News

The Chair’s Corner

In our culture today, people are bustling about with packed schedules, constantly checking their electronic devices for the latest news and updates while embracing instant gratification as the norm. This pace can be both mentally and physically exhausting whether we acknowledge it or not. With all the technology at our fingertips to make our lives easier and more efficient, we somehow lost the yester-years of slower paced living. Today, “down-time” is considered a luxury and is often scheduled on the calendar.

As we enjoy our last month of summer, slow down the pace with me. Carve out time to rest and sit quietly as you take in the beautiful summer weather and consider prioritizing ways to take care of yourself and those you love. This issue will provide you with practical ideas to get you started, from spotting imposter scammers, hepatitis and immunization awareness, to eating a healthy dose of fruits and vegetables.

Our issue wouldn’t be complete without highlighting resources in the community to help individuals age in place and support caregivers. One highlight is that our Advisory Council held an Employment Fair on July 14 at the Auburn Senior Center. More than 130 participants heard guest speakers from various employment and volunteer organizations, visited resource tables, and participated in a Q&A session. While many may be retired, re-entering the work force or volunteering is an opportunity to take care of ourselves whether for financial security or social engagement.

Join me in relishing the remaining days of summer. Before you know it fall will be here.

Resources

1. Retired Senior Volunteer Program—specializes in connecting people 55 and older to volunteer opportunities that meet their needs and help the community.
2. Senior Community Service Employment Program at Goodwill—assists in supported employment and housing for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
3. WorkSource—assists mature workers to overcome barriers when they go back to work and provides support to people with recent job losses.
4. City of Auburn Human Resources—coordinates human resources programs and services for Auburn.
5. Social Security Administration—provides information and assistance to Social Security recipients who wish to continue working and receiving benefits.

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Contributor David Baker is chair of the Seattle-King County Advisory Council on Aging & Disability Services, which publishes AgeWise King County. He welcomes input from readers via e-mail (advisorychair@agewisekingcounty.org) as well as applicants for open positions on the council. For more information, visit www.agingkingcounty.org/advisory-council.

This article originally appeared in AgeWise King County (August 2017)