September 2020
Celebrating SAGE's Home Health Aide Heroes
This summer SAGE hosted a recognition ceremony to honor our home health aides for their bravery and continued work during COVID-19. The outdoor celebration was catered by D'Maios in Berkeley Heights and included individual awards presented by SAGE's Board President, Christopher Cotter.

HomeCare Director Alice Sloop spoke at the event, "You showed up, you gave of yourself for our clients and for that we are grateful and so proud of each and every one of you. You are the heart of SAGE."

If you are in need of help, our certified home health aides are able to assist with:
  • Personal care (bathing, dressing, grooming)
  • Meal preparation
  • Companionship
  • Compliance with discharge plans and therapy
  • Medication reminders
  • Light housekeeping
  • Personal laundry
  • Assistance to medical appointments
  • Maintain a safe home environment
SAGE also partners with LifeStation 24-7 medical alert monitoring.Call 908-598-5513.

We accept the following payment methods for our HomeCare services:
  • Private pay
  • Medicaid
  • VA benefits
For more information, please call 908-273-8400.
Supporting Our Meals on Wheels Clients
Since Covid-19 began, we've had an outpouring of community support. The acts of kindness, big and small, make a huge difference in the life of an isolated and frightened older adult. Half of our clients live alone and 65% rarely see anyone other than their volunteer. We are so appreciative for the support of so many during this challenging time and we thank you.

If you would like more information about how you can help Meals on Wheels, please call 908-273-5554.
Spend-A-Day Continues to Reach Out
While our Spend-A-Day program remains temporarily closed, we continue to find creative ways to connect with our participants. Our telehealth program is a big support to both participants and caregivers. Weekly phone calls allow participants to hear a familiar voice and resume activities they have been missing, and caregivers get a chance to voice their concerns to someone who understands.

Caregivers and participants also appreciate the weekly emails from the Spend-A-Day team, which provide helpful ideas and things to do.

If you know of a homebound older adult or caregiver who could benefit from our email series, please contact pmarusic@sageeldercare.org.
Spend-A-Day staff recently helped celebrate the birthdays of two participants with a parade and balloons, Doris S. (90) (top left) and Bill G. (95). Bill said it was the best birthday he ever had and Doris had fun learning to wave like a royal to all the cars that drove by and beeped to celebrate her special day.
Support Available on Zoom:
NEW Support Groups Via Zoom & Telephone Begin September 15
To ensure everyone's safety during COVID-19, we are offering support groups via Zoom and phone. Groups are led by Kathy Larkin, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and SAGE InfoCare Manager.

1- Caregivers Who Have a Spouse/ Partner diagnosed with Dementia living at home begins Wednesday, Sept 16, 2:00 - 3:30 pm. This group will meet twice per month every other Wednesday.

2- Caregivers Age 60+ Who Have a Spouse/ Partner residing in a care facility begins Tuesday, Sept 15, 2:00 - 3:30 pm. This group will meet twice per month every other Tuesday.

3- Adult Children Caregivers Who Coordinate the Care of a Parent/s begins Tuesday, Sept 15, 4:30 - 5:45. This group will meet twice per month every other Tuesday.
Your Decisions Matter Explores Legal Issues October 1
Your Decisions Matter will host a Zoom meeting with attorney Lauren Marinaro to discuss end-of-life decision making and legal concerns on October 1, 2020 at 2:00 pm. Registration is required at https://bit.ly/millburnsenior.
Medicare Open Enrollment October 15 - December 7
Medicare plans should be reviewed every year for changes. SAGE's SHIP counselors are available to help. Services are free and confidential and will be provided via Zoom and telephone. We are also offering group presentations on Zoom between October 19 - December 3: Mondays at 2:00 pm, Wednesdays at 7:00 pm and Thursdays at 10:00 am. Registration is required. Please contact ship@sageeldercare.org or call 908-273-6999.