Forums focus on senior health

Have you heard anyone say in later life, "If I knew I would have lived this long, I would have taken better care of myself"? For many older adults, those words can sound painfully familiar—but they do not have to become your story. The good news is, for most of us, it is not too late to make changes that can improve our health, strengthen our independence, and help us prepare for the future. That is why Serving Our Seniors is offering two free courses designed to improve one's health in later life and one public forum on understanding the financial implications of nursing home placement — and all that is involved in preparing for that day, should it happen to you. Diabetes Empowerment Education Program (DEEP) This free course runs each Tuesday from Sept. 22 to Oct. 27, from 10 a.m. to noon (there is no class on Oct. 6) at the Huron Public Library, 333 Williams Street, Huron. Designed for Erie County older adults who are living with pre-diabetes or diabetes, as well as their spouses or caregivers, this supportive workshop series gives participants practical information for managing blood sugar, meal planning and boosting everyday energy in an easy-to-understand teaching style. Those who have taken the course describe it as socially interactive, enjoyable, eye-opening and motivating. Registration is limited to 10 and is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Near-perfect attendance is required. Call Serving Our Seniors at 419-624-1856. Ask for Sue or Tina. The last day to register is Friday, Sept. 18. Leave your name, phone number and the name of this course. Matter of Balance training course This free course begins each Monday and Wednesday, starting on Oct. 5, through and including from 1-3 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 28, at the Margaretta Township Town Hall, 114 Main Street, Castalia. Matter of Balance teaches Erie County older adults practical ways to improve balance and reduce the risk of falls. Those who take the course are empowered to improve their ability to function independently and reduce the need for nursing home care as they continue to grow older. The class is limited to 12 people. Near-perfect attendance is required. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. The last day to register is Sept. 30. Call Serving Our Seniors' registration line at 419-504-0585. Leave your name, phone number and the name of this course. How do I afford the cost of a nursing home? This event occurs from 1:30-3 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 17, at the Erie County Senior Center, 620 E. Water Street, Sandusky. Attorneys John Ball (John R. Ball, LPA) and Michael Brumbaugh (Brumbaugh Law Firm) will sit on a panel. For educational purposes, they will answer general questions about what is involved in estate planning and Medicaid planning. Attendees will learn about the true cost of nursing home care and the legal planning involved to help afford it. The last day to register is Tuesday, Sept. 15. Call Serving Our Seniors' reservation line at 419-504-0585. Leave your name, phone number and the name of this forum. All three learning opportunities are free, practical and focused on one important question: What can I do now to give myself the best chance of living well for the years I have ahead?