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

hdinh@ciaoa.net

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 lpence@ciaoa.net 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