Bridging the gap between independence and assistance is the theme of an upcoming workshop for aging adults and their advocates in our community.
Aging Well Haliburton County and CARP Chapter 54, with funding from the Haliburton County Development Corporation, are putting on the Sept. 27 event at the Haliburton Legion.
“We plan for retirement. We try not to think too much about long-term care until we have to. But what about that gap called aging that happens in between the two?” asked Sheila Robb of Aging Well Haliburton County. “Sooner or later, each of us has to accept that we are aging,” she added. “Everyone’s journey may be different with some experiencing few issues and others experiencing many.”
She said that’s why they decided to present the Bridging the Gap: Independence to Assistance workshop. The event is free and will feature presentations on: hearing loss from the Canadian Hearing Society; vision issues from the Haliburton Vision Care Centre; and when to call 911 from Haliburton County Paramedic Services.
A presentation from Aging Well will encourage participants to begin considering housing options and Community Support Services will provide information about supports available to help Haliburton County seniors age in place as long as possible, including the Community Paramedicine program.
The morning will conclude with a presentation from Claire Kadwell, a lawyer originally from the Haliburton area, who is now practicing in Kingston. She will talk about some of the legal and financial concerns that can arise with aging.
Robb said several other agencies and local businesses will have display tables, providing even more information and resources to participants.
After a light lunch provided by the Haliburton Legion Ladies Auxiliary, an hour has been set aside in the afternoon for one-on-one consultation with participating agencies and businesses.
The workshop will run 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Seniors, their advocates or family members are welcome. Admission is free but seating is limited. Register in advance by contacting Sheila Robb at 705-489-4201.
