It’s super to meet people that give of themselves for others, and this week I’d like to share some of the things I found out. Although I didn’t personally meet Dewey or Babe, they are sweet dogs, I’m told, and enjoy visiting people and making them smile. They are therapy dogs owned by Melissa Chapman and Linda Taylor, respectively, and are available for loving.
These beautiful animals are filled with personality. Babe loves to dance, so you can look forward to entertainment along with her visit. Dewey loves people and is always willing to cuddle or play. Neither dog sheds.
It’s a proven fact that petting and interacting with therapy dogs can lower your blood pressure, calm your heart rate and even release endorphins that block pain. These dogs help you release anxiety and avoid depression. Melissa and Linda make their dogs available for seniors at local facilities – and in some cases, private residences. You can reach them for an appointment at Affordable Home Care Agency of California by calling 800-527-0757 or 925-933-3732. The visits are free of charge.
For those of you who enjoy reading, Dave Case of E and L ElderCare Services has a book for you! It started with a book for a lady named Joanne, who didn’t have anything to read. Dave brought her one, and the smile on her face made it clear that there was a need for this service. He started supplying donated and/or used books to several small residential care facilities in our area.
The Adult Readership Club consists of warmhearted volunteers who collect donated books, magazines and other reading material and distribute them to residents. Although like the therapy dogs, most of their deliveries of love go to care facilities, they provide books to seniors who live on their own and are unable to get to a library or bookstore.
I know these new electronic books are all the rage, but I’m old-school: I love the feel of a good book. If you’d like to have Dave set up a delivery or if you’d like to donate some of your reading material, please call him at 925-584-9812. It will be a story with a happy ending – guaranteed.
The October sun is shining in East County, and Melissa, Linda and Dave can brighten your day even more.
Stay healthy.
Marla Luckhardt is a Discovery Bay resident and member of the East Contra Costa Senior Coalition. She works with several local senior care and advocacy groups. To contact her, e-mail marla2054@aol.com.
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