February Newsletter

Hope everyone was able to stay warm and enjoyed all the beautiful snow we had in Greenville over the weekend! Unfortunately, we had a few classes that were canceled. Be sure to check your email for updates on any of the canceled classes you have signed up for. 

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Spring Kickoff! We had a huge turnout! If you were unable to make it and would like to sign up for classes this spring, you can go online, or call our office during regular business hours.

Robin Pierce, physical therapist will provide a practical workshop (meets twice) designed for participants interested in learning how to prevent falls. You will learn what body systems help us manage balance, how physical therapists evaluate those systems, and finally how to manage and treat issues. We will highlight the Otago Exercise Program (OEP), developed in New Zealand. This will be an evidence based discussion - not just lecture, but demonstrations of different testing and treatment by Robin.

You will come away with great insight, armed to help stack the balance cards in your favor.

The purpose of this four-session class is to explore how you can use music in everyday life for wellness and vibrant living. You will learn how to incorporate music into your daily life. Sessions will include a variety of topics addressing physical exercise, meaningful interaction, cognitive health, and emotional expression among other things.

The sessions will be led by a board-certified music therapist who will guide you in a variety of experiences. These will include moving purposefully to music, songwriting in various formats, therapeutic singing, and a discussion on memories associated with different genres and songs. No previous music experience is necessary. Instruments will be provided for your use during each class.

This course provides a comprehensive, easy-to-follow overview of the Medicare system - ideal for individuals approaching eligibility, current beneficiaries, caregivers, or anyone who wants to make informed healthcare decisions.

Did you know? Your amazing brain is growing over 1,000 new connections at this very moment! Brain health research has continued to accelerate in recent years, offering many promising pathways for you to maintain - and IMPROVE - your brain health at ALL ages and stages of life. Join us to explore evidence-based practices that are proven to support lifelong brain health, and learn about the latest breakthroughs in Alzheimer's and dementia prevention research! We will also highlight a variety of NC-based brain health resources and opportunities, with time for questions. Come learn about the best recommendations for hearing loss prevention, audiological management and brain health!

STEM@Starlight’s Healthy Aging Series: Part 3

Matters of the Heart: Heart Health with Aging

Tuesday, Feb. 10, 5-7 p.m.

Willis Building Auditorium, 300 E. First St.

How do we keep our hearts healthy as we age?

Guest Speakers: Dr. David Michael (ECU Health) and Dr. Lisandra de Castro Braz (ECU Physiology) will lead a research-informed presentation with helpful tips on heart-healthy living. Enjoy tasty appetizers and beverages and take-home tips for a stronger heart! STEM@Starlight events are free and open to the public. 

The Lifelong Learning community is mourning the loss of one of our active members.
Gwene Lee-Tyson passed away January 1st. 

Gwene regularly volunteered in the past and was an active member of the Memoir Class. She will be deeply missed.

I love words
By Gwene Lee-Tyson

I like that words can calm, soothe, inspire, excite and mesmerize.
Words can confuse, intrigue, irritate, and infuriate. The words don't have to be multisyllabic to have impact and power. One word well placed and spoken with authority can break down barriers or build walls. How many of us hate to hear the word, "NO!"

Words can fill the space between a new friend and the promise of a long relationship. Words can be a delicious mix of love and support that lets a child imagine and dream of an amazing and successful future. Small whispered words of encouragement can last a lifetime.

I love punctuation.

Punctuation yells and jumps up and down. It soothes a fevered brow. It grovels and begs. It stands its ground and glares at you. The words of famous speeches fall flat when punctuation is misused or misread. The possibility of inheriting vast fortunes can rise or fall on the use of a single comma. Place a question mark at the end of a simple statement and the meaning can change from inquisitiveness to derision.
Punctuation marks are wonderful tools.

Words and punctuations truly are a powerful match and using them carelessly can produce dire consequences. I have learned how to use them with deference and respect, and I am, for the most part, able to be understood. I usually get my point across without ambiguity or obscurity. Threatening words seldom intimidate me. I face them with words of my own. I find that having my own words often proves to be an effective deterrent. I don't debate. I don't have to. By loving, using, and befriending words, I've also learned the pure joy of silence. I've learned when to apply the appropriate action of keeping my mouth shut.

I love Words.

Individuals requesting accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) should contact ECU’s ADA coordinator at least 48 hours prior to the event at 252-7371018 or ada-coordinator@ecu.edu.