By Carol Wilson, MSW, LSW
JFS Clinical Coordinator of Older Adult Services
In 1963, President John F Kennedy designated May as Older Americans Month. The theme for 2024 is Powered by Connection, which recognizes the profound impact that meaningful relationships and social connections have on the health and well-being of older adults. This population is disproportionately affected by social isolation and loneliness which can then impact both their physical and mental health. Personal connections support one’s independence and the ability to age in place, which can help mitigate these effects. The theme of connection is an integral component of all services Jewish Family Service provides for older adults.
JFS offers a wide range of supports and programs to meet the diverse interests of clients. Prospective participants first meet with our older adult licensed social worker to ensure the program they are interested in will meet
their needs.
Because taking the first step into something new can feel difficult, JFS helps individuals by providing a warm and welcoming environment to its programs, which include some of the following:
Transportation programs through ShareCare Faith In Action bring individuals not only to doctors’ appointments but also to the grocery store or to meet a friend. Reliable transportation options allow older adults to achieve and/or maintain their goal of nurturing meaningful relationships.
Mazel Meals connects individuals to volunteers who deliver monthly meals across the Lehigh Valley. Recipients look forward to interactions with the JFS volunteers who deliver
the meals.
Creative Connections, in partnership with Cedar Crest College, allows participants to meet monthly with an art therapist and engage in a variety of artistic activities as a means of creative expression, communication, and social interaction. The individuals have benefited from social connections and meaningful relationships.
Let’s Play is an opportunity for individuals to come together to play games, have a nosh, and make new friends.
Senior Chat, a Friendly Caller program, in partnership with ShareCare Faith In Action, pairs volunteers with an older adult who can look forward to a weekly phone call to discuss a range
of topics.
Anticipating a date on the calendar is one thing, but knowing the phone will ring or a Mazel Meal will be delivered provides a consistent personal connection. While we appreciate that May is recognized as Older Adult Month, JFS embraces its spirit every single day.
For more information, please contact Carol Wilson, Clinical Coordinator of Older Adult Services, at 610.351.9956 or olderadults@jfslv.org.