2005/08/10 Council Agenda Packet

Why we provide library outreach services to seniors and people with disabilities: Because if you don't use it, you lose it • "Few people in the world know more about the science of the brain than (Marian) Diamond, distinguished professor of anatomy at U.C.Berkeley. ... Her use-it-or-lose-it lecture, titled 'An Optimistic View of the Aging Brain,' fascinated registrants at the 44th Annual Meeting of the American Society on Aging with a survey of the latest brain research. ...Diamond noted, `Our challenge is to learn ways to keep the brain functioning at an optimum level for a lifetime.' .... Diamond said that a brain `impoverished' of any stimulation can certainly atrophy, but one in an `enriched' environment will send out fresh bunches of dendrites that take in new information and axons that transmit signals. The cortex will grow or shrink relative to its use, she affirmed, 'just like a muscle'." Aging Today, May/June 1988, American Society on Aging • "Most important, keep your mind active. Take classes, learn a new skill, pick up a foreign language, take up the violin, play chess, work crossword puzzles, read a book, volunteer. Limit television watching. Remember, lifelong learning is key to keeping your mind fit. Mayo Clinic on Healthy Aginq, Mayo Foundation, 2001 Because it is the law • Older Americans Act of 1965 "When President Johnson signed the bill creating the Older Americans Act (OAA) on July 14, 1965, he said: 'The Older Americans Act clearly affirms our Nation's sense of responsibility toward the well-being of all of our older citizens. But even more, the results of this act will help us to expand our opportunities for enriching the lives of our citizens in this country, now and in the years to come.' ... The OAA set forth a broad set of objectives which are as relevant today as they were over three decades ago. Declaration of Objectives: 7. Participating in and contributing to meaningful activity. 8. Efficient community services - which provide choice. 9. Immediate benefit from proven research knowledge which can sustain and improve health and happiness." Older Americans Act: a layman's guide, US Dept. of Health and Human Services Administration on Aging • Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 "Subject to the provisions of this title, no qualified individual with a disability shall, by reason of such disability, be excluded from participation in or be denied the benefits of the services, programs, or activities of a public entity, or be subjected to discrimination by any such entity... . ... Section (8) the Nation's proper goals regarding individuals with disabilities are to assure equality of opportunity, full participation, independent living, and economic self- sufficiency for such individuals."