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The Power of Purpose: Why Giving Back Matters at Every AgeAs we grow older, the definition of a meaningful life evolves but the desire to contribute, connect, and feel valued remains constant. In fact, countless studies confirm what many older adults already know through plain common sense: staying engaged in our communities isnt just good for the soul, its good for our health.According to Psychology Today, research shows that older adults who volunteer tend to report lower levels of depression, improved cognitive function, and even reduced risk of chronic diseases. On average, older volunteers are 20 to 60% [EZ1] [HG2] less likely to die over any given year than people who arent engaged in their community. In other words, giving back helps us to age stronger, with greater vitality and resilience.Volunteering also reinforces something deeper: a sense of belonging. When we connect through service, we affirm our place in the community. We become part of something larger than ourselves. And we remind others especially the next generation of the wisdom and strength that come with age.Volunteering, mentoring, and acts of service are more than nice things to do. They are powerful tools for fighting isolation, building new friendships, and rediscovering a sense of purpose. Whether its reading with a child, supporting a family caregiver, or simply being present for someone who is lonely, these contributions have ripple effects in communities, many of which reflect back to the volunteer. Having a reason to get up in the morning and knowing that someone is counting on you is key to a longer, healthier life filled with meaning and connection. Everyone has something to give. Experience. Patience. Time. Perspective. In giving, we receive so much more. We rediscover joy and inspire hope. We prove that its never too late to make a difference.In the end, the question isnt whether we can still contribute as we age. Its how much brighter our communities become when we do.Written By: Honey Goodman, Aging Strong Program Director a program of Jannus, Inc.Source:  https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-science-of-kindness/201905/why-do-volunteers-live-longer  [EZ1]This stat is a bit funky, heres my source: Why Do Volunteers Live Longer? | Psychology Today  [HG2]@Elaine- I think this is fine.  (I will add the source).  Thank you!

Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adultsand they often result in long-term consequences like hip fractures, reduced independence, or the need for assisted living. In fact, one in four seniors over the age of 65 falls each year. For families across Western Pennsylvania, where many seniors are still living at home in older houses with stairs, uneven flooring, or poor lighting, fall prevention isnt just a health concernits a quality-of-life issue.At CarePatrol of Western PA, we work closely with families to ensure their loved ones can age safely at homeor transition to the right level of care when needed. Whether your parent lives in Mt. Lebanon, Monroeville, Cranberry Township, or Beaver County, this local checklist can help you make the home a safer place.Why Fall Prevention Matters in Western PAMany homes in Western PA were built decades ago and may include: Narrow hallways or staircases Multi-level layouts with multiple steps between rooms Slippery basement laundry areas Aging outdoor walkways affected by freeze-thaw cycles These architectural quirks, combined with common age-related changes like decreased balance, vision loss, and slower reaction times, create a perfect storm for falls. The good news? Most falls are preventable with a proactive approach.Common Risk Factors for Falls Among SeniorsUnderstanding what contributes to falls can help families take targeted action. Some of the most common risk factors include: Poor lighting Loose rugs and cords Cluttered walking paths Poorly fitting footwear Lack of grab bars or handrails Medication side effects (e.g., dizziness or drowsiness) Declining strength, balance, or vision By addressing these factors, you can reduce the chance of an accidentand the stress that comes with it.Designed for Western PA HomesBelow is a practical checklist you can use to assess your loved ones home. Aim to complete this with themideally before winter sets in or before a health event forces changes.When to Consider Additional SupportIf your loved one is already struggling with balance, vision, or recovering from a fall, it may be time to consider more structured helpeither through in-home caregivers or a transition to assisted living.Here are a few red flags that the home may no longer be a safe environment: Multiple falls in the past 6 months Difficulty navigating stairs or walking without support Missed medications due to mobility issues Isolating at home due to fear of falling Home is too difficult to modify (e.g., steep staircases, inaccessible bathroom) At CarePatrol, we can help you assess the home environment, care needs, and explore safer living optionsall at no cost to your family.Youre Not in This AloneFall prevention isnt about taking away independenceits about preserving it. The sooner your family takes action, the longer your loved one can live safely, whether at home or in a community designed for their needs.At CarePatrol of Western PA, were here to help families from Butler to Greensburg, Washington to Beaver make safer, smarter decisions about aging well. Our local advisors can assess your loved ones risk for falls, recommend in-home care, and guide you through transitions to senior living when appropriate.Ready to Take the First Step?Lets prevent the next fall before it happens. Contact CarePatrol of Western PA today for a free care consultation and home safety discussion.

Nice Things to Know About Saraland The Gateway to Progress Saraland formed its own city school system in 2006. It is now ranked among the best school systems in the State of Alabama.  Students receive outstanding education in fields such as nursing, engineering and welding in state-of-the-art facilities. Since its inception, the Saraland City School system has more than doubled in size, from 1500 students in 2009 to over 3000 students now. This is but one example of the tremendous growth that the City of Saraland is experiencing. The City of Saraland was recently designated as an Alabama Community of Excellence. Saraland was the first and, to date, the only municipality in Mobile County to receive this honor. Saraland enjoys a very low crime rate which can be attributed, in part, to our police department. With their professional approach to community policing, the police team with our residents to provide a safe environment.  Our citizens also benefit from outstanding fire and paramedic services with expedient response from three well-equipped stations throughout the City including 24/7 paramedic coverage.  Additional city employees provide a wide variety of top notch services to ensure our residents and guests have safe roads, parks and facilities. The Infirmary Medical Campus has opened a multi-specialty clinic facility as well as a diagnostic center offering MRI/CT capability. Mobile Infirmary has opened a new freestanding emergency department in Saraland. Seven days a week, 24 hours a day, emergency care is provided. Future phases of expansion will outpatient surgery center and ultimately a hospital. Many new businesses are locating to Saraland. Publix, Cracker Barrel, Whataburger and several other new restaurants and retail businesses are planned.  Saraland is home to over a dozen hotels including new hotel properties such as Fairfield Inn, Towne Place Suites, and Hampton Inn. Youth sports activities are very popular in Saraland. Saraland has, at present, 11 city parks for recreational activities of every kind. Plans are presently being considered for a state-of-the-art sports complex which may include facilities for baseball, softball, tennis, and soccer. The City recently opened the McAuthor-McKinney Recreation Center which offers an outstanding venue for young people to play basketball, volleyball and other activities. Saraland is a very family-friendly community. The City Splash Pad is now open. Also contemplated are an outdoor amphitheater for concerts and a Summer Movie Night series and an aquatics center. The Saraland Senior Center offers many activities for active seniors. Arts and crafts, painting, card games, pool, exercise equipment and computer lab are available with many classes provided.  A nutritious lunch is available weekdays at the center with Meals-On-Wheels delivering food to homebound seniors. Located adjacent to the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta, scenic boating, canoeing, fishing and other watersports opportunities abound. Saraland is part of the Alabama Forever Wild Land Trust, home to some of the most biologically diverse habitat in Alabama.  This preserved scenic area is also popular for camping, hiking with multiple trails available, and bird watching. Saralands mayor, Dr. Howard Rubenstein, currently serves as the President of the Alabama League of Municipalities. He is the only Mobile County elected official to be chosen for this statewide honor since 1979.  HistoryThe area that was to become the present day Saraland was included in a Spanish land grant to Don Diago Alvarez. Hence, descendants of Alvarez were the ones to give the community its first name Alvarez Station. Later land squatters moved into the area and were able, legally, in 1800 to begin purchasing property. In 1807 a land office was opened in St. Stephens to handle all land transactions. Some of the pioneer families who seized the opportunity to buy up sections were named Alvarez, Rice, Hartley, Moore, LaCoste, Williams, Tool and Cleveland. Ultimately, Alvarez Station was called Cleveland Station. The present name of the city is reported to have been given by C.J. DeWitt, a retired minister editor who moved south in 1890 for health reasons. He opened the first post office on the Southern Railroad in 1895. The Community is purported to be the namesake of his beloved wife, Sara. Saraland was sparsely populated during the first part of the 20th century, until an industrial and population boom occurred in neighboring Mobile. Northward expansion of Mobile in the 1940s and 1950s brought about the incorporation of Saraland in 1957. At the time of incorporation, the city reported only 125 residents. By the 1960 U.S. Census, annexations had swelled the population to 4,595. In 1980, census figures cited 9,844 Saraland residents. Current records report that as of 2020, Saralands population has grown to 16,319.Interested in Senior Activities in Saraland?  Contact the Saraland Senior Center at 251-679-5511