Ageless Dreamer and Today's Senior (by Foster's Daily Democrat) is announcing Question and Answer column for anyone 70 years old or better. Got a question? Send it to Ageless Dreamer, P.O.Box 457, Dover, NH 03821-0457 or email info@agelessdreamer.org
-Dear Ageless Dreamer,
I just found my old accordion that I used to play 20 years ago. It’s heavier now then it was but it brings back good memories. Are there any accordion groups or events in NH?
Old Squeezer
Dear Old Squeezer,
Quite the instrument you have and it’s coming back in style! Like riding a bicycle – you never forget how, you just need to practice. Believe it or not, in Manchester on August 6-7, the NH Accordion Assoc. and Accordion Connection are hosting their 3rd annual music festival featuring an impressive array of concert performers and workshop presenters. All different kinds of accordions and music for all ages! For more info call 1-800-328-5227.
- Dear Ageless Dreamer,
A while back I saw a movie called The Ultimate Gift where it showed a grandfather being videoed speaking to his kids and grandkids. No one would see it until after he was gone. Do you know of anyway I could do something like that?
Last Dance
Dear Last Dance,
Well, your dance isn’t over and your idea is a very fine one, indeed. Having a family member or friend do it defeats the purpose of having no one see it beforehand, although you would need to let your attorney, clergy, or someone else know it exists. A number of local videographers could help, but there is a new program in the seacoast that specializes in this, called Life Review. Call the Ageless Dreamer office for details at (603)953.0006.
-Dear Ageless Dreamer,
I recently moved into an assisted living place, although I don’t need the assistance yet. I miss my flower garden and wish I could create one here but no one seems to want to help me get started. I’m not afraid of the bending up and down, it’s the digging I can’t do alone. What can I do?
Flower Child
Dear Flower Child,
It sounds like everyone is already overloaded with other “have to” activities where you live. If you haven’t checked in with the Activities Director, please do. They’re always looking for ways to involve others and they might know a civic group in town, like the Moose Lodge, or Rotary that could help get “down and dirty” to make a small garden for you and others to enjoy. Let us know how you make out.
-Dear Ageless Dreamer,
I seldom write letters but am wondering if there’s a transportation service in the Strafford County area that I could call on for rides to drop me off and pick me up someplace – even at night, sometimes? I’m a US Navy vet, amputee, and looking for suggestions.
Need a Ride
Dear Need a Ride,
In Strafford County, unless it’s medical related, there’s very few options at this time, but there’re groups working on addressing this important issue. One service locally will pick you up for $ 35. + $ 3. per mile and will come back at a later time for the same cost charged again (wheelchair or not). Not cheap. Family or friends can be very helpful – don’t hesitate to ask. Taxi’s are always an option with many listed in the yellow pages. We’ll let you know as we learn of others.
-Dear Ageless Dreamer,
I am 81 and, like some people golf, I've spent years fly fishing every chance I get. I'd love to teach youngsters how to tie fishing flies. Is there anywhere I can volunteer to do this?
Tie One One
Dear Tie One One,
Good for you to want to volunteer. Almost every town has extracurricular activities after school. Some make chess, photography, or cartooning available. May be fly fishing could be added, although the sharp hook could prove a problem. The Boy and Girl Scout programs might be a great option.
-Dear Ageless Dreamer,
I've been a widower for years, and when the love of my life died after 61 years of marriage, I thought I'd go crazy I missed her so much. Then a friend taught me Cribbage and it filled the void. He's gone now. Where can I find a new player? Help!
Miss the Game
Dear Miss the Game,
Like golfers, cribbage players have a way of finding each other. If you live alone, call a couple of the local assisted living homes and tell the person who answers the phone that you are looking for. My bet is, it will only take one or two calls.
-Dear Ageless Dreamer,
I read somewhere that outdoor playgrounds for seniors are being built in Europe.
Will it ever catch on in the U.S.?
Swing High
Dear Swing-High,
Sounds like fun. When weather is nice, we'd rather be outdoors playing around then indoors laying around. We researched and learned "it provides gentle exercise for different parts of the body such as hips, legs and torso". Sure could use some of that. May be a local club or business could sponsor one in your area. To learn more google: Senior Playgrounds.
-Dear Ageless Dreamer,
My wife and I are 91 and not happy with the idea of giving up driving for a variety of reasons. We want to age at home but there's no public transportation nearby. What can we do? We don't want to move.
No Wheels
Dear No Wheels,
We are often hesitant to ask neighbors, friends, or fellow church goers to drive us - yet they would - if they knew we needed it. Businesses are also available to provide services to Seniors at home, including transportation. Example: ITNAmerica is beginning to spring up in many states - you can trade your car for future rides or have family members volunteer to drive others so you can earn credits for your own. For a list in your area, write us.
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