Welcome to the January 2005 Seniors Digest!

by Timmie Faghin

Happy New Year!

Welcome to the January 2005 issue of Seniors Digest! This month's focus is a topic that is near and dear to my heart: civic engagement and the spirit of volunteerism.

As I write this, the world is springing into action to help the victims of the recent Asian earthquake and tsunami. Here in our own community, we saw an outpouring of giving and volunteering over the holidays. Year-round, our community offers opportunities for seniors and others to serve as volunteers. In this issue we'll take a look at several organizations where seniors are truly making a difference, and give you more information on volunteering in our area. We hope you'll take a few minutes to consider this valuable service that brings with it such a sense of meaning and accomplishment.

As a member of the Advisory Council on Aging and Disabilities, I have always advocated for assisting the elderly to maintain a good quality of life...and recently, I had the opportunity to experience firsthand what it means to have warm, supportive aid in regaining my independence. I had a total hip replacement at Swedish Hospital, and then spent a week at Providence Hospital Rehab Center. I'm well on the mend now, but will never forget the encouraging staff, quality of care and innovative rehab techniques I experienced!

While there, I also met a number of volunteers who provide so much inspiration for those facing the challenges of aging and disability. Two favorites were Curtis Hezeau and his therapy animal, Shetland sheepdog Cole. Curtis is retired, and he and Cole "make the rounds" of local hospitals. See this month's article "Relating to Animals Helps Us Feel Kinship to All Life" for more about this four-legged volunteer!

For more information....

"Links You Can Use" will lead you to further information about the topics of the month, as well as to contact information for accessing resources in the area, and a few fun links, as well.

For national online resources, be sure to check out our companion website, SeniorsDigest.org, where you'll find quick, free access to a wide array of local and national websites for older adults and their families.

We hope you will refer to our electronic pages often to obtain advice, to learn of new and exciting services, and to offer us your constructive feedback.  

Read Seniors Digest and tell us what you think. We are here to help.

Timmie Faghin, Chair
Seattle-King County Advisory Council
on Aging and Disability Services