Celebrating Our Collective Birthdays

S.E.A. is throwing a party “In Celebration of Aging “and all readers of this column, their friends and families, are invited. S.E.A. or the Shoreline Eldercare Alliance is a non-profit, educational clearinghouse and one stop help resource for all those navigating the waters of aging. We are all going to be one day older tomorrow than we are today so it makes sense to learn how to age better, healthier, smarter and have fun while doing it.

This free event-party will be held on Thursday, April 29th from 4-7:30 at The Village at Mariner’s Point, 111 South Shore Drive, overlooking the water in East Haven. The keynote speaker is Dr. Gerard Kerins, well known geriatrician for the Hospital of Saint Raphael who will talk about the critical issues in caring for a loved one. Professional experts will show ways of preserving your memories, there will be an art exhibit, water therapy and relaxation technique demonstrations, massage, and free bone density and blood pressure screenings. Sample delicious food offerings from local vendors and taste delights from a chocolate fondue fountain while enjoying a variety of musical entertainment including the fabulous Blossom Tappers as well as a silent auction.

In addition to Dr. Kerins, a panel of remarkable seniors will discuss their secrets to happy longevity. I am pleased to serve as the moderator for the panel which will include Lucille Clark, Helene Rosenberg, Irene Potacki, John Nolan and Rosemary Riccio. Another panel presentation will feature the financial professionals, Marcia Turner, Mark Connell and Sylvia Patterson discussing planning strategies for your tomorrow. Major sponsors of the free event are Hospital of Saint Raphael, Yale New Haven Hospital, and The Village at Mariner’s Point, Omni care of Connecticut, Vitas Hospice Care and Guilford Savings Bank. Please call The Village at (203) 467-00067 if you plan to attend. See you there!

The Shoreline Eldercare Alliance came into being a little over two years ago when a few professionals involved in the care of elders were discussing their concerns about the many clients who became confused and lost in the maze of elder care; not knowing what was available they often made poor decisions. Professionals also know the difference the ability to make timely choices can make… choices made in a time of crisis often turn out to be unwise.

Bernadette De Guilian, a geriatric care specialist was one of S.E.A.’s founders and there are now twenty-two members (including your columnist) representing various professions related to elder care. Their mission is to educate and raise public awareness about elder care issues and to help seniors and their families make healthy choices throughout their lives. A group of S.E.A. members is also available to give free talks to service groups, agencies, churches and other community organizations. S.E.A. may be reached at (1-800-426-65086).

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