By Deputy County Executive Lisa Chimera
Each May, we recognize Older Americans Month as a time to celebrate older Americans’ contributions to our nation, highlight aging trends and pledge a commitment to caring for older adults. This year’s theme is “Flip the Script on Aging.” This encourages all in our society to transform how we perceive, talk about and approach aging.
This theme also inspires individuals and communities to challenge stereotypes and dispel misconceptions. I encourage all older adults to explore the many opportunities we have in Erie County to help you stay active and engaged. The Erie County Department of Senior Services offers many events and activities that serve exactly that purpose.
First, I would like to note that this year’s Elder Law Day will take place on Tuesday, June 3, at the Buffalo Marriott Niagara, located at 1340 Millersport Highway. This annual event has become a valuable experience for older adults and their caretakers and is put on through a partnership between the Erie County Department of Senior Services and the Center for Elder Law and Justice.
Participants can sit in on presentations focusing on a variety of topics, including Medicaid eligibility; long-term care planning and asset protection; preparing for incapacity through advanced directives; estate planning and probate; and patient rights in hospitals and rehabilitation settings.
There is also the opportunity to meet one one-on-one with an attorney for a free legal consultation. This is limited to one per household and must be selected while registering. The event includes coffee and pastries, as well as a boxed lunch. To register, visit www3.erie.gov/seniorservices/elder-law-day/.
Year-round, the Department of Senior Services works hard to provide fun and engaging programming. Erie County’s University Express series offers 400 free classes at 28 locations between May and July, including four field trips starting with the Williamsville Space Lab Planetarium on May 6.
Older adults in Clarence have the opportunity this month to participate in the Cooking with SASS (Smart and Simple Sustenance) series. Classes focus on introducing easy-to-use appliances like an Instant Pot, air fryer and microwave. May’s series will take place at the East Aurora Senior Center starting on Friday, May 2.
For those ready to get into the groove, Club 99 offers dancing at Tosh Collins Senior Center, Hennepin Senior Center and Williamstowne Village. To get you to any of these fun activities, or to a critical medical appointment, older adults can take advantage of Going Places transportation, which has recently been bolstered by the addition of four new vans. Rides can be scheduled by calling 716-858-7433.
I am proud of the work we do to make life vibrant for older adults in Erie County. To learn more about all Department of Senior Services programming visit www.erie.gov/seniorservices/ .