The residents at the Belvedere Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Chester presented a holiday program for visitors which included singing, dancing, readings and poem recitals, followed by a reception featuring homemade cookies and beverages.

Homestead residents Myrtle Freas, Marie Beaudet and Sara Jean McCoog led the group in singing Christmas Carols.

Resident Matthew Battinieri performed a spirited rendition of “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus.”

On nights and weekends, the parquet at the O’Donoghue Center of the BYC (Brandywine Youth Club) Complex in Concord is lined for basketball, volleyball, wrestling and cheerleading.

On Monday afternoons and Tuesday mornings, however, the measurements turn to pickleball.

A combination of table tennis, badminton and tennis, pickleball is the rage among local seniors. The technique and effort needed make the game far more than merely ensuring the ball clears the net. 

“It is so much fun,” said Maris Grove resident Betty Allcorn. “It’s like tennis, without the tennis elbow.”

Named for the family pet of one of the game’s co-inventors, pickleball has more than 100,000 active players, according to statistics from the United States Pickleball Association. The website (www.usapa.org) includes a monthly newsletter and information about equipment, regional sites and tournaments. 

Pickleball is played with a wooden paddle and whiffle-type orb on a court sized for doubles badminton. The surface is striped like a tennis court, minus the alleys, and divided by service lines. A no-volley zone extends seven feet from the net on either side.

The ball, served underhand, is hit diagonally to the opponent’s service zone, with points scored by the serving side when the opposing player is unable to return the shot. The winning side is the first to score 11 points and lead by at least two.

The local players, the majority of whom live in Concord Crossing, Concord Pointe, Fox Hill Farm, Maris Grove and Windsor, or are members of Concord Township Seniors, were like “the man without a country,” or at least a pickleball court, until they learned of the BYC facility. The topic was raised during a meeting at Maris Grove and supervisor John Gillespie, liaison to the senior citizen group, realized with a few new lines and nets, the parquet could be transformed.

“Betty (Allcorn) mentioned the need for a place to play,” he said. “When we told them about the gym, they realized it would be perfect for their needs.”

The league, which began at the site on Halloween, sets up court 3-5p.m., Monday and 9-11a.m., Tuesday; the former for more advanced players, the latter for those newer to the game. Each session is filled with men and women playing matches or honing their skills.

An avid tennis player, Gary and Betsy Kamin, of Chester Heights, have adapted their serve and stance to pickleball. After watching a demonstration, they were hooked.

“We went to a pickle ball open house and had a ball,” said Gary. “It took us a few days to learn and now we love it.” 

White Horse Village

535 Gradyville Rd.

Newtown Square, Pa. 19073

610-558-5000

www.whitehorsevillage.org

A non-profit, Continuing Care Accreditation Commission (CCAC) life care community for individuals 62 and older, White Horse Village is located on 96 acres adjacent to a beautiful Ridley State Creek Park. Committed to excellence and respect for residents, the retirement community offers living choices which include one and two bedroom apartments, villas, carriage houses and country homes.

Dining

Residents are invited to choose between formal and informal dining, including a flexible meal plan. Lunch is available in the cafe’ between 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Take-out service, and groceries are also offered for sale. Dinner is served daily in either the formal Garden Dining Room, private dining areas, or in the Café and Bistro.

Activities

Daily activities are offered which include bus trips for shopping or entertainment, a library, art studio, auditorium, wood shop, computer center, billiards room and wellness center. A putting green, shuffleboard court, walking trails, patios and decks are also available for residents use.

Classes in art, sculpture, painting, creative writing, gardening, fitness and woodworking are available as well as educational programs, lecture series, musical entertainment, cards games and the showing of feature films.

White Horse Village residents who enjoy a softer form of recreation have the opportunity to play billiards, swim in the facilities’ heated pool, or relax in the spa. There is also a cocktail lounge and piano room, gift shop and café.

Health Care

Residents of White Horse Village have on site medical care which includes personal care, skilled and nursing care, geriatric rehabilitation, and respite care. Geriatric specialists and a full range of supportive activities are available and included in the monthly fees. Resident support services are offered in the home for an hourly fee.

The Bridlewood Personal Care facility assists residents with day-to day activities and residents in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease benefit greatly from the structured, safe environment provided in the Four Seasons secure wing.

Residents requiring round-the-clock care greatly benefit from the care they receive in the Canterbury Skilled Nursing Unit, which features 24-hr nursing services in a private room, medication and treatment administration, emergency call buttons by every bedside, availability of licensed therapists, and much more.  

A pioneer is a person who is among the first to enter or settle in a region, thus opening it for others.

Those who paved the way at Maris Grove were applauded, Oct. 14, at a luncheon to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the community. The 174 pioneers who moved within the first three months reminisced about their initial days at the complex.

“When we first came there was just a trailer and we picked out the design for our apartment,” said Dottie Patterson. “We lived in our house in Wilmington for 40 years, but there was no place like this in Delaware.”

Owned by Erickson Living, the continuing care retirement community occupies 1.5 million square feet on 87 acres. The campus, in Concord, has 964 independent units in nine residential buildings. The community is divided into neighborhoods and the recent groundbreaking for a 75-apartment building will complete the second neighborhood.

The complex offers amenities such as clubhouses, restaurants, a convenience store, bank branch, beauty parlor, fitness center, swimming pool and activity and game rooms. The center is also served by an interfaith chapel.

“Cooking is out,” said Edith Hardy, who re-located from Wayne. “I thought it was time to move from my home and now I have time for so many things.”

The “continuing care” is provided by an on-site medical center and 132-room extended assistance program. Residents receive additional support through personal care, short-term rehabilitation and long-term skilled nursing.

The sign at the entrance suggests Maris Grove allows seniors to “add more living to your life” and most residents seem to have traded mowing, raking and shoveling for interests and volunteer opportunities. Individuals have the chance to participate in nearly 175 clubs, generating 500 different activities per month, and the campus operates a community television station transmitting programs “for residents, by residents.”

Mary Ann Sharkey, who taught first grade in the Downingtown School District, exchanged her lesson book for the chance to lend her expertise to the gifted support class at Concord Elementary School. She and her husband, Leonard, never expected their lives would be so busy.

“We thought we would have gobs and gobs of free time and now we are booked,” she said. “We have a rocking chair but we never sit in it.” 

Comfort Keepers

920 Sproul Road                               

Springfield, Pa. 19064

610-543-6300

1-800-HOMECARE

delawarecounty@comfortkeepers.com

www.comfortkeepers.com

“Our mission is to provide our clients with the highest level of quality of life that is achievable. We shall treat each of our clients with the respect and dignity they deserve, as though we were caring for a member of our own family.”

                  Comfort Keepers Mission Statement

When faced with a family member or friend who is unable to care for themselves, or if a caregiver is in need of assistance or respite care, Comfort Keepers provides an excellent, viable option.

Founded in 2002 by Clark and Sally Bongaardt, Comfort Keepers is an in-home service for senior citizens and adults which is based on the concept of Interactive Care giving. Studies have shown that this active approach to home care can help seniors maintain their independence, wellbeing, mental and emotional vitality and help provide a better quality of life- all while remaining in the security and comfort of home.

With more than 9 years of service to the Delaware County community, Comfort Keepers has earned the reputation of being a leading provider of in-home care for seniors and older adults.

“Our caregivers are top notch; the best in their field,” said Clark Bongaardt. “They are kind and considerate to those for whom they care and look upon this as much more than a job. It’s more like a way of life- a mission to help other people.”

And, the Bongaardt’s know a lot about helping others. In addition to operating a highly successful business, they have made huge contributions to the community by providing sponsorships for the Delaware County Senior games and The Stop Senior Hunger Program. In addition, they have provided needy seniors with home heating oil and are deeply involved with the Not to be Forgotten Foundation, an organization which helps seniors have a final wish fulfilled. And, in conjunction with County Office Services for the Aging (COSA), Comfort Keepers assists with the Senior Expo, Celebration of Older American’s Month, and the Centennial Luncheon in Delaware County. In addition, for six consecutive years, the staff of Comfort Keepers has hand delivered holiday meals to those clients who are alone or of low income status.

Comfort Keepers is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays and weekends, and care can be initiated within 24 hours of contact.

Comfort Keepers collaborates with skilled agencies, senior facilities and other health care providers to implement a customized plan of care, which creates the environment for a very efficient way of providing positive outcomes for the client.

Currently, Comfort Keepers employs 150 individuals with various levels of training, who are personally matched to fit the client’s individual needs. The hiring process is stringent and includes a telephone interview, personal interview, criminal background check on the national, state and local levels, and drug testing.

Staff attends on-going training including a two-day mandatory orientation session.

Registered Nurses are on staff and available for concerns, questions and emergencies.

Services:

Meal preparation, light housekeeping, errand services, grocery shopping, daily phone calls, conversation and companionship, bathing, mobility, incontinence care, oral hygiene, feeding, exercise and mobility assistance and toileting.

Safety Choice:

In addition to in-home care, Comfort Keepers also is a proud provider of in-home technology Safety Choice solutions such as a personal emergency response system, portable PERS with GPS technology, pressure sensitive floor mats, door/window contacts, smoke/co detectors and around the clock monitoring.

Licensed by the state of Pa., Comfort Keepers accepts various forms of payment including private pay, long term care insurance and Veteran’s Improved Pension Benefit.

Awards:

2006, 2007, 2008, 2010 COSA Advisory Board’s Direct Caregiver of the Year Award.

2008 Barbara White Award

2006 and 2007 John H. Bauer Awards

2006 National Comfort Keepers Award.

2010- Voted Talk of the Town Senior Services by the Delco News Network.

2008 and 2010 winner of the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce Key Volunteer Award.

-2004-2009, recipient of the Comfort Keepers Franchising International President’s Club.

Memberships and Affiliations:

. 2010- Member of National Private Duty Association.

- Founding member of Delaware County, PA NPDA chapter.

- 2010 - Member of Greater Springfield Business Association for 6 consecutive years.

- 2010 - Winner President's Club Award CK Franchise Organization - award makes 6 consecutive years of receiving this prestigious award.

-Founding member of the Eastern Pa. Chapter of the National Private Duty Association.

- Member of the Mid-Atlantic Business Alliance

Comfort Keepers office is open from 8:30am to 5pm Monday through Friday. After 5pm and on weekends, a live answering service is available to transfer your call to our scheduling or assessment staff. To schedule a FREE in-home assessment or speak with Comfort Keepers regarding services or Safety Choice products, call 484-477-0626 or email delawarecounty@comfortkeepers.com

          Granite Farms Estates, an ACTS Retirement-Life Community on West Baltimore Pike in Middletown, celebrated its 25^th anniversary on Oct. 5. Congratulatory proclamations were presented by Middletown Council Vice Chair Lorraine Bradshaw and state Rep. Tom Killion, (R-168), and accepted by ACTS President/CEO Marvin Mashner and Granite Farms Estates Executive Director Paul Nimey.

          Since opening in 1986 on 30 scenic acres, the not-for-profit continuing care retirement community (CCRC) has been providing a variety of apartment homes, services and levels of health care to seniors age 62 and older. 

Home Helpers of Delaware County

327 Baltimore Pike                                                  423 Burmont Road

Media, Pa. 19063                                                    Drexel Hill, Pa. 19026      

610-358-1110  ph.                                                  484-461-8887 ph.

610-358-0148  fax                                                  484-461-9581 fax

www.HomeHelpersPhilly.com

 “We strive to be the extended family when the family can’t be there.”

                                                             Home Helpers Mission Statement

Brookhaven police officer Adam Brown saw first-hand the difficulties encountered by his family while caring for his grandparents. He knew there had to be a better way of caring for a loved one and at the same providing the option for the individual to remain in the comfort and familiarity of home.

So, in 2002, Brown opened his Home Helpers office to provide the best and trusted care for senior citizens, new mothers, and those who are in need of ongoing care.

When Brown suddenly passed away in June of 2009, his vision continued, as his wife Michelle is now running the Drexel Hill based-business as its CEO/executive officer.   

“Adam believed and I continue to believe that we should take care of someone’s loved one like they would, when they can’t,” said Michelle Brown.

A result of watching family and friends struggle with finding qualified home care for their loved ones, John and Janet Squires in 2003, opened their Home Helpers franchise in Media.

After three years of successful operation, Thomas Carroll, MSW joined the Home Helpers Management team as director of client relations and staff development. In June 2007, Carroll officially became a partner in the business and assumed the responsibility of vice president of client relations.

Passionate about providing the best of care and attention to each and every client, Home Helpers combined Delaware County offices and now employs  more than 300 qualified caregivers who offer one-on-one companionship and non-medical and personal care for a few hours or an entire day in the comfort of one’s home, to more than 500 consumers in Delaware County.

In addition to private pay customers, both offices meet all Pa. State Licensure Requirements and are currently providers of services for  COSA, the Delaware and Chester County Offices on Aging, The MS Society, ALS Society and other third party agencies.

Home Helpers can also provide their services to those in assisted living communities and skilled nursing facilities.

“We take our responsibilities very seriously and do our best to provide the utmost of care,” said John Squires. “Our caregivers establish relationships and actually become part of the client’s extended family.”

Services offered include:

•Companionship

• Personal care – bathing, dressing, feeding, transferring.

• Non-Medical Care- housekeeping, laundry, meal preparation, medication reminders, transportation and errand services.  

• 24 hour respite care

• Network of providers, including geriatric case managers, hospice care, and more

• Referrals to Elder Law attorneys, financial planners, trust advisors and guardians.

Combined Awards and Recognition:

2011 Tom Carroll named Catholic Business Person of the Year

2010 People’s Choice Award

2010 Feature on CNN Money

2010 Small Family Business of the Year

2009 and 2010 Best of Delco for Senior Care

2009 Franchise of the Year- International Franchise Association

2008 Pioneer Award

2007 President’s Award- Top Agency in the Home Helper System (Media Office)

2006- President’s Award- Top Agency in Home Helper System (Drexel Hill Office)

Maris Grove

200 Maris Grove Way

Glen Mills, Pa. 19342

610-459-1090

1-800-431-0828

Located on an 87-acre campus, Maris Grove and is an Erickson full-service gated retirement community offering a host of amenities and options and several combinations of services.

More than 1,000 people reside at Maris Grove, which opened its doors in 2006. The retirement community is located close to shopping centers, grocery stores, public transportation, main thoroughfares, and a variety of places of interest.

Lifestyle offerings include independent living, assisted living, nursing care, short-term rehabilitation, Alzheimer’s care, and respite.

Independent living is geared for individuals 62-and-older who like to live a maintenance free lifestyle, with predictable monthly expenses, freedom from home repairs and peace of mind.

Assisted Living at Renaissance Garden is designed for individuals who are in good health but need assistance with everyday living activities such as dressing, bathing, taking medications, and eating.

Residents choose from private rooms and are welcome to bring furniture and décor from home. Classes, clubs and activities are offered.

Nursing Care at Renaissance Garden provides 24/7 individual attention and assistance with tasks such as eating, dressing and managing medication. Full-time nurse practitioners, therapists, mental health nurses, social workers and dieticians are always available.

Maris Grove employs a full-time, on-site physician specializing in geriatrics. Nursing Care residents also have access to visiting specialists in ophthalmology, neurology and oncology.

Nursing Care residents live in private rooms with a half bath and do not have to worry about add on fees such as cable television or housekeeping, because these amenities are included.

Short-Term Rehabilitation at Renaissance Gardens provides inpatient and outpatient care for individuals who are suffering from an injury, surgery, illness or recent hospitalization. The rehabilitation team includes a full-time speech, occupational and physical therapists and customized care is offered to fill specific needs.

Residents enjoy private room s with private half baths. The cost of short-term rehabilitation is usually covered by Medicare or another insurance plan.

 Alzheimer’s Care at Renaissance Gardens provides special care for those who are suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Care givers help residents maintain a daily routine and eat meals together, enjoy daily activities and work together on various tasks. Residents enjoy private rooms and a private half bath.

Respite Care at Renaissance Gardens is designed to provide short term care for a loved one when a family member is called away on business, a trip, home repair project, or just for a rest. Unlike most other care centers, Respite Care at

Amenities at Maris Grove include:

* On site restaurants

* Bank and ATM Machines

* Convenience store and pharmacy

* Beauty/barber shop

* On site medical center

* Transportation services

* Fitness Center with Personal trainers

* Wood Shop

* Creative Arts Studio

* Computer lab

* Library

* Lounge

* Resident organized clubs such as traveling, cards, Wii, and tai chi.

* Movie Nights, trips, barbecues

* Walking Trails

* Preventive wellness programs

* TV Station

* Clubhouse

* Recreation Center

County Office of Services for the Aging (COSA)

206 Eddystone Ave.

2^nd Floor

Eddystone, Pa. 19022

610-490-1300

1-800-416-4504

TDD 610-490-1900

COSA@co.delaware.ps.us

www.delcosa.org

For more than 35 years, the Delaware County Office of Services for the Aging (COSA) has been meeting the needs of the County’s older adults. Established in 1975, COSA is one of Pennsylvania’s 52 Area Agencies for the Aging (AAA). COSA is responsible for planning, coordinating and developing social service programs for Delaware County seniors and facilitating contacts with other community agencies that can provide assistance in many areas. 

From community education, family and caregiver support, health insurance counseling, adult day care centers, crime victim services and care management to a foster grandparents program, domiciliary care, legal services, meals-on-wheels , protective services and transportation, COSA provides a plethora of assistance for the older population of Delaware County. 

COSA Services

Adult Day Services: During daytime hours, elderly individuals who are residing at home can receive supervised care in a COSA Adult Day Care facility. This type of facility offers a supportive, safe and structured environment while reducing stress on full-time caregivers. To schedule an assessment, call 610-490-120.

ASPRISE Health Care Insurance Counseling: A free program for persons 60 or older, or for individuals under the age of 60 who are on Medicare and require help in understanding the complexities of health insurance. Information is available on Medicare, Medical Assistance, Long Term Care Insurance, HMO’s, and Medicare Supplemental Insurance. This service is provided via a contract with Senior Community Services. For Apprise health insurance counseling call 484-494-3769.

Assessment: This service is usually conducted in the home and determines the need and ultimately, the eligibility for nursing or home- based care. The assessment process includes questions pertaining to the applicant’s physical and mental health as well as cognitive functioning and care giver information. For in-home assessment call 610-490-1220; and for Nursing Home Assessment call 610-499-1699.

Care Management: The ongoing needs of long-term care clients are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Care managers identify if the needs of a client have changed and what services will better fulfill the requirements of the individual in question. Care Management is provided via a contract with Senior Community Services. To schedule a Care Management assessment call 610-490-1200.

Care Victim Services: Provides assistance to those who have been a victim of a crime in Delaware County. Counseling, medical support, court accompaniment, assistance in completing claims for the State Crime Victim Compensation program, and referrals to community service. For information call 610-627-2292.

Community Education: Speakers are provided on a variety of subjects ranging from medical assistance, entitlement programs, health insurance, and overall services for the aging, Contact 610-499-1828.

Foster Grandparent Program: Through this program, older adults are provided the opportunity to interact with a child or young adult for the mutual sharing of experiences as well as companionship. Volunteer foster grandparents are assigned to a specific site serving young people with special needs. Seniors who volunteer for this program are paid a tax-free stipend, free daily meal, transportation, reimbursement, an annual physical examination, and accident and liability insurance. For further information call 610-490-1498.

Domiciliary Care: Assists adults incapable of residing alone to find living arrangements. To apply, call 610-499-1965.

Family Caregiver Support Program: Families can be reimbursed for care giving expenses including over-the-counter medications, incontinence supplies, help with household tasks, personal care assistance, and much more. In addition, one-time funding is available to purchase assistive devices or home modifications. For assessment, call 610-490-1220.

Legal Services: Delaware County residents 60 and older are assisted with a variety of legal issues including wills, rent and tax rebates, PACE applications, advance directives, benefits and entitlements, and grandparent’s rights. COSA contracts with Legal Aid of Southeastern Pa. to provide legal representation for non-criminal and or non-profit cases such as bankruptcy, housing and benefits and rights. Call 610-490-1220 or Legal Aid at 610-874-8421.

Senior Centers: Available to bring older individuals together to fulfill social and intellectual needs. Activities vary but include meals, movies, trips, volunteer opportunities, transportation, and presentations.

COSA funded Centers are located in the following areas:

Chester Senior Center

721 Hayes Street

Chester, Pa. 19013

610-497-3550

Friendship Circle Senior Center

1515 Lansdowne Ave.

Darby, Pa. 19023

610-237-6222

Good Neighbor Senior Center

1085 Hook Road

Sharon Hill, Pa. 19079

610-558-8170

Havertown Center for Older Adults

1105 Earlington Road

Havertown, Pa. 19083

610-446-2070

Hometown Senior Center

302 South Jackson Street

Media, Pa. 19063

610-566-0505

Schoolhouse Senior Center

600 Swarthmore Ave.

Folsom, Pa. 19033

610-237-8100

Wayne Senior Center

108 Station Road

Wayne, Pa. 19087

610-688-6246

Upper Darby Senior Center

3326 Watkins Ave.

Upper Darby, Pa. 19082

610-734-7652

610-734-7655

Additional services provided by COSA include Mental Health Counseling, Nursing Home Transition, Shopping Assistance, Peer Counseling, Protective Services, information assistance, In-Home services such as delivered meals, home health, and medical supplies, etc. 

Fair Acres

340 N. Middletown Road

Media, Pa. 19063

610- 891-5770

Fair Acres, Delaware County’s skilled long term health care facility, has served Delaware County residents for more than 200 years. Owned and operated by the county, Fair Acres provides extensive residential services including 24-hour nursing care, attending physicians, occupational, speech, respiratory and physical therapy, social service, in-house pharmacy, social and nutrition services, and therapeutic activities.

Residents are invited and encouraged to participate in a variety of activities including a cooking club, gardening club, arts and crafts, Bingo, music appreciation, and bowling. Countless trips are taken throughout the course of the year which includes visits to shore points, malls, restaurants, and local events.

On any given day, the facility is bustling with activity. Residents can be seen creating masterpieces in art class, cooking, taking day trips, and celebrating birthdays and holidays.

History

County records show that Fair Acres first opened in 1807 as an “almshouse” –a two story stone building located on 137 acres in Media in the vicinity of State Street. At the time, Media Borough was called the “Village of Providence.” Previously, the poor were housed in private homes under the care of the “Overseer of the Poor.”

The original almshouse was closed in 1857 and the residents were relocated to a 210 acre farm on Middletown Road, which was purchased from Abraham Pennell.

In May 1857, the county opened a three-story residential facility, which for the next 100 years was called the almshouse, poor farm, and county home. The residents assisted with the day-to-day work on the farm such as milking cows, harvesting and caning food. Eventually the three-story building was demolished in 1957 and replaced by the present administration building. The farming operation was discontinued about 1967 when the facility was being transformed and transitioned from a residential community to a health care center.

Physical Plant and Certification

 The Center consists of 19 buildings; five being residential containing both skilled and intermediate care nursing units. Fair Acres Geriatric Center employs a large and well-trained staff of physicians, nurses, therapists and others who provide the care and services that the residents need. The facility is approved for operation by the Pennsylvania Department of Health and is certified for participation in the Medicare and Medicaid programs by the United States Department of Health and Human Services and the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare. The Center is also a member of the Pennsylvania Association of County Affiliated Homes. It serves as a Geriatric training site for nursing schools in the area.

Other Services

A number of additional services are available as personal conveniences to residents:

*Cyber Cafes for resident access to the internet in Building 7 and Building 8.

*Building 8 houses a gift shop.
*Each building complex is equipped with its own barber and beauty shop.
* Interest-bearing savings account service is available through the Business Office.
* A resident newspaper, "The Chit Chat" has news of residents, staff, and friends. It is published quarterly and distributed free of charge.
* Fair Acres offers its own laundry service in addition to the free self-service laundries available in resident buildings. The laundry also offers free alterations for resident’s personal clothing upon request.

* For Information: To volunteer or make a donation at Fair Acres, call (610) 891-5770. For admissions information call (610) 891-5738.

With nearly 2 million residents over the age of 65, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has the third largest senior citizen population in the United States. Additionally, the fastest growing segment of Pennsylvania’s population are individuals 85 years and older.

Statistics show that the abuse of senior citizens has been on the rise for many years and the elderly are easy targets for fraud, identity theft, charities, telemarketing scams and sweepstakes fraud. 

Unfortunately, the elderly are also targets of physical and mental abuse, abandonment, withholding of medical care and neglect.

As many as one in 20 older adults are abused. More often, the victim is female, over the age of 75 and dependent upon a spouse, friend or relative for care, food and shelter. Self abuse in the form of personal neglect is also prevalent among the elderly population.

Family members are in the perfect position to recognize when a loved one or neighbor is being mistreated or abused. Elder abuse is not always easy to identify, but there are signs such as bruises, broken bones, burns, weight loss, soiled clothing, lack of appetite, withdraw, poor hygiene, an unusual bank account withdrawal, confusion, disorientation, or an elderly person unusually remaining indoors.

If you suspect the abuse or mistreatment of an elderly person, please contact one of the following agencies:

**County Office of Services for the Aging – 610-490-1300 or 1-800-416-4504

** Domestic Abuse Project of Delaware County – 610-565-6272

**Pa. Elder Abuse Hotline – 1-866-623-2137 or 1-800-490-8505

**Pa. Dept. of Aging-  1-717-783-8975 or 1-717-783-3126

**American Association of Retired Persons – 1-866-389-5654

** Senior Victim Services- 610-627-2292

** Office of the Delaware County District Attorney – 610-891-4811

** Your local police department.

.

Martins Run

11 Martins Run

Media, Pa. 19063

610- 353-7660, ext. 226

www.martinsrun.org

Throughout its 30 years of service to the community, Martins Run prides itself in being one of the area’s leading providers of senior housing. Located on 22 acres in Marple Township, Martins Run is a not-for profit retirement facility providing safe, warm and a highly fulfilling lifestyle for individuals of all religions, races and backgrounds.

The retirement community offers a full range of living accommodations, including senior housing, independent living apartments, continuing care, personal care, and 24-hour skilled nursing.

“Martins Run is all about respect,” said Lorraine DellaFranco, Senior Vice President of Sales And Marketing. “We have a 30 year history of quality service and financial stability. Our residents, their happiness, and satisfaction are our number one priority.”

Dedicated to offering its residents a variety of recreational opportunities, Martins Run features an on-site library, art studio, wellness center, computer room, ATM, beauty and barber shop.

Residents are encouraged to take advantage of a variety of available trips and outings, drama club, workshops, cultural exhibits, jewelry making, and entertainment series that are offered.

A unique feature of the retirement community is Martins Run University, where on site courses and lectures are taught by visiting college professors.  Residents have the option of attending classes based on a varied and custom designed educational curriculum.

Extensive renovations to its campus were completed recently, including a 9,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art Energy Club, which features an indoor heated pool, strength and conditioning room, two exercise rooms, juice bar café and aerobics studio.

The Energy Club is open to outside membership for a cost of $40 for ten visits.

 The facilities’ on-site library was updated, a surround sound theater with plush seating and a large projection screen was constructed, the Terrace dining room was renovated into a casual dining area, and a third dining area, “The Bistro,” was added.

Residents of Martins Run have several dining options, including the Terrace Dining Room, which serves contemporary fare in a laid back atmosphere; or a restaurant style setting in The Fireside Dining Room.

In 2010 Martins Run was honored by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) for the designs of its Energy Club and one-bedroom Signature Grand Apartment. The retirement community was also voted BEST RETIREMENT COMMUNITY in 2010 by the readership of the Main Line Suburban Life, Main Line Times, News of Delaware County and the County Press Newspapers.

“The priority of Martins Run has always been and continues to be maintaining a community that fulfills the resident’s high expectations and serves their diverse needs,” said DellaFranco. “This senior living community remains dedicated to making Martins Run the most satisfying retirement lifestyle at the very best value.”

Even though the younger generation continues to dominate computer and internet use, never let it be said that their older counterparts are being excluded from the technology superhighway.

From surfing the web, to sending e-mail, sharing pictures, paying bills, researching travel sites, personal health care, news, weather, and listening to music, senior citizens are taking advantage of the convenience of the computer.

According to a study performed by Pew Internet & American Life Project Generations Online, Internet usage among America’s oldest citizens grew 73 percent from 2005 to 2008.

"Older generations use the Internet less for socializing and entertainment and more as a tool for information searches, emailing, and buying products,” read the Pew Report." Perhaps most important to ecommerce merchants is the fact that 47 percent of Americans older than 72 made online purchases, making them one of the most likely generations to shop online. With the growing senior population, this trend deserves the attention of all ecommerce merchants.”

Studies show that seniors 65 and older find the Internet a convenient way of staying in touch with loved ones. And social networking sites such as Facebook and My Space are being utilized by seniors at an ever growing rate.

Not only has Internet use risen, but statistically, seniors are spending more time on the web. According to Chuck Schilling, research director, agency and media, Nielsen’s online division, in November 2004 seniors spent an average of 52 hours per month on line and in 2009 the number jumped to 58 hours.

In a paper published in 2009 by the Phoenix Center, it is estimated that surfing the web reduces depression in senior citizens by 20 percent.

"Maintaining relationships with friends and family at a time in life when mobility becomes increasingly limited is challenging for the elderly," says Phoenix Center Visiting Scholar and study co-author Dr. Sherry G. Ford. "Increased Internet access and use by senior citizens enables them to connect with sources of social support when face-to-face interaction becomes more difficult."

Seniors are warned though, that because of their inexperience with the Internet and its varied sites, they have been targets of scams and schemes. Senior citizens are cautioned to beware of get rich quick, prime bank note, credit card, pyramid, and letter fraud schemes.

For additional information on protecting a senior internet user, please visit www.FBI.gov/scams-safety/fraud/seniorson the web.

According to NielsenWire following are the top ten most visited Internet sites by senior citizens: 1. Google Search; 2. Windows Media Player; 3. Facebook; 4. YouTube; 5. Amazon; 6. Yahoo Mail; 7. Yahoo Search; 8. Yahoo Homepage; 9. Bing web; and 10. Google Maps.

And, the top ten on line activity by seniors include: 1. Checking personal e-mail; 2. Researching and printing maps; 3. Checking weather reports; 4. Paying or viewing bills; 5. Viewing or posting photos; 6. Reading general or political news; 7. Checking information on personal health care; 8. Researching or planning a trip; 9. Searching recipes for meal preparation; and 10. Reading business and finance news.

For senior citizen information on the web, visit www.usa.gov. and click senior citizen resources.

Other senior sites include: www.AARP.org; www.eldernet.com; www.thirdage.com; www.seniornet.org; www.agenet.com; www.seniorjournal.com; and www.nsclc.org