AGENDA – PKS COUNCIL ON SUCCESSFUL AGING
March 10, 2026 – 10:30 a.m. Town Hall
Our vision: To expand the discussion of ways we can positively impact Pine Knoll Shores’ quality of life for our senior citizens and help each cope with issues that pose barriers to living comfortably in
Pine Knoll Shores and aging in place

We have a special demonstration of how to maximize our balance system
to reduce the risk of Falls

Our guest, Andrew Geddes, is a Physical Therapist residing in Morehead City. His parents live in PKS and he is hoping to assist the community with medical services. He graduated with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from East Carolina University and is a board-certified specialist in the treatment of Orthopedic conditions. He has worked in the area for the past 5 years with Peak Performance Physical Therapy and recently opened a new office in Morehead City. 
His presentation is interactive. Please wear a comfortable pair of shoes for an assessment of your balance and how you might improve. Dr. Geddes will also identify risk factors for falls and provide fall prevention recommendations.
In the United States, over 14 million older adults ( ~ 1 in 4 ) report falling each year; This translates to approximately 37% of those aged 65 and older.  In 2021, there were nearly 39,000 deaths due to falls among older adults; In 2022, deaths due to falls at home or work increased to 46,653 people. Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among older adults.

I. Old Business:
◦ Time Banking
▪ Kathy Driver has agreed to help with the development of this idea.

• Is this a go-no go initiative?
• If yes, what next steps should we pursue?
• Who will help Kathy make this initiative a reality?
• A round table discussion around caregiving and dementia with several local ‘experts’
• Invite this community to establish the need, importance, and feasibility of implementing an approach to caregiving and dementia for resident families.
  ◦ Is this a go-no go initiative?
  ◦ If yes, what next steps should we pursue?
  ◦ Who will we partner with?

II. New Business: EMS led Community Paramedic Program
Our network of agencies/organizations (e.g., Leon Mann Center, County Board of Aging, Eastern Carolina Council, Home Helpers Home Care, Spoondrift, etc.) has expanded to include the Carteret County Library system – the Bogue Banks branch in particular; the PKS Women’s Club; – and a special partnership with the team of EMS/Fire Chief Bowden.

• COSA will provide ‘sneakers on the ground’ to Chief Bowden’s team to aid the establishment of a community paramedic program specific to PKS. COSA will help link our senior population with PKS EMS/paramedics who would bridge the gap between local health care providers and residents.
  ◦ As part of this program, COSA will create and maintain a listing of vulnerable PKS residents – those who live alone and those who have serious medical issues. These individuals will be by EMS personnel during emergency situations – especially those requiring evacuation.
  ◦ Implementation of the program depends on approval of additional EMS personnel. Chief Bowden will keep us informed of the timetable he is working with. Gaby Bysheim and Sheena Stephens have been identified as our EMS liaisons.

THANKS to ALL! YOU ARE IMPORTANT!
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