SEMAAA News

The University of MN is looking for families and individuals dealing with memory loss to take part in a new study. This program is aimed at providing support to families and their loved ones to help them navigate the transition to driving retirement. Dr. Joe Gaughler and a research team have a goal of working with 20 families to start this pilot and refine it. Eventually they hope to open it up to more families across the state.

Driving Retirement and Memory Loss Program

• What: We are evaluating “CarFreeMe,” an 8 session educational program that takes place on a weekly basis. CarFreeMe has been developed to assist individuals with memory loss and their families consider driving retirement. This program includes web video conferencing and/or phone based conversations with a trained facilitator. Sessions include you and your family member and each session lasts about an hour.
• For Whom: Individuals with memory concerns, who are considering retiring from driving or have retired from driving, and a supportive family care member.
• When: There will be a series of weekly sessions with a trained study facilitator. There are a total of 8 sessions. The study lasts 3 months total.
• What: We will ask participants to complete baseline, 1-month, and 3-month surveys. We will also ask participants to conduct a brief interview after 3 months to determine how useful the CarFreeMe program was to them.
• Where: This is a phone or web-based video conferencing based program.
• Why: Individuals with memory concerns, who would like to learn more about adjusting to driving retirement, and their supportive family members likely would benefit from education on dementia, local transportation resources, and strategies for transitioning to driving retirement.
• Incentives: Each participant will be paid $25 after completion of each survey and postintervention interview for a total of $100.

INTERESTED OR HAVE QUESTIONS? TAKE A LOOK AT OUR WEBSITE:
www.sph.umn.edu/research/projects/carfreeme or contact 612-626-9515 or via email at AT CARFREEME@UMN.EDU!

Social isolation is taking a toll on many of us and can feel especially difficult around the holidays.

It’s important to recognize the signs of loneliness and depression and be intentional about getting connected and finding the support you need. We are fortunate to have caring, proactive organizations stepping up to combat social isolation who find unique ways to assist seniors and connect them to community supports. There are virtual book clubs, exercise classes, friendly visiting opportunities and other ways to get involved. To read more about social isolation and how to take care of yourself this winter visit the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging.

Follow these links to get connected to some of the providers we work with in SE MN and ask about their programs and supports.

Aging Mastery Book Clubs Help Reduce Social Isolation

Local Organizations are currently offering Aging Mastery Book clubs via Zoom. This program was developed by the National Council on Aging and focuses on helping older adults take charge of their health, renew healthy habits and make better choices. Go to WellConnect or Juniper to see upcoming classes and register. You will receive a Starter Kit and instructions for how to join virtually. Participant’s who have taken part in this program have enjoyed the connection, sharing and learning as they move through the book content together!