Seniors Learning on the Go

 By Kelly Taylor 
On February 4th, the fourth and final activity in the Seniors Learning on the Go project, funded by the Government of Canada’s New Horizons Grant for Seniors, took place. Each of the four activities or trips involved a learning component combined with fun and socializing. The final trip was to the Coverdale Centre in Riverview for a day of learning. A total of 60 seniors travelled by bus to Riverview for the day.

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The day began with an informative presentation by Erin King of the New Brunswick Financial and Consumer Services Commission. The seniors learned about ongoing scams in the area, how they work, what to watch for and how to protect themselves. “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” 
They also learned about the importance of establishing a “Power of Attorney” – how to select someone, what to expect and that person’s responsibilities. Did you know you can assign power of attorney on a short-term basis if you are going in for a surgery or treatment and will be unable to look after your affairs for a specific time period?
Erin finished out her talk with information on elder financial abuse – how to recognize it, how to report it and how to protect yourself from it. Indicators of increased vulnerability to financial abuse include: social isolation, bereavement, dependence on another to provide care, alcohol or drug use, and depression or mental illness. More information can be found at www.FCNB.ca or by calling 1-866-933-2222.
Following a healthy Asian-themed lunch prepared and served by Foods of the Fundy Valley, Michelle Lajoie, a dietician from the Atlantic Superstore, talked about food safety, food preparation for one or two, and healthy eating. 
After a full day of information, door prizes were drawn and the seniors returned home on the buses. Feedback from the seniors for all the trips in the series has been very positive. It has been especially appreciated that the entire program, including transportation, was free, allowing many who do not normally get a chance to participate in day trips an opportunity to enjoy these.
Our mission at Urban/Rural Rides is to provide transportation to those who need it. While the bus trips were more recreational and informational than a necessity, it is important for people to get out and socialize and enjoy time with others to fight feelings of isolation and loneliness. Our volunteer drivers help do that every day when they give someone a ride. If you have a few hours a month or more and want to be part of a team on a mission to help others get where they need to go, please call 215-2100 or email [email protected] for more information. Drivers need to be over the age of 21, have a reliable automobile, carry $2 million liability (we will reimburse the extra charge up to $80 per year), sign an oath of confidentiality and clear a police record check.

Kelly Taylor is the Executive Manager, Urban/Rural Rides.