Showing posts with label senior citizens. Show all posts
Showing posts with label senior citizens. Show all posts

Clogging classes at the Senior Activity Center start off on the right foot

Friday, December 15, 2023

Join the Winter quarter clogging class at the Senior Activity Center
Photo by Maureen Pettit

Clogging (registration ends Dec. 22) for Winter Quarter

Clogging is great exercise for balance, coordination, strength, cardio, and just plain fun! Students progress at their own pace in easygoing classes. Students progress at their own pace in easygoing classes. All ages are welcome! Shoes/taps will be discussed at the first class.

Introduction to Clogging:
Day: Monday - Time: 11:00 am–11:45 am
Member $77
Non-member $99
REGISTER HERE BY DECEMBER 22

Easy Intermediate Clogging:
Day: Monday - Time: 10:00 am–11:00 am
Member $77
Non-member $99
REGISTER HERE BY DECEMBER 22

More information on these courses and the rest of our programs can be found online at ShorelineLFPseniorcenter.org/activities/classes

Registration is filling up for our January and February classes so please register as soon as possible.

The Senior Activity Center is located at 18560 1st Ave NE, Shoreline WA 98155, the southernmost building on the Shoreline Center campus.


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Home Tech Hacker: Top 5 Smart Devices for Aging in Place: Enhancing Independence and Safety

Sunday, December 10, 2023

Smart home assistant
By Marlon Buchanan

Smart home devices offer invaluable support to ensure their safety and well-being as more seniors choose to age in place and maintain their independence. 

These smart devices promote convenience, comfort, and security. They have lots of benefits for seniors

Let’s explore the top 5 smart devices that empower seniors to age in place confidently.

1. Medical Alert Systems

Medical alert systems top the list of essential smart devices for seniors aging in place. These wearable devices come equipped with an emergency button that, when pressed, connects the senior to a monitoring center or pre-selected contacts. 

In case of a fall or medical emergency, help can be dispatched promptly, providing seniors with reassurance that assistance is always within reach. 

Some advanced models also offer fall detection capabilities, automatically alerting emergency services when a fall is detected and the user may not be able to call for help.

Smart lighting
2. Smart Lighting

Navigating through dimly lit areas can be a challenge for anyone. 

It can be especially problematic for seniors, increasing the risk of accidents and falls. 

Smart lighting solutions help by automatically illuminating spaces as seniors move around their homes. 

Motion-activated lights and smart bulbs can be installed in hallways, bathrooms, and other key areas to provide instant illumination. 

Voice-activated assistants, like Amazon's Alexa or Google Assistant, can also be used to control lighting, allowing seniors to adjust brightness without having to reach for switches.

3. Smart Thermostats

Maintaining a comfortable indoor environment is crucial for seniors' well-being, especially considering temperature fluctuations may impact health. 

Smart thermostats enable easy temperature control and can be programmed to adjust heating and cooling schedules according to the senior's preferences and daily routines. 

With remote access via smartphones, seniors can conveniently regulate the temperature from anywhere in their homes, promoting comfort and energy efficiency.

Smoke detector
4. Smart Home Sensors

Smart home sensors play a crucial role in enhancing safety and preventing potential hazards. 

Water leak sensors, for example, can detect leaks and alert seniors to prevent flooding incidents. 

Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide sensors provide early warnings in case of fire or gas leaks, allowing seniors to respond promptly or evacuate if necessary. 

These smart sensors add an extra layer of security and peace of mind for both seniors and their caregivers.

5. Voice Assistants

Voice assistants are incredibly beneficial for seniors as they provide an intuitive and hands-free way to interact with technology. Seniors can use voice commands to set reminders, make phone calls, ask for the weather forecast, or access information. 

The simplicity of using voice assistants eliminates the need for complicated interfaces, making them particularly user-friendly for seniors who may not be familiar with the technology.

The top 5 smart devices for aging in place cater to the unique needs and challenges faced by seniors, empowering them to maintain their independence and security. 

With the help of advanced technology, seniors can confidently age in place, knowing that they have the support they need to navigate their daily lives with ease.

Marlon Buchanan, HomeTechHacker
Marlon Buchanan is a best-selling author, IT Director, and founder of HomeTechHacker.com, a website with free resources to help you make the most of your home technology. 

If you have questions or comments about this article you can contact Marlon through his website or Twitter.


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Northwest Neighbors Network: Providing services to senior neighbors that help them age well in their own homes

Wednesday, September 6, 2023

Photo courtesy Northwest Neighbors Network
By Jerry Patterson

The phrase “It takes a village to raise a child” originates from an ancient African proverb and conveys the message that it takes many people (the village) to support a healthy environment for children to develop and flourish.

Now, let’s take the rich meaning of the proverb, fast-forward to today and apply the proverb’s meaning to the other end of the age spectrum, seniors in the community. 

Local villages (neighborhoods) face a challenge similar to the African village: 

How can we support our seniors so they can age well in their own homes and stay engaged in their community?

The Northwest Neighbors Network (NNN) Model

For the past four years a local non-profit organization has passionately accepted the challenge. Northwest Neighbors Network (NNN) serves Shoreline, Lake Forest Park as well as other neighborhoods in North King County and South Snohomish County. NNN's central mission is dedicated to all of us working together to provide services and social interactions that help seniors remain active and engaged and in their community.

Here’s how the model works. Members email, phone or text the service coordination team to request services. NNN had over 300 service requests in August. Volunteers access a secure online system to view the list of service requests. The volunteers sign up for a requested service that works for their schedule and interests. That’s all there is to it.

If you are supportive of the NNN mission and would like to get more involved in serving your local community, NNN encourages you to consider several options.

Option 1: Become a volunteer, the centerpiece to NNN success

Many of our community residents are looking for a chance to volunteer for a worthy cause, but they don’t want to get tied down to rigid schedules or become overly committed.

Vince, a long-time resident in Shoreline, describes his journey to becoming a volunteer for NNN.
“For a few months after I retired, I did various projects around the house. Then I decided it was time for me to figure out how I could give back to the community, particularly our senior community.

"I went to a website, volunteermatch.com. I scrolled down the list to see what I wanted to do. This was all new to me. I came across Northwest Neighbors Network and read their mission statement about supporting our seniors so they can age well in their own homes. I said to myself “What a great idea!” So, I promptly signed up and I’ve really had a blast serving our seniors for about eighteen months now.

"Each week, I go online and look for requests made by NNN members for services such as a ride to a medical appointment, help cleaning their apartment or getting some yard work done. These are the type of things I’ve helped with so far. It’s been a year and a half and it hasn’t gotten old at all.”

When I asked Vince if he had any advice for prospective volunteers or members, he said, “Try it. You may like it. You’ll make new friends, and get a whole new perspective on thinking of things in a different way based on the variety of people you interact with. I average about 3 or 4 trips a week.”

Option 2. Become a member and start enjoying the many benefits NNN extends to seniors

NNN is dedicated to enriching the lives of our seniors by offering them a rich array of services and events. Nona is one of the more than 100 members benefitting from NNN services. In a recent conversation with Nona, she told me how she first learned about NNN and how she feels about the quality of her experiences. 

She said, “A staff member at the Shoreline/Lake Forest Park Senior Center told me about someone using NNN and said I should check it out. Sandy, an NNN board member, came to my house and she was amazing. A real powerhouse. Needless to say, I signed up.”

When asked how she has used NNN services, Nona said, “I mostly use the transportation service provided by NNN. I’ve been so pleased. The drivers that come are just wonderful. I’ve learned so many things about other people’s lives during our drives. It’s been a good thing for me and I would recommend this for anyone in my situation.”

Another member, Susan, said she first learned about NNN by reading an article in the Shoreline Area News. In addition to being a member receiving NNN services, Susan also serves as a volunteer offering services. 

“In my volunteer role, I visit by phone with a person who resides in a rehab facility and is very lonely. I call her every couple of weeks and we just chat. We’re both avid readers so we talk books for about 30 or 40 minutes.”
Option 3: Become an NNN board member

Another way you can contribute to the mission of NNN is to consider serving on the NNN Board of Directors. Perhaps you are recently retired and are looking for ways to give back to your community. Or maybe you have senior loved ones who could benefit from NNN services. As a board member you can have a direct impact in helping us continue to grow our services. If you would like more information or have questions, please see below for contact information.

Option 4: Invest in the NNN mission

If you share the passion for the NNN mission and you want to make a difference in the lives of seniors, we encourage you to invest in NNNs future. Go to the NNN website where you can do one-stop shopping: make a one-time or recurring donation, apply to be a volunteer, member, sponsor, or inquire about applying to serve on the board of directors. 

You can also contact NNN by email info@northwestneighborsnetwork.org or call 253-237-2848. Then spread the word far and wide about NNN and its service to seniors.

Does it cost anything to become a member?

NNN is committed to making services accessible to all. No one will be turned away based on inability to pay.

Recommended dues for those wishing to join as full-service members are $50/month for a household of one or two living at the same address. Recommended annual social membership dues are $120 per person. 

They will work with you to make a payment plan that fits your budget. Please contact them for more information.

Who can join NNN?

People living in the neighborhoods and areas immediately surrounding:
  • Shoreline
  • Lake Forest Park
  • Edmonds
  • Woodway
  • Mountlake Terrace
  • Brier
  • Lynnwood
  • The very northeast corner of Seattle

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Check in: Holidays can be lonely for seniors

Thursday, December 15, 2022

Whitney Carlson, geriatrics psychiatrist at UW Med
The holiday season is supposed to bring families together. But with seniors living alone at the highest rates ever and the pandemic still altering daily life, feelings of loneliness and loss are widespread.

Dr. Whitney Carlson, a geriatrics psychiatrist at UW Medicine, suggests using the holidays as a time to be mindful of those who might be alone.

Nearly three in 10 U.S. adults over age 60 live alone, a recent study indicates. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has also affected older adults most severely, with people 65 and over accounting for 75% of all U.S. deaths attributed to the virus, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data.

“I think this particular time of year for seniors is difficult because many seniors live away from their families,” Carlson said. 
“They often can't gather, or the people they want to be with aren't here anymore. The key is just to take an interest, I think, because most people just feel invisible.”


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Senior Center: Free event addressing the importance of hydration

Thursday, September 8, 2022

It’s Hydration Day in the Neighborhood!

A FREE event addressing the importance of hydration.
Tuesday, September 13, 2022 from 1:00 to 2:30pm
Register by September 9

Shoreline/Lake Forest Park Senior Activity Center
18560 1st Ave NE #1, Shoreline WA 98155

Sponsored and led by staff from Laurel Cove Community

Learn about the importance of hydration 365 days a year. Hydration is crucial for our bodies to stay healthy during all seasons. One might think that it’s only important during the Summer but this is not true. Our bodies need hydration especially as we get older.

Hydration can come in a liquid or food form. Learn the different food groups that provide hydration, learn just how much you need to drink and eat, and how often.

There will be a raffle for a hydration basket along with having your hydration level read.

Avoid getting dehydrated

1. Don’t wait till you’re thirsty to drink.
2. Flavor your water.
3. Eat water-rich fruits and vegetables.
4. Stay inside when it gets too hot.
5. Dress for the weather.
6. Be aware of the signs of dehydration

Pre-event registration is mandatory. To register please call us at 206-365-1536 and leave your name and phone number before Friday, September 9th.



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Northwest Neighbors Network seeks board members

Monday, September 5, 2022

Are you passionate about helping seniors age well in their own homes? 

Are you looking for volunteer opportunities with a committed, enthusiastic nonprofit Board of Directors? 

The Northwest Neighbors Network is looking for individuals like you to serve as Board members for 6-8 hours per month and 1-2 year terms. 

There are many opportunities to engage, including community outreach, social events, finance and fundraising, volunteer management, and more across our service areas of Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, Edmonds, Woodway, Lynnwood, Brier, and Mountlake Terrace. 

If you are interested in learning more, please contact NNN’s Board President, Suzy Chandler, via email: suzy@northwestneighborsnetwork.org



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Free in-person panel discussion: Help for Seniors and Their Families - Are you Prepared?

Monday, May 16, 2022


Northwest Neighbors Network and the Mountlake Terrace Community Senior Center invite you to attend an interactive discussion led by specialists in the fields of senior aging.

We all would like to live a very long, healthy life and remain independent until the end of our days. What can you do now to help prepare yourself, or someone you love, to navigate the uncertainties you may face? Come and learn with us!

Wednesday June 1, 2022 from 3:00-5:00pm
Mountlake Terrace Community Senior Center

Listen to these experts:
  • An Elder Law Attorney to help you understand what legal steps you may want to consider to preserve your independence for as long as possible;
  • A Home Care Advisor to learn about how to identify and find qualified professionals with skills to help people stay in their homes with assistance for as long as possible.
  • A Senior Housing Referral Specialist to help you understand how to explore and evaluate assisted living options, including what you can expect to pay for assisted living housing; and
  • A Fiduciary who will explain what a fiduciary service does and when you may want to consider hiring an independent specialist to act as your power of attorney or personal representative in financial areas.
Registration requested but not required. To register, visit https://tinyurl.com/Panel-Event

For more information about this event, please contact Social@NorthwestNeighborsNetwork.org or text or call 253-237-2848.



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Join the virtual community conversation to discuss the Veterans, Seniors and Human Services Levy

Sunday, April 3, 2022

Save the Date and Register Today!

You are invited to join a virtual community conversation to discuss the Veterans, Seniors and Human Services Levy!

This year, the Veterans, Seniors and Human Services Levy (VSHSL) is partnering with community groups from across King County to host a series of community conversations to help inform plans for 2023. 

Each conversation will focus on a specific community and offer:
  • A brief update on the Veterans, Seniors and Human Services Levy
  • Opportunities to share what you think is going well with the VSHSL
  • Discussion on what parts of the VSHSL may need improvement going forward

Join us!

North King County Conversation:
Thursday, April 7 from 5:30-7pm

With a focus on communities along North Lake Washington including Shoreline, Lake Forest Park, Kenmore, Bothell, and Woodinville.

Register on Eventbrite!

What is the VSHSL? Read more here and here.

The levy community works to support veterans, service members and their families, older adults and their caregivers, and the diversity of our resilient communities throughout King County. The VSHSL is focused on achieving results in five areas, each of which features a suite of strategies and programs: 
  1. housing stability, 
  2. financial stability, 
  3. healthy living, 
  4. social engagement, and 
  5. service system access and improvement.
This meeting will be accessible in American Sign Language (ASL) via interpreter and closed captioning. To request free-of-cost language access services during the community conversations, please make a note during registration. Questions? Email VSHSL@kingcounty.gov or staff@NUHSA.org



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Two upcoming events for Seniors on Medicare and Aging Well At Home

Thursday, November 11, 2021

Third Place Commons has two great events coming up via Zoom for seniors and those who love them!


First, on Tuesday, November 16, 2021 at 3pm, tune in for “Medicare 101.”

Confused about Medicare options or benefits? Want to help someone you love navigate this complex territory? 

Join Third Place Commons for Medicare 101 to get your questions answered by a pro. No sales, no jargon, just straightforward talk about Medicare to help you find your way.

Register here for “Medicare 101” on November 16th.

Can’t make it on the 16th? There will also be a second session of “Medicare 101” covering the same material on December 1st at 6pm.


Then, on Saturday, November 20th at 11am, Third Place Commons explores the issue of aging in place with “Neighbors Helping Neighbors: Aging Well in Your Own Home.”

Whether you’re planning for yourself or helping loved ones plan, you won’t want to miss this informative presentation. Learn about resources and support available to seniors who want to remain connected with their communities and enjoy a high quality of life while aging well in their homes.

The session will be presented by the Northwest Neighbors Network, a nonprofit volunteer and service organization serving the communities of Edmonds, Woodway, Lynnwood, Brier, Mountlake Terrace, Shoreline, and Lake Forest Park.

Register here for “Neighbors Helping Neighbors: Aging Well in Your Own Home.”

Each of these programs is part of Third Place Commons’ ongoing TPC At Home series of free Zoom programs to build and foster community, even through the challenges of the pandemic. Third Place Commons has also resumed live music on the weekends, with great bands taking the stage from 3-5 PM every Saturday and Sunday through November.

Details on these and many other programs, including fun weekly and monthly offerings and the upcoming holiday farmers markets and crafts fairs, can be found on the Third Place Commons online calendar.

Third Place Commons – a community supported 501(c)3 nonprofit organization – has been building real community in the heart of Lake Forest Park for over 20 years. In addition to presenting its largest program, the Lake Forest Park Farmers Market, Third Place Commons now also fosters real community in digital space with TPC At Home programs. Learn more at ThirdPlaceCommons.org.



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Preparing for a Post-COVID Future: Implications for protecting the health of seniors

Sunday, October 3, 2021

Town Hall Friday, October 15, 2021 from 12:30 to 1:30pm PDT on zoom

The COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on everyone’s lives, and seniors were profoundly affected. What have we learned so far? How have we adjusted, and how can we best prepare to protect our health and safety as winter approaches?

Dr. Robin Fleming, Assistant Teaching Professor at the University of Washington Bothell, and board member of Northwest Neighbors Network, will have a conversation with Dr. Vin Gupta, Affiliate Assistant Professor of Health Metrics Sciences at the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington. 

They will discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the landscape of healthcare, public health communications and the implications this has for seniors.

This will be a Town Hall format, with Dr. Fleming moderating a Q/A session between participants and Dr. Gupta. This event will be ASL interpreted and captioned.

Send questions in advance to: Robin at fleming9@uw.edu

This event is co-sponsored by Northwest Neighbors Network and the University of Washington, Bothell

RSVP at tinyurl.com/RSVPGUPTA, email francj4@uw.edu or call 425-352-3554.



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Wednesday virtual session on Women and finances 2pm

Monday, March 8, 2021


On Wednesday, March 10, 2021 at 2pm Christine Campbell with SOFA Financial will lead a virtual workshop on "Women Approaching Retirement and Beyond" that covers a broad range of information for women.

It will touch on Women and Money, Divorce and Widowhood, Retirement Planning, Estate Planning and Risk Management Women and their Wealth.

Wednesday 2:00-2:45pm

Mtg ID 859 8484 8513 
password senior2021

Or click here https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85984848513?pwd=QlJjOWhWZVFJSFJCcDZPdDR3NzVPZz09
  • What: A Zoom social hour, a chance to visit while staying home and staying safe. Grab a cup of coffee and pull up to chat!
  • Who: You and your friends from the Shoreline Lake Forest Park Senior Center
  • Where: From the comfort of your own computer or smartphone
  • When: March 3, 2021, 2:00pm-2:45pm
  • Meeting ID: 859 8484 8513
  • Password: senior2021



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Answers about Medicare at Senior Center TeleCafé Wednesday

Tuesday, March 2, 2021

John James to speak on Medicare
at Wednesday TeleCafé
Questions about Medicare? 
 
Join us with guest John James from WeSpeakMedicare.org for an informative session about a Medicare & Medicaid Insurance

Wednesdays 2:00-2:45pm

Mtg ID 859 8484 8513 password senior2021

Or click here https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85984848513?pwd=QlJjOWhWZVFJSFJCcDZPdDR3NzVPZz09

John has 25 plus years as a business owner. In 2014 he made the decision to focus on the needs of individuals insured by Medicare. 

This decision has allowed John to maintain up to the minute knowledge of the Medicare market and laws that affect those of us on Medicare.

As a Medicare insurance broker John represents highly rated companies providing Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare Supplement plans, dental insurance, and other insurance products. 

Representing multiple insurance companies gives John the ability to work with you to find a health plan that fits your healthcare needs.

While John's office is in Ballard his clientele extends from Skagit county south to the Oregon boarder. John is also licensed in Idaho.

  • What: A Zoom social hour, a chance to visit while staying home and staying safe. Grab a cup of coffee and pull up to chat!
  • Who: You and your friends from the Shoreline Lake Forest Park Senior Center
  • Where: From the comfort of your own computer or smartphone
  • When: March 3rd, 2021, 2:00pm-2:45pm
Meeting ID: 859 8484 8513
Password: senior2021

Join us next week on March 10th for a talk with SOFA: Christine Campbell with SOFA Financial will lead a workshop on "Women Approaching Retirement and Beyond" that covers a broad range of information touching on

Women and Money, Divorce and Widowhood, Retirement Planning, Estate Planning and Risk Management Women and their Wealth.



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Shoreline Fire vaccinates 100 most vulnerable at Senior Center

Friday, February 19, 2021

Shoreline Fire working at the Senior Center
to vaccinate 100 seniors
By Diane Hettrick

The Shoreline Fire department and King county health have been working with the Shoreline - Lake Forest Park Senior Center to vaccinate some of their most vulnerable members.

The Senior Center was allocated 100 doses of vaccine. 

They were already compiling a list, based on knowledge gained from daily deliveries of ready-made meals and groceries from the moment the center had to close during COVID-19 restrictions.

The 100 doses were specifically designated for People of Color, and shut-ins.

The need is far greater than 100. Center Director Theresa LaCroix hopes that the Center will again be a recipient when larger amounts of vaccine are delivered to the state.

Shoreline Fire has been busy vaccinating people in group homes all over Shoreline.

The Senior Center has been inundated with calls from members and others who are looking to be vaccinated. The Senior Center has no information about when vaccines will come to the state, or whether the SC will be allocated vaccines. They are not making appointments or taking names.



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Tech Talk for Seniors, Zoom Edition!

Sunday, January 3, 2021

Tech Talk for Seniors, Zoom Edition


Saturday, January 9, 1:30-3pm

For older adults. Presented by knowledgeable and enthusiastic teen volunteers!
Learn how to use Zoom's popular conferencing features, as well as other important tools to become more connected and informed. Play fun, interactive games to learn how to enhance interaction with your loved ones -- while still practicing social distancing.

Please register by 6pm on January 8. You will be emailed a Zoom link.

Reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities is available by request. Please contact the library at least seven days before the event for ASL interpretation, captioning services and/or other accommodation for online programs. Send your request to daviddaw@kcls.org



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Senior Center TeleCafe Nov 18 - Power thru the holidays

Saturday, November 14, 2020



Wednesday, November 18, 2020 at 2pm - join fitness instructors from the Shoreline - Lake Forest Park Senior Center to hear how to Power Thru the Holidays.

Presentations are held virtually on Zoom. https://zoom.us/join
Meeting ID 895 8484 8513
Password: senior2020

Join our wonderful class instructors CeCe Ryan, Heidi Mair and Toshiko Aramaki for mini segments of light movement, stretching and exercise to help us move through this unique holiday season. Mary Newbill will offer a segment of meditation and relaxation as well. Tune in for the special Tele café and share Best Holiday wishes with one another.

  • What: A Zoom social hour, a chance to visit while staying home and staying safe. Grab a cup of coffee and pull up to chat!
  • Who: You and your friends from the Shoreline Lake Forest Park Senior Center
  • Where: From the comfort of your own computer or smartphone
  • When: November 18th, 2:00pm
Meeting ID: 859 8484 8513
Password: senior2020






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City of Lake Forest Park offers low income senior / disabled sewer discount

Sunday, November 1, 2020

The Lake Forest Park Sewer Utility offers low-income senior or disabled sewer customers a 50 percent discount on their sewer service.

You must be a Lake Forest Park sewer customer and meet the criteria to qualify for the discount. 

For more information and an application, here: link.



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Northwest Neighbors Network receives boost from King County

Thursday, October 29, 2020

Northwest Neighbors Network, a "virtual village" serving and connecting seniors in North King County (Shoreline and Lake Forest Park) and South Snohomish County (Edmonds, Brier, Woodway, Lynnwood, and Mountlake Terrace), was one of eight nonprofit organizations to receive support from the 2020 King County Veterans, Seniors and Human Services Levy. 

Levy funds will allow NNN to expand their outreach and services to new folks in the communities of Shoreline and Lake Forest Park.

Northwest Neighbors Network's mission is to connect neighbors to create a sustainable, thriving, intergenerational network of community volunteers and support services that allows members to enjoy their homes and participate in enriching social, educational, and wellness activities. NNN hosts events to provide social connection, especially among seniors.

Even throughout the challenges of COVID, NNN has been very active, providing services such as giving rides to medical appointments, running errands, and helping with gardening and light housework. NNN members continue to meet for outdoor walks (weather permitting), socially distanced lunches and for member-led discussions via video conferences. 

NNN hosts friendly chats, the NNN book club, a Ted Talk discussion group, monthly movie review and many more interactive opportunities. NNN updates our community through bi-weekly e-news and a quarterly newsletter. New members also enjoy a paid one-year membership to a Senior Center in the service area.

Northwest Neighbors Network is committed to an environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and dignity.

If interested in learning more about the NNN community, please join NNN for a free event or activity and perhaps consider becoming a NNN volunteer. All are welcome!

Learn more at northwestneighborsnetwork.org, send an email to info@northwestneighborsnetwork.org, or call 253 237-2848.

Learn more about the King County Veterans, Seniors and Human Services Levy.



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Councilmember Dembowski: Important senior property tax exemption news

Tuesday, October 20, 2020

From King County Councilmember Rod Dembowski

Too many senior homeowners struggle to pay their property taxes.

That’s why for years I’ve advocated for a change in the state’s senior property tax exemption law to allow more seniors to qualify for relief.

Beginning this year, folks 61 years or older, who own their home, and have an annual income of $58,423 or less in King County, are now eligible for property tax relief. In previous years, the threshold was fixed at an annual household income of $40,000.

The obvious good news here is thousands more King County seniors are eligible for property tax relief.

Unfortunately, thousands of senior homeowners who applied for the program have waited months for a decision from the Assessor’s office. I have been hearing from these seniors, who fear that as we approach November 2, when the second half of property taxes are due, they will be forced to overpay their taxes this year, and wait for a possible reimbursement next year.

In response to these understandable concerns, I authored legislation, that passed the County Council on September 29, to allow individuals with pending applications to extend their property tax payments until January 31, 2021, without penalty or interest. Taxpayers seeking relief should not have to pay a bill that may well not be owed.

If you have applied for the program, but your application is still pending, and you do not pay property taxes through escrow, you are eligible for an extension. To obtain the extension, opt in here: https://www.kingcounty.gov/depts/assessor/TaxReliefExtension.aspx

This is a “clean extension,” meaning you will not have to pay any fees or interest, while the Assessor’s office continues to process your application and you receive a final tax bill. More information can be found here: https://kingcounty.gov/depts/assessor/news-room/NewsReleases/2020/Sept-29-2020.aspx

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or my staff member, Elizabeth Evans at any time. Elizabeth can be reached at 206-477-0911 or Elizabeth.Evans@kingcounty.gov



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UW study for LGBTQ seniors with memory loss

Friday, October 9, 2020


Aging with Pride: IDEA (Innovations in Dementia Empowerment and Action) at the University of Washington is offering free programs for individuals with memory loss in the LGBTQ community. 

Programs include nine sessions with a trained coach and focus on problem solving, skill building and low impact exercise.

One program is for those with memory loss and their care partner; the other program is for those with memory loss who don't have a care partner.

Programs are virtual, using easy video chatting. Participants don't have to leave home to participate and are paid $25 for each phone interview completed.

Sign up by calling 1-888-655-6646 or email ageIDEA@uw.edu

Visit ageidea.org for more information.



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Senior Center Tele Café Wednesday: Social Security and Your Retirement -- Making the Most of It

Monday, October 5, 2020




Join presenter/educator Kevin Campbell as he hosts the webinar: 
Social Security and Your Retirement / Making the Most of It

Topics discussed will include:

● Simple ways to increase your Social Security Benefits
● Who is impacted most by the recent rule changes to social Security
● How you may be able to reduce or eliminate taxes on your Social Security
● File for SS benefits early or delay? What’s better for you?
● Common mistakes that routinely cost many retirees thousands in lifetime Social Security


Shoreline/Lake Forest Park Senior Center ZOOM TELE CAFE 
Wednesday, October 7, 2020, 2:00-2:45pm 
Meeting ID 859 8484 8513 
Password senior2020
 
SOFA (Society for Financial Awareness is a 501(c)3 whose mission is to end financial illiteracy across America, one community at a time.




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