the Cleveland Hiking Club at [email protected]. You might also find or start a local book club, bridge or knitting club, or a support group.

Another opportunity to socialize with others is through the many hot-meal programs in the area. You can enjoy a nutritious lunch and meet new people. Call the SAC for more information.

You can also keep busy by starting a new hobby, or perhaps a project for your descendants. Put together an album of your photographs, labeled with names and dates, research your family genology, or preserve your memoir or family history in writing or on video.

Click here to read the full article in the Heights Observer.

The cold temperatures and slippery conditions that accompany our Cleveland winters can create many dangers for senior adults. Taking precautions to stay safe in cold weather can help prevent weather-related accidents and health problems.

Hypothermia and frostbite can occur from overexposure, both indoors and out. To prevent this, the National Institute on Aging recommends dressing warmly. Indoors, wear thermal underwear, socks, slippers and a nightcap, and use plenty of blankets when sleeping. Outdoors, wear loose, layered clothing: a hat, scarf, gloves, thick socks, warm boots and a waterproof coat. Keep your face and neck covered.

Many people turn down their thermostats in the winter to save money. The institute recommends setting thermostats no lower than 68 degrees, to prevent hypothermia. You can save money on heating by closing off unused rooms (shut the heating vents and close the doors), keeping blinds and curtains closed, caulking window and door gaps, and installing storm windows and insulating film.

Dominion East Ohio’s Winter Crisis Program (800-282-0880) provides help for low-income seniors who are having trouble paying their heating bills and are threatened with disconnection.

House fires are also a concern in winter months. Carefully follow the safety manual for any portable heater. Make sure the heater has an automatic shut-off feature in case it tips over, and never leave it unattended. Make sure your fireplace has a screen to catch sparks, and have the flue checked annually. Use power strips instead of extension cords and turn them off when not in use. Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and type ABC fire extinguishers on every level of your home.

Outside, keep your sidewalk and driveway clear of snow and ice. Ask your doctor if you are physically able to shovel. If not, ask for help. Wear boots with good treads, walk slowly and watch where you step. Try not to carry anything in your arms.

Driving in snow and ice can be dangerous. Transportation services provide a safer alternative. The Cleveland Heights Office on Aging operates a van service that transports seniors to the doctor, pharmacy and grocer, and to the Senior Activity Center. Call 216-691-7194 for more information.

University Heights offers a limited number of subsidized rides for seniors and disabled residents through Senior Transportation Connection (STC). There is an application process and priority is given to medical appointments. Call 800-983-4782 or visit www.ridestc.org for more information.

Physical activity is important year-round. The Cleveland Heights Community Center enables resident seniors to use its walking track free of charge Tuesdays through Thursdays, from 1-2 p.m. It’s a great way to get out of the house, avoid isolation and stay healthy.

Older adults may be at risk for dehydration in winter because the air is drier, and aging diminishes one’s sense of thirst. Follow your doctor’s recommendations for fluid intake.

The likelihood of catching a cold or flu is greater during the winter. Keep healthy by washing your hands often. Flu shots are often provided at no cost to Medicare subscribers. Check with your doctor or pharmacy.

Seasonal depression is common at this time of year. It can be caused by decreased sunlight, increased isolation and holiday melancholy. The Cleveland Heights Office on Aging employs two social workers who provide help and resources to seniors facing these issues. Contact them at 216-691-7377.

Click here to read the full article in the Heights Observer.

The beginning of the New Year is a time when many of us resolve to make positive changes in our lives. This year, consider resolving to be a good neighbor to a senior adult in need. Is there a senior in your neighborhood who lives alone, or a senior couple who have trouble getting around? It is common for an older person to feel isolated and depressed, especially during the winter months when it is difficult for them to leave home.

There are many things we can do to reach out to our older neighbors. One of the most appreciated gifts is simply to spend time talking with them. Helping people feel special and cared about is one of the greatest gifts we can give.

Here are some ways to help seniors our local seniors:

• Buy a Groupon and take a senior to dinner (They will love that you didn’t pay full price).
• Take someone to a class at the Senior Activity Center.
• Pick up groceries, or take someone to the store.
• Make an extra serving of dinner once a week to deliver to a senior.
• Help a senior cook a meal from a favorite family recipe—yours or theirs.
• Take a senior to the library to check out a book or movie, or to attend a class or discussion.
• Teach a senior to use the Internet or Skype.
• Stop by for tea once a week; bring a new tea flavor each time.
• Videotape a senior telling his or her life story and make copies the family.
• Help a senior label family photos with names, dates and places.
• Ask for a list of their favorite songs, then download them onto a CD.
• Take a senior to a museum together (call ahead for a wheelchair, if necessary).
• Take your child, grandchild, or pet to visit an older adult.
• Take a senior to a movie, or rent one for home viewing, with popcorn.
• Take someone to Coventry P.E.A.C.E. Park for Music and Movies night during the summer.
• Picnic with a senior at Shaker Lakes or Lakeview Cemetery.
• Take a senior on a nostalgic drive past the houses where he or she lived when they were younger.
• Call a senior before bedtime to ensure that he or she is OK.

Best wishes to all of our readers for a wonderful New Year!

Click here to read the full article in the Heights Observer.

December holidays bring many fun social and cultural activities for Heights seniors and their families. Many are listed here. Call ahead to check if reservations are required, and to confirm handicapped accessibility, if needed. Events are free, unless otherwise noted.

A Market Bazaar will be held at McGregor on Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Holiday gifts, keepsakes and baked goods will be for sale. McGregor will also host Holiday Storytelling with Zeta Phi Beta on Dec. 8 at 3:30 p.m. (14900 Private Drive, Cleveland, 216-851-8200.)

Church of the Saviour will host a Festival of Lessons and Carols on Dec. 9 starting at 10:15 a.m. The program features organist Robert Day, a brass quintet and more than 75 singers. (2537 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-321-8880.)

The First Baptist Church will hold a Lesson and Carols program on Dec. 9 from 4–6 p.m. (3630 Fairmount Blvd., Shaker Heights, 216-932-7480.)

At 7 p.m. on Dec. 9, the Western Reserve Chorale performs its 21st annual holiday concert at Grace Lutheran Church (13001 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-321-2790).

The Homewood Residence at Rockefeller Gardens will hold a Holiday Karaoke Party on Dec. 10 at 2 p.m. (3151 Mayfield Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-321-6331.)

The annual Shabbos Chanukah Luncheon will take place at the Heights Jewish Center Synagogue on Dec. 15. Davening begins at 9 a.m., and the luncheon will begin afterwards, at approximately 11:30 a.m. $12 for adults, $8 for children ages 5–12; free for children under 5. (14270 Cedar Road, Cleveland Heights, 216-382-1958.)

McGregor will hold a Resident’s Holiday Concert on Dec. 16 at 2:30 p.m. and a holiday performance by the Hillcrest Concert Band on Dec. 18 at 7 p.m.

The Homewood Residence will host a performance by the Chesed Fairmount Temple Singers on Dec. 16 at 2 p.m. It will also host Halle’s on the Road, a historic look at the Halle Brothers store, on Dec. 19 at 2 p.m., and a winter concert by the Canterbury Glee Club on Dec. 21 at 9:30 a.m.

A Winter Centerpiece Workshop will be held at the Cleveland Heights Senior Activity Center on Dec. 21 at 11 a.m.  Fresh greens will be provided, and decorations are suitable for any holiday. $7. (1 Monticello Blvd., Cleveland Heights, 216-691-7377.)

The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes has planned a Christmas Bird Count for Dec. 22 at 8 a.m. The program includes a bird walk to identify resident winter birds. (2600 South Park Blvd., Shaker Heights, 216-321-5935.)

Saint-Saëns “Christmas Oratorio” will be performed at Fairmount Presbyterian Church on Dec. 23 at 11 a.m. The church will also host a Candlelight Christmas Eve Worship on Dec. 24 at 7:30 p.m. and 11 p.m. (2757 Fairmount Blvd., Cleveland Heights, 216-321-5800.)

On Dec. 25, the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage will host its Chinese Food and Movie Day from 1–4 p.m.  Films are from Israel. $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, $5 for children ages 5–11; free for children under 5.  (2929 Richmond Road, Beachwood, 216-593-0575.)

The Cleveland Heights Senior Activity Center is throwing a New Year’s Eve party on Dec. 27 from noon to 3 p.m. Ring in the New Year with friends; lunch and entertainment will be provided. $12.

There will be a Kwanzaa program and storytelling event at the Homewood Residence on Dec. 29 at 2 p.m.

Happy holidays to all of our readers, and best wishes for a wonderful new year!

Click here to read the full article in the Heights Observer.

According to the AARP, around 71 percent of people over the age of 45 prefer to stay in their homes as they age rather than moving to long-term care. As we age, however, it is common to experience declines in our physical abilities. This can result in falls and possibly severe or fatal injuries. Taking precautions to reduce the risk of falls will increase one’s ability to remain at home.

In general, move furniture to create clear walking paths; remove clutter from stairs and landings; repair broken, uneven steps, and loose handrails; keep exterior stairs and walkways clear; keep rock salt by each door to remove winter ice; install a shelf and hooks inside the door for keys, coats, handbags, and other items.

In the living room, make sure you can get into and out of your lounge chair with ease and replace glass table tops with wood so they are easier to see and less fragile.

Move the kitchen items you use most often to lower shelves in the cabinets to reduce the  need for a stool; replace heavy dishes and pots with lighter ones; use a stool with a high, sturdy handrail (never step on a chair or cupboard shelf); create a sitting area for food preparation.

Place nonslip mats or self-sticking strips in the tub or shower floor; keep soap, shampoo and towel in easy reach from the tub or shower stall; install sturdy grab bars (never use towel racks for support; and remove bath rugs.

In the bedroom, keep your cane or walker next to the bed at night, with flat slip-on shoes (avoid slippers); keep a telephone, lamp, flashlight and eyeglasses within easy reach of the bed; make sure the bed is a comfortable height for getting in and out; keep a portable toilet or urinal near the bed if you have difficulty getting to the bathroom; and sit down when dressing.

Tape down all electrical cords; apply nonslip mats or double-stick tape to backs of throw rugs; repair carpet and flooring that is loose, torn or curling at the edges; clean spills and drips immediately; and put nightlights in the bedroom, hallway and bathroom (also stairs and kitchen, if needed).

A few last words for safe and healthy living: wear flat, sturdy, nonslip shoes both indoors and outdoors; exercise regularly to improve strength, balance and coordination; ask your doctor for alternatives to medications that cause dizziness, drowsiness, or other unpleasant side-effects; have regular eye exams; keep emergency numbers in large print near each phone; get a medical alert device; and, if you live alone, have someone check on you daily.

Click here to read the full article in the Heights Observer.