Passport to the Future: Free Informational Programs on Aging, Caregiving, Finances

When you decide that you would like to go on a trip you are probably going to invest a significant amount of time making preparations. Of course you want to identify your destination, and you will probably develop an itinerary. If you are like many people, you will consider all the contingencies that may arise and will make certain that you are prepared to handle them.

Life can also be viewed as a journey, and along these lines it is important to make preparations for all the eventualities of aging. If you are a caregiver, it is also important to help your loved one prepare for these changes. To assist adults, boomers, and caregivers on this journey, Medford Health Matters is hosting a series called “Passport to the Future,” consisting of four educational programs dealing with the aging process, caregiving, financial planning, and elder law.

The introductory program, Planning the Journey, is taking place on Thursday, February 28, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the City Hall Chambers at Medford City Hall, located at 85 George P. Hassett Drive in Medford. The session is opening with a wine and cheese reception, and is being followed by a panel discussion on a variety of topics related to the aging journey. Panel participants are Daniel J. O’Leary, executive director of Mystic Valley Elder Services; Karen L. Rose, director of Health and Elder Affairs for the City of Medford; and Patrick G. Curley, certified elder law attorney with Curley Law Firm LLP. In addition to the panel presentation, there will be entertainment from a special guest.

This series is being sponsored through funding from Mt. Auburn Hospital. Other programs in the “Passport to the Future” series are Navigating the Elder Law Maze on Thursday, March 28; Cha-Ching: Managing Finances on Thursday, April 25; and Strong Bodies…Strong Minds on Thursday, May 23.

Registration is required to attend all programs. To register online for the introductory program, Planning the Journey, please visit www.hallmarkhealthhomecare.org or for telephone registration, call Mystic Valley Elder Services at (781) 324-7705 extension 161. Give-aways and raffles will also be among the offerings.

Medford Health Matters, formed in 1995, is a community coalition whose mission is to foster an environment of wellness and healthy lifestyles for all those who live, learn, work, and play in the City of Medford.

– Information from Medford Health Matters and Hallmark Health