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You Rest, You Rust

by Cynthia Germain I recently came across the phrase “you rest, you rust” and found it a poignant reminder of the need to stay active. Not just physically, but mentally and socially. Picture an old bicycle that’s been left outside. Over time, its shiny frame dulls and its gears no longer move freely. The same happens to us when inactivity takes hold. While rest is important, prolonged stillness can lead to a kind of rusting that affects our body, mind, and spirit. When we stop moving, our bodies begin to weaken. Muscles lose strength, joints become less flexible, and our

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December 8, 2024 No Comments

A Giving Tuesday Message: Looking Back in Gratitude, Forward with Purpose

by Cynthia Germain Giving Tuesday is more than just a day on the calendar—it’s a movement that invites each of us to step up and make a difference. With so many causes to support, from rescuing animals to empowering young people, there’s a place for everyone to donate their time, talent, or money. At Do Good Door County, our focus is on aging—an issue that touches every life in some way, whether through parents, grandparents, and even ourselves as we grow older. We are grateful for the incredible support we’ve received over the last year. It’s that support that fuels

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December 1, 2024 No Comments

Puzzles and Games Are More Than Just Fun

By Cynthia Germain There’s something wonderfully simple about a puzzle, pieces on a table waiting for someone to come along and put them together. In today’s high-tech world, puzzles and games offer a unique opportunity for connection, especially across generations. A friend recently reached out, sharing her experience of working on a puzzle at a family gathering. The energy, she said, was something special: relaxed, joyful, and fully cooperative. It was a hit with her group, and it got me thinking about the quiet but profound benefits these activities bring, especially to older adults. Puzzles and games are more than

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November 17, 2024 No Comments

Thank you Veterans!

This Veteran’s Day, Do Good Door County pays tribute to all who have served—across generations and branches of service. Veterans, from those who served decades ago to those who served more recently, have shown unwavering courage and dedication, shaping the freedoms we enjoy today. Older veterans hold unique stories that reflect not only their personal experiences but also moments in history. If you know someone who has served, take some time on Veterans Day to ask about their service. Each veteran’s story is a window into a different era, filled with insights about their time in their branch of the

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November 10, 2024 No Comments

How the Time Change Affects Senior Health

by Cynthia Germain As we “fall back” and gain an extra hour of sleep, most of us welcome this time change as an opportunity to feel a bit more rested. But for older adults, this shift can bring unique challenges that are often overlooked. One of the most immediate impacts of the time change is on sleep. Older adults are more sensitive to shifts in their sleep schedules, and moving the clocks back can disrupt the body’s internal clock. This shift can lead to feelings of fatigue and confusion. For those already managing conditions like dementia or mild cognitive impairment,

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November 3, 2024 No Comments

Why Reminiscing Matters

by Cynthia Germain Having family in town recently brought a special kind of energy, with stories flowing – some familiar, others forgotten until now. The experience of seeing the smiles and laughter over shared memories reminded me of the unique power of reminiscing. It’s not just about reliving the past; it’s about bringing people together and finding joy in our shared experiences. Research shows that reminiscing offers a variety of mental, emotional, and social benefits, especially for older adults. Reflecting on past experiences can help maintain a sense of identity, improve mood, and boost cognitive health. This type of reflection

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October 20, 2024 No Comments

Lonely But Not Isolated

by Cynthia Germain Recently, a family member who lives at a distance in an assisted living facility confided that she feels lonely. This struck me because she is anything but isolated. She attends activities daily, her neighbors are just steps away, and staff come into her apartment at least three times a day. Yet, despite this constant interaction, loneliness persists. This person also struggles with multiple health issues, and her outlook on how those issues can be addressed is, unfortunately, quite negative. Her experience highlights a crucial distinction—one that often goes unrecognized in discussions about older adults: the difference between

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October 13, 2024 No Comments

From Lifespan to Healthspan: The Science Behind Living Longer and Better

Living to 150? It might sound like something out of a science fiction novel, but according to recent research highlighted in Fortune Well, this idea is no longer just a fantasy. Scientists are making remarkable progress in understanding the biology of aging, and some believe that in the near future, it could be possible to extend human life significantly. The article outlines how advancements in genetics, medicines, and lifestyle interventions could slow the aging process and push the boundaries of human life expectancy. Imagine a world where living well past 100 is the norm, with each year offering opportunities for

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October 6, 2024 No Comments

Looking Out For Our Elders

by Cynthia Germain Those who work in the field of caring for older adults, like the members of the Aging Coalition of Door County (ACDC), are familiar with the many challenges seniors face. One growing concern is the rise of scams. While many are aware of the dangers posed by online and phone scams, fewer realize that in-person scams are happening more frequently than we might think. Recently, Leslie Boden from Money Management Counselors, and a member of ACDC, shared a troubling email with me. A community member wanted to bring attention to two scam attempts targeting their elderly father.

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September 29, 2024 No Comments

The Ripple Effect of Unexpected Connections

by Cynthia Germain On October 6th, Do Good Door County, in partnership with Third Avenue PlayWorks (TAP), will host a special event that brings together the worlds of art and community connection featuring the play No Wake. This unique show offers a touching narrative about an unlikely intergenerational friendship and will be followed by a thought-provoking discussion led by Paul Salm, an educator from UW-Madison’s Institute of Human Development and Relationships. Paul is an expert in aging with a commitment to building strong communities, so this opportunity will surely spark new conversations and address issues faced by both older and

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September 22, 2024 No Comments

Today is Respect for the Aged Day

By Cynthia Germain Today, Japan celebrates Respect for the Aged Day, a national holiday that honors older adults for their contributions to society and recognizes the wisdom they carry. While this day is officially marked in Japan, its message holds universal significance: to appreciate and show gratitude to the older generations in our lives, no matter where we are in the world. In Japan, this day is filled with community events and family gatherings. Grandchildren may visit their grandparents, neighborhoods organize festive lunches, and volunteers deliver meals or check in on the elderly in their communities. It’s a time to

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September 16, 2024 No Comments

Take a Step Towards a World without Alzheimer’s

by Cynthia Germain On September 14th, Door County will come together for a cause that deeply affects families and friends in our community —the annual Alzheimer’s Walk. Hosted by the Alzheimer’s Association, this event offers a chance for us to support those impacted by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, while raising funds for critical research and community resources. Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia, affects over 6 million people in the U.S. alone. It is a progressive disease that robs individuals of their memory and cognitive abilities, often leaving families and caregivers with immense emotional and physical

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September 8, 2024 No Comments

Labor Day Reflections: The Legacy and Future of Older Workers

by Cynthia Germain As we approach Labor Day, a holiday traditionally associated with the unofficial end of summer capped off by the backyard BBQ, it’s a good time to reflect on the deeper meaning of this day. Labor Day is a celebration of the hard work and contributions that generations of workers have made to build our communities. Among these workers, older adults hold a special place, having spent decades shaping the workforce and contributing to the fabric of our society. Labor Day has its roots in the late 19th century labor movement in the United States as the country’s

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August 25, 2024 No Comments

The Art and Science of Connection

by Cynthia Germain At Do Good Door County, we believe in the power of connection. Through our various programs and initiatives, we’ve seen firsthand how vital social health is to living a longer, healthier, and happier life. This belief is reinforced by the work we’re doing as part of the Wisconsin Department of Health Services grant, where we’ve been encouraged to join the Commit to Connect network. This network is dedicated to addressing isolation and loneliness, particularly among older adults, aligning perfectly with our mission. As we delve deeper into this important issue, we want to share with you a

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August 18, 2024 No Comments

The Power of Alone Time

by Cynthia Germain There is no doubt that being social is essential to good health as we age but ask anyone who enjoys their own company, and they’ll say there’s a big difference between being lonely and being alone. Solitude can be a source of self-awareness and creativity and those who like it often possess deep self-awareness and resilience. It is essential to balance these qualities with meaningful social connections but let’s take a look at those individuals who possess unique abilities that enable them to thrive in being alone. Here’s what they may have: Self-Awareness and Independence: Older adults

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August 11, 2024 No Comments

Turning Work into Friendships

by Cynthia Germain In today’s workplace, the value of intergenerational friendships cannot be overstated. According to an insightful article from the Harvard Business Review, “Why We Need Intergenerational Friendships at Work,” these relationships foster mutual growth, enhance understanding, and drive productivity across age groups. We couldn’t agree more as our MatchUp program is dedicated to connecting older adults with vetted employers throughout Door County. The Harvard Business Review article highlights the fact that for the first time, managers are experiencing new challenges as they lead up to five generations (Silent Generation, Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z). There

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August 4, 2024 No Comments

Beyond Politics: Honoring Life Transitions

by Cynthia Germain The recent decision by President Joe Biden to withdraw from the race for the White House goes beyond political affiliations, touching on the universal themes of aging, legacy, and the profound respect we owe to those who have dedicated their lives to service. Regardless of which side of the aisle you sit, it is important to acknowledge the difficulties of stepping away from a role one has passionately filled and to celebrate the achievements that have marked such a journey. Aging brings with it a host of challenges, some of which revolve around the idea of stepping

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July 28, 2024 No Comments

From Clutter to Care: Addressing Hoarding Disorder Among Older Adults

by Cynthia Germain Recently, the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging released a comprehensive report titled “The Consequences of Clutter: How Hoarding Disorder Affects America’s Older Adults, First Responders, and Their Communities.” This report sheds light on the profound impact of hoarding disorder on older Americans and provides recommendations for federal and local agencies to better support those affected. Hoarding disorder is a complex mental health condition characterized by the excessive accumulation of items, which can create hazardous living conditions. The Senate report, see the full report at https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/24785563-senate-aging-committee-report-on-hoarding-disorder-july-2024, highlights that this disorder disproportionately affects older adults, with approximately six

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July 13, 2024 No Comments

Celebrating Freedom Together

by Cynthia Germain The 4th of July is a time of celebration, a day when communities come together to commemorate the birth of our nation with fireworks, parades, and barbecues. Amidst the patriotic spirit and vibrant festivities, it is essential to remember and include our older adults in these celebrations. Not only do they have rich histories and stories to share, but their involvement in community events can significantly boost their sense of belonging. For many older adults, especially those who may be experiencing isolation or loneliness, the 4th of July can be a poignant reminder of past celebrations and

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June 30, 2024 No Comments

We are honored to receive DHS Grant

by Cynthia Germain The Department of Health Services (DHS) announced 37 grants were awarded to form or enhance a local coalition and develop innovative and relevant solutions that address the unique needs of local populations and communities related to social isolation. Do Good Door County is proud to be one of the recipients of the DHS grant to enhance the Aging Coalition of Door County and implement a community project aimed at addressing the social isolation in our community. “The lack of social connection poses a significant risk for individual health and longevity. Loneliness and social isolation increase the risk

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June 23, 2024 No Comments
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