September 21-27, 2014 Active Aging Week 11
Time for Learning at Creative Retirement
By Carolyn Kosheluk For the Winnipeg Free Press
D’Arcy Mansell’s 92-year-old grandfather recently wrote his memoirs from the Second World War. It’s a family treasure filled with personal stories and photos. He had the skills and confidence to tackle the project — using a computer and a scanner — after taking an Introduction to Computers class at Creative Retirement Manitoba (CRM). Mansell, who is CRM co-executive director, Marketing and Resource Development, says technology-focused workshops and classes are among the most sought-after programs. “These courses are really popular because when people don’t keep up with technology, to some degree they feel like they have been left out of the loop,” she says. Senior students can learn about programs such as those in the Microsoft Office suite, and they can get into the nitty-gritty of specific devices like smart TVs, tablets, GPS systems and smartphones. As our population ages, continuing education programs and clubs for older adults are growing in availability and variety. Some are community-based, through neighbourhood centres, while more extensive programs are delivered through education-focused organizations like CRM and the University of Winnipeg’s 55 Plus Program. Beyond gaining practical knowledge, Mansell says there are other quality-of-life benefits that contribute to overall well-being. Pursuing lifelong learning helps maintain mental sharpness, contributes to personal growth and strengthens social ties. “When people retire, they find that a lot of their social circle has been with co-workers, and so at 55 or 65, they suddenly don’t have that anymore,” Mansell says. “When people come here, they can meet new people with similar interests and develop great friendships. For example, in our Advanced French Class there are some people who have been studying together for 10 years.” Lectures and special-interest workshops provide opportunities to connect with others who share common interests. Students can dive into genealogy, current events or human rights. They can learn how to safeguard against identity theft or tackle estate planning. They can study up on birding and even learn about UFOs in Canada. For seniors who crave deeper focus and discussion, clubs are another great option. These provide a truly interactive format for sharing experiences and knowledge. CRM’s photography club proved that when members attended the Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries 55+ Games in Neepawa this summer — their work is featured on the cover and within the pages of this publication. Retirement means a big life change for most people. But for those who seize the opportunity, newfound spare time can be the ideal time for learning. Check out Creative Retirement Manitoba’s program guide online at crm.mb.ca, at Winnipeg Public Libraries, in most Safeway stores and at CRM’s offices at 270 Sherbrook St.
T Thorvaldson Care Center An Intermediate Care Facility for Seniors 495 Stradbrook Ave. • Winnipeg Please call for more information or to arrange a tour Jocelyn Thorvaldson (204) 452-4044 (weekdays) www. thorcare.ca E-mail: thorcare@shaw.ca Over 55 years of caring for Seniors!
Wise students learn about owls at a Whoo’s Who lecture. Photo courtesy of Creative Retirement Manitoba
What does Intermediate Personal Care offer? • 24 hour care / supervision by Health CareAides • Registered Nurse on-site (weekdays) • Medications, inhalers, eyedrops are administered • Monitored blood sugar / blood pressure • Bloodwork, Xray services • Medical appts / transportation arranged • Assist with bathing (complete assist), dressing, hygiene • Assist with catheters / oxygen • Private, bedsitting room with bathroom • Two nurse call buttons in each suite • Three home-cooked meals per day plus snacks • Housekeeping (daily), Laundry (personal and linens) • Accredited Activity Director & Recreation Programs
Thorvaldson Care Center is a government licensed, family owned and operated Intermediate Care facility providing care to seniors since 1959. We offer a moderately sized, non-institutional environment with professional services to meet the needs of those in the later stages of life. ‘Intermediate’ personal care is provided to those who are no longer able to manage/cope in their current living situation due to increasing needs, yet are not quite ready for placement in a Personal Care Home. Thorvaldson Care Center is the only Intermediate Care facility in Manitoba.
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