Every Tuesday in November, JFS will host one-hour virtual workshops to help participants prepare for the phase of life when they are aging and inevitably aging solo. Preparation Age: Prepare for the Expected and Unexpected will feature guest speakers with expertise in aging, estate law, occupational therapy, gerontology, palliative and hospice care, funeral services and more.
The idea to host this series came from the community. “We are getting more and more calls from individuals and families, particularly as they face tough aging decisions or even crisis, asking, “What happens now?,” said Jane Ginsburg, JFS president and CEO. As the program manager of the JFS Senior Resource Network, Lynda Shrager knows all too well about helping families through a crisis. “So many people are dealing with aging-related issues and many are trying to navigate alone said Shrager. “There are many obstacles but these workshops will teach people how to plan, thus alleviating some of the stress. The topics were chosen to impart information from living safely at home through preparing for end of life.
HERE is the series flyer.
Prepare to Age Smart & Live Safely in Your Home – Nov. 1, 2022 – 7-8 p.m.
The introduction to the series begins with a personal account of someone thrust intro solo aging through the sudden death of a spouse. Then discover the best home modifications including organizing to live safely at home. Facilitated by Carol Bloom and Lynda Shrager, OTR, MSW, CAPS, JFS Senior Resource Network, Program Manager. Author of: Age in Place: A Guide to Modifying, Organizing and Decluttering Mom and Dad’s Home.
Prepare to Stay Connected – Nov. 8, 2022 – 7-8 p.m.
Learn resources for driving assessments and alternative sources for getting around. Hear about age-friendly communities — utilizing community agencies and resources and building connections. Facilitated by Peggy Osborne, Town of Bethlehem, Seniors Services Coordinator and Jennifer Plouffe, LMSW, JFS NNORC, Program Director.
Prepare for Financial & Legal Matters – Nov. 15, 2022 – 7-8 p.m.
A discussion about the fundamentals of estate planning, powers of attorney and advance directives. Get guidance on important documents and where to store them.
Facilitated by Myles Fischer, Esq., Harris Beach, PLLC, Partner
Prepare to Maintain Health & Wellness – Nov. 22, 2022 – 7-8 p.m.
Learn about age-related health concerns including managing a chronic illness, basic exercise, diet and wellness. Understand various health offerings for 65+ including Medicare and insurance sign-up assistance. Facilitated by Michael L. Wolff, MD, FACP, Community Care Physicians, Internist/ Geriatrician and Jane Sanders, LMSW, Bethlehem Senior Services, Former Executive Director.
Prepare for End of Life – Nov. 29, 2022 – 7-8 p.m.
Hear about palliative care and hospice services offerings.. Get a checklist for what needs to be in place when someone dies, as well as advance funeral preparation and paperwork. Facilitated by Caitlin St. George, The Community Hospice, St. Peter’s Health Partners, Provider Relations Supervisor and Mark Levine, Levine Memorial Chapel, Inc., Owner/Director.
Preparation Age takes place virtually, via Zoom, though people can call in. The series is free, but JFS requests a suggested donation of $10 per session here.
There are three ways to register:
We are grateful to our program sponsors:
