Aging in America is rapidly reaching a crisis point. Thanks to advances in medicine, people are living longer, but when it comes to the realities of aging, we have much work to do. According to Dr. Chip Teel of Full Circle America, seniors have a powerful preference for aging in place in their own homes and communities, however until now, services to empower seniors in that choice have been sadly lacking. In the meantime, families often live far away from their aging parents and worry daily about what is happening to them.

In his bestselling book, “Being Mortal”, Dr. Atul Gawande discusses this dilemma, noting that we often trade safety for what our seniors really want, which is to have a say about how they live out their final years with meaning and purpose, dignity and, yes, even risk.

In Steuben County, we have a unique opportunity to change the face of aging through the launch of Full Circle America. This program makes it possible for many more of our elders to remain in their own homes utilizing the services of grassroots volunteers combined with 21st Century technology. A small monthly investment can make it possible for seniors to live out their dream of staying put at home and can help avoid much more costly adult homes or nursing homes. Families benefit as well, as their parents are safe and happy at home.

On September 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Bath, we are joining with the Steuben County Office for the Aging to co-host an event to help our community embrace this new paradigm for aging in place. We will hear from Greg Olsen, Acting Director of the NY State Office for the Aging, a strong proponent of Full Circle America, as well as testimonials from our local neighbors who have already benefited from the program. Join us as we work to transform the choices our seniors have here in Steuben County.

For more information about the event or to learn how to connect to important senior services, call Steuben County Office for the Aging Director Patricia Baroody at 607-664-2298.

Additionally, seniors should be on the lookout for a bulletin from our office that will provide them with information about available services, programs and upcoming events. Our seniors built the world we live in. They possess immeasurable wisdom. They deserve to enjoy fulfilling, meaningful years supported by family and surrounded by friends. They deserve to enjoy this on their terms. We’ll continue working hard to support that dream.