Class 3

Create and Discuss Photo  5/14/2018

We reviewed Photovoice, which is a combination of taking a picture and adding a short description to it to explain what you are trying to show in the photo. It should tell a story related to our topic of Age Friendly Communities.

We  discussed what is ethical and proper when taking pictures. Topics included where would we not want to have our own picture taken and what situations in general should not be used. Pictures should not attack or mention particular people or places. You can photograph places as examples but do not make the location identifiable.  If you do want to include people in the photo, you should have them complete a "Photography Consent Form."

We had a discussion on safety and the importance of being aware of the environment around us when taking pictures. Do not walk into the street or block pubic ways, and be respectful of others.

We received a digital camera for use with this project. Hannah reviewed how to use these cameras and also discussed the SHOWED Acronym.
What do you See here?
What's really Happening here?
How does this relate to Our Lives?
Why does this problem/condition/strength exist?
How does the image Educate the community/policy makers?
What can we Do about it (the problem/condition/strength)?

We received an Age Friendly Photovoice Journal Entry handout to use when taking pictures.

There was a discussion regarding which side of a community/bike path should you walk on.
Some thought walking on the left side facing the oncoming bikes and others thought walking on the right side with the bike traffic  According to bike/community sites on the WEB, for US paths, you should walk and bike on the right side of the trail to facilitate two-way traffic.
Here are some site for References: 
http://ridewalk.com/ride/greenway-etiquette/
https://www.miamivalleytrails.org/safety-trail-etiquette
https://www.fitwatch.com/blog/look-out-bike-path-etiquette-101
http://crookedlettercycling.com/2015/07/06/bike-trail-etiquette-for-bikers-walkers-and-drivers/


I attended an "Aging in Place Senior Housing Fair": presented by the Somerville Council on Aging. At this fair you could meet and talk with local agencies to learn the many ways to age in place.

In Somerville there are 6 Federal and 6 State housing units for seniors.  There are also private housing units available.

Somerville also offers a range of ways for senior homeowners to better manage their property tax bills,
and qualify for tax exemptions, tax deferral, or the Tax Work-Off program. Click here for details.