www.gwinnettseniorservices.com4 1www.gwinnettseniorservices.com

dministrative Office75 Langley Drive

Lawrenceville, GA 30045tel (770) 822-8850

www.gwinnettseniorservices.com

Senior CenterLocations

Buford2755 Sawnee AvenueBuford, GA 30518

(770) 614-2527

LawrencevilleRhodes-Jordan Park225 Benson Street

Lawrenceville, GA 30045(770) 822-5180

Norcross5030 Georgia Belle Court

Norcross, GA 30093(770) 638-5683

2 • importantinformation

2 • programincome

3 • health andnutrition

4 • in memorium

contentsSo Much To Be Thankful For!

senior services staff

Human Services ManagerLinda Bailey

linda.bailey@gwinnettcounty.com

Center Operations CoordinatorTim Morris

In-Home Services CoordinatorKathy Roberts, RN

Nutrition Services CoordinatorPat Milhous, RD

Health Services CoordinatorArlene Williams, RN

Social Services CoordinatorDiane Evans

Meals On Wheels CoordinatorMarilynn Sessions

Volunteer Services CoordinatorGary Galloway

the senior viewpoint

The Senior Viewpoint is the monthly publication of Gwinnett County Senior Services. For newsletter questions and comments, call (770) 822-8837.

In Memorium: Rev. Pete Dinkins

It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of one of our long-time Meals on Wheels volunteers, Rev. Pete Dinkins.

Rev. Pete believed that delivering meals to our seniors on the Lilburn 2 route on Wednesdays was his special calling to help others. He loved to share stories with the seniors, mixing a blend of his sense of humor with genuine compassion.

Rev. Dinkins, an ordained Methodist minister who served 40 years in the North Georgia Conference, continued his personal ministry after retirement by becoming a committed Sunday School Class member at Harmony Grove United Methodist Church. His wife, Jo Dinkins, recalls, “Meals on Wheels volunteer service was very special to him. I was fortunate enough to accompany him for the past two years. He carried out his ministry up until the day before he was admitted to Intensive Care.”

Meals on Wheels Coordinator Mar i lynn Sessions adds, “His dedication and compassion will always be remembered by those whose lives he touched during his years of service.”

Route Coordinator Marjorie Shuler

adds, “Rev. Pete was always trying to do something for someone else, even when he was barely able to. He was highly regarded by all of us at Harmony Grove UMC.”

Gifts in memory of Rev. Pete Dinkins can be made to Harmony Grove UMC, 50 Harmony Grove Rd., Lilburn, Georgia 30047, or to support Meals on Wheels, send to Friends of Gwinnett County Senior Services, P.O. Box 390025, Snellville, Georgia 30039.

His dedication and compassion will always be remembered by those whose lives he touched during his years of service.

Marilynn SessionsMeals on Wheels Coordinator

As we begin to prepare for the upcoming holiday season, we need to remember that we have so much to be thankful for. Thanksgiving Day is a time many people pause to consider all the blessings that we receive, but good things happen to us every day. Unfortunately, we sometimes fail to realize the good stuff because we are too caught up in all the things that aren’t really important. What are some of the good things to be thankful for?

1. Food - We live in the greatest country in the world and have enough food. We even have volunteers to deliver meals to seniors with this need.

2. Freedom - We enjoy tremendous freedoms as a result of the sacrifices of our men and women in armed forces. Veterans Day is not just a date on the calendar, but a tribute to those who have served to protect freedom. Think of countries where freedom doesn’t exist.

3. Shelter - We may not have the fanciest residence or the neatest household, but at least we have a living place we call “home.” We also have volunteers who can tidy up or even help out with yard work or repairs.

4. Medical Care - We have great doctors and access to medicines that improve our quality of life. Many of us struggle with daily living challenges, but we manage to get along with the help of relatives, care givers, volunteers, or friends. Sure beats the alternative!

5. Our Memories - we may not remember everthing we ate for breakfast or where we put our eyeglasses, but we can recall some wonderful experiences and events in our lives.

Be thankful for today!

november, 2007

Thanksgiving Day is a time many people pause to consider all the blessings that we receive, but good things happen to us every day. Unfortunately, we sometimes fail to realize the good stuff because we are too caught up in all the things that aren’t really important.

November HighlightsNovember 4 – Daylight Savings EndsNovember 11– Veterans DayNovember 22 – Thanksgiving

Birthstone – Yelloe TopszFlower – Chrysanthemum

Rev. Pete Dinkins

www.gwinnettseniorservices.com senior services (678) 377-41502 3

Program Income

Congregate $1219.42

Home Delivered Meals $ 467.00

In-Home Services $ 190.00

Transportation $1540.77

The mission of Gwinnett County Senior Services is to provide our citizens with a range of collaborative services structured to enhance the quality of their lives, maintain their independence, and prevent premature institutionalization.

Need Heat Help?

The cold weather season is right around the corner. Now is the time to begin to think about making sure that your heating system is working properly. Be sure that your heater is ready to tackle “Old Man Winter.”

Remember, we learned that many of your air conditioning or cooling systems seemed to be working okay for most of the summer season. Then, that real hot spell came in July and lasted through August, and many seniors ended up hot and bothered.

If you experience heating problems, please contact your Case Manager or call (770) 822-8837.

Tour of Trees

All seniors and their families are cordially invited to the first annual Holiday Tour of Trees! The event will be held Saturday, December 1, 2007 at Delmar Gardens of Gwinnett. All proceeds benefit Toys for Tots, the FOGCSS Kinship Program, and other great causes. For more information, please call (770) 923-3100.

Fruits and Vegetables

“Fall is the peak time for broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. They thrive in the cool weather. Other members of this family, known as cole or cruciferous, include brussels sprouts, turnips, and kale.

These vegetables are high on the list of anti-cancer foods. Try to eat them at least twice a week. Broccoli and cauliflower are good sources of vitamin C and fiber. A half-cup of cooked, chopped broccoli provides the same amount of vitamin C as ½ cup of orange juice. Look for firm tight heads with fresh green leaves and crisp stalks. Store them in an open plastic bag in the refrigerator crisper. For best quality, use within 4 days.

Raw broccoli and cauliflower are a great addition to salads and relish trays. Steam or microwave them a little to make them easier to chew. Cool them quickly in cold water to preserve their bright color. They make a festive red, white and green salad when combined with tomatoes and sliced red onion. Microwave or steam them to preserve the most nutrients. Serve them with a sprinkle of lemon juice, slivered almonds, dill, curry, tarragon, nutmeg, or parmesan cheese. Traditional high-fat cheese sauces add a lot of calories. They combine well with carrots and peppers for more variety of color and flavor. Stir-fry them with peppers, garlic, and ginger; serve over pasta.

When can I get Medicare prescription drug coverage?

You may sign up when you first become eligible for Medicare (three months before the month you turn age 65 until three months after you turn age 65). If you get Medicare due to a disability, you can join from three months before to three months after your 25th month of cash disability payments. If you don’t sign up when you are first eligible, you may pay a penalty. If you didn’t join when you were first eligible, your next opportunity to join will be from November 15, 2007 to December 31, 2007.

First Call for Help, United Way Dial 2-1-1DFCS – 446 W. Crogan Street (678) 518-5500Adult Protective Services (404) 657-5250Medicare – Social Security www.ssa.gov 1-(800) 772-1213

Health Departments: Lawrenceville (770) 963-6136 Buford (770) 614-2401 Norcross (770) 638-5700GeorgiaCares (Health Insurance Information) (404) 463-3350

Voter Registration (770) 822-8787Senior Auto Emissions Waiver (770) 822-8818Senior Elder Abuse (404) 657-5250Senior Information and Referral (678) 377-4150Georgia Senior Legal Hotline (404) 657-9915Gwinnett County Library (770) 978-5154Gwinnett County Extension Service (678) 377-4010Gwinnett Council for Seniors (770) 822-5147Elder Care Locator 1-(800) 677-1116

For services you or someone else might needSenior Information Helpline (678) 377-4150Homemaking Services (678) 377-4150Meals on Wheels (678) 377-4150Senior Transportation (678) 377-4150

If you want to helpDonations (770) 822-8775Volunteering (770) 822-8837

Area seniors or caregivers are always encouraged to contact Gwinnett County Senior Services, either by using the Internet or calling on the phone. The website address is www.gwinnettseniorservices.com. To contact via e-mail write to adrienne.noble@gwinnettcounty.com. The contact numbers are as follows:

Dealing With Depression

Are you feeling sad, crying for no reason, having trouble sleeping or working? You may be depressed. Depression, a common and treatable condition, affects nearly 19 million Americans each year. Knowing the symptoms and what you can do to help yourself or a loved one is important.

There are many emotional triggers for depression, including stressful life events, serious losses, and difficult relationships. Physical triggers include major medical changes, such as a heart attack, or chronic health conditions, such as diabetes. Even insomnia can trigger depression. There is also a form of depression associated with seasonal change, most prevalent in the winter. This is known as SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder. Often a combination of factors - genetic, psychological, and environmental - can contribute to depression.

There are many treatment options, and combinations of treatments that can help, from antidepressant medications and talk therapy to participating in a regular exercise program. Recent research even suggests foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, may have a positive effect on depression.

If you are having signs or symptoms of depression or if you suspect that you may suffer from depression, it is important that you talk to a health care professional and undergo a screening for depression. Depression is a treatable condition. Get the help you need to get back on track to a depression-free life.

Submitted by Arlene Williams, RN Adapted from GHI Health Wise

Laughter is nature’s cure-all !

www.gwinnettseniorservices.com senior services (678) 377-41502 3

Program Income

Congregate $1219.42

Home Delivered Meals $ 467.00

In-Home Services $ 190.00

Transportation $1540.77

The mission of Gwinnett County Senior Services is to provide our citizens with a range of collaborative services structured to enhance the quality of their lives, maintain their independence, and prevent premature institutionalization.

Need Heat Help?

The cold weather season is right around the corner. Now is the time to begin to think about making sure that your heating system is working properly. Be sure that your heater is ready to tackle “Old Man Winter.”

Remember, we learned that many of your air conditioning or cooling systems seemed to be working okay for most of the summer season. Then, that real hot spell came in July and lasted through August, and many seniors ended up hot and bothered.

If you experience heating problems, please contact your Case Manager or call (770) 822-8837.

Tour of Trees

All seniors and their families are cordially invited to the first annual Holiday Tour of Trees! The event will be held Saturday, December 1, 2007 at Delmar Gardens of Gwinnett. All proceeds benefit Toys for Tots, the FOGCSS Kinship Program, and other great causes. For more information, please call (770) 923-3100.

Fruits and Vegetables

“Fall is the peak time for broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. They thrive in the cool weather. Other members of this family, known as cole or cruciferous, include brussels sprouts, turnips, and kale.

These vegetables are high on the list of anti-cancer foods. Try to eat them at least twice a week. Broccoli and cauliflower are good sources of vitamin C and fiber. A half-cup of cooked, chopped broccoli provides the same amount of vitamin C as ½ cup of orange juice. Look for firm tight heads with fresh green leaves and crisp stalks. Store them in an open plastic bag in the refrigerator crisper. For best quality, use within 4 days.

Raw broccoli and cauliflower are a great addition to salads and relish trays. Steam or microwave them a little to make them easier to chew. Cool them quickly in cold water to preserve their bright color. They make a festive red, white and green salad when combined with tomatoes and sliced red onion. Microwave or steam them to preserve the most nutrients. Serve them with a sprinkle of lemon juice, slivered almonds, dill, curry, tarragon, nutmeg, or parmesan cheese. Traditional high-fat cheese sauces add a lot of calories. They combine well with carrots and peppers for more variety of color and flavor. Stir-fry them with peppers, garlic, and ginger; serve over pasta.

When can I get Medicare prescription drug coverage?

You may sign up when you first become eligible for Medicare (three months before the month you turn age 65 until three months after you turn age 65). If you get Medicare due to a disability, you can join from three months before to three months after your 25th month of cash disability payments. If you don’t sign up when you are first eligible, you may pay a penalty. If you didn’t join when you were first eligible, your next opportunity to join will be from November 15, 2007 to December 31, 2007.

First Call for Help, United Way Dial 2-1-1DFCS – 446 W. Crogan Street (678) 518-5500Adult Protective Services (404) 657-5250Medicare – Social Security www.ssa.gov 1-(800) 772-1213

Health Departments: Lawrenceville (770) 963-6136 Buford (770) 614-2401 Norcross (770) 638-5700GeorgiaCares (Health Insurance Information) (404) 463-3350

Voter Registration (770) 822-8787Senior Auto Emissions Waiver (770) 822-8818Senior Elder Abuse (404) 657-5250Senior Information and Referral (678) 377-4150Georgia Senior Legal Hotline (404) 657-9915Gwinnett County Library (770) 978-5154Gwinnett County Extension Service (678) 377-4010Gwinnett Council for Seniors (770) 822-5147Elder Care Locator 1-(800) 677-1116

For services you or someone else might needSenior Information Helpline (678) 377-4150Homemaking Services (678) 377-4150Meals on Wheels (678) 377-4150Senior Transportation (678) 377-4150

If you want to helpDonations (770) 822-8775Volunteering (770) 822-8837

Area seniors or caregivers are always encouraged to contact Gwinnett County Senior Services, either by using the Internet or calling on the phone. The website address is www.gwinnettseniorservices.com. To contact via e-mail write to adrienne.noble@gwinnettcounty.com. The contact numbers are as follows:

Dealing With Depression

Are you feeling sad, crying for no reason, having trouble sleeping or working? You may be depressed. Depression, a common and treatable condition, affects nearly 19 million Americans each year. Knowing the symptoms and what you can do to help yourself or a loved one is important.

There are many emotional triggers for depression, including stressful life events, serious losses, and difficult relationships. Physical triggers include major medical changes, such as a heart attack, or chronic health conditions, such as diabetes. Even insomnia can trigger depression. There is also a form of depression associated with seasonal change, most prevalent in the winter. This is known as SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder. Often a combination of factors - genetic, psychological, and environmental - can contribute to depression.

There are many treatment options, and combinations of treatments that can help, from antidepressant medications and talk therapy to participating in a regular exercise program. Recent research even suggests foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, may have a positive effect on depression.

If you are having signs or symptoms of depression or if you suspect that you may suffer from depression, it is important that you talk to a health care professional and undergo a screening for depression. Depression is a treatable condition. Get the help you need to get back on track to a depression-free life.

Submitted by Arlene Williams, RN Adapted from GHI Health Wise

Laughter is nature’s cure-all !

www.gwinnettseniorservices.com4 1www.gwinnettseniorservices.com

dministrative Office75 Langley Drive

Lawrenceville, GA 30045tel (770) 822-8850

www.gwinnettseniorservices.com

Senior CenterLocations

Buford2755 Sawnee AvenueBuford, GA 30518

(770) 614-2527

LawrencevilleRhodes-Jordan Park225 Benson Street

Lawrenceville, GA 30045(770) 822-5180

Norcross5030 Georgia Belle Court

Norcross, GA 30093(770) 638-5683

2 • importantinformation

2 • programincome

3 • health andnutrition

4 • in memorium

contentsSo Much To Be Thankful For!

senior services staff

Human Services ManagerLinda Bailey

linda.bailey@gwinnettcounty.com

Center Operations CoordinatorTim Morris

In-Home Services CoordinatorKathy Roberts, RN

Nutrition Services CoordinatorPat Milhous, RD

Health Services CoordinatorArlene Williams, RN

Social Services CoordinatorDiane Evans

Meals On Wheels CoordinatorMarilynn Sessions

Volunteer Services CoordinatorGary Galloway

the senior viewpoint

The Senior Viewpoint is the monthly publication of Gwinnett County Senior Services. For newsletter questions and comments, call (770) 822-8837.

In Memorium: Rev. Pete Dinkins

It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of one of our long-time Meals on Wheels volunteers, Rev. Pete Dinkins.

Rev. Pete believed that delivering meals to our seniors on the Lilburn 2 route on Wednesdays was his special calling to help others. He loved to share stories with the seniors, mixing a blend of his sense of humor with genuine compassion.

Rev. Dinkins, an ordained Methodist minister who served 40 years in the North Georgia Conference, continued his personal ministry after retirement by becoming a committed Sunday School Class member at Harmony Grove United Methodist Church. His wife, Jo Dinkins, recalls, “Meals on Wheels volunteer service was very special to him. I was fortunate enough to accompany him for the past two years. He carried out his ministry up until the day before he was admitted to Intensive Care.”

Meals on Wheels Coordinator Mar i lynn Sessions adds, “His dedication and compassion will always be remembered by those whose lives he touched during his years of service.”

Route Coordinator Marjorie Shuler

adds, “Rev. Pete was always trying to do something for someone else, even when he was barely able to. He was highly regarded by all of us at Harmony Grove UMC.”

Gifts in memory of Rev. Pete Dinkins can be made to Harmony Grove UMC, 50 Harmony Grove Rd., Lilburn, Georgia 30047, or to support Meals on Wheels, send to Friends of Gwinnett County Senior Services, P.O. Box 390025, Snellville, Georgia 30039.

His dedication and compassion will always be remembered by those whose lives he touched during his years of service.

Marilynn SessionsMeals on Wheels Coordinator

As we begin to prepare for the upcoming holiday season, we need to remember that we have so much to be thankful for. Thanksgiving Day is a time many people pause to consider all the blessings that we receive, but good things happen to us every day. Unfortunately, we sometimes fail to realize the good stuff because we are too caught up in all the things that aren’t really important. What are some of the good things to be thankful for?

1. Food - We live in the greatest country in the world and have enough food. We even have volunteers to deliver meals to seniors with this need.

2. Freedom - We enjoy tremendous freedoms as a result of the sacrifices of our men and women in armed forces. Veterans Day is not just a date on the calendar, but a tribute to those who have served to protect freedom. Think of countries where freedom doesn’t exist.

3. Shelter - We may not have the fanciest residence or the neatest household, but at least we have a living place we call “home.” We also have volunteers who can tidy up or even help out with yard work or repairs.

4. Medical Care - We have great doctors and access to medicines that improve our quality of life. Many of us struggle with daily living challenges, but we manage to get along with the help of relatives, care givers, volunteers, or friends. Sure beats the alternative!

5. Our Memories - we may not remember everthing we ate for breakfast or where we put our eyeglasses, but we can recall some wonderful experiences and events in our lives.

Be thankful for today!

november, 2007

Thanksgiving Day is a time many people pause to consider all the blessings that we receive, but good things happen to us every day. Unfortunately, we sometimes fail to realize the good stuff because we are too caught up in all the things that aren’t really important.

November HighlightsNovember 4 – Daylight Savings EndsNovember 11– Veterans DayNovember 22 – Thanksgiving

Birthstone – Yelloe TopszFlower – Chrysanthemum

Rev. Pete Dinkins