Page 13 - Senior Times South Central Michigan October 2023 - 30-10

Burst Pipes And Wet Documents: A Cautionary Tale About Document Storage
By: Cassandra Lucas-Moore, CareWell Services SW
It was an early Saturday morning when I awoke to the sound of rain (this may not seem like it’s going to be about important documents, but I promise it is).
I thought to
myself, “Wow, it
is really coming
down! I didn’t
know that it was
supposed to rain
today.” I continued
dozing and thinking
about the plans
for that day to
be outdoors and
hoping that the rain
would clear by the time that we were heading out. The sound of the downpour was overwhelming as I rolled to look out the window. “Why is there no water coming off of the roof?”
Then I realized that the noise was coming from the direction of the bathroom. I jumped out of bed and landed in two inches of water. In the bathroom, I found that the water line going to the toilet had burst. A quick turn of the valve and the water stopped. Thank goodness. However, we still had water on the floor to deal with. As we swept the water toward the shower drain and used the shop vac, we had to get all the items off the floor to dry out. That is when I found my “important paper bag.” Yes, it was one of those reusable cloth
Experience the joy of dance at Heritage Commons!
By: Jen Rice, Program Manager, Heritage Commons Senior Enrichment Center
Kinship Korner
bags from the grocery store with all the documents sitting on the floor, right in all that water.
Social Security income, Veteran’s benefits,
This story is an example
as to why proper storage of important documents is necessary. Originals should be kept in a fireproof (and waterproof) box. There are a number available at retailers such as Walmart, Meijer, Staples, or Amazon. A copy of
all documents should be given
to a trusted family member as well. The copy can be electronic on a thumb drive or paper copies in another safe box. Below is a list of documents that should be protected and kept safe.
military DD214, proof of service record, proof of income, long- term care insurance and worker compensation.
Senior Times - October 2023
Page 13
Family Enrichment Center Regional Resource 3 Team Sharon Dewey
Foster Care Navigator
Email: SDewey@fecfamily.com
Ph: (269) 660-0448 www.Fecfamily.com
This is a time of change, and therefore, excitement and sad- ness run hand-in-hand. As of September 30, I am no longer the kinship Coordinator for the Family enrichment Center.
I am leaving their employ- ment to return to serving on the board. The last almost six years have been an unforgettable part of my journey. I will always treasure the many friends and memories I have made along the way.
The work of the FEC to pro- vide services to all foster, adop- tive, and kinship families will continue. I will help as a volun- teer, and we will seek ways to expand our presence in all areas of Calhoun County.
If you find yourself in need of resources please call (269) 660-0449 and ask for Teresa Thrash.
We have a support group on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 5:50pm at Westlake Presbyterian Church 415 S. 28th St. Battle Creek.
We are also having a Trunk- or-Treat Oct. 16 at 4-8pm,
also at Westlake Presbyterian Church. I hope to see you there.
I want to thank the staff of Senior Times for allowing us to continue to reach out through these pages. God Bless
Family Enrichment Center
of Attorney and/or Guardian/Conservator Papers.
Asset records
including life insurance, bank/
credit union accounts, vehicle titles, real estate deeds, titles and mortgages, property tax statements, proof of prepaid funeral, and deed of cemetery lot.
Income records
with investment statements, IRA/401K/retirement/ pension accounts, trust papers, endowment
or annuity policies,
Household expenses including rent/mortgage payment, water/ sewer, trash, electric, heat, telephone, homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, Personal emergency response system, prescription drugs, and health insurance premiums.
Personal records such as driver’s license or state ID, Social Security card, Medicare/Medicaid and health insurance cards,
birth certificate, Durable Power
Take some time to prepare a safe document storage system with a back-up! This will make it easier to locate these papers for applying for Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, or other benefits in the future. It will also save you time and headache in the future if there is ever a disaster, like a burst pipe.
Dancing is BACK in Marshall! It’s more than just a recreational activity, it’s a powerful tool that contributes to a fulfilling and healthy life. From enhancing physical fitness and cognitive function to boosting emotional well-being and fostering social connections, the benefits of dancing are extensive.
rewards that dancing brings. So, put on those dancing shoes and join us at any of the following activities and learn to dance your way to a happier and healthier you!
and light refreshments while our resident DJ plays your favorite tunes (song requests welcomed)! We will have something for everyone! Slow dance songs, line dance songs, upbeat songs, and songs just for fun like the Hokey Pokey and Chicken Dance!
Seniors can tap into the joy of movement, embracing the rhythm of life, and relishing the countless
Harvest Wing Ding Social Dance – Saturday, October 14 from 3-5pm – Enjoy snacks
Line Dancing – Every Tuesday at 11am – Instructor led, beginner friendly, go at your own pace to lively music! Free for members.
Not a dancer? Join us anyway, have a seat, have a snack,
and make new friends while socializing! $5/member, $8/non- member.
PROMOTING HEALTH
INDEPENDENCE CHOICE