One of the many things that concern seniors contemplating the loss of their driver’s licence is not having the identification available to them.

The Ontario government offers a photo identification card that makes things easier for people who do not have a driver’s licence. An Ontario photo card is a wallet sized card that provides government-issued identification to those Ontarians who don’t have a driver’s licence, making it easier for them to do things such as open a bank account, and perform any other activities that require official identification. Without a driver’s licence people need to have some sort of official photo ID. That’s why the photo ID card is available.

This is a secure card that is recognized as government-issued identification for Ontarians 16 and over who do not drive. The cost is $35, and the card is valid for five years. It will arrive by mail 4-6 weeks after you apply.
You can apply for the photo ID card at the Service Ontario centre serving Picton which is located in the old courthouse at 1 Pitt Street.

You must provide identification documents that prove your legal name, date of birth and signature in order to receive an Ontario Photo Card. The web site found at www.ontario.ca provides a lists of acceptable documents to prove these three data elements.

According to the website only Ontario residents 16 years of age and over who do not hold a driver’s licence are eligible for the Ontario photo card. Current holders of a driver’s licence will have their driver’s licence cancelled upon application for a photo card as you can’t hold a valid driver’s licence and a photo card at the same time. For more information go to the web site above.

Milford Seniors Luncheon Social

Enjoy a great meal on Wednesday, Jan. 24 at noon. The menu features, homemade soup, bangers and mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and vegetables, cherry cheesecake, bread and butter, coffee and tea all catered by Bill Grieve, the chef with Wheel House and Occasions Catering. The cost is $10 per person.

This event will include a presentation. Community Care has made special arrangements and offers free transportation for seniors who wish to attend this event. We’re also having a presentation after the lunch. Reserve your place by the Tuesday prior at noon by calling 613-476-7493.

Rural Route Reassurance

Gord Pendleton, the RSMC rep for Prince Edward County, will discuss the benefits to seniors who sign up for the Rural Route Reassurance program. Other topics highlighted will include information about the Canadian Union Postal Workers and Canada Post.

This free talk will be held Wednesday, Jan. 24 as part of the Seniors Luncheon Social held at noon same day, same location.

Reservations are required as seating is limited. Call 613-476-7493 to save your spot. Seniors are welcome to attend the meal and the talk, just the meal or just the talk. This presentation is part of a project funded by the Retired Teachers of Ontario Foundation and supported by The County of Prince Edward. To register, call the office at 613-476-7493.

Tai Chi

Beginner and continuation Tai Chi classes are held regularly at Community Care. The next sessions begin Jan. 29. Tai Chi is a way to help seniors stay fit and flexible. Tai Chi is a low-impact form of exercise, and it is also a weight bearing exercise, which is an important component of managing osteoporosis.

Some of the benefits of Tai Chi are: better balance, which lowers the risk for falls, less pain and stiffness, stress relief and increased calmness and sense of well-being. And to top it off, it can help to improve memory.

No experience is necessary and all fitness levels are welcome. If you’re a senior who would benefit from Tai Chi and would like to give it a try, call the Community Care office at 613-476-7493 to register. Space is limited.

-Debbie MacDonald Moynes