More than 160 brave souls sloshed through a downpour to attend the February 5th Annual Meeting. The meeting was a salute to our fantastic volunteers and donors, and we were most grateful for the many expressions of support we received. Despite the weather, spirits were high inside the Barn (thanks to RB Fitch and Gilda McDaniel), and those attending enjoyed a good time (thanks to Carol Sherrod’s arrangements committee).
Our 2009 annual report summarizes all our activities over the past year and encourages you to give us your comments and feedback. We are proud to report that, by October 2009, all the objectives of our 2007 Strategic Plan were either met or were works in progress. Stop by the office for a copy of the report or for pamphlets and a price list related to the Galloway Ridge “Partners in Caring” program.

DIRECTOR SEARCH UNDERWAY

This year we were extremely fortunate to receive a three-year commitment from the Arthur Carlsen Charitable Fund of the Triangle Community Foundation. This grant is restricted to paying the start-up expenses of a part-time (20 hours/week) Executive Director (ED). It was given to us in recognition of Fearrington Cares’ growing administrative and management needs, and we are truly grateful for this support.
Fearrington Cares (including its predecessor organizations) has been in existence for 20 years. During that time, it has been an almost entirely volunteer organization. Exceptions have been the part-time Professional Nurse and more recently a part-time Administrative Assistant.
In 2007, Fearrington Cares developed a Strategic Plan, which has driven everything we have done in the past two years. That plan included exploring the need for an ED for our organization. Much time since then has been devoted to analyzing, asking questions, forming recommendations, and writing and re-writing job descriptions (www.fearringtoncares.org/contact-fearrington-cares/).
The Board of Fearrington Cares has been an operational board, running the day-to-day business of the organization. Over the past two years, as services have grown to meet community needs, the burden of work placed on the Board has increased considerably. There is a need for professional help to keep things well-coordinated and running smoothly. This was the subject of a Board retreat held last June, led by consultants from the Executive Service Corps. Both they and the Triangle Community Foundation advised us that an organization of our size, complexity, and varied services should have an ED. We have also learned that almost all similar organizations across the country have an ED.
With an ED, our board will gradually spend more time on policy decisions and less on hands-on operations. More importantly, an ED will handle administrative and managerial functions, thus freeing our nurse, Joyce Baird, to concentrate solely on medical issues and the growing need for her services, especially in-home services.
After the three-year start-up period, the Triangle Community Foundation expects us to fund the ED position. We know that our Fearrington donors will vote on the success of this ED endeavor, and indeed on all our efforts, with their checkbooks. During the coming year, the value of the ED position will become clear.
The closing date for applications for the ED position was February 5. Applications are currently being reviewed and the target hiring date is April 1.

FEARRINGTON CARES FUNDRAISER:

CREATIVE CARD WORKSHOP

Learn how to make beautiful, one-of-a-kind cards in this “hands on” workshop being held as a fundraiser to benefit Fearrington Cares. This workshop is limited to 30 participants and will be held on March 12th, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place. No card-making experience is necessary. Advance registration is required.
Each participant will make five cards using a variety of tools, equipment and easily acquired embellishments. There will also be an opportunity to learn to make a matching envelope.
Your tax-deductible check for $35 made out to Fearrington Cares reserves your spot in the workshop and must be sent in advance to the Fearrington Cares office. In addition, please bring a $5 material fee to the workshop.
Workshop instructors are Robin Bowyer, Linelle Dickinson, Nancy Foster, Carol Genovese, and Julie Snyder. A few sample cards will be available at the Fearrington Cares office. For more information contact Robin Bowyer at 542-4891 or rbbowyer@aol.com.

TICKS AROUND FEARRINGTON: DISEASES AND PREVENTION

Marcia E. Herman-Giddens, PA, DrPH, will discuss prevention, detection and treatment of tick bites March 2, 7:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place. She is an Adjunct Prof. at UNC’s School of Public Health and president of the Tick-borne Infections Council of North Carolina, Inc, a non-profit organization formed to improve the recognition, treatment, control and understanding of tick-borne diseases in NC.

HEAR WELL IN A NOISY WORLD
AN AUDIOLOGIST’S REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

Please join Dr. Stephanie Sjoblad on March 8, 1:00 p.m. at the Gathering Place as she dispels common myths and outlines guidelines for best practice concerning hearing assistance.
Dr. Sjoblad is the Clinic Coordinator for the UNC Hearing and Communication Center and an Assistant Prof. in the Division of Speech and Hearing Sciences in the Dept. of Allied Health Sciences, UNC School of Medicine. She teaches doctoral students of audiology and works with patients in the clinic. Dr. Sjoblad is also a consumer of technology, having worn hearing aids since the age of 6. She recently received a cochlear implant and is now utilizing ‘bimodal’ hearing – implant in one ear and hearing aid in the other.

EXERCISE AND THE CANCER CONTINUUM

Research shows that physical activity can aid in the prevention of certain cancers, and that physical activity programs increase the physical and mental quality of life in those directly affected by the disease. Mike Clark, a Certified Clinical Exercise Specialist and Personal Trainer at the Duke Center for Living at Fearrington will speak on March 18, 1:30 p.m. at the Gathering Place. He is the facilitator of the Duke Center Cancer Wellness Program. He will highlight the use of exercise to help prevent the disease and the importance of maintaining physical activity throughout cancer treatment.

BRAIN INJURY AWARENESS MONTH

The Brainiacs, Fearrington’s Brain Injury Support Group would like to educate Fearringtonians about brain injury.
Examples of brain injury include, but are not limited to, a blow to the head, lack of oxygen, brain tumor, stroke, or a penetrating wound, such as a gun shot.
Men are twice as likely as women to experience brain injury, and males between 15 and 24 have the highest rates of injury. However, this injury impacts individuals of all ages.
After a brain injury, an individual can experience emotional, physical, and cognitive (thinking skills) changes. The impact of these changes is related to the location and severity of the injury. Although many people experience brain injury, each injury alters an individual differently. Brain injury not only impacts the individual, but the whole family. Often, how the individual interacts and supports his/her family changes after the injury. Consequently, it is important to find appropriate professional and medical supports to meet the varied needs of the whole family.
The Brainiacs welcome new members. If you would like to join this confidential and supportive group, we meet each Thursday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. at the FC office. Contact Joyce Baird, RN, for more information (542-6877).
For more information about Brain Injury, please refer to the Brain Injury Association of America’s website, www.biausa.org.

It’s hard to believe that two years have passed since I began my term as President of Fearrington Cares. The time has gone by so quickly and is filled with fond memories of working with our dedicated staff, generous volunteers and amazing Board of Directors. We have all worked together to serve our community better.
You, our friends and neighbors in our shared community, have let us know you are pleased with what we are doing. We hear from you in our day-to-day encounters, by phone and by e-mail. We can also tell that you like what we are doing by the increased participation in our various programs.
We are grateful to you for sharing with us your time and talents and for supporting Fearrington Cares with your generous contributions.
With all of the improvements that have come about, one thing remains the same – the spirit of Fearrington Cares: we are neighbors helping neighbors. We help people to help themselves.
We hope you will join us at our Open House to see the wonderful renovation that provides us with more useable space to serve you better. We also hope you’ll join us at the Fearrington Cares Annual Meeting at the Gathering Place later that day.
As the torch passes to the very capable hands of our new President, Kay Hunt, I know we will continue in the spirit of what we have begun. Kay has worked tirelessly these past two years as Vice-President. She’ll take us into the future with an exciting agenda..
Thank you – Linda Stryker-Luftig

JOIN US FOR AN OPEN HOUSE!

Drop by on Friday, Feb. 5, from 2-3pm to tour our newly renovated Fearrington Cares Office. It’s located on Swim and Croquet behind the Gathering Place. Come and see the new meeting spaces, offices and storage area that are enabling us to work more effectively and efficiently. We’d love to see you. Our Annual meeting at 3pm immediately follows the Open House.

FEARRINGTON CARES
ANNUAL MEETING
AND VOLUNTEER & DONOR SALUTE

You are invited to join us on Friday, Feb. 5, from 3-5pm at the Barn, for our Annual Meeting and Volunteer and Donor Salute. There will be a brief meeting describing Fearrington Cares’ achievements over the past year. After that, we will adjourn for a festive wine and cheese celebration as a salute to our many volunteers and donors who make it all possible.

PARTNERS IN CARING: FEARRINGTON CARES AND GALLOWAY RIDGE
INFORMATION MEETING

Please join us at the Gathering Place on Thursday, Jan. 28, at 7pm for a community-wide meeting about Fearrington Cares’ collaboration with Galloway Ridge. Jason Cronk, Galloway’s Executive Director and Doug Oliver, Associate Executive Director and Administrator will make a presentation and answer questions.
Since first opening, Galloway Ridge has had a close relationship with Fearrington Village. We share the same neighborhood, many former Village residents reside there, we share the Duke Center for Living, and many Fearrington Village clubs and activities are open to Galloway residents.
Galloway would now like to provide many of their services to residents living in Fearrington Village. This would include nutritional support, nursing services and supportive living services. Any Fearrington resident choosing to participate in the Galloway program would pay Galloway directly for the selected services on a fee-for-service basis. Fearrington Cares’ services, including nursing services, would continue to be available free of charge. We remain two independent organizations. Galloway Ridge offers their services; Fearrington Cares is helping to make them available. Of course, services from other outside suppliers will continue to be recommended.

THANKS, JOE! YOU SAVED US $$!

With the help of Joe Geohagen, the annual Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Assistance Program was a complete success. Sixty-five residents were assisted, double the number from last year. Of the 65, 47 changed plans and saved an average of nearly $800, for a total savings of over $37,000. We look forward to helping even more next year.

FEARRINGTON FRIENDS

Fearrington Friends continues to serve residents in your neighborhoods. If you have a neighbor you think might appreciate a regular visit from a Friend, speak to them about this program and encourage them to call Fearrington Cares. If YOU want a Friend, please call and request one! The number is 542-6877. All recipients must request the service directly; to protect your own privacy, give us a call yourself! We’d love to hear from you!
There will be an orientation for anyone desiring to be a volunteer Friend on Feb. 25, 10am, at 46 Caswell. Please call Emilee Hendrix at 642-0450 if you are interested in attending. All are welcomed – both women AND men.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
TO TEST NEW TECHNOLOGY

Fearrington Cares is cooperating with a firm in RTP that is developing a touch screen and video-cam based system for enabling senior citizens living independently to stay in touch easily with their families, neighbors and caregivers. They would like to identify several families to pilot test the system. Seniors involved need not be computer literate.
Home Health Network, Inc. will lend the necessary equipment and software to the persons testing the system. There will be no cost to participants and they will have the opportunity to observe and comment on a pioneering effort to utilize technology and a social networking system to support independent seniors. It is anticipated that the pilot test will last about 60 days beginning this spring.
You can find our more about this system by going to the web-site www.homehealthnetwork.com. If you are part of the family of a dependent senior and might be interested in participating in this test, contact Phil Morse, chairman of the Fearrington Cares Service Development committee at 542-6386 or pmorse@nc.rr.com.

WALKER UPDATE

The faithful Fearrington Walkers spent New Year’s Eve in Singapore. Keep walking and recording as it will take another 4,000 miles to get to Sydney, Australia.

H1N1 SHOTS

H1N1 flu vaccine is now available to all at the Chatham County Health Department in Pittsboro. Call 542-8220 for an appointment.

GOT TEETH? WANT TO KEEP THEM?

Want to chomp on good old NC corn on the cob and flash your dazzling smile forever? Learn about preventing periodontal disease (the leading cause of tooth loss) and current treatments (including dental implants) on Feb. 11, 7:30pm, at the Gathering Place. Daniel A. Greenberg DDS, Assoc. Prof. of Periodontics, U. of Illinois; Adj. Prof. at the UNC Dental School; and Fearrington resident, will make a presentation and answer your questions.

ALZHEIMER’S WORKSHOP

Are you caring for a spouse, partner or parent with Alzheimer’s or dementia? Would you like to learn tips to make your life easier? Fearrington Cares will offer a half or full-day workshop given by the Alzheimer’s Association if there is enough interest. We held a similar workshop several years ago; it was well attended and beneficial for caregivers of those with dementia, regardless of diagnosis. If you are interested in this program, please contact Fearrington Cares at 542-6877.

This interactive presentation and discussion will provide immediate strategies to prevent falls. Learn when falls commonly happen and how you can lessen the likelihood of a fall. David Parker, MS, PT, OCS, Director of Rehabilitation at Galloway Ridge will be joined by Blaine Warren, Exercise Physiologist, Liz Dryden, DPT and Mary Collins, OTR in demonstrating exercises which can help in fall prevention. Discussion with fellow participants will increase the number of successful strategies we can use. For those who choose to participate, a quick test will determine if you are ready for a balance class. Please join us on Thursday, January 7 at 1:30 in the Gathering Place for this very important program.

Good Views for Old Eyes – What’s New in Ophthalmology?

Featuring: Travis A. Meredith, MD
Chairman, Department of Ophthalmology, UNC
Plan to catch up on exciting new advances in the treatment of eye disorders in the aging population. Dr. Meredith is a world recognized leader in applied ocular research. He will discuss the current status of this burgeoning field of medicine that is so critical to maintaining vision, as we grow older. Most exciting for us are the recent findings in the treatment of macular degeneration, the most common cause of blindness in people over 65. Recent progress in retinal repair, control of diabetic retinopathy, lens replacement, and eye fluid flows will also be presented. An open forum for comments and questions from the audience will follow. Thursday, January 21, 7:30 pm in the Gathering Place

Partners in Caring:Fearrington Cares and Galloway Ridge Information Meeting

Please join us for a community-wide information meeting about Fearrington Cares’ collaboration with Galloway Ridge. Jason Cronk, Galloway’s Executive Director and Doug Oliver, Associate Executive Director and Administrator will make a presentation and be available to answer questions.
Since first opening, Galloway Ridge has had a close relationship with Fearrington Village. We share the same neighborhood, many former Village residents reside there, we share the Duke Center for Living, and many Fearrington Village clubs and activities are open to Galloway residents.

Galloway would now like to provide many of their services to residents living in their own homes in Fearrington Village. These services would include nutritional support, nursing services and supportive living services. Any resident participating in the Galloway program would have their relationship with Galloway Ridge, not Fearrington Cares. Galloway services would be paid directly to Galloway on a fee-for-service basis, while Fearrington Cares services, including nursing services, would continue to be available free of charge. We remain two independent organizations. Galloway Ridge offers the services; Fearrington Cares is helping to make them available. Of course, services from other outside suppliers will continue to be recommended.

Please join us at the Gathering Place on Thursday, January 28 at 7:00 p.m.

Computer Problems? Need Advice?

Fearrington Cares experienced volunteers can assist you with computer setup, software installation, troubleshooting and more. Call the office at 542-6877 for help; please leave your name and number, Mac or PC, and a brief description of your need.
If you are considering a new computer, there is a folder in the office containing general guidelines and ratings that may help you make your selection.

Fearrington Cares Building Reopens With Big Thanks to Many

Fearrington Cares’ newly renovated offices reopened on Monday, December 7 – exactly on schedule. We owe many thanks to many people:
Fitch Creations
R.B. Fitch for his generosity in underwriting the cost of design and labor
Greg Fitch for overseeing the project and providing us with beautiful new landscaping
Laura Morgan for perfection in scheduling
Brian Cather, architect, for his great design, and for windows!
John Farrell, job superintendant, for putting it all together
Jacques Condoret, painter, for a beautiful job at a beautiful cost
David Rickman, Chatham Carpets, for putting the rugs under our feet at a down-to-earth price
Kay Hunt, Fearrington Cares VP, who led the team
Tom Skiver, who coordinated one and all and found undiscovered resources
Pat Skiver, our Administrative Assistant, who coordinated moving us out and in and kept us all on our toes
Members of the Fearrington Cares Board who gave up a Saturday to lift heavy objects, climb ladders, scrub floors, and do everything possible to assure we’d be open in time for business on Monday morning.

A huge THANK YOU to you all for helping us put it together to serve our community better than ever.

Balance Classes Begin Again

Our next balance class begins February 1 at The Duke Center For Living at Galloway Ridge. The February sessions already have a waiting list, but more will follow later in the year.

Fearrington Cares sponsors these twice weekly, eight week programs because we truly do care. Falls are the leading cause of injures/ hospitalization and, often, early death in seniors.
If you can walk unassisted and if you can commit to the full 8 weeks call Fearrington Cares at 542-6877 and place your name on the list. We expect to hold at least four of these 8-week classes in 2010.

Fearrington Cares Annual Meeting and Volunteer & Donor Salute
Save the Date

Please mark you calendar for Friday, February 5 for our Annual Meeting and Volunteer and Donor Salute. There will be a brief meeting describing Fearrington Cares’ achievements over the past year, followed by entertainment. After that, we will adjourn for a festive wine and cheese celebration as a salute to our many volunteers and donors who made it all possible. More information to come.
3:00 – 5:00 pm at the Gathering Place

Nursing Services

9am – 1 pm on Monday, Tuesday (November 23rd and 24th)
9am – 1pm on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday (November 30th, December 1st and 2nd)

Location-Small Room at the Gathering Place

Transportation Services

No change, call 542 6877 to request transportation

Handyperson Services

No change, call 542 6877 to request a handyperson

Medicare Part D Review

All scheduled appointments will be held in the FHA office

AA Meeting

Meetings wll be held in the small room at the Gathering Place Nov. 25rd and Dec 2nd at 7 pm

Thursday Support Groups

Meetings will be held at the Gathering Place Dec 3rd at 10 am- Small and large rooms

Notice regarding telephones-the telephone system will be monitored daily. There WILL NOT be phone service for Fearrington Cares at the Gathering Place.

Growing our Services to Better Serve our Community

You may have noticed a few changes at Fearrington Cares. We have always been an organization of neighbors helping neighbors. We work together to bring important services to our community. Each of you is a part of that. You volunteer your time and talents, you use our services, and you provide financial support through your generous donations.
Over the past year or more, our services have evolved and grown to meet community needs. Here are a few statistics:
Volunteers: nearly 300
Committees and task forces: 16 (50+ members)
During the first 9 months of this year we provided you with
241 rides
126 home repairs
100 loans of medical equipment
432 blood pressure readings
719 nursing services
21 educational programs with 821 attendees
Add to this list our numerous support groups and referral services. Fearrington Friends are reaching out to help their neighbors with a variety of personal services. Our new computer support group is already at work helping neighbors with equipment and usage issues. And, of course, everything we provide is free of charge.
As our services have grown, we have found that we have reached a point where we need to seek professional management support. We do this after much consideration, with the advice of professional consultants, and with financial support from outside our community. Even with hundreds of volunteers, we find we cannot continue to sustain the level of service we have been providing without professional help. Our Board members have worked tirelessly and it is unreasonable to ask them and other volunteers to do even more.

Here are some of the details:

Grant from the Arthur Carlsen Charitable Fund of the Triangle Community Foundation

Arthur and Alice Lee Carlsen were long-time Fearrington residents. This fund was created to provide support for Fearrington Cares and other Chatham County charities. The Fund has just given us a three-year grant solely for the purpose of establishing a part-time Executive Director position. We are grateful to them. The Executive Director will be responsible for day-to-day management and will coordinate all programs and activities.
While a professional Executive Director will help us to serve the community more efficiently and effectively, it will not change the nature of our organization. We are a community that helps itself. We will continue to rely on you to support us in all of the ways that you have been there for Fearrington Cares in the past.

Support from Fitch Creations for Building Renovation and Landscaping

We would like to thank Fitch Creations for underwriting the cost of design and labor for our much-needed building renovation. The internal reconfiguration will create new office space, additional meeting space, and room to house our growing array of medical support equipment. In addition, Fitch has also just provided new landscaping.
With gratitude,
Linda Stryker-Luftig; President, Fearrington Cares

Galloway Ridge and Fearrington Cares:

Partners in Caring
We are pleased to announce an exciting new joint-project involving Fearrington Cares and our neighbor Galloway Ridge at Fearrington, entitled “Partners in Caring.” Galloway Ridge and Fearrington Cares have mutually agreed on this joint venture to better the lives of Fearrington Village residents. Galloway Ridge will be the “preferred provider” when a resident requests a referral for certain services. The Fearrington Cares Board has voted in favor of doing this. We want to assure our community that this will not impact the services currently being provided by Fearrington Cares. Residents would deal directly with Galloway Ridge to arrange for their services and pay for them on a fee-for-service basis. Fearrington Cares will continue to provide its services free of charge. Community-based services would include nutritional support, nursing services, and supportive living services. Here are the plans:

Nutritional Support:

Similar to Meals on Wheels, nutritionally balanced lunch and dinner options could be purchased and delivered to your door.

Nursing Services:

In-home professional nursing services would be available to those who need longer-term nursing support. The Fearrington Cares nurse, Joyce Baird, will continue to provide her regular services to our community upon request.

Supportive Living Services:

Personal care, companionship, and homemaker assistance programs would provide “hands-on” help with everyday living needs from personal care to medication reminders to assisting with pet care and much more. These services would supplement our Fearrington Friends program.
The Partners in Caring program is slated to begin early in the New Year. Much more information will be coming your way in the near future. Look for an informational meeting in January, updates in the FHA newsletter, and e-mails from E-Cares. While Galloway Ridge would be a preferred provider, Fearrington Cares maintains lists of other vendors that provide similar services. For more information, give us a call at 542-6877 or visit our website at www.fearringtoncares.org.
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Educational Programs at the Gathering Place

Free Course on Living with Chronic Illness

“Healthy Living” a course to help persons who are dealing with a chronic illness live better and self-manage their conditions will be offered on 6 consecutive Tues. afternoons 1:30–4pm. beginning Jan. 19, 2010, at the Gathering Place. This free course is provided by Fearrington Cares in partnership with Triangle J Area Agency on Aging and the Chatham County Council on Aging.
Co-leaders are Jane Armstrong, MSW, and Judith Barrett, MD, professionals trained in using evidence-based information developed through Stanford University. Topics will include techniques to deal with frustration, fatigue, pain, and isolation; appropriate use of medications; nutrition and exercise; effective communication; and making informed choices.
For more information and to register, e-mail Jane at jarmstrong@tjcog.org or call 558-9341 by Jan. 15. The class number is limited. Those dealing with chronic conditions as well as those close to them are invited.

December Grandparenting Talk

Can you survive the holidays with grandchildren? Dr. Frances Campbell, senior scientist at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at UNC, will share ideas at the Gathering Place on Tues., Dec. 8, at 2:00pm. Dr. Campbell is a research psychologist and grandmother of four.

Other Opportunities

Are You Looking for Companionship?

Many Fearrington residents have expressed a desire for a daily phone call or a regular visit. We have heard you and can respond by matching you with another Fearrington resident called a Fearrington Friend. If you would like a phone call from a familiar Friend or a weekly visit just to chat or assist you with some home details, call 542-6877 and we will connect you with a Friend!
If you want to become a Friend call Fearrington Cares at 542-6877. We welcome both men and women!

Are You a Caregiver (Local or Otherwise)
for an Aging Parent?

Fearrington Cares is exploring a new Caregiver’s group to complement our current offerings. This group will focus on the role and issues of “general” caregiving. Included are caregivers with a spouse or child with a chronic health condition or illness and adult caregivers of aging or ill parents. If you have an interest in joining a group and supporting one another in the role of caregiving, please contact Joyce Baird at 542-6877. We hope to get this group established in early 2010.

Chris Kehrer

will assume the role of vice president in 2010. Chris was a partner with her husband Ken for 25 years in a research and consulting business whose clients include large banks, life insurance companies, and financial services firms. Her strengths are in organization, communication, project management, survey design and analysis, and writing.

Charles Waldren

will become board secretary in 2010. After an academic career in biophysics and the effects of environmental agents on genetic diseases, he was recruited in 2001 by the U.S. National Academy of Sciences as Chief Scientist/Chief of Research for the Radiation Effects Research Foundation in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan.

Deanna Kitay

will take on a new board position, Community Liaison, immediately. She is a former faculty member and researcher in neuroscience at University of Virginia School of Medicine and University of Texas at Galveston. She is also a licensed instrument fixed wing pilot who has served as a consultant on aero-medical physiology and human factors in airport development.

Nurse’s Notes

Medicare Part-D Review

Starting Nov. 15, Joe Geoghegan will again be helping Medicare recipients review their plans and alternative options for prescription coverage under Part-D. Many prescription plans have made changes that could affect your pocketbook – and not in a positive way! Call Fearrington Cares (542-6877) to schedule your free 1/2 hour appointment. If both you and your spouse need to review plans, you will need two appointments. Bring your Medicare card and list of current medications to your appointment. If you met with Joe last year, also bring the paperwork from your previous review.

Do you want to be a safe driver?

If so, the AARP Safe Driving course is for you! Joe Geoghegan will again be teaching this one-day class to Fearrington residents who want to refresh their driving knowledge. The class will be held on Nov. 20 from
9 am – 1 pm in the Gathering Place. The cost is $10; checks should be made out to AARP. Call Fearrington Cares (542-6877) to register. We hope to see better driving in the Village after the class!

Caregiver’s Support Groups to Expand

A new Caregiver’s Support Group is being formed to complement the current ones for Brain Injury and Parkinson’s Disease. This will be an “all purpose” group, focusing on general caregiving issues that apply to all caregivers. If you are currently a caregiver and want to meet on a regular basis with neighbors to support one another, please contact Joyce Baird, Nurse Manager, at 542-6877. Given sufficient interest (4-6 people), the new group will begin meeting in early 2010.

Help Grant a Child’s Wish this Holiday Season

Fearrington Cares volunteer nurses and receptionists will again collect holiday toys for Chatham county foster children. This year children will create a “wish list” of gifts that they hope to receive. We are sponsoring 25 children this year; each child will receive 3 gifts that total no more than $100. Individuals or groups wishing to “adopt” a child can come to the Fearrington Cares office beginning Nov. 1 and find out what specific items have been requested. Unwrapped gifts must be delivered to Fearrington Cares no later than Thurs., Dec. 10, for transport to Pittsboro Department of Social Services. Let’s show the children of Chatham how much “Fearrington Cares!”

Balance Class Coming in February

A twice weekly 8 week balance program will be offered in Feb. 2010 in partnership with the Duke Center for Living at Galloway Ridge. The exact date will be announced soon. This free program can be a lifesaver since it’s designed to help prevent injuries that result from falls. Call Fearrington Cares now (542-6877) and place your name on the balance class list for 2010.
Good reasons to develop better balance are:
• More than 1/3 of adults 65 and older fall each year.
• Falls are the leading cause of injury deaths.
• Most fractures among older adults are due to falls.
• The rate of fall-related deaths has risen significantly over the last decade.

Walk Fearrington Update:

Over 7,400 miles have been logged by Fearrington Village walkers. By heading east, they would be in Kabul, Afghanistan, by now – not a safe place to stay. So keep walking and log in your miles at the Fearrington Cares office to continue our walk around the globe. We’re 1/3 of the way there!!

Fearrington Cares Computer Help Group

A small group of volunteers has agreed, on a trial basis, to assist residents with specific computer issues. This assistance includes suggesting reference materials to help you choose a computer or accessory; helping to set up computers or accessories; software installation; giving advice on data transfer, virus prevention, and internet security; suggesting software training classes; and general troubleshooting. This group CANNOT remove viruses, repair hardware, or provide software training.
If you need help, please call the Fearrington Cares office and leave your name, phone number, type of computer (Mac or PC), and a brief description of your need. Our group is small, with limited capacity and availability; we will respond as quickly as we can.

Free Course on Living with Chronic Illness

“Healthy Living” a course designed to help persons who are dealing with a chronic illness live better and self-manage their conditions will be offered on six consecutive Tues. afternoons 1:30 – 4 p.m. beginning Jan. 19, 2010, at the Gathering Place. This free course is provided by Fearrington Cares in partnership with Triangle J Area Agency on Aging and the Chatham County Council on Aging.
Co-leaders are Jane Armstrong, MSW, and Judith Barrett, MD, professionals trained in using evidence-based information developed through Stanford University. Topics will include techniques to deal with frustration, fatigue, pain, and isolation; appropriate use of medications; nutrition and exercise; effective communication; and making informed choices.
For more information and to register, e-mail Jane at jarmstrong@tjcog.org or call 558-9341 by Jan. 15. The class number is limited. Those dealing with chronic conditions as well as those close to them are invited.

Educational Programs at the Gathering Place

Declutter for REAL Life – Thurs., Nov. 5, 1:30 pm

Have you recently moved or tried to clear out a spare room? Is it time to get rid of “stuff” from the past? Jane Armstrong and Michelle Duncan, members of the National Association of Professional Organizers, will share their methods for getting rid of the stuff that is keeping you from enjoying life the way that you want.

Home modifications for aging in place – Fri., Nov. 13, 1:30 pm

Is your beloved home a safe environment for aging in place? Have you thought about small changes that could have a big impact? Come hear two local pros who have advice to offer on simple modifications for those who have mobility and balance challenges.
Travis Blake is CEO of NC Building Co. They can provide the installation and construction of a number of features designed to improve the quality of life at home for senior and disabled homeowners.
Stan Pomeranz is a partner in LightTech, a full service lighting design consulting firm. He says “lighting in our homes can have a profound effect on the quality of our life. Proper illumination may compensate for many age-related changes in the visual system. A sixty-year-old needs ten times as much light as a normal twenty-year-old to perform the same seeing task with equal speed and accuracy.”

In Memoriam

A good friend and extraordinary lady, Marilyn Fries Band, passed away on September 29, 2009. Marilyn lived in Fearrington Village for 20 years and was a dedicated Fearrington Cares volunteer that entire time. She also volunteered extensively for FHA.
Marilyn was pivotal in the movement to inform Fearrington about local agencies that are available to help people who choose to age in place. This helped expand the philosophy and direction of Fearrington Cares from that of providing a temporary helping hand to also assisting residents and caregivers who are dealing with long-term, ongoing health issues.
Marilyn and Karen McGrain were solely responsible for developing and maintaining FC’s extensive office files on Independent Living Resources. Marilyn added to and revised this information until last summer.
FHA joins FC in paying tribute to her memory.

What does the name H1N1 mean?

The H and N refer to specific proteins on the surface of the flu virus. If you want to be geeky, “H” is for hemagglutinin and “N” is for neuraminidase. All flu viruses have these proteins but they may be different from one flu type to next. Hence, H1 stands for one particular protein structure as does N1. The Hong Kong Flu of 1968 was an H3N2 type of virus.

How are H1N1, Swine Flu Virus, and the Seasonal Flu Virus related?

Popular media has dubbed the H1N1 virus that is currently causing so much concern the swine flu virus or the Mexican virus. This is not fair to pigs or to Mexico. In fact, this virus probably came from Asia and actually has pieces (genes) of viruses from pigs, birds, and humans. The CDC is now calling it the Novel H1N1 Virus. This H1N1 virus is also different from the swine flu virus that caused concern in 1976. The Seasonal Flu Virus is different from the Novel H1N1 but, to slightly confuse matters, is currently also an H1N1 type of virus; it is just a different H1N1 type. We say “currently” because the Seasonal Flu Virus can change over the years as other viral types can become more prevalent than the current one. This is what makes it so difficult to formulate a vaccine for the Seasonal Flu Virus every year.

How many flu shots will I need?

You will probably need two or three shots. The first vaccine available will be the Seasonal Flu shot. This will be administered at the Gathering Place on November 10 from 9 am – 1 pm on a first-come, first-served basis. It is also currently available at other locations in the Triangle. It is important to be vaccinated against the Seasonal Flu; it can be a serious disease for all of us. The vaccine against the Novel H1N1 Virus is not yet available but may be delivered in two separate shots at different times, although some recent published studies show that one shot may suffice.

How can I improve my chances of not catching or spreading any kind of flu?

Avoid people with the flu! If you have the flu, stay away from other people. Do not touch your eyes! Your eyes are a direct route into your body for any virus so, if any are on your hands, it could be bad news. Wash your hands frequently, with plenty of soap, for at least 20 seconds! You don’t know what you have touched that might be loaded with virus. Sing the “Happy Birthday” song (to yourself if you have a bad voice!) since that takes about 20 seconds. Consider not shaking hands! You might be considered anti-social but you will be less likely to get sick. Bump elbows instead. Don’t cover up a cough or sneeze with your hands! You may be touching others or things others will touch, so cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow!

Nurse’s Notes: What’s New with H1N1?

The information coming out about H1N1 flu is evolving on a continuing basis. Chatham County Public Health Department recently held a meeting to update health, law enforcement, childcare and school officials. Luckily (or not), North Carolina has a lower prevalence of H1N1 compared to other states. The highest number of confirmed cases is in 18 to 29 year olds with few confirmed cases in those over 65. Hospitalizations are more prevalent in the 0-4 year old age range.

Priority groups for H1N1 vaccination include:
• Pregnant women
• Caregivers and household members of children under 6 months of age
• Healthcare and emergency medical personnel
• Persons ages 6 months through 24 years
• Persons ages 25 through 64 years with health conditions associated with higher risk of medical complications from flu – lung, cardiovascular, kidney, liver, and blood diseases.

So, what about those 65 years and older? Recent data show that the risk of infection for this group is less than younger age groups, possibly due to immunity from previous “swine flu” outbreaks. This fact makes it even more important that seniors be vaccinated for seasonal flu as soon as the vaccine is available. Vaccinations for seasonal flu will be given on Tuesday, November 10, from 9 am – 1 pm at the Gathering Place. H1N1 vaccine will be available for seniors after priority groups are vaccinated. Fearrington Cares will notify you if the H1N1 vaccine becomes available in Fearrington Village.

Of the confirmed cases, clinical features of H1N1
(% of cases) include:
Fever (98%) Muscle aches (61%)
Sore throat (61%) Runny nose (54%)
Cough (24%) Vomiting (22%)
Diarrhea (16%)

Other than frequent hand washing and cough hygiene, the best way to prevent the spread of the virus is by social distancing and isolation of those with flu symptoms. You should stay home for at least 24 hours after the fever stops without fever reducing medicines such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. You should seek urgent medical attention if you have difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, pain/pressure in chest or abdomen, sudden dizziness, confusion, severe/persistent vomiting, and if flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough.

Desperately Seeking Support Group Leader!!

Fearrington Cares desperately needs one or more individuals willing to take over the leadership of our Peripheral Neuropathy Support Group. The irreplaceable Vera Reese, originator and long-time leader of this group, had to resign earlier this year and we have been unable to find a replacement. The Fearrington support group is the only support group of this type in the state and folks from as far away as Winston-Salem and Burlington have contacted Vera trying to locate a group meeting. Vera is happy to help the new leader(s) get started and turn over all of her papers, lists, and brochures. If you have a special talent for organization (no special training is needed), please contact either nurse Joyce Baird (542-6877) or Barbara Terry (542-6554) to talk about this important task.

Volunteer Drivers Needed!!

Fearrington Cares needs volunteer drivers and back-up drivers to assist those who require transportation to appointments from time to time. Drivers are on-call only once a year, during one week, for a period of 3-1/2 days. Register by calling 542-6877, or online at www.fearringtoncares.org/why-volunteer/volunteer-job-possibilities/. Remember, volunteers live longer!

Educational Programs at the Gathering Place

Healthy Feet – Thursday, October 8 – 7:30 pm

Are your feet letting you down? Do you think you are doing everything you can to keep them healthy and flexible? Do you know what kinds of shoes are best for your particular feet? Are your knee or hip problems really the result of undiscovered foot problems? Should you buy those drug store inserts? When might it be helpful to consult with a podiatrist?
We are fortunate to have Dr. Jane Andersen, daughter of Audrey and Darrell Andersen of Fearrington, as a speaker this month. She is a podiatric physician and surgeon in private practice with her husband in Chapel Hill.
Dr. Andersen is board certified in foot surgery, serves on the American Podiatric Medical Association’s Public Education and Information Committee, and is on the executive board of the American Association for Women Podiatrists. When asked how she feels about her specialty, Dr. Andersen replied, “What I like the most is when I can help people walk, run, dance, and exercise pain free.”

Finding Your Voice in the Healthcare Maze – Thursday, October 22 – 7 pm (Please note the earlier start time.)

Presented by: Project Compassion with Fearrington Cares
Discover, understand, take control, find your voice! Tiffany Christensen, double lung transplant recipient and author, will tell her story and offer lessons learned along the way. This lighthearted and fun discussion will explore serious topics like patient advocacy and how to have advance care planning conversations. Join us for this presentation/discussion on Thursday, October 22, from 7-8 pm. “Finding Your Voice” will be followed by a book signing from 8-8:30 pm. Learn more about Tiffany at www.sickgirlspeaks.com.

We are starting another new series of balance classes through our partnership with the Duke Center For Living. These popular classes, designed by the Duke Center staff to help protect against falls, are given twice each week for eight weeks. Taking a free balance class could save your life. We still have a few slots available for the 8-week class beginning Monday, October 5. Classes are Monday and Wednesday from 12:10 – 12:55 for 8 consecutive weeks. You must commit to the full schedule of 16 classes in order to participate. Please call Fearrington Cares office at 542-6877 to learn more or to register. Class size is limited. At the Duke Center for Living

Save the Date:

Seasonal flu shots will be given at the Gathering Place on Tuesday, November 10th from 9am-1pm. Shots will be given on a first-come, first-serve basis. Pneumonia shots will be available for those requesting them. As of the date of this announcement, vaccine for the H1N1 virus (swine flu) is not yet available. When the vaccine is available, a further announcement will be made.

September Educational Programs at the Gathering Place

H1N1 Influenza Pandemic – September 15, 2009 – 7:30 pm:

What’s up with H1N1 flu?
What may be different this fall compared to the number of cases and severity of disease seen so far this year? What does this flu pandemic mean for Fearrington residents? How might you avoid contracting the disease? Would you know if you had it? What supplies would you need if you were asked to remain in your home for a few days? What have FHA and Fearrington Cares done to prepare Fearrington Village for the possibilities of this pandemic situation? Join your neighbors to hear a panel discussion of the most current information and what that means for you.

Retirement Realities Today: Are You Going to Run Out of Money? – September 24, 2009 – 7:30 pm:

The economic recession has left American retirees with slimmer portfolios and concerns that their losses will not be recovered. Are you feeling a little uneasy about your investments? Are you spending too much? Are you financially subsidizing your children’s lives to the detriment of your own? What can you do to improve the likelihood that the funds you have will last you a lifetime? Dorothy LeBeau, a Financial Planner for more than 25 years will give practical advice for managing your savings and investments. Some of the concerns: How can I know the percentage of my portfolio I can safely spend each year and still have sufficient funds for the future? Do I really need a new car and why should I consider buying a one- or two-year old car instead? How do I track my spending and keep it under control? Don’t miss this realistic and useful discussion!
D. Lebeau Lecture Page One
D. Lebeau Lecture Page Two

Needed: Volunteers for a New Fearrington Cares Computer Help Group:

Individuals who have at least five years experience with computer hardware and software are needed to help residents with, for example, setting up a new computer, installing software, eradicating viruses, giving advice on upgrades and new purchases. If you are qualified and willing, please volunteer for this group by calling Connie Eby at 542-5485 or e-mailing her at cteby@mindspring.com.

Volunteer Drivers Needed!

Do you have a few days a year that you can volunteer to give rides to those in need? Our transportation service helps out hundreds of Fearrington residents with rides to appointments when they are unable to drive themselves. Stop by the Fearrington cares office, or call 542-6877, to register. You can also register online at www.fearringtoncares.org then click on Volunteer Job/ Job Possibilities. Once registered, you will be called to coordinate your driving schedule at a time of your convenience.

Top Websites for Medical Information:

We all know the web can be a valuable resource for medical information. We also know that there is a lot of confusion and misinformation out there. Fearrington Cares has developed a list of links to reputable medical websites. They lead to sites with up-to-date medical information and medical search engines. Links include the Mayo Clinic, The Center for Disease Control, The National Cancer Institute, and Harvard Medical School, among many others. To access Top Websites for Medical Information, visit us at www.fearringtoncares.org, then click on Independent Living and scroll down to Medical and click again.

E-Cares Electronic Newsletter from Fearrington Cares:

Just a reminder to always open e-mails from Fearrington Cares. E-Cares, our new electronic newsletter, comes to you periodically and contains valuable, up-to-the- minute information on news, health and happenings in Fearrington Village and beyond.

Answer: A lot, but not everything! If you need minor home repairs, our handypersons are available and waiting to be called. They can fix leaky faucets, change hard-to-reach light bulbs, program garage door openers, and do similar kinds of small odd jobs. This is a wonderful program, open to all residents. But – if you’re not sure your job is within their skills, just ask! One of the handyperson coordinators will call you back and discuss your need, and let you know if it can be done.
We do need to remind our homeowners and volunteer handypersons that under North Carolina Law it is illegal for anyone but a licensed electrician or the homeowner to do electrical work involving home wiring. Also, it is the homeowner’s responsibility to provide any needed replacement parts such as light bulbs.
At a recent meeting of volunteer handypersons, we decided to offer a new type of service. Upon request, our volunteers will provide “advice or consult” in such areas as house painting, power-washing, safety improvements in the home (grab bars, etc). If we can’t provide the service ourselves, we can help you find someone who can. For example, several residents have called recently about garage door problems. In two instances the homeowner had to call a professional because the garage door springs needed to be replaced, but the volunteer was able to diagnose the problem.

Handypersons can do a lot of small jobs around your house. Here’s a list of just some of them:
1. Help move furniture/television sets
2. Hang pictures/mirrors/towel racks
3. Change light bulbs
4. Help turn a rug
5. Install grab bars (except in tile or cultured marble)
6. Lubricate garage doors
7. Replace batteries in smoke detectors
8. Replace batteries in garage door openers
9. Fix leaky faucets
10. Replace water filters in refrigerator
11. Replace shower head
12. Replace batteries in garage doors openers
13. Assemble kit furniture
14. Install Shelving
15. Replace toilet flush assembly
16. Open and close under-house vents
17. Help turn over mattresses
18. Rewire table lamps
19. Tighten loose door knobs
20. Oil hinges on doors
21. Tighten knobs on cabinets
Again, if you don’t see your specific problem listed, just call 542-6877 and ask to be called back by one of the handyperson coordinators.

Gathering Place Programs: Coming Soon from Fearrington Cares

Influenza Pandemic – September 15, 2009 – 7:30 pm:

What does a flu pandemic mean for Fearrington residents? How do you avoid contracting the disease? Would you know if you had it? What supplies would you need if you were asked to remain in your home for a few days? What have FHA and Fearrington Cares done to prepare Fearrington Village for a pandemic situation? Join your neighbors to hear physicians, public health officials and Fearrington leaders give the important information you will need.

Retirement Realities Today: Are You Going to Run Out of Money? – September 24, 2009 – 7:30 pm:

The economic recession has left American retirees with slimmer portfolios and concerns that their losses will not be recovered. Are you feeling a little uneasy about your investments? Are you spending too much? What can you do to improve the likelihood that the funds you have will last you a lifetime? Dorothy LeBeau, a Fearrington resident and Financial Planner for more than 25 years will give practical advice for managing your savings and investments. Some of the concerns: How can I know the % of my portfolio I can safely spend each year and still have sufficient funds for the future? Do I really need a new rather than a good quality used car? Should I really be taking that big trip? How do I track my spending and keep it under control? Don’t miss this realistic and useful discussion!

E-Cares and Website

If you have email and did not receive your first E-Cares email notice with information about ticks, then that means we don’t have your correct email address. If you want to receive these brief, timely notices (no more than twice a month), please call the office at 542-6877 and let us know what your email address is.

If you haven’t yet visited our new website at www.fearringtoncares.org. please take a look and do a little browsing……you might want to be aware of all the information to be found under the Independent Living Resources tab. Give us your feedback and suggestions!

Tech Support Needed

Fearrington Cares is looking for a volunteer who has developer / coding level knowledge of Microsoft Access database software. This individual would work with the F-Cares IT Chair and provide backup support for the Fearrington Cares database. If you can help, please call Connie Eby at 542-5485 or email her at cteby@mindspring.com.

Nurse’s Notes: Heat Exhaustion or Heat Stroke?

Heat exhaustion

often occurs when people exercise (work or play) in a hot, humid place and body fluids are lost through sweating causing the body to overheat. The person’s temperature may be elevated, usually over 1000 F but not above 104°F. Symptoms include pale skin that is cool and moist, profuse sweating, muscle cramps, headache, weakness, nausea and increased pulse. You may also feel faint and/or dizzy. Treatment for heat exhaustion includes taking cool fluids or sports drinks. Carbonated, caffeinated or alcoholic drinks should not be given. Sponge the skin with cool water, but do not use alcohol rubs. You should go to a hospital if you have chest or abdominal pain, are unable to drink (or keep down) fluids. A change in mental status could signal the more serious condition of heat stroke.

Heat stroke

is a life-threatening medical emergency that needs immediate medical treatment. Heat stroke occurs when a person’s cooling system, which is controlled by the brain stops working and the internal body temperature rises to the point where brain damage or damage to other internal organs may result . Body temperature may reach 105+°F. Symptoms include flushed, hot, dry skin. Hyperventilation may occur and blood pressure is increased. The person experiencing heat stroke could present with dizziness, confusion, abnormal mental status or even coma. You should immediately call 911, move the person to a cooler environment and immerse in cool water, if possible. If immersion is not possible, place cool cloths on the skin and place a fan to blow over the body. If the person is conscious and can swallow, attempt to give cool fluids.

Chatham Council on Aging Needs You!!

Chatham Council on Aging is looking for Fearrington Residents who will volunteer to lead a six-week course entitled “Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions.” The course was developed by Stanford University and is federally funded. The course will be taught throughout the county, including Fearrington Village. Training for leading the class will be held at the Council on Aging beginning August 15th. If you have a special talent for teaching (or were a teacher in a former life), you can contribute toward helping folks manage their chronic conditions in order to remain independent and avoid hospital admissions. The Council would especially like to train those with chronic conditions to teach the course. Please contact either Joyce Baird (542-6877) at Fearrington Cares or Angel Dennison (542-4512) at the Council on Aging if you have an interest in helping lead a class.

Look for E-Cares

Announcing a new communications vehicle for Fearrington Cares. E-Cares is Fearrington Cares new e-mail newsletter. Short and sweet it will come to your e-mail inbox a couple of times a month. E-Cares will contain timely information about the goings on at Fearrington Cares. It will also provide health news, and news and information about health-related meetings and seminars outside of Fearrington Village. The first E-Cares will be sent in June to all Village residents with an e-mail address. If you want to continue getting E-Cares, you need do nothing. If you do not want to receive further issues, just click the unsubscribe button contained in the e-mail.

Please Remember to Donate to Fearrington Cares

Patty broke her foot last weekend. She’ll be hopping for the next six weeks. Life is a little easier for her now that she’s borrowed a knee scooter and a shower chair from Fearrington Cares. The cost: $0.00.

Kathy was really worried that her blood pressure was too high. She stopped in to visit Fearrington Cares’ nurse. She’ll be seeing her doctor soon, but she got her blood pressure checked and some reassuring medical advice. The cost: $0.00

All of our programs and services are free of charge. Our annual fundraising campaign is underway. You should have received a donation letter. Please give generously to Fearrington Cares. If you misplaced your letter, you can stop by the Fearrington Cares office to pick up another, or call 542-6877.

New Series of Balance Classes to Begin

We are starting a new series of balance classes through our partnership with the Duke Center For Living. These popular classes, designed by the Duke Center staff to help protect against falls, are given twice each week for eight weeks. Taking a free balance class could save your life. Call 542-6877 and leave your name to register. We can only accommodate 10 per class. Mondays and Wednesdays, June 1 – July 22, 12:10 – 12:55 at the Duke Center for Living

Adult Day Care at Charles House Eldercare Center

This nonprofit agency located in Carrboro provides daytime care for older adults with mild to moderate impairments, many with various elements of dementia. It provides respite for their families as well. Join Paul Klever, Director of Charles House, for a discussion of their goals and programs. Thursday June 4 at 2:00 pm at the Gathering Place.

Healthy Brain Series

Do you ever think your brain is letting you down, that your memory is failing and you can’t think as quickly and effectively as you used to? Are there some things you can do to keep your brain working well? Come and hear Dr. Jeffrey Browndyke of the Bryan Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at Duke University give the third lecture in our Healthy Brain series. He will speak about Healthy Brain Aging. Thursday, June 11 at 7:30 pm in the Gathering Place.

CPR Class Offered

This Red Cross class will be from 10 am until about 3 pm, after which certification will be available, if desired. Wear comfortable clothing. $35 per person. You will need to bring a check payable to The American Red Cross. Call 542-6877 to register – this is required, as space is limited. Thursday, June 11 at the Gathering Place from 10 am to 4 pm, including lunch break.

H1N1 Flu Update

We have heard a great deal about this strain of influenza and the concerns that a worldwide pandemic may be at hand. The media has aired many recommendations about how best to avoid contracting the disease but how appropriate are they? How worried should we be about this issue? What are the myths and what is the truth? What are the plans for Fearrington Village residents should a pandemic occur? An information session will be held on this timely and important topic. Bring your neighbors and friends!
Thursday, June 18 7:30 pm at the Gathering Place

Fearrington Friends Looking for Friends

The Fearrington Friends program is up and running smoothly. We’re looking to expand the program by adding more friends (volunteers) and more folks who are looking for a friend.

The program connects volunteers with anyone who desires regular contact from a “neighbor.” This contact could be as simple as a daily telephone call or a regular in-person visit. Friends can help by watering plants, sorting mail or going out for a stroll. Friends can also provide brief respite for caregivers.

Men and women volunteers are most welcome. Call 542-6877 if you would like to be a friend or if you would like to have a friend pay you a visit.

Grief Support Group

Have you had some sad or heartbreaking events in your life with sorrow lingering on? The Grief Support Group may help. Jan Clarke, UNC Hospice Chaplain facilitates discussion every third Friday.
Friday, June19, 10 – 11:30 am.

Foot Clinic Open for Appointments

Have you thought about the condition of your feet lately? Try the Foot Clinic. This Fearrington Cares Service is offered for residents who have difficulty caring for their own feet or who are diabetic. Call 542-6877 for an appointment.
Tuesday, June 9, 1-5:00 pm

New Phone System for Fearrington Cares

A new and improved phone system has recently been installed.
There’s only one number you’ll need to remember to call Fearrington Cares: 542-6877. During regular business hours, Monday – Friday from 9:00 – 12:00, a volunteer receptionist will answer the phone. After hours you’ll be able to choose the voice mailbox most appropriate for your needs: transportation, handyperson, Joyce Baird or Pat Skiver. You can even leave a message for Fearrington Friends. We hope this new system will make calling Fearrington Cares easier than ever

NURSE’S NOTES

Massage Students Return!!

Fearrington Cares will be hosting two Body Therapy Institute students in June and July. Over the past three years, 10 students have given nearly 200 (wonderful) massages to Fearrington residents. If you would like to “loan” your tired muscles to a student during his/her clinical rotation in our clinic, call 542-6877 and make an appointment. Call soon – our appointments fill almost immediately upon publication.

How to Choose – and Use – a Cane

Whether you use a cane to ease arthritis pain in knees or hips when walking or simply to steady yourself when on your feet, it is important to choose a cane that is right for you. The first guideline is to pick the right height. To choose the correct height, put your arm straight down and keep your elbow straight. Then flap your hand up and down, bending at the wrist. The point at which the motion occurs is how tall your cane should be. Your ultimate goal is to maintain a 25- to 30-degree bend in your elbow when you use the cane. The tip of the cane should be of slip-resistant rubber with a good tread on the bottom and the handle should be contoured for maximum grip and comfort. The cane should be put in the hand opposite the side of the body that has pain. Correct stride involves moving the cane in unison with your affected leg, then stepping forward with your unaffected leg while keeping the cane in place.
(Cleveland Clinic Arthritis Advisor)

www.fearringtoncares.org.
Just a reminder to visit us at our new website for up to date news and information.