C4 Saturday, May 14, 2022
How to involve more seniors in your community
Nearby volunteer
opportunities
By KORI SCIANDRA
ksciandra@batavianews.com
As the warmer weather ar-
rives, senior volunteer oppor-
tunities continue to arise.
AARP is an excellent re-
source for senior volunteer
opportunities. Whether you’re
looking to help clean up your
local park or organize a chari-
table event, AARP offers guid-
ance at AARP.com.
Availability of volunteer
roles vary from state-to-state.
Virtual Volunteering is a grow-
ing trend with opportunities
for volunteering for roles such
as an advocacy volunteer, cli-
ent facilitator, or communica-
tions volunteer.
If you’re looking for more
local opportunities, consider
the following:
BECOME A COACH
Local Little League and
Soccer leagues continue to
seek volunteers as the sea-
sons get underway to help
guide new players.
COFFEE BREAKS
Consider volunteering at
your church to help set out
refreshments for after Mass.
Take it a step further and vol-
unteer to deep fry fish for the
next fish fry dinner (or other
dinner event) and help raise
funds.
ORGANIZE A FARMDROP
Consider becoming a pick-
up location to help others in
your community buy and sell
local, fresh produce.
For more information about
FarmDrop, visit WNY Farm-
Drop on Facebook.
SHARE YOUR SKILLS
If you’re a retired business
owner, consider sharing your
knowledge with up and com-
ing entrepreneurs.
Visit the Wyoming County
Business Center at 36 Center
St. Warsaw to pursue a volun-
teer opportunity.
ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
The Livingston County Of-
fice for the Aging is another
excellent resource is you’re
looking to give back to your
community. The RSVP of Liv-
ingston County (Retired and
Senior Volunteer Program) is
located in the Office for the
Aging, Room 272, at 3 Murray
Hill, Mount Morris.
Faith in Action at 34 East
State St., Mount Morris, is of-
fering volunteer opportunities
to help elderly in their homes
with housekeeping, yard
work, grocery shopping. For
more information, call Jessica
Pierce (585)-658-4466 ext.
18 or email jpierce@dor.org.
The Livingston County
Center for Nursing and Re-
habilitation, 11 Murray Hill
Drive, Mount Morris, is offer-
ing volunteer opportunities
for accompanying residents
on walks; assisting activity
staff with programs; friendly
visits; playing cards/board
games; provide instrumental
and/or vocal talent; read to
residents; teaching painting,
music, writing, computer use,
etc.
Teresa House, 21 Highland
Rd., Geneseo, is a comfort
care home for the terminally
ill that offers volunteer op-
portunities to spend time with
residents and their families
in a variety of ways including
reading and watching TV with
residents, physical and emo-
tional care for residents as
well as answering phone and
preparing small meals.
Crossroads House, 11
Liberty St., Batavia, and Char-
lotte House, 4316 Route 98,
North Java, are also comfort
care homes in Genesee and
Wyoming counties, respec-
tively.
Each of the GLOW region
Offices for the Aging have
meal-delivery programs
staffed by volunteer drivers.
Other opportunities are also
available.
By KORI SCIANDRA
ksciandra@batavianews.com
The negative effects of iso-
lation are something the vast
majority of the world can now
relate to. The COVID-19 pan-
demic kept people from all
walks of life and from every cor-
ner of the globe from spending
time with friends, family mem-
bers, neighbors, and other ac-
quaintances. As the world cut
back on in-person interactions
to curb the spread of the virus,
billions of people recognizing
just how difficult feelings of iso-
lation can be.
Feelings of isolation are a
problem many seniors know
all too well. A report from the
National Academies of Sci-
ences, Engineering, and Medi-
cine indicates that roughly 25
percent of adults aged 65 and
older are considered to be so-
cially isolated. That’s both sad
and unhealthy, as the National
Institute of Aging notes that
research has linked social isola-
tion and loneliness to problems
such as high blood pressure,
heart disease, anxiety, depres-
sion, and Alzheimer’s disease.
“…I believe the senior and
older adult population is the
most negatively affected by the
lock down from the pandemic.
Older adults needed to decide
whether they would spend time
with family and friends and risk
getting sick or stay home to
decrease their exposure. The
most vulnerable decided to
decrease their exposure,” said
Tess Phillips, deputy director of
the Wyoming County Office for
the Aging.
“We have clients that have
not left their home in two years.
Of course, some people don’t
mind that sort of thing, but the
ones who do mind are feeling
the negative effects of the pan-
demic the most,” she said.
“We serve many rural, iso-
lated seniors and the cases of
mental health issues like de-
pression and anxiety are on
the rise. I think food stability is
still a problem. Not only did the
pandemic cause prices to in-
crease, but prices on healthier
foods have gone through the
roof,” said Phillips.
Seniors are invaluable re-
sources in their communities.
Community leaders and local
residents can make a concerted
effort to involve seniors in local
events.
Such efforts strengthen
communities and help seniors
remain active participants in
their towns and cities. These ef-
forts can:
n Promote senior-friendly
volunteering opportunities.
The importance of volunteers
was never more apparent than
during the pandemic, when
many non-profits and other
organizations were forced to
meet their missions without
the assistance of volunteers
who had been urged to stay
home.
Seniors were among the first
people eligible to be vaccinated
against COVID-19 and receive
boosters, and many have been
anxious to get back to pitching
in. Communities can facilitate
those efforts by developing and
highlighting senior-friendly
volunteering opportunities.
(585) 344-1345
113 E. Main St., Batavia, NY
THE DAILY NEWS
residents, including middle-
aged adults, may be unaware
of. One way to shed light on
local history is to invite local
seniors to speak about how
life in their communities has
changed and how it’s stayed
the same. Themed speaking
series can attract locals with
specific interests. For example,
veterans can be asked to share
stories of their time in the ser-
vice, while retired business
owners can offer insight and
advice on running successful
local businesses.
n Develop nature-based
programs. A 2019 study pub-
lished in the journal Scientific
Reports found that spending
just 120 minutes a week in na-
ture is associated with better
overall health and improved
well-being. Nature-based
PHOTO COURTESY OF AMERICORPS. community programs, such
as planting days at local parks,
The AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP program is designed to be a support to older adults seeking
engagement in the community. AmeriCorps Seniors is open to individuals age 55 and older. hiking clubs or even beach or
lakeside cleanups, is a great
at the animal shelter, serve on
way for community residents,
‘
Volunteering is an avenue to improved boards, provide assistance at including seniors, to get their
local museums and libraries, weekly dose of nature and
physical and mental health and a driving goal
fund raise, and operate gift spend more time with their
is to find an opportunity that brings joy to the shops,” Iburi said. neighbors.
The AmeriCorps Seniors Letchworth State Park has a
volunteer’s life.
COURTNEY IBURI
’ RSVP program is designed to be
a support to older adults seek-
ing engagement in the com-
munity. The Genesee County
Friends of Letchworth program
that is always in need of volun-
teers, said Wyoming County
Office for the Aging Director
AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP director OFA partners with about 25 dif-
Andrew Aldinger.
ferent agencies to offer a range “Everything from trail clean-
For example, libraries can start personalized materials brought of options for a personalized up to other outdoor activities,”
a program where seniors read to one’s home; in-home help match. said Aldinger.
to children in person or via with budgeting, bill paying and
“Volunteering is an avenue For information, call (585)
Zoom. balancing checkbooks through
to improved physical and men- 493-3600.
“Through the Office for the a financial management pro- tal health and a driving goal is to Beaver Meadow Nature Cen-
Aging, we have an AmeriCorps gram; and medical transporta- find an opportunity that brings ter, which is operated by the
Seniors RSVP program, which tion to out-of-county appoint- joy to the volunteer’s life,” said Buffalo Audubon Society also
engages 250 older adults in ments,” she said. Iburi. has many volunteer opportu-
service at non-profits or gov- Volunteers are also helping n Give seniors a chance nities. For information, visit
ernment agencies in Genesee to fight food insecurity through to teach. Communities have www.buffaloaudubon.org/vol-
County,” said AmeriCorps Se- service at four food pantry part- rich histories that younger unteer.html.
niors RSVP Director Courtney ners in Genesee County.
Iburi. Senior volunteers are also
“We have volunteer oppor- processing tax returns, pro-
tunities which help older adults moting environmental stew-
remain independent and sup- ardship and education, and
ported in the community such serving veterans and patients at
as a grocery delivery program local medical facilities.”
(Got Groceries?); Meals on “Volunteers assisted with
Wheels delivery; friendly home vaccination and testing clin-
visits; library services and ics, provide hospice care, help
We Are Open For All Of Your Foot Care Needs
3922 West Main Street Road, Batavia
585-344-1677 | www.bataviafootcarecenter.com
C.B. Beach & Son
Mortuary, Inc.
1903-2022
Celebrating 119 Years
4 - 6 Main Street, Corfu, NY 14036
585-599-4520
, LLC
The Fourth Generation Serving Our Community
Mark Doerr, MD
Warsaw Location:
If you are looking for one
408 North Main St.
place to meet all of your eye
care needs, look to our
Matthew Sheldon, M.D.
Corfu location:
professional & friendly staff!
24 East Main St. (Route 33)
Dr. Kurt Schmitt, Dr. Alyssa Fortuna, Theodore Fortuna Please contact us at:
We accept most insurance including
EYEMED, NYS Vision Plan, Univera, Community Blue, 716-677-2273
Spectera, Aetha, Cigna, Excellus, MVP, Fidelis, www.wnyurology.com
Davis and Independent Health
 THE DAILY NEWS Saturday, May 14, 2022 C5

Outdoor activities that are perfect for seniors

By KORI SCIANDRA
ksciandra@batavianews.com
The great outdoors beckons
people of all ages. Fresh air
can be hard to resist, and the
benefits of spending time out-
doors are so numerous that it
behooves anyone – including
seniors – to answer the call of
nature.
Human beings benefit both
physically and psychologi-
cally from spending time in
nature, according to research-
ers with the U.S. Department PHOTO COURTESY OF THE AUTISM NATURE TRAIL
of Agriculture’s Forest Service. Meadow Run is one of eight stations to visit along The ANT at
Such experiences can re- Letchworth State Park. The trail surface is comprised of stone
duce stress and help lower dust and suitable for wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers.
heart rates, potentially de-
creasing individuals’ risk for
cardiovascular disease. The
Forest Service also notes that
spending time outside in
green spaces has been linked
to a lower risk of depression. METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION
Seniors who are retired or Seniors who are retired or even aging empty nesters who are still in the workforce can make great
even aging empty nesters who use of their free time by venturing into the great outdoors.
are still in the workforce can also notes swimming can lead tour to learn about llamas at Association North East’s vir-
make great use of their free to improved health for people Llama Adventures in Arcade, tual farm tours have been
time by venturing into the with diabetes and heart dis- viewed more than 400,000
and enjoy hikes, farm visits,
great outdoors. ease. times,” said Greg Szklany,
and educational programs or
The following are a hand-
Seniors can reap these ben- learn about dairy farming dur- multimedia communications
ful of senior-friendly outdoor
efits by going for a dip in their ing an in-person tour at Reyn- specialist for American Dairy
activities that provide a great
own backyard pools or a local crest Farm, in Corfu, led by Association North East.
reason to get off the couch and
body of water, such as a lake or Dairy Farmer Kelly Reynolds. Virtual Farm Tours are open
take in all that Mother Nature PHOTO COURTESY OF AMERICAN DAIRY ASSOCIATION NORTH EAST
ocean. Many swim clubs also These tours allow seniors to everyone. Taking a virtual
has to offer. Reyncrest Farm offers in-person tours for everyone to enjoy.
offer discounted member- to explore the outdoors or, for farm tour allows seniors the
HIKING ships to seniors making this those seniors who can’t man- option to explore at a more lei- to fishing report feeling less both their physical and men-
Hiking provides a great another great and affordable age the farm terrain, American surely pace and from the com- stressed after a day spent cast- tal health. Good resources to
workout and an ideal op- way to reap the benefits of Dairy Association North East fort of their own home. ing for their favorite fish. consider for additional out-
portunity to spend time in swimming. offers virtual farm tours. FISHING Whatever activity you door activities are local Boy
an idyllic setting. The U.S. FARM TOUR “Our virtual farm tours Of course, not all outdoor choose, keeping seniors active Scout and Girl Scout troops,
National Park Service notes Take a farm tour with se- have been extremely benefi- activities need make seniors is an excellent way to maintain 4-H programs, and the YMCA.
hiking helps individuals build niors and explore what it takes cial…providing informative huff and puff. Fishing provides
stronger muscles and bones, to run a fully functioning farm. and engaging activities…. a great reason to get outdoors,
improve their sense of bal- Whether you prefer to take a Since 2018, American Dairy and many individuals devoted
ance, has a positive effect on
heart health, and can decrease
the risk of certain respiratory
problems.
Hiking is an especially at-
tractive outdoor activity for
seniors, as many parks feature CROWNS: NOT JUST FOR ROYALS
trails with varying degrees of Dental crowns, caps made of porcelain or porcelain fused to metal,
difficulty, ensuring there’s are used in dentistry to correct irregularly shaped, chipped, or cracked
a trail for seniors whether teeth, provide reinforcement following a root canal, or replace missing
they’re seasoned or novice or failing teeth. Crowns are customized to fit the patient’s tooth and
hikers.
Consider taking a stroll
Call RA Haitz - tinted to match the color of other teeth. Requiring two appointments,
crowns are permanently affixed to the tooth. Impressions of the teeth
through the Autism Nature
Trail – also known as The ANT You’ll Be Glad are first taken to ensure an exact fit, then the impression molds are
sent to a dental lab to create the crown. A patient returns for final
– at Letchworth State Park crown placement and permanent bonding to the existing tooth. Visiting
with seniors. The first-of-its-
kind, interactive experience in
You Did! a dental health professional can determine if a crown is the best
possible solution for tooth restoration.
nature was developed with the Crowns are one of the many options available today to change the
intention of gearing toward “IT’S WHAT WE DO”
visitors on the autism spec-
77 Years in Business look of your teeth. Don’t hide your smile behind a lack of information.
At BATAVIA FAMILY DENTAL, we want our patients to be comfortable
trum. Trusted. Reliable. not only with the function of their teeth, but also with the appearance of
The ANT is open for ev- Professional. their smile, and a consultation at our office is an excellent opportunity
eryone to enjoy. The trail is to discover your dental alternatives. New patients are always welcome
designed to be wheelchair- Richard Wendt, President here at 6 Batavia City Centre. For an appointment, please call us at
friendly. The trail surface is RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL • AGRICULTURAL Fully Insured & Free Estimates 585.343.4246. We’ll give you a reason to smile!
comprised of stone dust and P.S. Dr. Charles Land introduced the all-porcelain jacket crown in
suitable for wheelchairs, walk- 128 Cedar St. Batavia, NY • 585-343-2400 / 585-356-4300 1903. It is the first rendition of the dental crown used today.
ers, and strollers. The paths
leading into and around the
RAHAITZ.COM
eight stations are made of en-
gineered wood fiber mulch.
The ANT is adjacent to
Humphrey Nature Center in-
side Letchworth State Park.
The best way to enter the trail
is at the Castile entrance at
6787 County Road 38, Castile.
The easiest way to approach is
from state Route 39/19A.
Come enjoy nature with
your whole family. Pack a
lunch and utilize one of the
many picnic tables placed
throughout the park.
For more information or to
obtain a trail map, visit theau-
tismnaturetrail.com or call
(585) 201-8066.
WATER AEROBICS
The Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention notes
that water-based exercises can
be especially helpful for indi-
viduals with chronic diseases,
a category many seniors fall
into. The CDC notes one study
published in the journal Ar-
thritis & Rheumatology found
it improves the use of joints
affected by arthritis without
worsening symptoms.
The U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services