Community

In 2018, the fourth season of NeighborWalks begins in June! We excited about the fabulous walks we have planned for in and around Portland. One exciting thing this year is that we are expanding our walks to include Clackamas and Washington counties!

AARP Oregon is kicking off a statewide listening tour this spring to hear from Oregonians 50+ about their communities. The Age-Friendly Oregon: Building Communities for All Ages Listening Tour will include stops in twelve Oregon communities between March and June 2018. In each community, AARP staff and volunteer leaders will be host a public community conversation designed to hear from 50+ Oregonian about their communities, their priorities and aspirations for a livable and age-friendly Oregon.

“Which shoes,” the caregiver asks?

By Lynne Terry

Usually when we look for a volunteer opportunity, we are motivated to help others in need. When I volunteered to be a long-term care ombudsman, it turned into a life changing experience. I have changed the lives of dozens of people, all for the better, improved my ability and confidence to stand up for others and, because of my expanded knowledge and experience, made life better for family and friends when they needed long-term care. The long-term care ombudsman program has been a jackpot bingo for me.

Lying in bed, in that hazy state of semi-waking and sleeping, I turn my head toward the digital clock on the nightstand, and inwardly struggle to decide what to do. It’s 6:10 in the morning. I force a decision: with aching body and an ugh! I kick the blanket off my legs, painfully slide to the edge of the bed, and with my only useful arm, and grasp the side rail.

Things have changed since I entered the ALF world, experienced its uniqueness and ambiguities, and began writing my blog, detailing the behind-the-scenes glimpses of ALF living.

Whether you are a new or current Medicare beneficiary, or are several years away from enrolling in Medicare, AARP of Oregon is committed to helping our members find meaningful volunteer opportunities in the community. By volunteering just a few hours a month, you can make a powerful difference in someone’s life. SHIBA is this kind of opportunity!

The room rests. Waiting. Expectant. Readying itself to welcome a new resident, who will live out her days within its confines. I peer into the emptiness, for it remains a void across the hall. The new resident will be my neighbor, as was the deceased before her, and the deceased before her, ad continuem….

Two residents died last week.