The Chatham County Council on Aging has received a donation from Progress Energy to supply electric box fans to low income older adults. As the summer temperatures rise, the fans can make a substantial difference in the health and well-being of Chatham's older residents.

"We are focused on meeting the health needs of older adults, and high temperatures can have severe consequences. The fan donation program is one way to help," says Angel Dennison, executive director of the Council on Aging.

She added that "we also want leaders in every community to know that the senior centers are open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday, and we welcome older adults and their caregivers to make the most of our air conditioned facilities and nutrition programs."

Each of Chatham County's two senior centers, in Pittsboro and Siler City, provide morning activities and wellness programs for adults aged 60 and older and their caregivers. Lunch is served at 11:45. Participants are required to register prior to attending so that the appropriate number of meals can be ordered daily.

Group transportation is currently full, but both centers welcome those who can arrange their own transportation, and participants are invited to stay as long as they would like, Dennison said. Both centers offer Nintendo Wii games, board games, puzzles and other afternoon activities. Participation in senior center programs is a great way to beat the heat at home.

"We know that high temperatures can sap energy from daily tasks such as cooking and preparing meals. Good nutrition is fundamental to good health and we encourage people to check on older adults in their communities about their nutrition levels and to spread the word about the fan program."

The Council on Aging also provides nutritional supplements when ordered by a health care provider.

For more information about the fan program, or more information about the activities, wellness and nutrition programs, call the Eastern Chatham Senior Center in Pittsboro at 542-4512 or the Western Chatham Senior Center in Siler City at 742-3975.