Montgomery County will host the 12th Annual County Senior Safety Forum from June 13-16. The multi-day event coincides with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day which takes place on June 15 and Maryland Protect Week.
The forum consists of a series of informative live streamed sessions discussing ‘Staying Connected Safely.’ Each session includes active audience participation through music, yoga, meditation, and question and answer opportunities. Residents can participate in each session virtually, or at in-person viewing parties hosted at county senior centers.
According to data from the National Institute on Aging, loneliness and being disconnected can have adverse physical and mental impacts on seniors. In addition to this year’s Senior Safety Forum, the county has made an effort during the COVID-19 pandemic to reduce senior isolation, including the release of a toolkit and hosting a 2021 Commission on Aging forum on countering social isolation.
In a statement, County Executive Marc Elrich points out that “More than 3.5 million older adults are cheated out of more than $3 billion each year”. He continues to say, “I encourage older residents to attend the forum to help them learn to identify scams, protect their identity, and learn how to report this predatory behavior.”
To attend the forum virtually, sign up through Eventbrite. Sign language interpreters are available upon request, preferably requested at least three days before the event. For information or to request accommodations , call 240-777-1841 or MD Relay 711or email WEAAD@MontgomeryCountyMD.gov.
For more information about programs and services for older adults, visit the County’s Senior site online.
Schedule of Forum Events
Monday, June 13 at 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Recognizing Elder Abuse in an Increasingly Virtual World with Health and Human Services and the Office of Consumer Protection. Opening music featuring music therapist Tom Sweitzer.
Tuesday, June 14 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Healthy and Unhealthy Relationships in Spanish with the Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office and followed by yoga instructor Cheryl Kravitz.
Tuesday, June 14 from 12:30 to 1:45 p.m.
Healthy and Unhealthy Relationships in English with ElderSAFE and followed by yoga instructor Cheryl Kravitz.
Thursday, June 16 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Staying Connected Safely, State’s Attorney’s Office, Recreation Department.
