Emergencies are definitionally sudden and unexpected. Look at all the natural disasters we’ve witnessed the past year—hurricanes, flooding, tornadoes, wildfires, severe storms. We should all be ready after seeing the aftermath…..but are we? Do we bury our heads in the sand and say, “It won’t happen to me.” Join us as our expert panelists from area emergency/first responder agencies share the how’s and why’s of being prepared for an emergency… all the time. Topics covered: • How aware am I of my surroundings & why is that important? • What communication plan do I have with my family? • What does my age have to do with emergencies? • Why should I have an emergency bag prepared at all times? • When should I call 911? • How do I communicate with Dispatchers? • Expectations for Emergency Response Our expert panelists will guide attendees through the essentials of emergency readiness, ensuring that everyone feels informed, equipped, and empowered to handle potential crises confidently.

Are you a caregiver? Do you anticipate having to be a caregiver in the future? Do you know someone who has been a caregiver? Have you considered that you may need a caregiver in the future? These are all questions we need to address before the need arises. This seminar explores caregiving as a vital stage in the life cycle, offering both challenges and rewards, as we care for those who can no longer care for themselves. -What is the emotional impact on caregivers? -How do we learn “caregiving” tasks including medical, financial & legal? -What is the importance of support groups and where to find them? -How can caregiving provide personal growth opportunities? -How does caregiving affect family relationships? Join our panelists as they share personal and professional experiences of caregiving.

While necessary attention is given to the externals of life, such as financial management, residential options, living wills, health conditions, and medical insurance, seniors also benefit greatly from an awareness of how these external factors influence the inner self. What you can expect from this discussion: -What are the internal implications and complications, the desired and undesired results, of what happens on the outside? -How do these aspects influence persons in older age psychologically, socially, and spiritually? -Why do we tend to ignore these external factors in our lives? -What can we do to create a personal transformation? -How do we discover the wonder and goodness of our hidden self? Joyce Rupp, author of over 30 books, shares her insights and experience in response to these and other considerations. Our discussion is based on what she learned from her mother, her own aging process, the five years she facilitated a group that reflected on the consequences of older age, and from her latest book, Vessels of Love: Prayers and Poems for the Later Years. Joyce Rupp’s message is a positive one that shares the way in which we can claim the truest reality of our inner being.

Living to be 80, 90 or even 100 and beyond is a new reality, for which few have planned. Get answers to important questions concerning successful third and fourth age living and lifestyles. Find out what every person over 65 should know about living to 100 and beyond! - Staying put or moving on… where will I live as I get older? - Living for today and planning for tomorrow…how much is enough? - Health, fitness, and relationships…the importance of social connections.

Computers, smart-phones, and tablets can offer many benefits to people of all ages. And becoming even more popular is the technology that we can use in our homes. However, for many seniors the benefits can be overshadowed by fear, frustration, or uncertainty. It’s a never-ending process of trying to learn how to use the latest smart phone, tablet, laptop, or personal computer to stay in touch with family, stream television shows, listen to podcasts, etc., only to find out your phone is old or your favorite app has been replaced with something different. Some people decide not to bother with technology and instead let someone else handle the technology-related issues. Dive into the world of ‘Technology’ as we explore cutting-edge gadgets, discover how tech can enhance your daily life, and empower you to stay connected with loved ones. Don’t miss this dynamic event – a gateway to a tech-savvy and vibrant senior lifestyle awaits!

As far as we know, no one secretly wishes they could spend their last breaths in a cold, noisy, impersonal hospital room. Most people say that given the option, they prefer to die at home amongst family and close friends. Despite this wish, however, few take time to plan or organize this major life event. During this 90-minute event featuring expert panelists, you’ll learn the most important things you need to know about living, dying, and leaving a legacy on your terms. Some of our points of discussion: -Everyone leaves a legacy. Some are just more purposeful about it than others. -Who has the authority to plan my funeral? -Can I just write down my wishes on a piece of paper and sign it and call it good. -"Dying is free and easy. Everything will take care of itself, especially if I die in my sleep." -How can I write my will and other final documents to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts among my survivors? -What is hospice and how exactly does that work? -Why you should share your final wishes and plans with your family sooner than later. -Will the death of your spouse impact your income?

Living longer can get expensive whether staying or moving. The question most people have is how will they pay for successfully living a long life. As prices skyrocket, affordability is on the minds of many of us. Affordable housing has been a hot topic for years. Many seniors are on strict budgets with limited access to additional income. Should you utilize your savings, life insurance, or the equity built in your home to pay for long-term care? We have received this question many times. It can become overwhelming attempting to understand how to pay for a high quality of life wherever we call home. Here, we tackle all questions related to paying for senior living. We speak to industry experts who discuss practical solutions to ensure you can manage your monthly expenses while paying for a senior residence. Join us for a discussion related to financing options associated with senior living, such as Medicaid and Medicare, Veteran Aid and Attendance and Long-Term Care Insurance.

People say the thought of moving out of a home they have lived in for decades is overwhelming. Fear and anxiety cause many to stay in a place or situation that no longer serves their needs. Learn how others just like you have overcome their fears and made the decision to downsize. This panel of actual homeowners who have “been there and done that,” share their personal "moving stories," including tips for taking the overwhelm out of a post-retirement move. Our panel of actual down-sizers answer these questions and more: -What were the challenges you faced when downsizing? -What prompted you to move? -What are the pros and cons in your experience? -How did you manage the details of such a move? -What would you do differently if you had to do it again?

You decide to start going through boxes and closets. It’s finally time to get rid of stuff, you say. But, despite your best intentions, an hour later you’re surrounded by stuff; wearing an old favorite sweater and going from box to box and stuff is all over the floor. “Letting go” of stuff is difficult and can often be emotionally draining, anxiety-inducing, and even painful. Why is letting go so hard? Sure, it’s easy to say “I might need it someday,” but have you needed it the past 5, 10 or 20 years? Join us as experts in the “rightsizing” field share why “letting go” is so hard and suggestions to help you finally “let go.”