The City Club of Central Oregon recently brought together a panel of experts to address this important topic: Envision Better Aging: How Can Central Oregon Adapt to the Needs of an Aging Population? That’s a complicated question, and there’s no single answer. The aging population in the world and Central Oregon is rising rapidly. How…
Read MoreMaking Housing Age-Friendly Housinfor Older Adults
A choice of dwellings and the ability to retain independent living are priorities as we age, and affordable, age-friendly housing ranks high on the list. A case study from the U.K. indicated that 76% of the homes were owner-occupied, reaffirming that most retirees would rather live in their own homes than move to a retirement…
Read MoreThe Value of One, The Power of Many. Thank you, Council on Aging Volunteers!
The National Volunteer Week theme for 2021, The Value of One, The Power of Many, reflects on the awe-inspiring acts of kindness by millions of individuals. It’s an opportunity to recognize the impact of volunteer service and the power of volunteers to tackle society’s greatest challenges, build stronger communities, and be a force that transforms the…
Read MoreIn conversation with Patricia and Carol, our March volunteers of the month!
Q: Why did you decide to become one of the Council on Aging’s volunteers? Pat: The site manager at the Sisters meal site needed more volunteers because the program had tripled – the Council on Aging went from serving lunch once a week to three days a week. And even though it was during the…
Read MoreDon’t Wait: Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment ends March 31, 2021
Did you know that if you’re unhappy with your Medicare Advantage Plan (Medicare Part C), you have options? Each year, there’s a Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period from January 1 – March 31. During this time, if you’re in a Medicare Advantage Plan and want to change your health plan, you can do one of these: If you switch…
Read MoreQuarantine Diaries: Spotlight on Jean Stevens
Volunteer and Advisory Council chair, Miss Jean Stevens, has put down roots in Bend for the past 14 years. As a very private, solitary person, the COVID-19 stay-at-home order adjustment for Jean wasn’t as hard as it has been for others. “People who are creative and curious are going to handle [isolation] a lot easier…
Read MoreNew Caring Connections Program
In response to the isolation seniors are facing to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the Council on Aging has developed our new Caring Connections program. Older adults are at the highest risk of developing more serious illness from COVID-19 and are being asked to be the most vigilant about social distancing. But, with our new…
Read MoreCOVID-19 Vaccine Now Available to Ages 75+
We have great news! Starting today, Central Oregon residents who are 75 and older are eligible to schedule their COVID-19 vaccine at the Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center. You can schedule your appointment now, online or by phone. There is no out-of-pocket cost to attend this clinic. The vaccine is available by appointment only. …
Read MoreIn Conversation with Tom Filcich, our January Volunteer of the Month!
Meet Tom Filcich, our January Volunteer of the Month. Q: Tom, why did you decide to volunteer for the Council on Aging? A: Well, I’ve been here for probably over 10 years. I decided to volunteer for the Council on Aging because I was a senior citizen, and I wanted to help. As a volunteer,…
Read MoreUnderstand the Differences Between a Cold, the Flu and COVID-19
The good news, winter’s here. The bad news, it’s cold and flu season. COVID-19 isn’t as seasonal but easier spread when more people are indoors. Staying safe and healthy should be one of your top concerns, especially if you are an older adult since the symptoms of COVID-19 can be more severe as you age. …
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