Our October, 2015 community survey formed the basis for our Age-Friendly planning. With that foundation and generating from many far-ranging discussions by the AFCI Council and within the communities, the following projects are currently underway:
More details on all of the above are on our website and updated in the newspaper and newsletters.
All of the above programs welcome volunteers – all sorts of tasks: suggest an idea, give a few hours or serve on a planning team.
- Transportation: Neighbor-to-Neighbor (N2N) Volunteer Driver Program: free medical or non-medical rides for seniors (age 60 and over) in our six communities. Call 207-824-4444 at least 3 days in advance of ride. Rides are dependent on availability of drivers.
- Communications: Weekly columns in Bethel Citizen, other press releases and print items (rack card, etc.) Monthly electronic newsletters – contact us if you’d like to be on the email list. Website: www.agefriendlybethel.com.
- Exercise for Seniors (and those who plan to become Seniors!): building strength, improving flexibility and balance, and having fun with others while moving. Watch for announcements for “A Matter of Balance” and "Tai Chi for Arthritis and Falls Prevention” classes that are offered on a regular basis. AFCI partners with other community organizations to offer regularly scheduled walks for varying abilities. Beginning June 26, join Bob Oickle for swimming at the Greenwood Town Beach, Tuesday mornings, 10-noon. FMI: Bob Oickle (rgo817@gmail.com, 576-5104)
- Home Safety Project: Adaptive toolkit: tools for home use, including kitchen helpers and aids to facilitate vision and manual dexterity. For sale from Brooks Brothers Hardware, Bethel and from other retailers (see catalog). Displayed throughout the 6 communities and at local events. Free smoke alarm installation for Bethel, Greenwood, Newry and Woodstock residences – call your town office.
- Resource Directory: Guide to services and agencies available to seniors (and others), locally and statewide; on website and printed copies at select sites within the AFCI communities – contact us if you’d like us to email you a pdf copy.
- Morning Greeting: Seniors living alone can receive a call each day from a “neighbor” to check in on their well-being, thereby lessening isolation, promoting safety, and encouraging new friendships. FMI: Brooks Morton (brooksmorton@gmail.com, 207-824-2679 or 207-381-5991).
More details on all of the above are on our website and updated in the newspaper and newsletters.
All of the above programs welcome volunteers – all sorts of tasks: suggest an idea, give a few hours or serve on a planning team.
