Older Adults


About Older Adults Ministry 


Welcome! The Older Adults Ministry's mission is to establish an age-friendly hub at the Capitol Hill SDA Church. This initiative aims to shift how we view the 50 and older population and introduce customized age-related programs (such as combatting ageism, creating a dementia-friendly church for individuals and their caregivers, and aging-in-place) that caters to the congregation's needs. We hope to enhance the quality of life for the church members and extend the program to the surrounding community.


Older Americans Month
The Capitol Hill Church is celebrating Older Americans Month all of May.  This year marks the 60th anniversary of Older Americans Month. All May, we are celebrating flexible thinking about aging. Join us this month in embracing the opportunity to continue to change. Find a new passion, go on an adventure, and push boundaries by not letting age define your limits. For more information visit, https://acl.gov/

Join us in telling a new story about aging.

  • Ageism is discrimination or unjust treatment of older people based on stereotypes.
  • Starting at an early age, ageism shapes the way we think about ourselves and others as we grow older. Underlying ageism is implicit bias – the unconscious attitudes and beliefs that lead to snap judgments about older people.
  • Ageism is bad for our health, making us sicker and costing our nation billions in avoidable health care costs.
  • Ageism stifles the economy by limiting the participation of older workers, despite their years of experience. –Reframing Aging Initiative

The Story of Reframing Aging

Society should treat older people as equals. A just society ensures that everyone can participate and contribute regardless of age. One of our society's strengths is our belief in injustice in meaningful ways. Too often, we limit opportunities for older people and minimize their contributions. This is unjust to older people and a loss to our communities. To live up to our ideals, we must confront the injustice of ageism.
Ageism is a global challenge.

Five Myths about Aging
Learn about five common misconceptions related to aging and older adults.

Four Things to Know About Depression and Older Adults
Depression is more than just feeling sad or blue. It's a serious mood disorder that affects many older adults and requires treatment. Learn more about depression and when it may be time to talk with a doctor.

Tips for Taking Medicines Safely as You Age
Learn how to safely take and keep track of all your medicines as you age. Medicines are intended to help us live longer and healthier, but taking medicines incorrectly or mixing certain drugs and supplements can be dangerous.

Getting a Good Night's Sleep
Not getting enough sleep can affect all areas of your life and cause health problems. Learn how to develop healthy habits at bedtime as you age to help you get a good night's sleep.

Dementia Friendly Church

The Older Adults Ministry has teamed up with the Alter program to improve support for families impacted by dementia and promote brain health in African American communities. This program works closely with faith communities to sustain dementia-friendly initiatives and reduce the stigma associated with the condition. The Alter program aims to enhance empathy and promote a more inclusive society by fostering social and spiritual connectedness. Dr. Fayon Epps, Assistant Professor at Emory University, is the lead expert behind this fantastic initiative.

Resources

Alzheimer's Disease Fact Sheet
Get the facts about Alzheimer's disease, the most common cause of dementia in older adults. Learn about symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and caregiving.

Caring for a Person with Alzheimer's Disease: Your Easy-to-Use Guide
Get Alzheimer's caregiving information and advice in this comprehensive, easy-to-read guide. Learn caregiving tips, safety information, common medical problems, and how to care for yourself.

If a Family Member Has Alzheimer's Disease, Will I Have It, Too?
Learning about your family health history may help you know if you are at increased risk for certain diseases or medical conditions, like Alzheimer's disease.

Caregiver's Handbook
This guide is for anyone caring for family members or friends who need help with daily living. It focuses on the needs of older adults who require care because of a serious health condition or disability. Still, it could also apply to other situations in which caregiving is needed.

Take Care of Yourself as a Caregiver
Caregiving can be rewarding, but it is also challenging. Taking time for yourself can make you a better caregiver.

Quality of Life

Aging in Place

Living at home as you age requires careful consideration and planning. Learn how you can make some changes to help maintain your independence. Link to local services:
DC - Department of Aging and Community Living
Maryland - Department of Aging
Virginia - Offices for Aging Services of the Division for Community Living

Combating Abuse of Older Adults

Spotting the Signs of Elder Abuse
Find Help or Report Abuse
Find elder abuse resources in your state

If you are in need or know someone, learn about the different types of abuse, how to recognize the signs, and where to get help. Abuse can happen to any older person.

Stay tuned for more information about upcoming events.

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