2022 presents JCA with familiar challenges as programs go virtual once again. If we've learned anything, it's how to be nimble and continue to provide exemplary service. |
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➢ Senior Employment programs continue virtually
➢ KC@Home reaches beyond DC area
➢ Senior HelpLine receives Pepco grant
➢ Interages seeks volunteers
➢ Kudos for Escorted Senior Transportat
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The Career Gateway and 50+ Expos continue their highly successful virtual programs
COVID safety protocols won't hinder JCA's Senior Employment programs! Four Career Gateway sessions and six 50+ Employment Expos have been announced for 2020. Please share with jobseekers you know! |
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March, 2020: we remember it all too well. Public health guidelines recommended that older adults limit in-person interactions. And while this was effective in decreasing exposure to disease, it was clear that it would quickly contribute to social isolation and loneliness for both the person living with early-stage dementia and their caregivers. Kensington Club members would lose out on important activities and social connections. KC@Home was launched on March 26th just a few short weeks after the guidelines were announced. Since then, more than 2,600 friendly calls have been made. 42 videos have been created and nearly 500 Zoom groups have been offered.
Once again, we find ourselves in a similar situation, but we have learned much in the past 10 months. KC@Home had been running as a complement to the reopened program at Parklawn and for those who were hesitant to leave their homes. Going fully virtual again in January, although disappointing, was an easy transition.
Now KC@Home is in a position to offer these engaging programs and caregiver support beyond the DC area. Location no longer needs to be a barrier. Let your family, friends, and healthcare professionals know that KC@Home is available to anyone with early-stage memory loss.
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Enjoy this collaborative poem written by Kensington Club members, facilitated by Dana Adams Tate of Write in the Moment Poetry.
A Joyous New Year
Anticipating new ideas for kindness, health and humility!
But better times ahead will make us happy every day and every bright night--
Caring for our loved ones with hot chicken soup and gentle words.
Delightful company to share food and the joys coming.
Everlasting love is in my mind, and it’s here to stay.
~KC LIVE Poetry Group, January 3, 2022
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The Senior HelpLine Receives Pepco Grant |
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As the pandemic began during JCA’s previous fiscal year, in those first uncertain weeks and months, JCA’s HelpLine was the comforting voice during scary, lonely times, and an essential guide to food programs. In fact, food insecurity has continued to be of significant concern: in FY21, 14% of our Senior HelpLine calls related to access to food. We know that behind every phone call from a worried adult child is an aging parent who needs services and that behind every call from an older adult is at least one concerned family member or friend. This would indicate that, while we respond directly to about 300 people each year, at least another 300 people are served indirectly.
Pepco's grant will help the Senior HelpLine continue to provide answers and guidance to seniors and families, matching callers with appropriate services within the DMV. While there is an abundance of information on the Internet, it is difficult for many to determine what the best options (and costs) are. JCA’s friendly and knowledgeable staff who respond to Senior HelpLine inquiries are able to take the time necessary to talk to the caller, find out their initial question, ascertain if there are others, and then provide the appropriate referrals. We are so grateful to Pepco for their support.
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Our Heyman Interages® Center has both in-person and virtual volunteer opportunities with students throughout Montgomery County! Tutoring and mentoring positions at all grade levels. Please contact Indira Dingledine if you are interested in becoming an Interages volunteer and touching the life of a young person. Indira is happy to talk with you! You can reach her at idingledine@accessjca.org or (202) 441-0357.
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JCA's Escorted Transport Enables Montgomery County Residents Retain Mobility and Independence |
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In 2017, Patricia Ross found herself needing a wheelchair and quite nervous about getting around. The 70-year-old Rockville resident tried several transportation services, but they took an inordinate amount of time or required her to come with an assistant, she recalled.
Then she tried the Jewish Council for the Aging’s Escorted Transportation program. This service provides the means and assistance clients need to get to medical appointments, grocery stores and other destinations. It has been an incredible help, she said. “I am so glad they are available. It really helps me, and it’s cost efficient.” While there are laws requiring buildings to be fully accessible, not all places have enough space for a wheelchair, she said. But thanks to her driver, maneuvering and getting where she needs to be no longer makes her nervous.
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Jewish Council for the Aging of Greater Washington
"Jewish Council for the Aging", "JCA", "Interages", and "Helping All Seniors Thrive"
are registered trademarks of the Jewish Council for the Aging of Greater Washington, Inc.
© 2021 Jewish Council for the Aging® All rights reserved.
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