When we started thinking about what to call this year’s Senior Symposium, one idea came immediately to mind – Together Again!
We had our last in person day of learning in fall of 2019 with 200 people attending to learn and connect on topics important older adults. With 2020 came the global pandemic and everything shut down, so we held a virtual day of learning with informational videos and a Facebook live event. We called that one “Senior Symposium: Safe at Home”, a fitting name for a time when we all needed to stay home and stay safe!
This year, we shifted our event from fall to June 15, so that we could gather together on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEADD). The purpose of WEAAD is to provide an opportunity for communities around the world to promote a better understanding of abuse and neglect of older persons by raising awareness of issues that can lead to abuse, neglect and exploitation. What better day to gather and learn about topics that help us keep safe, plan for the future, and become aware of signs of abuse, so that we can watch out for ourselves and our loved ones.
As we looked at our topics for this year’s event, we added to our name – Together Again, Moving Forward! Not only are we all moving forward together out of the pandemic, our topics include planning for a secure future. We’ll talk about aging in place safely, securing your finances and planning for future help, how our SafeSeniors team is helping those who experience abuse and exploitation, and how to safely use technology while avoiding the bad elements of the digital world. We’ll also get an update on the work of the Michigan Attorney General’s Elder Abuse Task Force.
The day also includes an expo where you can get information on services that help us age in the best way… plus they usually have some fun giveaway items! Breakfast, lunch and door prizes are also part of the day.
So please join us on June 15 from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm at Mona Shores High School as we gather together to move forward – it’s free, but you need to register to reserve a spot (to make sure we have your breakfast and lunch ready!)
You can register online here: https://safeseniors.info/symposium2022/ or you can register by calling AgeWell Services at 231.733.8643 or 800.442.6769. Register by June 8 to secure your spot!
Hope to see you there!
About the Author
SafeSeniors, hosted by AgeWell Services of West Michigan, works to identify, advocate, and seek justice for adult victims of abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation within Muskegon, Ottawa, and Oceana counties of Michigan. Learn more at www.safeseniors.info.
