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Senior citizens and their family members, caregivers and the general public can learn more about how to make key decisions regarding health care directives and driving safety and the elderly at a free educational program this month.

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The event, offered by Citizens Who Care, will run from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Jan. 15, in the Activity Room at the University Retirement Community, 1515 Shasta Drive, Davis.

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Do you know who you want to make health care decisions for you if you become unable to communicate? Are you concerned about a loved one\’s declining health, but unsure how to talk about what lies ahead? Are you confident that the people close to you know your treatment preferences?

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Speakers Chris Evans, M.S.N., R.N., and Kathy Glasmire from the Sacramento Area POLST Coalition will address these questions and more in their presentation, “Medical Decisions When They Count Most.” They will talk about a new California law that helps patients and their doctors discuss and document treatment choices in a Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment form.

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Ideas also will be provided for talking with family members about these issues and choosing a health care decision-maker.

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“This program will help people prepare for their future health care needs,” said Chris Evans, POLST Coalition chair. “Making plans before a health crisis is a gift you can give your loved ones.”

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A representative from AAA Northern California\’s Safe Driving Program will explore issues surrounding knowing when it\’s no longer safe to drive and how the elderly can be assisted in transitioning from driver to passenger.

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Topics will include how to keep driving as long as safely possible; how aging can impact driving; how we can manage these changes; why we should plan ahead for continued mobility; and maintaining quality of life when you retire from driving.

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Citizens Who Care is a nonprofit organization with the mission of improving the quality of life for Yolo County\’s elderly and their caregivers. Volunteers offer friendly visits to the frail elderly and respite for their caregivers.

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For more information about the Jan. 15 community education program or Citizens Who Care, call (530) 758-3704 or visit http://www.citizenswhocare.us.

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