Senior Notes By Catherine Moloney, Social Services and Senior Program Coordinator

Email me at catheriemoloney@ipcboston.org or call 617 265 5300 x 12

CARA CLUB

Janelle Liljstrand, Intern Social Worker, joined us at the Cara Club on Monday. She showed a DVD of a one act play called “Talking with Dolores”. The play addressed the difficult subjects of aging, depression and suicide. The main character was an older man who was struggling with thoughts of suicide. The dialogue was at times very sad and at other times very lighthearted and humorous. Janelle had a short discussion with the group at the end about the importance of being aware of the issue of elder suicide.

If you ever feel depressed, if you ever have thoughts of suicide or are concerned about someone else don’t be afraid to talk to someone or to ask for help. You can get help from a counselor, therapist, or mental health clinic, a family member or friend, a family doctor, a member of the clergy, a teacher, guidance counselor, or coach, an emergency room, The Samaritans at 1-877-870-4673. You are also welcome to call us at the IPC. We would be happy to listen and to offer whatever help and support we can.

DORCHESTER COFFEE MORNING

We had a lively crowd at the coffee morning who enjoyed chatting, refreshments, cards and an episode of the comedy “Faulty Towers” on our new Television and DVD player which were very kindly donated to us recently by Jackie and Kevin McCarthy and Helen Henry.

A special thanks to Dave Flannery of Dave’s Auto Services at 636 Hancock Street, Quincy. He very generously replaced the alternator on our minibus, providing the part at cost price and the labor for free.

“Senior drivers should follow universal vehicle safety practices, and take some extra precautions designed to compensate for their changing driving abilities.

Plan and Prepare

Winter driving experts agree — don’t drive in bad weather if you can avoid it. But if driving in inclement weather is absolutely necessary, take these steps to help make the challenge as safe as possible:

* Avoid rush hours, but stay on well-traveled roads. Don’t try taking back roads or “short cuts” thinking you’ll avoid traffic. Fewer cars on back roads may mean those routes are the last to be plowed or maintained and are not likely to be heavily patrolled by emergency services.

* Pre-plan your route and get the most up-to-date information on traffic and road conditions.

* Travel with a companion whenever possible. There is safety in numbers, and a vigilant travel companion can help you navigate slick roads, wintery weather and traffic challenges better than you might if you were alone.

Source: ARA content

Please feel free to call Catherine Moloney at 617 265 5300 x12 for more information on IPC Senior Citizen Outreach Program activities and services

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