NATIVE AMERICAN MOHEGAN COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT As a result of the Native American Mohegans Needs Assessment Survey and in an attempt to address some of the issues raised in the survey, we are continuing a regular column in the newsletter of health related programs for those who live in the greater Norwich, CT, area. This column is written and provided by our health services partner, United Community and Family Services. As we have said in the past, if you are interested in finding out more about similar programs in your area contact the office.
SENIOR INDEPENDENCE
The freedom to remain active members of society is a benefit senior citizens can enjoy throughout our community. United Community & Family Services’ Eldercare programs promote and encourage self-reliance among seniors. Two important programs are available to enhance independence.
Adult Day Services are available in Norwich and in Waterford to encourage socialization and health management while allowing the senior to remain at home. Clients who attend these adult day programs benefit from the following: medical management, assistance with personal care, hot home-style meals, chair exercise, and many therapeutic activities. The frail or isolated senior can also use van transportation to access this service.
Sheltering Arms is a residential care home that promotes independence for men and women over the age of 60. Ambulatory seniors can reside in private rooms and be assured that caring staff members will provide regular meals, personal laundry, housekeeping, and medication administration. Seniors can exercise, participate in activities, and go on outings to enhance their daily living routine. The community rooms include beautiful sun porches, the TV room and a well appointed parlor to add to the experience.
Seniors living in Southeastern Connecticut can gain independence from these and other supportive services in the community. The result is less social isolation, more mental stimulation, freedom, health and security. Please call the office for additional information.
ANNUAL HARVEST GATHERING
After everyone had an opportunity to finish their meals, the meeting was called to order by Darlene Currier, NAMT Tribal Leader.
The Annual Native American Mohegans “Volunteer of the Year Award” presentations were made by Darlene. The 2004 “Volunteer of the Year Award”, selected by last year's recipient, Linda Donovan, was presented to Roger Corey, Sr., and David Lewis for their continued efforts in the support of the Tribe.
Tribal Council recently decided that the time had come to recognize those non-Tribal individuals who have given their time, effort, and resources in support of the Tribe (see enclosed article). This recognition comes in the form of an "Honorary Membership" in the Native American Mohegan Tribe. To date, three individuals have been selected for this recognition; Attorney Stuart Einhorn, Mr. Chuck Seeman, and Mr. Joel Greene. All three of the honorees have given significant resources in support of the Tribe, more than we will ever be able to repay. Attorney Einhorn was on hand to receive his "Honorary Membership" in the form of a framed Certificate of Honorary Membership.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank the Schaghticoke Clan Mother, "Sweet Berry Kicks Twice" for donating items for the raffle and for helping out with the raffle. No Tribal event would be complete without a raffle.
The meeting portion of the gathering then adjourned and everyone returned to the tables for more refreshments and pleasant conversation.
NATIVE AMERICAN MOHEGAN COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT As a result of the Native American Mohegans Needs Assessment Survey and in an attempt to address some of the issues raised in the survey, we are continuing a regular column in the newsletter of health related programs for those who live in the greater Norwich, CT, area. This column is written and provided by our health services partner, United Community and Family Services. As we have said in the past, if you are interested in finding out more about similar programs in your area contact the office. Here is the second article in the series:
GERIATRIC ASSESSMENT & MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
United Community & Family Services offers a Geriatric Assessment & Management Program. This program assists elder at risk people with obtaining expert assessment of their health care needs and development of a comprehensive consultative plan of care targeted to meet the needs of the participant and the family. This is accomplished through the delivery of a wide variety of services. These include, full evaluation of complex physical, psychosocial, functional and medical related problems, on-going specialty medical service and case management. They also receive referral for lab work, additional testing and other specialty services, medical equipment and support services.
There is an initial 90-minute assessment visit for completion of physical exam, Folstein Mental Status, Geriatric Depression Scale, Rapid Disability Rating Scale, Caregiver Interview and patient interview. The next visit is a follow-up 30-minute visit two weeks after the initial visit to review findings and a consultative treatment plan. The consultative treatment plan is sent to the patient's primary care physician.
The treatment plan includes a follow-up visit every 6 months or as needed to assess progress, changes in condition and results of implementation of treatment plan.
For more information on this program please contact please contact the office.
November 20, 2005
The Annual Harvest Gathering was held on Sunday, November 20, 2005, at the Redeemer Lutheran Church Parsonage, Lebanon, CT. There was plenty of food thanks to the efforts of Betty and Paul Allard and others who brought many tasty delights.
A special presentation was made to Irving Fowler in recognition of his many years of genealogical and historical research.
