Happy Holidays ………………......1 Touch-A-Heart…………………….2 What? ……………………………..3 Thank you………………………….4 Hanukkah……………………….....5 History of Christmas…………….. 6 Kwanzaa…………………………...7 Influenza Vaccination………….…8 IEMA Highlights Holiday Safety…9 December is National Safe Toys and Gifts Month ……...………….10 Rents could further burden tenants in coming years………………….11 Winter Safety Tips for Older Adults……………………...12 Tips for Saving Energy During the Winter………………………….….13 Public Health’s Online International Travel Book……….14 Volunteers Needed……………...15 Medicare-Medicaid Alignment Initiative (MMAI)……………...….16 From the desk of Anita Brown, HR Director and Advice Clinics…….17 Happy New Year, Places to Go...Things to See, and Facebook…………………….…..18
Support Groups……..……..…….19
U.S. House of Representative, U.S. Senators for IL, IL General Assembly, Board of Directors and Council Rosters…………..…...…20
To Receive Senior Gazette, e-mail Hoangvan (Van) Dinh at
2015, December Issue Joanne Thomas, PhD, President/CEO Hoangvan (Van) Dinh, B.S., Editor
Central Illinois Agency on Aging, Inc.
700 Hamilton Boulevard, Peoria, Illinois 61603 Telephone: (309) 674-2071, Toll Free: 1-877-777-2422
Website: http://www.ciaoa.net
Serving Fulton, Marshall, Peoria, Stark, Tazewell, and Woodford Counties
Senior
Gazette
IN THE ISSUE
Office Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:30 am—8:00 pm 2nd and 4th Saturdays: 9:00 am—1:00 pm
Dr. Joanne Thomas, PhD, LPC
During the Holiday Season more than ever, our
thoughts turn gratefully to those who have made our
progress possible.
And in this spirit we say, simply but sincerely
Central Illinois Agency on Aging, Inc
Best Wishes for the Holiday
Season and Happy New Year
from All of Us to All of You
Please Help Us “Touch A Heart”
Many times in our communities there are individuals who
are forgotten during the holiday season. Central Illinois
Agency on Aging, Inc. has undertaken the following efforts
to bring some holiday cheer to individuals who might
otherwise be overlooked.
If you would like to help CIAA “Touch A Heart” this holiday season by making a donation please
indicate the amount of the donation. Donation amount $ . Donations can be mailed to CIAA at 700 Hamilton Blvd, Peoria, IL 61603.
To donate by credit card please call JoAnn Olson at (309) 674-2071 or log on to our website to donate
by credit card or PayPal at www.ciaoa.net.
If you wish your donation to go to a specific program(s) indicate the appropriate program(s) below.
Gifts are provided for individuals who would otherwise not re-ceive a gift.
Home-delivered Meals are prepared and delivered to area homebound senior on New Year’s Day, since this is a day when other programs are not providing meals.
Provides a holiday party for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren and Relatives as Parents program participants.
Possible Gift Suggestions
Gift Cards to Grocery Stores or Pharmacies
Gloves, hats, scarves
Socks, non-skid slipper socks
Large Print Books, Playing Cards, Puzzles,
Calendars
Blanket, afghan, throw, comforter
Forever Postage Stamps & box of greeting
cards
Washcloth, Hand and Bath Towel set
Fruit basket, candy, nuts, microwave popcorn
Assistive Devices (Jar opener, Magnifying
Glass, Reacher/Grabber, Night Lights
[automatic on/off]
Bed Pillows & Pillow Cases (Standard)
Pot Holders, dish towels, Kitchen utensils
with built up handles for easy use
Personal care items (soaps, shampoo,
conditioner, shaving lotion, razors,
toothbrushes, lotion, and tissues
Holiday Gifts for Seniors
& Disabled Individuals
Socks for Seniors
New Year’s Day
Home Delivered Meals
Grandparents Raising
Grandchildren
Gifts of socks are provided for individuals in need.
Protecting young children
from eye injuries at home and at play WHAT ?
Is it too early to talk about what you
are doing on New Year’s Day?
Volunteer to deliver a hot nutritious meal
to home bound seniors
Several churches are volunteering to cook and prepare the
meals, but assistance is needed in delivering the meals.
Help to make the first day of 2016
a little brighter and merrier for
some seniors.
Call Beth at 309-674-2071 ext. 2204 to sign up or get additional information
Mitch Forrest, LSW, CIRS
Family Caregiver Information and Assistance Specialist
Toy Safety
Read all warnings and instructions on toys.
Avoid toys with sharp or rigid points,
shafts, spikes, rods, and dangerous edges.
Keep toys intended for older children away
from younger children.
Avoid flying toys and projectile-firing
toys; these pose a danger to all children,
particularly those under five years old.
I wanted to thank Bradley University Counseling and Research
for organizing the annual Grandparent Raising Grandchildren
holiday party on Dec. 11th, 2015. The event was held at the
Peoria Riverplex Recreation and Wellness Center using two
basketball courts in the gym area. There was pizza, and soft
drinks provided, a craft table and play area with tumbling mats
for children and basketball for the youth. Nargis Khan, M.D. ,
LCPC from Bradley University Counseling and Research
offered group relaxation therapy for some of the caregivers in a
separate room. Santa arrived at the conclusion of the event to help distribute gifts to all the grandchildren,
grandparents and other caregivers.
There were many contributing factors towards this event’s success including Bradley’s hard work and support from
the following, CIAA staff contributions, CIAA staff volunteer help, CIAA Board and Council contributions and
contributions from the Senior Care Network coalition. There were 92 grandchildren at the Holiday party and 62
adults most of which were grandparents, which is an increase in total grandparents in the Peoria area present at the
Holiday party. This attendance is up about 36% from last year for all attendees and specifically kids/teens were up
23% according to Bradley’s attendance count.
Here are a few pictures of the merry atmosphere created by Bradley and their helpers
4
HANUKKAH
5
Source: http://www.history.com/topics/holidays/hanukkah
Happy Hanukkah
The eight-day Jewish celebration known as Hanukkah or Chanukah commemorates the rededication during the
second century B.C. of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, where according to legend Jews had risen up against their
Greek-Syrian oppressors in the Maccabean Revolt. Hanukkah, which means “dedication” in Hebrew, begins on the
25th of Kislev on the Hebrew calendar and usually falls in November or December. Often called the Festival of
Lights, the holiday is celebrated with the lighting of the menorah, traditional foods, games and gifts.
HANUKKAH TRADITIONS
The Hanukkah celebration revolves around the kindling of
a nine-branched menorah, known in Hebrew as the
hanukiah. On each of the holiday’s eight nights, another
candle is added to the menorah after sundown; the ninth
candle, called the shamash (“helper”), is used to light the
others. Jews typically recite blessings during this ritual
and display the menorah prominently in a window as a
reminder to others of the miracle that inspired the holiday.
In another allusion to the Hanukkah miracle, traditional
Hanukkah foods are fried in oil. Potato pancakes (known
as latkes) and jam-filled
donuts (sufganiyot) are
popular in many Jewish
households. Other
Hanukkah customs include
playing with four-sided
spinning tops called dreidels
and exchanging gifts. In
recent decades, particularly
in North America,
Hanukkah has exploded
into a major commercial
phenomenon, largely
because it falls near or
overlaps with Christmas.
From a religious
perspective, however, it
remains a relatively minor
holiday that places no
restrictions on working,
attending school or other
activities.
HISTORY OF HANUKKAH
The events that inspired the Hanukkah holiday took
place during a particularly turbulent phase of Jewish
history. Around 200 B.C., Judea—also known as the
Land of Israel—came under the control of Antiochus
III, the Seleucid king of Syria, who allowed the Jews
who lived there to continue practicing their religion.
His son, Antiochus IV Epiphanes, proved less
benevolent: Ancient sources recount that he outlawed
the Jewish religion and ordered the Jews to worship
Greek gods. In 168 B.C., his soldiers descended upon
Jerusalem, massacring thousands of people and
desecrating the city’s holy Second Temple by erecting
an altar to Zeus and sacrificing pigs within its sacred
walls.
Led by the Jewish priest Mattathias and his five sons,
a large-scale rebellion broke out against Antiochus and
the Seleucid monarchy. When Matthathias died in
166 B.C., his son Judah, known as Judah Maccabee
(“the Hammer”), took the helm; within two years the
Jews had successfully
driven the Syrians out of
Jerusalem, relying largely
on guerilla warfare tactics.
Judah called on his
followers to cleanse the
Second Temple, rebuild its
altar and light its
menorah—the gold candelabrum whose seven
branches represented knowledge and creation and
were meant to be kept burning every night.
Source: http://www.history.com/topics/holidays/hanukkah
Latkes
Sufganiyot
Dreidels
Christmas is both a sacred religious holiday and a
worldwide cultural and commercial phenomenon. For
two millennia, people around the world have been
observing it with traditions and practices that are both
religious and secular in nature. Christians celebrate
Christmas Day as the anniversary of the birth of Jesus
of Nazareth, a spiritual leader whose teachings form
the basis of their religion. Popular customs include
exchanging gifts, decorating Christmas trees, attending
church, sharing meals with family and friends and, of
course, waiting for Santa Claus to arrive. December 25
–Christmas Day–has been a federal holiday in the
United States since 1870.
AN ANCIENT HOLIDAY
The middle of winter has long been a time of
celebration around the world. Centuries before the
arrival of the man called Jesus, early Europeans
celebrated light and birth in the darkest days of winter.
Many peoples rejoiced during the winter solstice,
when the worst of the winter was behind them and
they could look forward to longer days and extended
hours of sunlight.
In Scandinavia, the Norse celebrated Yule from
December 21, the winter solstice, through January. In
recognition of the return of the sun, fathers and sons
would bring home large logs, which they would set on
fire. The people would feast until the log burned out,
which could take as many as 12 days. The Norse
believed that each spark from the fire represented a
new pig or calf that would be born during the coming
year.
The end of December was a perfect time for
celebration in most areas of Europe. At that time of
year, most cattle were slaughtered so they would not
have to be fed during the winter. For many, it was the
only time of year when they had a supply of fresh
meat. In addition, most wine and beer made during the
year was finally fermented and ready for drinking.
HISTORY OF CHRISTMAS
6
Source: http://www.history.com/topics/christmas/history-of-christmas
CHRISTMAS FACTS
Each year, 30-35 million real Christmas trees are
sold in the United States alone. There are 21,000
Christmas tree growers in the United States, and trees
usually grow for about 15 years before they are sold.
Today, in the Greek and Russian orthodox churches,
Christmas is celebrated 13 days after the 25th, which is
also referred to as the Epiphany or Three Kings Day.
This is the day it is believed that the three wise men
finally found Jesus in the manger.
In the Middle Ages, Christmas celebrations were
rowdy and raucous—a lot like today’s Mardi Gras
parties.
From 1659 to 1681, the celebration of Christmas
was outlawed in Boston, and law-breakers were fined
five shillings.
Christmas was declared a federal holiday in the
United States on June 26, 1870.
The first eggnog made in the United States was
consumed in Captain John Smith’s 1607 Jamestown
settlement.
Poinsettia plants are named after Joel R. Poinsett, an
American minister to Mexico, who brought the red-and-
green plant from Mexico to America in 1828.
The Salvation Army has been sending Santa
Claus-clad donation collectors into the streets since the
1890s.
Rudolph, “the most famous reindeer of all,” was the
product of Robert L. May’s imagination in 1939. The
copywriter wrote a poem about the reindeer to help lure
customers into the Montgomery Ward department store.
Construction workers started the Rockefeller Center
Christmas tree tradition in 1931.
Merry Christmas
Source: http://www.history.com/topics/holidays/kwanzaa-
history#section_1
Did You Know?
The seven principles, or Nguzo Saba are a set of ideals created by
Dr. Maulana Karenga. Each day of Kwanzaa emphasizes a
different principle.
Dr. Maulana Karenga, professor and chairman of Black Studies at California State University, Long Beach, created
Kwanzaa in 1966. After the Watts riots in Los Angeles, Dr. Karenga searched for ways to bring African-Americans
together as a community. He founded US, a cultural organization, and started to research African “first
fruit” (harvest) celebrations. Karenga combined aspects of several different harvest celebrations, such as those of the
Ashanti and those of the Zulu, to form the basis of Kwanzaa.
SEVEN PRINCIPLES
Unity
Self-determination
Collective Work and Responsibility
Cooperative Economics
Purpose
Creativity
Faith
KWANZAA HISTORY
The name Kwanzaa is derived
from the phrase “matunda ya
kwanza” which means “first fruits”
in Swahili. Each family celebrates
Kwanzaa in its own way, but
celebrations often include songs
and dances, African drums, story-
telling, poetry reading, and a large
traditional meal. On each of the
seven nights, the family gathers
and a child lights one of the
candles on the Kinara
(candleholder), then one of the
seven principles is discussed. The
principles, called the Nguzo Saba
(seven principles in Swahili) are
values of African culture which
contribute to building and
reinforcing community among
African-Americans. Kwanzaa also
has seven basic symbols which
represent values and concepts
reflective of African culture. An
African feast, called a Karamu, is
held on December 31.
SEVEN SYMBOLS
Mazao, the crops (fruits, nuts, and vegetables) Symbolizes work and the basis of the holiday
Mkeka: Place Mat
It symbolizes the historical and traditional foundation for us to stand on and
build our lives because today stands on our yesterdays, just as the other
symbols stand on the mkeka
Vibunzi: Ear of Corn The stalk of corn represents fertility and symbolizes that through the
reproduction of children, the future hopes of the family are brought to life
Mishumaa Saba: The Seven Candles Candles are ceremonial objects with two primary purposes: to re-create
symbolically the sun’s power and to provide light
Kinara: The Candleholder The kinara is the center of the Kwanzaa setting and represents the original
stalk from which we came: our ancestry
Kikombe Cha Umoja: The Unity Cup The kikombe cha umoja is a special cup that is used to perform the libation
(tambiko) ritual during the Karamu feast on the sixth day of Kwanzaa
Zawadi: Gifts When we celebrate Imani on the seventh day of Kwanzaa, we give
meaningful zawadi (gifts) to encourage growth, self-determination,
achievement, and success.
8 Influenza Vaccination
"Take 3" Actions to Fight the Flu
Take time to get a flu vaccine.
CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses.
While there are many different flu viruses, a flu vaccine protects against the viruses that research suggests will be
most common
Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits, and missed work and school due to flu, as well as
prevent flu-related hospitalizations.
Everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine as soon as the current season's vaccines are
available.
Vaccination of high risk persons is especially important to decrease their risk of severe flu illness.
People at high risk of serious flu complications include young children, pregnant women, people with chronic
health conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart and lung disease and people 65 years and older.
1
Take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs
Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is
gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone for 24 hours without the use
of a fever-reducing medicine.)
Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like the flu.
Take flu antiviral drugs if your doctor prescribes them.
If you get the flu, antiviral drugs can be used to treat your illness.
Antiviral drugs are different from antibiotics. They are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaled powder)
and are not available over-the-counter.
Antiviral drugs can make illness milder and shorten the time you are sick. They may also prevent serious flu
complications. For people with high-risk factors, treatment with an antiviral drug can mean the difference
between having a milder illness versus a very serious illness that could result in a hospital stay.
Flu-like symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and
fatigue. Some people also may have vomiting and diarrhea. People may be infected with the flu, and have
respiratory symptoms without a fever.
2
3
Source: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/consumer/prevention.htm#vaccinate
IEMA Highlights Holiday Safety in December
9
Tips offered for preparedness gifts, holiday decorating
With the holiday season in full swing, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) and local emergency
management agencies are offering tips to help people stay safe now and into the new year.
“December can be a fun but hectic time of year,” said IEMA Director James K. Joseph. “Throughout the month,
we’ll be offering tips to help people stay safe, as well as provide ideas on gifts that can help friends and family stay
safe during all types of emergencies.”
Joseph offered several ideas for preparedness gifts including:
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather alert radio with battery backup, a
tone-alert feature and Specific Area Message Encoding (SAME) technology
Flashlight with extra batteries.
First aid kit with sterile bandages and gauze pads in assorted sizes; antiseptic; latex gloves; tweezers;
scissors; soap and moistened towelettes; and thermometer.
Home emergency preparedness kit stocked with a three-day supply of bottled water and non-perishable
food; battery-powered radio, weather radio and flashlights with extra batteries; first aid kit; shut-off wrench
(to turn off household gas and water); manual can opener; and fire extinguisher.
Vehicle preparedness kit stocked with a flashlight with extra batteries; first aid kit; water and non-
perishable snacks; blankets; windshield scraper and brush; booster cables; sack of sand or kitty litter; tool
kit; and shovel.
Most preparedness gift items can be found in hardware and department stores.
Whether decorating for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or New Year’s Eve, candles and strings of colored lights
create a festive atmosphere but it’s important to be careful when using them. Candles should never be left
unattended and should be placed on stable furniture in fire-safe holders that will catch dripping wax. Holiday lights
and electrical decorations should bear the name of an independent testing lab to prove they were safety tested.
IEMA will be posting holiday safety tips throughout December on the Ready Illinois Facebook
(www.Facebook.com/ReadyIllinois) and Twitter (twitter.com/ReadyIllinois) pages. Additional information on
emergency preparedness is available on the Ready Illinois website at www.Ready.Illinois.gov.
Source: http://www.illinois.gov/ready/Press/Pages/120115.aspx
Happy Holidays
10
December is National Safe Toys and Gifts Month
The holiday season is upon us and, for some, it means the stress and
anxiety of battling last-minute crowds at the mall, frantically cleaning for
visiting in-laws and agonizing over preparing the perfect holiday meal.
But not you -- you are a holiday planning superstar, and your perfectly
planned holiday checklist has been finished for weeks. Your halls are
decked, your stockings are hung by the chimney with care and all of your
gifts follow the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's
recommendations for safe toys and gifts.
Prevention is as simple as following a few safety guidelines when shopping for the perfect holiday gift.
The CPSC recommends the following toy safety shopping tips:
It is also important to read all labels carefully. The CPSC requires toy manufacturers to meet stringent safety stand-
ards and to label certain toys that could be a hazard for younger children.
Look for labels that give age recommendations and use that information as a guide. Labels on toys that state "not
recommended for children under 3 … contains small parts," are labeled that way because they may pose a choking
hazard to children under 3. Toys should be developmentally appropriate to suit the skills, abilities and interests of the
child.
The CPSC oversees the safety of toys and many other consumer products. For more information about purchasing
safe toys and gifts, call the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Toll-Free Hot Line, 1-800-638-2772.
Under 3 years old
Children under 3 tend to put
everything in their mouths. Avoid
buying toys intended for older
children that may have small parts
that pose a choking danger.
Never let children of any age play
with deflated or broken balloons
because of the choking danger.
Children at this age pull, prod and
twist toys. Look for toys that are
well-made with tightly secured eyes,
noses and other parts.
Avoid toys that have sharp edges
and points.
Ages 3 to 5
Avoid toys that are constructed
with thin, brittle plastic that might
easily break into small pieces or
leave jagged edges.
Look for household art materials,
including crayons and paint sets,
marked with the designation
"ASTM D-4236." This means the
product has been reviewed for
chronic health hazards and, if
necessary, the product has been
labeled with cautionary information.
Teach older children to keep their
toys away from their younger
brothers and sisters.
Ages 6-12
For all children, adults should
check toys periodically for breakage
and potential hazards.
If buying a toy gun, be sure the
barrel, or the entire gun, is brightly
colored so that it's not mistaken for a
real gun.
If you buy a bicycle for any age
child, buy a helmet, too, and make
sure the child wears it.
Teach all children to put toys
away when they're finished playing
so they don't trip over them or fall on
them.
Source: http://www.army.mil/article/92555/December_is_National_Safe_Toys_and_Gifts_Month/
Toy Safety
Read all warnings and instructions on toys.
Avoid toys with sharp or rigid points,
shafts, spikes, rods, and dangerous edges.
Keep toys intended for older children away
from younger children.
Avoid flying toys and projectile-firing
toys; these pose a danger to all children,
particularly those under five years old.
The Great Recession caused median household wealth to drop 47 percent from 2007 to 2010; joblessness doubled;
and skilled work vanished, cutting incomes and pushing many middle-class Americans into lower-paying jobs,
leaving less money for basics like housing, ECP said.
Young or old, people who rent their homes often pay big chunks of their income, and it’s probably going to get
worse, according to a new report by real-estate research and investment group Enterprise Community Partners (ECP)
and Harvard University’s Joint Center for Housing Studies (JCHS). It’s an early warning to tenants and communities
alike.
“A study by the Housing Assistance Council argues that in rural places, there is a shortage of rural rental options,”
says Merrett, “and that 50 percent of rural renters pay more than 50 percent of their income on rent. So there is a
persistent housing problem in rural places. And there is an ongoing shortage of rural rental options for working-class
families.”
“A significant share of the burden would be among older adults and Millennials,” says the report, which studied
patterns in homeownership, projected population growth and household formation. “The affordability problem
fundamentally reflects the simple fact that the cost of providing decent housing exceeds what low-income renters can
afford to pay,” the report said.
Millennials, those born roughly between 1980 and 1995, have been unable to accumulate much wealth, so they’re
unlikely to be ready to buy homes or have a cushion to soften the realities of high rents. But it’s bad for older
Americans, too. About 30 percent of elderly renters already use more than half of their income on housing, ECP said,
so their forecast means more rent-burdened seniors.
Peoria’s director of community development Ross Black says the last count of rental units here, in 2013, was 20,453,
compared to 18,203 in 2000. That’s a 12.3-percent increase, compared to the population growth over those 13 years
of about 3 percent. But that hasn’t helped.
Dr. Joanne Thomas, President/CEO of Central Illinois Agency on Aging, adds, “Combining [affordability] with the
challenge of healthy aging, I lean further in the direction of creating housing that makes use of home- and
community-based care that ‘allows older adults with healthcare needs to avoid expensive stays in long-term facilities
and readmissions into hospitals,’ [as AARP said in its “5 Essential Facts from Housing America’s Older Adults”
report].
“Given the entrepreneurial opportunities in health care and among the best franchises, my unstudied opinion is that
opportunities for entrepreneurs, more affordable rental housing, and attracting more residents all have potential,” she
says.
Rents could further burden tenants in coming years
11
By Bill Knight
The Community Word Peoria
Source: http://thecommunityword.com/online/blog/2015/11/30/rents-could-further-burden-tenants-in-coming-years/
Winter Safety Tips for Older Adults
12
When the temperature drops, older adults run a higher risk of health problems and injuries related to the weather,
including hypothermia, frostbite, and falls in ice and snow. It’s important that they, and those who care for them,
take certain precautions at this time of year. Here’s what you need to know
Hypothermia
Older adults tend to produce less body heat than younger
people, and it’s harder for them to tell when the
temperature is too low. This can be dangerous because
when your body is in the cold for too long, it begins to
lose heat quickly. The result can be hypothermia, a
dangerous drop in body temperature.
Know the Warning Signs of hypothermia: lots of
shivering; cold skin that is pale or ashy; feeling very
tired, confused and sleepy; feeling weak; problems
walking; slowed breathing or heart rate. Call 911 if you
think you or someone else has hypothermia.
Stay Indoors when it’s very cold outside, especially if
it’s also very windy. Keep indoor temperatures at about
65 degrees. If you have to go outside, don’t stay out for
very long, and go indoors if you start shivering.
Stay Dry Wet clothing chills your body quickly
Wear Layers Wearing two or three thinner layers of
loose-fitting clothing is warmer than a single layer of
thick clothing. Always wear layers, as well as:
a hat
gloves or mittens (mittens are warmer)
a coat and boots
a scarf to cover your mouth and nose and
protect your lungs from cold air
DISCLAIMER: This information is not intended to
diagnose health problems or to take the place of
medical advice or care you receive from your physician
or other healthcare provider. Always consult your
healthcare provider about your medications, symptoms,
and health problems.
Frostbite
Extreme cold can cause frostbite-damage to the skin
that can go all the way down to the bone. Frostbite
usually affects the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers
and toes. In severe cases, frostbite can result in loss of
limbs. People with heart disease and other circulation
problems are more likely to get frostbite.
Cover Up all parts of your body when you go outside.
If your skin turns red or dark or starts hurting, go
inside right away.
Know the Warning Signs of frostbite: skin that’s
white or ashy (for people with darker skin) or
grayish-yellow; skin that feels hard or waxy;
numbness. If you think you or someone else has
frostbite, call for medical help immediately. A person
with frostbite may also have hypothermia, so check
for those symptoms, too.
If Frostbite Occurs place frostbitten parts of your
body in warm (not hot) water.
Injury While Shoveling Snow
When it’s cold, your heart works extra hard to keep
you warm. Working hard, such as shoveling show,
may put too much strain on your heart, especially if
you have heart disease. Shoveling can also be
dangerous if you have problems with balance, or “thin
bones” (osteoporosis)
Ask Your Healthcare Provider If It's Safe for you
to shovel snow or do other hard work in the cold.
Source: http://www.healthinaging.org/resources/
resource:winter-safety-tips-for-older-adults/
13 Tips for Saving Energy During the Winter
In the winter, when many people turn on their heaters and put up holiday lights, gas and electric bills can be much
higher than usual.
According to the Department of Energy (DOE), a family spends more than $1,900 a year on electricity bills and
other utilities. A big part of those costs come from wasted energy during those cold months.
However, you can save on winter energy costs if you make some changes in certain areas of your home.
Lighting
Improve the lighting in your home and save energy.
Replace traditional light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs, which last between six and
12 times longer. Remember to turn off any lights that aren’t in use.
Consider using LED lights for Christmas decorations. These use 90 percent less energy than the
standard Christmas lights.
Thermostats and heating
Keep your home warm and comfortable.
Install a programmable thermostat for your home’s heating system.
Keep the doors and windows closed while the heat is on.
Frequently change the filters in your furnace.
Set the thermostat on your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
General tips
Be energy efficient throughout your home.
Only use the exhaust fan in the kitchen and bathrooms when necessary.
Repair any water leaks in the bathrooms, kitchen, laundry room, etc.
Use power strips to plug in portable heaters, television and cell phone chargers. That way,
you can turn off the power switch when the devices are not in use.
If you’re thinking of replacing your appliances, make sure they have an Energy Star logo.
Energy Star products are more energy efficient.
Programs for low-income families
During the winter, the government helps low-income families with their energy bills.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, also known as LIHEAP, helps families pay some of their
heating costs. To see if you qualify for these benefits, contact your local LIHEAP office for more information.
Sources:
http://energy.gov
http://usa.gov
By Diana Scott, MS
Public Information Officer
Peoria City/County Health Department
Holiday travelers should consult this must-have online, mobile app, or hard copy book for healthy international
travel this season. It's commonly called the "Yellow Book", because of the yellow cover, from the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention. This is the new 2016 edition of CDC Health Information for International Travel
and includes special guidance for people who will be living or travelling to select destinations across the globe,
providing insiders’ knowledge and specific health risks about popular tourist destinations.
“International travel can be an incredible experience, but it has its risks and the hazards are ever-changing. The
Yellow Book gives updated health-related precautions and information for traveling internationally,” said Jean
Bellisario, Director of Infectious Disease at Peoria City/County Health Department. “By following CDC
recommendations, international travelers can stay healthy and safe so they can take full advantage of their traveling
experiences.”
A team of almost 200 experts update this health guide every two years. The Yellow Book provides the latest official
CDC recommendations on safety and health, a complete catalog of travel-related diseases, and up-to-date vaccine
and booster recommendations. It also includes advice about preventing and treating common travel-related ailments
such as altitude illness, motion sickness, and jet lag. The book offers useful tips on topics such as traveling with pets,
packing a travel health kit, avoiding counterfeit medications in foreign countries, and getting travel health and
evacuation insurance for emergencies. In addition, the Yellow Book provides advice for people traveling with young
children, individuals with disabilities or chronic illnesses, and those traveling for humanitarian aid work or study
abroad.
Popular features in the 2016 edition include:
information on cruise ship travel
an expanded destination-specific list of vaccine requirements and recommendations to help travelers prepare for
their next trip
sections on infectious diseases related to travel: such as Escherichia coli, Salmonellosis, Typhoid, Yellow Fever,
Hepatitis A & B, Dengue, Fascioliasis, and Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease, etc.
updated disease risk maps to help travelers understand where certain diseases occur
food and water precautions
international adoptions
The Yellow Book content is available at CDC’s Traveler’s Health website, www.cdc.gov/travel. The website lets
travelers search by destination and find information about basic travel health preparations and what to do if they get
sick or injured while traveling. Watch, Alert, and Warning Levels for areas of health concerns are updated as travel
health threats emerge and new information becomes available. For travelers who want to easily take the Yellow
Book with them on the road, a new mobile app with the complete 2016 edition is now available for iOS and Android
tablets and phones. The Yellow Book is also published in hard copy by Oxford University Press, and is available at
bookstores or through Internet book sellers or by contacting Oxford.
For more information on Foreign Travel or infectious diseases, call the Peoria City/County Health Department at
679-6655. For more information on important public health issues, visit our website at www.pcchd.org.
The Peoria City/County Health Department continues efforts to
improve community health in Peoria County with the overarching goal
“to increase the number of people who are healthy at every stage of life.”
14 Public Health's Online International Travel Book
Toy Safety
Read all warnings and instructions on toys.
Avoid toys with sharp or rigid points,
shafts, spikes, rods, and dangerous edges.
Keep toys intended for older children away
from younger children.
Avoid flying toys and projectile-firing
toys; these pose a danger to all children,
particularly those under five years old.
Central Illinois Agency on Aging, Inc. 700 HAMILTON BLVD, PEORIA, IL 61603
AREAS WHERE YOU CAN HELP…
HELPING SENIORS WITH:
Yard work/
Snow Shoveling
Grocery Shopping
Assistance
Meal delivery (must
have own vehicle)
LEADERSHIP VOLUNTEER
Annual Golf
Tournament (August)
New Years Day
Meals (January)
Celebrating
Generations Event
(May)
COMMUNITY VOLUNTEER
Data Entry
Mailings
Help answer telephone
Filling out Benefit Access
applications over the phone
for seniors and disabled
persons (Training required)
Please contact Anita Brown at
(309) 674-2071
TTY/TDD (309) 674-8265
16 CENTRAL ILLINOIS AGENCY ON AGING, INC.
700 Hamilton Blvd.
Peoria, IL 61603
309-674-2071
Serving Fulton, Marshall, Peoria, Stark,
Tazewell, and Woodford Counties
In 2016, these three counties: Peoria, Stark and Tazewell will only have one
Managed Care Organizations-Molina Healthcare to serve you, who qualify for
Medicare and Medicaid.
Medicare-Medicaid Alignment Initiative (MMAI)
INFORMATION ASSISTANCE OPTIONS ALTERNATIVES
Central Illinois Agency on Aging
Heart of Illinois Aging and Disability Resource Center/Network
(ADRC/N)
is now offering information and assistance, options, and alternatives to
those that have questions regarding the Medicare-Medicaid Alignment
Initiative (MMAI) (Dual Eligible=Qualify for Medicare and Medicaid)
Questions You May Have?
1. What is a Managed Care Organization and why do I have to choose
one?
2. What are my options under this program?
3. I received a letter saying that I have been enrolled into a Managed
Care Organization under the Medicare-Medicaid Alignment Initiative,
what does this mean?
Call Us for Additional Information: 309-674-2071
Central Illinois Agency on Aging, Inc.
Information & Assistance Department
January Advice Clinics
Got Questions?
Where: Central Illinois Agency on Aging, Inc.
700 Hamilton Boulevard
Peoria, IL 61603
When: Tuesday, Jan. 5th from 10:00 am– 11:00 am
and Tuesday, Jan. 19th from 2:00 pm—3:00 pm
For additional information and assistance you may contact us at: 309-674-2071
Every First and Third Tuesdays of the Month
License Plate Discounts
Caregiver Assistance
Nutrition Programs
Relatives as Parents Program
Bus Passes
Food Pantries
Transportation
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
Community Education
Housing
Medicare Part D
From the desk of Anita Brown, HR Director/Community Relations
17
Are you 55 or older and looking for a job?
Contact : Anita Brown
Central Illinois Agency on Aging 700 Hamilton Blvd. Peoria, IL 61603 Phone: 309-674-2071
Training Program 16-20 hours a week at minimum wage
Skill enhancement opportunities
Assistance in the transition to unsubsidized
employment
Up to 27 months in the training program
Are you eligible? Age 55 years or older
Unemployed
Capable of performing tasks involved in the
proposed community service assignment
Annual Income under $14,713 for an individual
Places to Go ... Things to See
To see what’s happening in Peoria, visit these websites:
Hult Health
Education Center Seniors on the Go
5215 N. Knoxville Avenue Peoria, IL 61614
692-6650
www.hult-health.org
The Peoria Playhouse Children’s Museum
2218 N. Prospect Road Peoria, IL 61603
323-6900
www.peoriaplayhouse.org
Peoria Riverfront Museum 222 S.W. Washington St.
Peoria, IL 61602 686-7000
www.peoriariverfrontmuseum.org
Peoria Park District
Luthy Botanical Gardens Owens Center
Forest Park Nature Center 2218 N. Prospect Road
Peoria, IL 61603 682-1200
www.peoriaparks.org
RiverPlex Wellness &
Recreation Center 600 NE Water Street
Peoria, IL 61603 282-1700
www.riverplex.org
Peoria Civic Center
201 SW Jefferson Avenue Peoria, IL 61602
673-8900 www.peoriaciviccenter.com
Central Illinois Agency on Aging is now on Facebook and our fan base is on an upward trend. CIAA wants Facebook to be a place where our fans/those we serve and those interested in what we do as an agency can come to find information and updates that pertains to those that visit our page or for those wanting to know more about our services and programs. CIAA also wants to know what you/our fans would like to know more about. ? Please email Lorie Pence, Director of Outreach & Community Services at [email protected] with your thoughts/ideas. Thanks to all of our fans and continue to let others know about CIAA’s Facebook page and all that CIAA does.
Happy
New
Year
2016
Support Groups
19
Alzheimer’s Association
Marshall County
Heartland Health Care Center 1650 Indian Town Road, Henry, IL 61537
4th Tuesday, 1:30 p.m. 309-364-3905
Stark County
Toulon Healthcare Center RR 1, Box 249, Hwy 17 East, Toulon, IL 61483
3rd Monday, 3:00 p.m. 309-286-2631
Tazewell County
Apostolic Christian Restmor, Inc. 1500 Parkside Ave., Morton, IL 61550
3rd Thursday, 1:30 p.m. 309-284-1416
Pekin Manor 1520 El Camino Dr., Pekin, IL 61554
3rd Wednesday, 3:00 p.m. 309-353-1099
Pekin Home Health Care 600 S. 13th St., Pekin, IL 61554
2nd Tuesday, 5:00 p.m. 309-347-1151
Peoria County
Apostolic Christian Skylines 7023 N. Skyline Drive, Peoria, IL 61614
1st Tuesday, 4:30 p.m. 309-691-8091
River Valley Support Group Pearce Community Center, Room 210
610 W. Cedar Street, Chillicothe, IL 61523 3rd Tuesday, 2:00 p.m.
800-272-3900
Bickford of Peoria 2000 West Willow Knolls Dr., Peoria, IL 61614
4th Tuesday, 7:00 p.m. 309-589-0800
Grandview Alzheimer’s Special Care Center 6210 North University St., Peoria, IL 61614
3rd Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. 309-692-2484
Lutheran Hillside Village 6901 N. Galena Road, Peoria, IL 61614
3rd Tuesday, 6:00 p.m. 309-689-2180
PALZ Support Group (Activities available for loved ones with dementia)
612W. Glen Avenue, Peoria, IL 61614 2nd Thursday, 3:00 p.m.
Please call ahead to register 309-681-1100
St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral 3601 North Street, Peoria, IL 61604
3rd Tuesday, 1:30 p.m. 309-692-0805
Bradley University Counseling, Research & Training Clinic
Caregiver Support Group Meetings
The Caregiver Program provides emotional support to help family caregivers and grandparents raising grandchildren raising cope with
their caregivers roles, and/or develop and strengthen their capacities for better social and personal adjustments. Meet other caregivers and
grandparents raising grandchildren, learn how to self-care, and learn how to be there without always “being there”.
There is NO CHARGE for services; however, contributions are accepted.
Co-sponsored by Central Illinois Agency on Aging and Bradley University
For more information, call (309) 677-3189 or visit www.bradley.edu/sites/caregiver
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month (1:00-2:30 p.m.)
Central Illinois Agency on Aging, 700 Hamilton Boulevard Peoria, IL 61603
Facilitator: Laura Stone, B.S., M.S.
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren-Farmington High School
4th Wednesday of the month (6:00-7:30 p.m.)
Farmington High School, 310 S. Lightfoot Rd., Farmington, IL 61531
Facilitator: Laura Stone, B.S., M.S.
Peoria Caregiver Support Group
4th Wednesday of the month (1:00-2:30 p.m.)
Central Illinois Agency on Aging, 700 Hamilton Boulevard Peoria, IL 61603
Facilitator: Laura Stone, B.S., M.S.
HCR Heartland Healthcare of Peoria Caregiver Support Group
2nd Wednesday of the month (4:30-6:00 p.m.)
Heartland Healthcare, 5600 Glen Elm Drive Peoria, IL 61603
Facilitator: Laura Stone, B.S., M.S.
Liberty Village Caregiver Support Group
2nd Monday of the month (1:00-2:30 p.m.)
Liberty Village of Peoria, 6906 North Stalworth Drive Peoria, IL 61615
Facilitator: Nargis Khan, NCC, LCPC
Pekin Liberty Village Caregiver Support Group
3rd Wednesday of the month (6:00-7:30 p.m.)
Liberty Village of Pekin, 1520 El Camino Dr., Pekin, IL 61554
Facilitator: Laura Stone, B.S., M.S.
Senior World Caregiver Support Group
Every Thursday (1:30 pm-3:00 pm)
Senior World, 719 N. Kumpf Blvd., Peoria, IL 61605
Facilitator: Laura Stone, B.S., M.S.
Bradley University is committed to a policy of non-discrimination and the promotion of equal
opportunities for all persons regardless of age, color, creed, disability, ethnicity, gender,
marital status, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status. The
University is committed to compliance with all applicable laws regarding non-discrimination,
harassment and affirmative action.
Central Illinois Agency on Aging, Inc. does not discriminate
in admission to programs or activities to treatment of
employment in programs or activities in compliance with
the Illinois Human Rights Act, the U.S. Civil Rights Act,
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Age
Discrimination Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment
Act, and the U.S. and Illinois Constitutions. If you feel you
have been discriminated against, you have a right to file a
complaint with the Illinois Department on Aging. For
information, call 1-800-252-8966 (Voice & TDD),
or Joanne Thomas, President/CEO, Central Illinois Agency
on Aging, Inc.
FY 2016 CIAA
Board of Directors
Robert Mueller, Chair Barry Beck, Vice-Chair
Roger Wiseman, Treasurer Cindy Levingston, Secretary
Wanda Aberle
Jean C. Aldag-Daniels Steve Buttice
Thomas Eckert Richard Hammonds
Roger Hawk Joe Hendel Joan Herron
Robert Johnson Mary Frances Prayne Patricia Reinbacher
Denny Rewerts Raymond Russ Deloris Turner
FY 2016 CIAA
Advisory Council
Vicki Hoke, Chair Maxine Blane, Vice -Chair Joyce Jackson, Secretary
Richard Bowes, Sr.
Paul Flynn Joyce H. Francis Donna Ginglen Linda Glackin
A. Jeanne Graham Philip Girgurich
Francis Hackwith Shirley Horwedel Christine Jenkins Jeffrey Leeman Carolyn Little
Kirk Millis Sherri Nichols
Charles Owens Leslie Pulfer
Earl Riley Dolores Snyder Roger Sparks
Jerry Vanderheydt Margarie Winters
Rep. Mike Unes (91st District) 19 S. Capitol Street Pekin, IL 61554 (309)620-8631, Fax (309)349-3046 Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth (92nd District) 300 E. War Memorial Drive, Suite 303 Peoria, IL 61614 (309)681-1992, Fax (309)681-8572
Rep. David Leitch (73rd District) 5407 N. University, Arbor Hall, Suite B Peoria, IL 61614 (309)690-7373, Fax (309)690-7375 Rep. Keith Sommer (88h District) 121 W. Jefferson Morton, IL 61550 (309)263-9242, Fax (309)263-8187
Congresswoman Cheri Bustos 3100 N. Knoxville Ave., Suite 205 Peoria, IL 61603 (309)966-1813
Senator Chuck Weaver (37th District) 5415 University St., Suite 105 Peoria, IL 61614 (309)693-4921, Fax (309)693-4923 Senator Dave Koehler (46th District) 400 NE Jefferson, Suite 200 Peoria, IL 61603 (309)677-0120, Fax (309)346-4650
Illinois General Assembly
U.S. House of Representatives
U.S. Senators for Illinois Senator Richard J. Durbin 525 South 8th Street Springfield, IL 62703 (217)492-4062, Fax (217)492-4382
Senator Mark S. Kirk 607 East Adams, Suite 1520 Springfield, IL 62701 (217)492-5089, Fax (217)492-5099
Congressman Darin LaHood 100 NE Monroe Street, Room 100 Peoria, IL 61602 (309)671-7027, Fax (309)671-7309