The Seniorhood Resource Fair returns Saturday, Oct. 25 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Vernon Center Middle School, 777 Hartford Turnpike, Vernon. The biennial event offers seniors, adults and caregivers ways to plan their entrance into their “seniorhood” years through workshops, demonstrations, exhibits and resources.
Admission and all presentations are free. There will be free coffee and doughnuts at 9:30 a.m. And the first 300 attendees receive free lunch.
All are welcome. The event was organized by staff from several Tolland County municipal and community agencies working together as the Tolland County Multidisciplinary Team.
A variety of exhibitors will showcase the public and private services that are available in the local community and that focus on the lifestyle needs of a growing senior population.
“It is essential that communities across Connecticut ensure seniors have access to the services and programs they need to lead fulfilling lives and to address needs that develop as they age,” Vernon Mayor Dan Champagne said. “The team that has worked so hard to create this year’s Seniorhood resource fair understands and embraces the need to provide our seniors with this critical information. I am grateful to the team for its hard work over the last year to make Seniorhood a great event.”
Several presentations will be offered on topics including Medicare, estate planning, promoting mental well-being and social connections, and scam prevention.
“With Seniorhood, we are trying to provide information people can use to lead engaged and active lives as they move into their senior years,” Seniorhood co-chair and Vernon Social Services Director Matt Hellman said.
“Obtaining proper help and advice on matters we often take for granted, such as driving, shopping, medical care and managing bills can be daunting,” added Joan Cadieux, Seniorhood co-chair and Hockanum Valley Community Council Elderly Services Case Manager. “Just as important is providing this information to children and caregivers so that they can help older adults make informed decisions. Having good information is the key and that’s what Seniorhood is about.”
People can also obtain flu shots and health screenings. Insurance is accepted for flu shots. Many of the exhibitors will have giveaways.
“Seniorhood is a great opportunity for seniors to learn about services and organizations they may not know about, but that can have a positive impact on their lives,” said Maureen Gabriele, the director of the Vernon Senior Center.
There will also be a drug take back event, where anyone can conveniently dispose of unused, unwanted or expired prescription and over the counter medications, preventing misuse. Pet medications are also accepted. The event is hosted by the Vernon Rocks Coalition and is part of the DEA National RX Take Back Day.
In addition to the Town of Vernon, sponsors of Seniorhood include Hockanum Valley Community Council, Eastern Connecticut Health Network, Community Health Resources and Ladd-Turkington & Carmon Funeral Home.