With a focus on empowering the individual, Jewish Family Service (JFS) is developing a more comprehensive aging adult program to further meet the needs of this growing population in our community. But JFS cannot do it alone!
Kicking off this initiative is the JFS Spring Celebration to be held on Thursday, June 13. The event will honor all 18 JFS past board presidents who have had a great impact on our local community and who fully support the expansion of these vital services. Those being honored are: Darcy McGraw Altman, Charlotte Brenner, Rabbi Gerald Brieger*, Richard Epstein, Jack Fast, Betsy Fiske, Cindy Papish Gerber, Steve Jacobs, Ivan M. Katz, Beverly Levy*, Herbert S. Newman, David Ottenstein, Linda Randell, Carol Robbins, Rosalyn Sperling, Marvin Teplitzky*, Mary Lou Winnick, Peter Zackin. (*of Blessed Memory).
As an individual’s physical strength and mental acuity decline, this complex part of life requires constant attention to well-being. “As an adult with an aging parent, I am acutely aware of the demands of caring for a parent and other aging family members. Grief from loss, managing chronic health issues, social isolation, depression and anxiety are very real issues that can be difficult to navigate alone,” notes Peter Zackin, Past President. Often, family members must provide assistance to their loved ones. However, this level of care is not always feasible or affordable. Many times, families are unaware of and overwhelmed by the myriad of services available to With a focus on empowering the individual, Jewish Family Service (JFS) is developing a more comprehensive aging adult program to further meet the needs of this growing population in our community. But JFS cannot do it alone!
Aside from case management services, individuals may need emotional support. “When I lost my husband of 52 years, I didn’t know where to turn. Thanks to the professionals at JFS, I’ve learned to cope with my grief and I am starting to enjoy the things I used to do again,” recalls a woman who continues to utilize the agency’s services. JFS believes everyone should receive this type of care and emotional support so that individuals can live happily and comfortably. JFS licensed clinicians and case managers work diligently to develop individualized care plans and coordinate the essential services.
The need in the community is high, and in order to provide services to all who require them, JFS must grow its aging adult services. JFS social worker Liz Davenport, LMSW, states, “We do try to help everyone that seeks our services; however, sometimes we are forced to prioritize those individuals with the greatest needs. The demand from the community for elderly services is growing, and we want to ensure that everyone receives quality care in a timely manner.”
In order to achieve the agency’s objective of developing its Aging Adult Program, it requires expanding the current social work program. Chief Executive Officer, Amy G. Rashba, LCSW, said the agency’s goal is to hire a full-time licensed clinical social worker who is solely focused on the aging adult population. “As the baby boomers age, the need for case management will only continue to increase, and we want to make sure JFS is fully prepared to meet and exceed the community’s needs.”
For more information about the event, go to jfsnh.org. For tickets or sponsorship opportunities, contact Rachel Scolnic-Dobin at (203) 389-5599, ext. 109. In addition, if you or a loved one needs support or assistance, call Aging Adult Case Manager Liz Davenport, LMSW, at (203) 389-5599, ext. 117.