Thriving while older

I recently had the opportunity to interview Marianne Burkholder from Puget Island. We met in the Cathlamet library and discussed her role as a volunteer through the Woman's Club, for the Area Agency on Aging and Disabilities of SW Washington (AAADSW). Their vision is for every older adult, adults with disabilities, and their family members to have access to information, programs, and services to help them thrive in the setting of their choice. AAADSW is part of the aging services network created by the Older Americans Act. The AAADSW works closely with Health & Human Services here in Wahkiakum County.

As we talked Marianne emphasized a key goal is to keep folks in their home. "As long as they have the support, social interaction, and services they need within their home, there is no need for older folks to move or even feel they should move," she said. If an older person is thriving at home, the AAADSW will be there to offer support in any way it can to ensure it continues.

One of the primary challenges Marianne noted was "contacting and reaching out to people." In our rural community, it can sometimes be challenging contacting folks. Further, people can become unnoticed, or worse, forgotten about. She further shared, "We want to meet people non-judgmentally .. and not to analyze folks. People just want to be accepted."

Marianne provided many examples available for older folks in Wahkiakum County. Such as Senior Prom for 55 and over, Senior Farmers Market Nutrition program, SAIL (Staying Active & Independent for Life), exercise class at Hope Center, Senior Lunches (Hope Center and Rosburg Hall), Wahkiakum on the Move (free for 62 and over), Non-emergency medical transportation for Medicaid and Non-Medicaid seniors, and the Cathlamet Senior Friendship Group which meets every Wednesday at the Lutheran Church on Puget Island.

During our talk, Marianne pointedly made clear, "We shouldn't have to age alone .. We want to let seniors know what's available so they can have more joy in our community... There's an emotional benefit to talk about your problems .. It's important to know each other." You could tell these were things which have a deep hold on her. It was something she was glad to be a part of; where she could make a difference for local older folks.

As we wrapped-up our talk, I shared with Marianne a possible idea for a library project. The Cathlamet Public Library is in the early stages of researching, designing, and developing an Older/Disability/Talking Book informational display at the library. Along with the display, we're hoping to have available a volunteer once a week to answer questions and assist folks. Stay tuned.