Text Box: This past year has certainly stretched the Volunteer Transportation Program in many ways. This program is successful with only a handful of volunteers who represent a dedicated group of people who again and again go beyond that “extra mile” to help others. The volunteers at times take two or even three clients to medical appointments on the same trip. They travel in ice and snow when others would stay at home. The volunteers get up in the early morning hours to drive those requiring transportation to an appointment, and spend long hours with one or more clients in a single day. These are a few examples of what our dedicated volunteers do on a daily basis. And not to mention the price of gas and wear and tear on their vehicles! As most of us try to make as few trips as possible in our vehicles, the volunteer drivers traveled over 38,000 miles last year on behalf of those they serve through the program. These dedicated volunteers do this because they have a passion for helping others. They do not receive an over abundant amount of recognition for what they do. Although “thank you” from the very grateful hearts of the ones they transport is the greatest recognition that they receive. Scheduling these multiple trips is another major responsibility. The scheduler receives the phone calls and listens to the needs of the caller and tries her best to accommodate the many requests she receives. Unfortunately some days there are just not enough volunteers to fill the requests and some rides unfortunately are denied. Myrna Baer, Rose Marie Gordon, Sandy Sargo, Jerry Johnston, Bill McDonough, Fred Constatino, Luann Gore, Sue Weimer, and Bob and Leona Durst are the wonderful folks who in 2007 donated 1,678 hours, drove 38,712 miles, logged 487 trips and transported 102 different folks in Somerset County. The volunteers drove those in need to medical appointments and treatments. If you see any of these folks, please express your appreciation, for the contribution they make to our seniors in Somerset County. Additionally, if you or someone you know would like to volunteer time, as a volunteer driver for the Volunteer Transportation Program, please call (814) 445-9165. Text Box: Adult day services are one of the fastest growing options for long-term care, but many people do not know what adult day services are or how they can benefit families. The following are some frequently asked questions about adult day services: What are adult services?-Adult day services provide center-based care for aging adults throughout the day while caregivers are working, tending other tasks or taking a break from care taking duties. Who attends adult day services?-Anyone over the age of 60 who is dependent on others because of mental and/or physical disabilities, cannot stay home alone or needs mental or social stimulation. How can families benefit from using adult day services?-Centers provide respite and peace of mind for caregivers, as well as prevent early placement into a nursing facility and offer a safe environment for participants. What is the cost?-Cost for adult day services can range from $29 to $46 a day, depending on whether the person attends a half or full day. Is there funding assistance available?-Costs may be subsidized by the Area Agency on Aging, PA Department of Aging Waiver Program, Veterans Administration, or MH/MR, depending on the eligibility. What do centers offer people who attend?-Services include nursing and personal care services, medication administration, nutritional meals and snacks, supervision in a safe environment and activities to stimulate the mind and body. In Somerset County, Allegheny Lutheran Social Ministries (ALSM) operates Senior Daily Living Centers in Somerset and Meyersdale to provide adult day services to the community. Celebrating its 15th year of service, the Somerset center is located at 231 Tabernacle Drive and is open five days a week. The Meyersdale center at 120 North Street is open three days a week. Recently, ALSM has signed an agreement with Phoenix Rehabilitation and Health Services, Inc. to provide physical, occupational and speech therapy services for participants. Another new benefit for participants is the availability of certified beautician services at the center. There are no waiting lists for enrollment at SDLCs. To learn more visit www.alsm.org or call Nancy Miller, Center Director at (814) 445-8506.. Text Box: Area Agency on Aging of Somerset County Senior News May 2008 Text Box: Volunteer Transportation Program Goes the “Extra Mile” to Help Others Text Box: Adult Day Services Benefit Caregiver and Participant