Seniors
Friendship and camaraderie amongst peers are benefits of participating in the Genoa Seniors group. Meetings are held monthly at the Community Hall (5111 South Old 3C Highway) on the second Thursday of each month at noon. The close-knit group welcomes new friends to join them for activities, lunch, conversation, and educational presentations. In March the group created terrariums with help from a local nursery and in April the group hosted a speaker on local history. In addition to the usual agenda, every other month, a nurse from Delaware General Health District offers free health screenings beginning at 11:00 a.m. prior to the start of the group’s meeting. Jackie Danalewich coordinates the group and recommends attending as a visitor for free to get the feel for the group. For those who decide they want to become a member, dues are only $10 for the entire year.
Many members of the Genoa Township Seniors group also enjoy the services of SourcePoint. SourcePoint is the hub of professional expertise, services, and programs for Delaware County adults. Seniors who connect with SourcePoint will find support in the form of in-home care services such as Meals on Wheels, help with chores, as well as support for family caregivers. Income-eligible individuals may even receive vouchers to use at area farmers markets, assistance with tax preparation annually, and more. The organization is anchored by an enrichment center on Cheshire Road that hosts a wide variety of programs such as fitness classes and trips; membership is available to Delaware County residents ages 55 and better for $25 per year.
For some, transportation is an obstacle to enjoying social activities away from home. For this reason, Delaware Area Transit Authority and SourcePoint teamed up to offer those 55 and older discounted transportation (up to 8 one-way rides each month) to anywhere in the county for only $4 per ride. Two of the eight monthly trips can be made to medical facilities within adjoining Counties, such as St. Ann’s or OSU Hospital. Rides can be scheduled by calling 740-363-3355.
Continued Education:
• The Lifelong Learning Institute is being established by Ohio Wesleyan University to benefit intellectually curious older adults.
• The three libraries serving Genoa Township residents (Westerville Public Library, Delaware County District Library, and the Community Library serving Big Walnut Area) offer delivery of books, music, movies and more to homebound residents. Call the appropriate local library for details.
Entertainment:
• Local school districts offer seniors within their tax district free admission to some school programs.
Safety:
• Genoa Township Fire Department changes smoke alarm batteries for residents to reduce the risk of falls and to ensure all homes have functioning alarms. This is a free service for residents. Call (614)568-2040 • Document vital medical information in a “File of Life” and keep it on the refrigerator where paramedics know to look. This is a free service for residents. Call (614)568-2040
• Purchase an “Emergency Response Key Box” to give first responders access to a property without forcing entry. The secure box is installed on an exterior door without the need for tools. A key to the property is secured inside the box accessible only to the Fire Department. Call (614)568-2040
• Delaware County Special Needs Registry informs first responders of registered individual’s functional needs in the event of a disaster or emergency. The program was designed for individuals using life-sustaining equipment, who cannot evacuate on their own, have cognitive impairments, and those with hearing, speech impairments, or limited English. The registry is protected by HIPAA and is only shared with emergency response agencies. Call (740) 833-2183.
• Trash and recycling hauler, Rumpke, provides garage-side service to those physically unable to haul their waste containers to the curb.
• Those who are (55+) living in Delaware County can receive FREE hauling and disposal of old appliances and electronics in an effort to prevent lifting injuries. This program is made possible by a partnership with SourcePoint, Delaware General Health District and Keep Delaware County Beautiful. This annual program is typically offered each spring on a first come/first served basis until funding is expended. Contact Keep Delaware County Beautiful coordinator Jenifer Way-Young at 740-203-2076 for more information.
Senior Living Video Feature: