The Brainerd lakes area is growing and expected to grow even more.

They get together to hold each other accountable.

Celeste Danielson, Residence: Excelsior Place in Baxter.

November is National Caregiver Month. In Minnesota, 91 percent of care to frail elderly is provided by family members and other informal sources, including friends, neighbors, and church volunteers. More are becoming caregivers as the senior population continues to grow at a rapid rate.

Last week I had the privilege of traveling back to my hometown to visit my parents and celebrate my mom's 75th birthday.

Joan has been a member of the Lakes Area Senior Activity Center since 1997. She enjoys volunteering in the gift shop so she can see all the hand crafted items that are for sale there. Joan also is a painter and comes to the center on Tuesday mornings for open craft time to paint, socialize and have lunch at the dining site with the others who attend.

Medicare Part D open enrollment began Nov. 15. Most people are happy with their current prescription drug plan and do not worry about comparing plans for the following year. However, every year available plans, premiums, formularies and other costs change. You may want to think about doing a plan comparison to see what options are available to you for 2010. Even if you are happy with your current plan and do not want to switch, it is important to take the time to understand any changes in your plan for the coming year.

LITTLE FALLS - The Little Falls Senior Center will host a fall dance at 10 a.m. Tuesday with live music by Social Security Express.