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Empowering Senior citizens through Connection, Care, and Purpose

Category: Community Information

  • Dementia and Aging: Key Facts for Pine Knoll Shores Residents

    Dementia and Aging: Key Facts for Pine Knoll Shores Residents

    Dementia is a progressive condition that affects memory, reasoning, communication, and daily functioning. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form.

    This article on Understanding Dementia: Symptoms, Causes, Types, and Treatment explains the stages of dementia, from subtle early symptoms like losing track of time to later stages where individuals may become fully dependent on caregivers.

    It also highlights key risk factors such as age, genetics, cardiovascular health, and head injuries. Different types of dementia are outlined, including:

    • Alzheimer’s
    • Vascular dementia
    • Lewy body dementia
    • Fronto-temporal dementia

    While there is no cure for most forms, treatments can help manage symptoms. Lifestyle changes like healthy eating, exercise, and social engagement may reduce risk.

    For Pine Knoll Shores’ aging population, the information is especially relevant because dementia primarily affects adults over 65. Early recognition can make a significant difference in treatment and quality of life.

    Many residents are either at higher risk themselves or may become caregivers for a spouse, friend, or neighbor. The article offers both practical insight, such as the importance of early detection and healthy habits, and reassurance that supportive therapies and community resources exist.

    By raising awareness, it encourages proactive conversations and planning. This can help families navigate a challenge that touches many in this community.

  • Dementia Resources for Caregivers and Patients

    Dementia Resources for Caregivers and Patients

    A diagnosis of dementia is valuable when speaking to support agencies.

    You also need to be honest with yourself – especially if you are committed to being an at-home caregiver. Currently, there is no cure for dementia. Many family members choose to take on caregiver responsibilities – especially in the early stages of dementia’s development. As the disease progresses, continue to ask yourself these questions:

    • Do you have the skills and tools to take care of someone in this stage of Alzheimer’s?
    • What, if any, revisions do you need to make your home safe and comfortable – e.g., space for a hospital bed? Grab bars in the bathroom/shower?
    • As the disease progresses, can you keep up with the demands of care – physically, emotionally, mentally and financially? No two days will be alike. A good day today does not mean it will be a good day tomorrow.
    • Do you have friends/family you can rely on to help?
    • Is there someone who calls regularly to be sure all is o.k.?
    • Are you prepared to make different decisions, if in-home care becomes more difficult to deliver?

    Keep your knowledge of resources current. Date everything. Keep yourself healthy. It is o.k. to change your mind as you gain new information and updated experiences.

    Key notes

    Is your home as safe as you can make it…with proper lighting, rugs that don’t slip, security/alarms, etc. Our Pine Knoll Shores Police and Fire professionals are well prepared to review your home for safety issues and make suggestions. All this for free.

    Fire Department Jerry Bowden at 252-247-2268 or 252-247-2474, ext.30;
    Police Chief Ryan Thompson at [email protected] or 252-247-2474, ext.20

    Special needs? Medically fragile? Plan ahead for an emergency evacuation

    Have you notified public service people to be prepared to aid your evacuation in case of a major storm? See our website www.pkscouncilonaging.com for detailed information.

    24/7 Hotline 800 272 3900 is supported by the Alzheimer’s Association (E.N.C. Chapter, Raleigh)

    Pine Knoll Shores Council on Successful Aging

    Caregiver discussion groups

    Groups are not created equally.

    Many groups are not condition specific. That is, each group includes caregivers across different diagnoses, e.g., Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, or caregiving in general.

    The groups may meet in person or virtually.

    Morehead City – In person meeting
    First Presbyterian Church, 1604 Arendell – Carteret County
    This in-person caregiver group meets once a month on the 4th Thursday of the month at 11:30 to 1 pm. No charge.
    If the caregiver’s patient can be left alone for a while, the patient can sit in the parlor while the caregiver attends the group.
    The group also invites speakers to present information on specific topics related to caregiving in the home.

    Morehead City – Virtual group
    Via Zoom. Contact – January Brown moderator @ 252-638-3185, ext. 3011
    The group meets every Thursday at 1 p.m. Not dementia specific. No charge.

    Carteret County – Virtual group
    Via Zoom. Contact – Lauren Donnachie facilitator: [email protected]
    Group meets every Thursday at 1 p.m. All participants are caregivers of a loved one with some sort of dementia. Conversation leads into topics of discussion. The group also invites speakers to present information on specific topics related to caregiving in the home.

    New Bern – In person
    Contact Nancy Willett moderator @ 252-636-0831
    The group meets the 1st Wednesday of every month at 1 p.m. Not dementia specific. No charge.

    Patient support group: P.E.R.C. – Early Stages

    P.E.R.C. is a support group for individuals with Early Stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia; giving them the tools to navigate the disease with their caregivers.

    P.E.R.C. stands for:
    P – Peer Support
    E – Education
    R – Resources
    C – Caregiver Support

    At the support group, you will enjoy a safe atmosphere to converse with those who are in similar situations. The agency is currently taking names of those wishing to participate. Meetings for P.E.R.C. will meet the 3rd Thursday of each month at 10:00 am. The meetings will be held at the George Street Senior Center – 811 George St, New Bern, NC 28560; Please call 252-638-1790 with any questions and ask for Alissa. Website: Support Groups (weebly.com)

    Memory cafes

    Memory cafés, often called Alzheimer’s cafés, are welcoming social gatherings for people living with dementia and their family members, friends, and professional caregivers. Dr. Bere Miesen started the first café in Holland in 1997, and since then they have spread as a social movement throughout many countries. Cafés meet in many types of locations, such as libraries, community centers, restaurants, and houses of worship. Cafés should fit the interests, needs, language, and culture of their local community, so each café is unique. Their main purpose is to provide a welcoming, stigma-free social setting where people living with dementia and their care partners can meet others and enjoy time together. Cafés aim to decrease the social isolation that often accompanies dementia.

    Memory Café – Craven County
    Meets in person the 1st Monday of each month from 4-6:30 pm. Reservations are required for attendance. No charge.

    A unique Alzheimer’s/Dementia Support Group experience for caregivers and their loved ones. Session begins in a café style setting with dinner provided at 4:00 pm. The break away session begins shortly after dinner. Caregivers attend the support group, while trained staff members provide supervision to loved ones as they interact with their peer group during games and activities. Togetherness time at the end of the session provides activities the participant and the caregiver may work together to complete in a comfortable social setting.

    Reservation deadline is the last Friday of the prior month by noon. For more information contact us at 252 638-1790. The Memory Café is a part of Craven County Senior Services at 811 George Street, New Bern, NC.

    In home non-medical patient care: Home Helpers of the Crystal Coast

    Home Helpers of the Crystal Coast is a State of North Carolina licensed In-Home Care Agency providing non-medical services to individuals who need help to stay comfortably and safely in their own home as long as possible. These services also provide much needed respite for caregivers.

    Currently based in Morehead City, they operate in Carteret, Craven, Onslow counties providing these services:

    • Personal Care and Hygiene
    • Activities of Daily Living Assistance (ADLs)
    • Companionship
    • Light Housekeeping
    • Meal Preparation
    • Transportation and Errand Services (this can be a ‘standalone’ service as well)

    Special notes

    Long Term Care Insurance (LTC). LTC insurance covers these types of services. Home Helpers will assist those who have this type of insurance understand their benefits, file all paperwork on their behalf, and invoice and collect directly from the insurance carrier when applicable. They provide as much or as little assistance with this process at no additional charge.

    Veterans Benefits. As a VA Credentialed provider of the Homemaker and Home Health Aide Care Benefit (which many Veterans are unaware of), Home Helpers will explain these program benefits, how a Veteran would qualify AND support them throughout the submission of claims and approval process. For those that qualify, the VA will pay for in home care benefits with absolutely no cost to Veteran. One of Home Helpers top priority is helping veterans obtain the services they are entitled to.

    The Home Helpers team can be reached at 252-622-4690 – calls and texts reach all of their cellphones. Home Helpers will be moving their offices to 1615 Live Oak St. Beaufort, NC 28516 in the late summer/early fall. Service areas will not change.

    In home medical patient care: 3HC Home Health and Hospice Care

    3HC Home Health is a branch of medical and care services for those who need short-term acute care, but aren’t always able to leave their homes. Patient care includes services and procedures that were previously only available in hospitals. It is accredited by CHAP (Community Health Accreditation Partner) in addition to being Medicare and Medicaid certified. 3HC serves select counties in central and eastern North Carolina (including Carteret) from the Triangle area to the coast.

    3HC offers three main categories of home health services including:

    • Nursing and Aide Services – covers any medical procedures and treatments the patient requires.
    • Medical social work – approaches the emotional and social pressures of illness and injuries.
    • Rehabilitative therapies – tailored specifically to the patient’s needs. Hospitalization may prompt the need for rehabilitative therapies; surgery, disabilities, or even age-related circulation problems and arthritis can be helped through rehabilitation:
      • Physical therapy – often needed after an injury or illness.
      • Occupational therapy – similar to physical therapy, but concentrates on detailed movements of activities performed daily, like bathing, grooming, dressing, laundry, and meal prep.
      • Speech therapy – comprehensive addressing of problems associated with expression, from the need to physically swallow to the ability to speak more clearly.

    3HC is located in Goldsboro, NC at 2402 Wayne Memorial Drive. They can be reached at 1-800-692-4442.

    Physician specialists

    Gerontologists. A Google search of Carteret and Craven gerontologists yielded only one verified name – Dr. Amy Sue Charlesworth. When I called the number given, her voice message confirmed she works only with individuals who are patients of Crystal Bluffs long-term medical facility. She is also listed on the roster of the Carteret hospital. She can be reached at 252.725.9555.

    Dr. Robert John Fisher was initially identified as a gerontologist in Craven County. However, his current listing describes him as a Hospice, Palliative Care physician. He is associated with Craven Regional Hospital and Carolina East. Dr. Fisher can be reached at 252.514.2061.

    Wendy S. Fulford is a geriatric nurse practitioner at Craven Regional Hospital. She can be reached at 252.638.2273.

    Neurologists. A Google search identified several practicing neurologists in the area. Enter neurologists in Carteret County NC or neurologists in Craven County NC for a complete listing of choices.

    Tech tools to preserve a quality of life

    Dementia takes many forms and knows no social, economic or geographical boundaries. Many of these behaviors erode the quality of life for such patients and test the strengths of caregivers. A niche of forward-thinking companies/entrepreneurs have turned their attention to improving the quality of life of dementia patients shredded by the hours in the day. The impact is promising.

    The usefulness of these tools is related to the patients’ diagnostic stage as well as the caregivers’ comfort level with technology, i.e., just because a patient has a phone, there is no guarantee they will know how to use it if they find themselves alone.

    The innovations are mentioned here in the belief that the designs of such tools will continue to improve; technological advantages are fast paced. Therefore, the mention of these types of tools is brief and will depend on your need and interest to search for the most current versions.

    The Apple Watch

    (Applications may vary by choice of watch/generation model). Apple has led the way in the development of a multifunctional watch and is among the best known, but other brands boast similar offerings. Given the market prominence of the Apple brand, the Apple Watch is the one profiled here.

    Right out of the box, an Apple Watch can help keep you healthy, deliver notifications, make calls, send texts, run simple apps, and even save your life. Some versions can be Walkie-Talkies. The built in emphasis is on communicating quickly. The built in microphone facilitates its use.

    Importantly, critical medical notes can be accessed on the phone. If a patient is alone or incapacitated, this information can quickly direct EMS/medical professionals to the right course of action.

    In an emergency, the Apple Watch makes it fast and easy to call for help. All you need to do is hold down the side button for a few seconds until three options pop up. Sliding the SOS icon to the right will activate an emergency call. Regardless of where in the world you are, the Apple Watch will call the appropriate phone number for emergency services. While you may be used to dialing 911, the Apple Watch is smart enough to dial the proper number and even key in any confirmation number local authorities require.

    Not all of the watch functions are clearly of value to dementia patients and/or caregivers. However, it is worth mentioning that Apple Watches are also designed to keep the wearer healthy and safe by monitoring safe hearing levels and heart rates, taking an electrocardiogram, and tracking your fitness.

    The newest models include new compass layouts, improved medications reminders, better sleep tracking, and more dynamic watch faces. Available map apps can keep you from getting lost, improve your productivity, and entertain. Specific features and apps are dependent on the power/generation of the watch purchased.

    Google Home

    The North Carolina Eastern Council – Area Agency on Aging highlighted the value of the Google Home device as an assistance tool for older adults for home safety and routine management tasks (see: Google-Home-senior-info.-sheet.pdf (eccog.org)). Its value has extended beyond the general population to individuals with dementia.

    Google Home is a voice-controlled cloud-based voice service speaker that answers questions, plays music, delivers the news, delivers weather reports, makes calls, interacts with smart home devices and performs many other tasks. Google Home works through Wi-Fi and there are no monthly fees. Users must have Wi-Fi and a smartphone or tablet to set up devices.

    The emerging concept of aging in place supports older adults in their independence, socialization, and the right to choose to live at home and in their communities. With the growth of technology, aging in place is becoming more of a reality. Embracing technology allows individuals and their caregivers a resource for home safety and routine management. Devices allow individuals to communicate without a handheld device and with the ease of verbal commands, such as: asking questions; setting appointment/medication reminders; turning lights on/off; turning thermostat up/down; turning the television on/off; and making phone calls.

    Examples of specific questions to demonstrate how Google Home Assist can work begins with addressing the device, e.g., “Hey Google, what is Tylenol used for?” “Hey Google, call 252-121-3434,” “Hey Google, what time is it?” and “Hey Google, what day is it?”

    Further, Google Home’s broadcast feature enables users to use a Google home device, your phone, or a tablet to engage in two-way communication. Users can use the broadcast feature in another location, such as a parents’ home through a smartphone or tablet.

    To broadcast/intercom features among your devices, wake up your ‘personal assistant’ by saying, “Hey/Ok Google, broadcast”. The device will respond with “What’s the message?” Once you state your message (example: It’s dinner time), your message will then broadcast through all available devices. To send a reply requires the same sequence of voice commands. In this way, the ‘intercom’ acts as a two-way communicator like verbal texting.

    Before you use the broadcast feature on your smartphone or tablets you will be required to download and launch the free Google Home application.

    Once set up, the device can be used to establish, review and update shopping lists and to do lists, medication/appointment reminders, and make calls.

    Note: You cannot make calls to emergency services through the Google Home devices.

    Setup instructions and assistance can be found online.

    Additional examples of technology to help with dementia

    The benefit of light

    Sundowners’ syndrome is a condition where people with dementia experience agitation, aggression or restlessness before, during, and after sunset. While many of these behaviors start or worsen around sunset or sundown, this delirium can potentially occur at any time. Around 20% of people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease experience sundowning at some time.

    Light therapy can alleviate some of these symptoms by exposing someone to bright light for up to a few hours. Below are some options caregivers can try with their loved ones with sundowners:

    • Light therapy: Expose a person with sundowners to a bright fluorescent lamp for 1 to 2 hours in the morning to help reduce symptoms later in the evening.
    • Therapeutic lights or a lightbox: Use at strategic times of day and use bright lights in the room.
    • Increase indoor and outdoor lighting as it gets dark outside.
    • Try different types of light bulbs that have different lighting hues.

    The AAL Program

    The effects of dementia can be frightening and overwhelming for those living with it and the people who care for them. Examples of a forward-thinking company making a difference is AAL Program. The AAL Program aims to create better quality of life for older people and strengthen industrial opportunities in the field of healthy aging. The program funds projects that develop products and services that help older people and their caregivers to live more connected, independent, and happy lives.

    Many of the projects funded by the AAL Program aim to bring innovative products and services to these people in order to help reduce levels of stress and therefore improve quality of life. Some of these may not yet be available in the USA, but it is of value to know that they exist. (Check the AAL website to track their developments Projects Archive – AAL Programme (aal-europe.eu); some of these developments are reported at 5 Technologies that help people living with dementia b (healthtechzone.com))

    Below are additional examples of the types of technology that can help people living with dementia live more independent and happy lives.

    Position tracking aids – GPS trackers

    Dementia is an ailment that causes a person’s memory to deteriorate badly. As a result, some people suffering from dementia-related ailments may find it hard to remember previously familiar locations and routes – even in their homes. So, it is common for some adults living with dementia to wander.

    To avoid the troubles and worries that this might cause, GPS trackers can help caregivers easily tell where the patient is at any given time. Some popular names in the GPS tracker industry for dementia patients are SPOT, Spy Tec, iTraq, and Trackimo. Some trackers come as bracelets and are worn by the patient, while some can be placed in the patient’s shoes.

    Time-tracking aids – Easy-to-read clocks

    One of the symptoms common with people living with dementia is that they easily lose track of day and night. This can be frustrating for caregivers, especially if they have appointments or try to create a routine. To help curb this, there are easy-to-read clocks specially designed for people living with dementia.

    These clocks are common calendar clocks that display the time of the day, day of the week, and date. Furthermore, these digital clocks also identify morning, evening, or noon time periods. They’re user-friendly and are much easier to read than conventional clocks.

    Communication assisting technologies – Tablet computers and memory photo phones

    The memory loss symptoms of dementia can make an affected individual easily confused. This symptom, in most cases, makes it impossible for the patient to hold a chain of thoughts or conversation for long. Dementia patients can now use tablet computers to help them communicate better.

    The tablets come with apps built specially to help improve the quality of conversations dementia patients are capable of. Some of the apps that have been noted to have impressive results in this application are Inspire and Memory Keeper. Many of the technologies used in this aspect are focused on reminiscence activities.

    Memory photo phones are phones specially designed for people with memory disorders. This technology comes into play when the patient involved has difficulties remembering phone numbers. The phones come with many buttons and can be programmed to call frequently-dialed contacts.

    Also, some of these phones are equipped with clear buttons, which you can customize by placing pictures on them. This allows you to automatically call the person whose picture is on the button by pressing the button once.

    Electrical appliance use monitoring can alert caregivers if an appliance is left on or off too long.

  • October 2024 Forum Announcement

    October 2024 Forum Announcement

    October 24, 2024 at 11 a.m. at Pine Knoll Shores Town Hall

    George Fuller, author of Life Compass Living: A Guide for Growing Up and Growing Old Together, will share three essentials for building a secure life for you and those you live. He will share some tools to help you utilize your resources, find some you may be missing and make the most of the time you have with your family.

  • Hurricane Season Isn’t Over! Prepare by Registering for Assistance

    Hurricane Season Isn’t Over! Prepare by Registering for Assistance

    We’ve been lucky so far, but as Hurricane Helene reminded us, a “busy season” isn’t about the number of storms but rather where they strike. With over two months left in hurricane season, the tropics are heating up.

    Plan for Evacuation Assistance

    Before a mandatory evacuation of the island is declared, notify county personnel. The county works with Pine Knoll Shores Police/Fire to assist individuals needing transportation to a designated emergency shelter or, for those with health or medical needs, to the Medically Fragile Shelter.

    Health and Medical Considerations

    Health or medical considerations include assistance with mobility, oxygen, medication administration, and routine health monitoring.

    Registration Is Required

    To take advantage of these services, proper registration is required and must be renewed each year. The Medically Fragile form is available on the Carteret County website. This link also provides details on notification, what to bring, and where to mail your application.

    Be Prepared

    This reminder is brought to you by the Pine Knoll Shores Council on Successful Aging.

  • Chair Yoga Classes Now Available in Pine Knoll Shores, NC

    Chair Yoga Classes Now Available in Pine Knoll Shores, NC

    It’s Never Too Late To Invest In Yourself!

    Join your neighbors for chair yoga in the Betty Carr Room at Pine Knoll Shores Town Hall. Brought to you by Pine Knoll Shores Council on Successful Aging and the Leon Mann Enrichment Center.

    Thursdays at 8:45 A.M. Starting September 12, 2024

    What is Chair Yoga? It is the Ultimate Gentle Stretch for Every Body

    • Easy, Accessible and Fun: All poses are done sitting or standing with the support of a chair.
    • Perfect for All Ages and Abilities: Whether you have limited mobility, or just want to ease into yoga, this class is for you!
    • Boost Your Flexibility and Strength: Enjoy the benefits of yoga without the stress on your joints.

    The Benefits Feel Great!

    • Increase Flexibility and Strength: Feel the difference with every session.
    • Improve Balance and Posture: Boost your body’s stability and alignment.
    • Connect and Relax: Meet new friends and unwind in a peaceful setting.

    Join Us?

    • There is NO charge for any of the classes. Donations are welcomed, but not required.
    • A certified instructor provides expert guidance
    • Relax and Recharge: Breathe deeply, stretch gently, and start your day rejuvenated.
    • Build Community: Connect with others in a positive, safe, inclusive space.

    Questions? Contact:

    We look forward to seeing you!

  • Don’t Let the Tough Questions Go Unanswered

    Don’t Let the Tough Questions Go Unanswered

    By John Clarke, Guest Columnist

    Valuable Forums for Seniors and Their Families

    The Council on Successful Aging has organized a series of invaluable forums, featuring speakers who have generously shared their expertise on topics crucial to our community. These professionals address some of the most difficult questions—and most interesting issues—that face each of us, including, but not limited to:

    • How to protect ourselves from being scammed. Older individuals are frequent targets of unscrupulous individuals. We keep you current on the latest methods being used and how you can avoid falling for tricksters skilled in taking advantage of others.
    • What role our county Hospice House can play in providing care and comfort to you or your loved ones.
    • You have prepared for your retirement years throughout your working life. Are you current with how you want to distribute your estate? For you and your family’s peace of mind, we bring you up to date with the legal requirements of wills, trusts, power of attorney, etc.

    How to Access Upcoming and Past Forum Events

    We offer 4 to 6 forums a year at the Town Hall. All of this information is provided for free AND we serve refreshments. You can learn about the upcoming forums in a number of ways:

    If you do not use Facebook or receive the Shoreline or the In the Know activity listing, contact Cindy Schersching at [email protected] and ask to be added to our mailing list for updates or call 252-726-1986.

    In case you have missed any of the forums, each has been recorded and is now available for viewing on our YouTube channel.

    Recordings are also on our website in the video library.

    We look forward to seeing you in the audience!

  • How to Reach a PKS Police Officer

    How to Reach a PKS Police Officer

    Here is a simple way to reach a Pine Knoll Shores police officer for a non-emergency situation.

    If you need to ask a question or pass information to an officer, call 252-726-1911. Your call will be answered at the County Communications Center, and you may then ask the attendant to have a Pine Knoll Shores officer call you.

    Please remember to call 911 for any situation involving suspected criminal activity.

    This remains the most effective and reliable way to quickly have a patrol car dispatched to your home.

    It is critically important that when a law enforcement officer deploys to a scene, it is only after being centrally dispatched via the 911 system.

  • Our Website v2.0 is Live!

    Our Website v2.0 is Live!

    As of July, our new website is up and running.

    This new version—I refer to it as version 2.0—could not have come this far without the foundational work undertaken by John and Anne Clarke over the past year.

    However, as their lives got busier and demands on the website grew, I took it upon myself to learn something about web design.

    I’m still counting on John and Anne’s participation in the tech space especially as we continue to videotape our forums and add videos of key events and places.

    Ultimately, I was able to construct a new layout and add more content. I also enlisted the help of a professional web designer (Alyce Meserve) for oversight and to answer my more detailed questions.

    Some features you will recognize and some are newly added:

    • The Home Page not only iterates our vision, but gives a bit of history—who we are and how we got started.
    • You will also see suggestions how to get involved with the Council. Follow the links embedded in the suggestions to get to a specific page. We can use your talents.
    • Included in the suggestions is a link to our Facebook page. Our Facebook page is open to all of our Council partners to keep you informed of their activities as well as our own.
    • The Home Page ends with ‘What’s New?’ We will be rotating out the older news stories and adding the new ones. Be sure to check back for these updates.

    The Meetings tab lists our meeting dates through 2023, as well as past agendas and meeting minutes.

    The Resources and Partners page is one of my favorites.

    • Here you will find links to the videos taken at our Forum meetings as well as other media related to aging issues.
    • We are very proud of our list of partners. In addition to contributing to the quality of life within Pine Knoll Shores, these groups help us spread relevant news to the community. We advertise their activities on Facebook, and specific articles and notices in the Shoreline.
    • Through the Meal Ministry at St. Francis, we can assure every Pine Knoll Shores household a meal. We also publicize a list of local food pantries and sources of free hot meals.
    • The Shoreline and its staff are key to getting out our messages. We are grateful for their support. This section includes links to previous articles published in the paper.

    The final page of the website is a brief form that connects us directly with you. If you are interested in volunteering, donating, offering an opinion, or in need of a community service, send us a note. Your input is valued.

  • Getting to Know the Leon Mann Center for Enrichment

    Getting to Know the Leon Mann Center for Enrichment

    Long known by current residents, military who served in the area early in their careers, and wandering (but not lost) adventurers, Carteret County is a good place to call home.

    The environmental beauty—and the lifestyles it supports—as well as attractive opportunities for second starts in warm, safe small towns and communities draws like-minded individuals.

    As many of those who find their place in this landscape are retirees, it is no surprise that the County has earned its recognition as a Certified Retirement Community by the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina.

    The Leon Mann Enrichment Center in Morehead City is the heart of the quality of life for many Carteret seniors.

    In its ongoing effort to improve the lives of seniors living in Pine Knoll Shores, the town’s Council on Aging introduced the community to the Leon Mann Center for Enrichment at the Council on Aging’s May 11th forum at Town Hall. Director LaKisha Williams and Customer Service representative Melanie Reed described the services and activities offered at the Center.

    Watch the video here.

    THE Destination Place

    Established in 1997, the Leon Mann Senior Enrichment Center is a modern multi-purpose, single level facility operated and managed by the Carteret County Senior Services Department.

    It serves as the focal point in the community where independently functional older adults can participate in activities and programs based on their interests.

    True to its name, no other County facility offers the range of programs and services on a continuous basis with this focus.

    Activities include exercise classes, Bridge, Tai Chi, Bingo, Friday night dances, chili cook offs, caregiver support groups, travel to New York City during Christmas, and trips to Nashville, Memphis, and Gatlinburg.

    The facility also supports an exercise room, computer center, library and a great room.

    Several of the offerings are portable and, if there is interest, can be offered at Pine Knoll Shores at no expense to the town. With advanced notice, transportation can be arranged between PKS and the Center with CCATS.

    Located at 3820 Galantis Dr, the center is open Mondays through Fridays 8:00 am to 5 pm. Membership and all offerings are free to the over-50 resident population with a few exceptions. A general registration form is all that is required for membership. Guests are welcomed.

    Dedicated to Serving Seniors

    Director Williams oversees an enthusiastic staff of dedicated individuals. In spite of ever-changing COVID protocols and challenging day-to-day operations, the staff again secured the Certificate of Excellence from the North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services. This certification recognizes the Center’s exceptional standard of service.

    The Center best serves citizens who:

    • Are interested in making new friends.
    • Are independently mobile.
    • Appreciate a free lunch (must be age 60+).
    • Are curious and want to make the most of these well-earned years.

    If this describes you or someone you know, please check us out in person and on Facebook. New members are always welcome to explore this best kept secret.

    If you are planning a visit and/or if you have additional questions, please call the Center at: 252-247-2626.

  • PKS Senior Survey Results

    PKS Senior Survey Results

    We all feel it – even if we choose to ignore it: Aging is a fact to be reckoned with. As we age, our independence is threatened.

    For some, a change in situation (e.g., a loss of a job, illness) can lead to a change of residence.

    We wanted to know what challenges/fears PKS residents have to overcome as well as those they anticipate as they get older and want to continue living here.

    In a March meeting, Brian Kramer, John Brodman, Charlie Rocci and I agreed to keep the conversations going that began in 2014 when the PKS Board of Commissioners resolved to support Pine Knoll Shores as an ‘Age Friendly Community’ and the pre-Covid traditions of the Age-Friendly Advisory Committee.

    Importantly, we want to move forward with community input. We all agreed that challenges are best met when like-minded individuals come together and work toward a shared vision.

    The Survey

    In May 2022, a single question survey was emailed to all who have requested to be on the town manager’s all hands email list.

    Nine-percent of the 1800 (139 residents) chose to share their answers. As we were interested in creating a comprehensive list of issues, we wanted to hear from everyone – all ages, full time residents and part time, caregivers and residents in need.

    Ages ranged from 11 y.o. to 65+ (average age was 68).

    The question was designed to identify barriers to staying in PKS as we age: What challenges have you faced – or anticipate – that would interfere with your ability to age successfully in this community?

    Grouping like comments suggested 6 broad categories shown here in order of the most often mentioned to the least.

    Mobility/Transportation

    Issues related to mobility/accessibility in and around town, the island and off island. Individuals expressed a strong need for regular/scheduled ‘public’ transportation to doctor appointments, pharmacy pick-ups, veterinary appointments and grocery shopping. Not only was the need related to basic requirements, but to social opportunities as well. While several currently face the challenge of getting around, many fear the loss of driving privileges as they age.

    Safety In/Around Town

    Comments related to mobility/safety in and around town.

    Responses referenced the need for sidewalks and crosswalks on Rte. 58.

    Our beach is a key feature of living here; safely going and coming to the beach is top of mind.

    The expressed challenge: ‘Being able to walk to the beach safely without the availability of a sidewalk or a wide flat surface on Salter Path Rd. to access the crosswalk.’

    There was also an interest in marked bike lanes and several mentioned a general safety concern for children. Perceptions are that increased traffic has complicated walking safely.

    Healthcare Options

    Residents commenting on this topic were critical of local medical offerings.

    They want more specialists, more trauma care options, and more professional health care workers nearby.

    One resident expressed a fear that he may need mental health care as he aged and it would be difficult to find.

    Obviously, transportation issues play a role in the need for access to sought after medical care.

    Home and Yard Maintenance

    Of all the issues, this may be the easiest to impact.

    Property owners have a variety of needs related to their home, e.g., storm preparation and recovery, reliable/affordable indoor and outdoor maintenance, getting trash containers to the road, and even needing help understanding building regulations.

    Social Isolation

    Eleven of the 139 respondents fear or are experiencing social isolation.

    Most often cited in this regard is the lack of a community center where residents can casually gather with emphasis more on interaction with neighbors than specific activities.

    Some see a community center as an alternative to the more expensive local country club.

    Left to themselves, some find it difficult to meet others while some respondents note in the number of full-time residents to look out for each other.

    Taxes and Insurance Cost Concerns

    Increasing taxes/property taxes and the cost of living in general were mentioned specifically.

    With the survey results in hand, 8 full time residents of the community – a mix of men and women, newcomers and long-term homeowners – came together to discuss the category groupings and responses to add a depth of understanding to the issues.

    Drawing on their personal experiences and knowledge of community resources, each contributed to a discussion o