WEEKLY UPDATE & SPOTLIGHT: WESTCHESTER’S DEPARTMENT OF SENIOR PROGRAMS AND SERVICESThe following is a weekly update from the Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services with the latest information on upcoming events, programs, activities and services available to seniors, families and caregivers.
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Dear Friends, Welcome to the Department of Senior Programs and Services Weekly Update. Please use this newsletter as a valuable resource to keep you connected and informed about the wonderful programs that are available to you throughout our County. We are happy to report that the vast majority of our senior population is fully vaccinated. We are now able to gather safely and responsibly without the use of our masks if we choose, and that is a sign that we are moving in the right direction. We encourage you to join in our activities and build your wealth of knowledge about the services that are available to help you age comfortably and independently in Westchester. As we continue on our path forward, remember that we will emerge on the other side of this pandemic, together.
Sincerely, George Latimer Westchester County ExecutiE |
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Seniors On The Move Thursday June 9, 2022 Luncheon 11:30 a.m. I Show starts at 1 p.m. Ukrainian Youth Center, 301 Palisade Avenue, Yonkers Luncheon features salad, choice of entree, vegetables, potato & dessert (entree choices: chicken cutlet, roast beef, salmon or Polish plate) Luncheon $25.00/person in advance …$30.00 at the door Please call to reserve a seat and choose your entree (914) 714-0305 Make checks payable to: WPPP (Westchester Public / Private Partnership for Aging Services) Mail to: WCDSPS / Seniors on the Move, 9 South First Avenue, 10th Floor, Mount Vernon, NY 10550 |
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WORLD ELDER ABUSE AWARENESS DAY A special program in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day Guarding Your Physical, Emotional, and Financial Safety: Tools and Real-Life Examples Wednesday, June 15 | 10 – 11 A.M. We will begin this webinar with an overview of online resources to fight scams and fraud, protect your personal information, and check “facts” that are presented to you. The discussion will then focus on two situations that often happen to older adults. We will address: • How the situation should be handled • How to move forward and protect oneself better in the future. Representatives from these six co-sponsoring organizations will provide suggestions on how they can help you in the future. • Office of the District Attorney – Westchester County • State of New York Office of the Attorney General • Pace Women’s Justice Center • Westchester County Department of Senior Programs & Services • Westchester County Department of Social Services – Adult Protective Services • Westchester Library System Register for this FREE webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_kfJRB44lTkeSPHNsP7gbAA (Dial-in by phone obtained on registration or by calling and leaving a message for Paul at 914.231.3227) World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is held annually on June 15th as an International UN observance, recognizing that abuse of the elderly is an increasing and serious problem as longevity increases |
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WESTCHESTER COUNTY Senior Law Day Thursday, June 16, 2022 10 A.M. TO 12:30 P.M. Ridge Road Park, 287 Ridge Road, Hartsdale IN-PERSON EVENT • FOR YOUR LEARNING & ENJOYMENT To Register call 914 813-6300 Boxed lunches available to those who register in advance. THIS SHORTENED SENIOR LAW DAY PROGRAM WILL DELIVER: • Advice from attorneys and experts on aging issues, including planning checklist. • One-on-one consultations with attorneys, financial planners and care managers. • Free information and resources from Westchester Government & nonprofit agencies. Held outside • Free parking • Short level walks • Rest rooms accessible A separate exhibitor tent with valuable information and giveaways will be open from 10 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. SCHEDULE 10 – 10:15 a.m. - WELCOME FROM COUNTY EXECUTIVE 10:15 – 11:15 a.m. - ORGANIZING YOUR LEGAL & FINANCIAL AFFAIRS 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. - ONE ON ONE CONSULTATIONS |
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Senior Citizen Pool Party & Barbeque Wednesday, June 22, 2022 Saxon Woods Pool, 1800 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains RAIN OR SHINE 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free Admission • Free Parking *Space is Limited - Registration Required Lunches must be ordered by Monday, June 6. One meal provided per registrant. Call (914) 813-6380 or (914) 813-6449 to order. Make checks payable to WCDSPS and mail to: Pool Party, Westchester County Dept. of Senior Programs & Services 9 S. First Ave.,10th Floor, Mount Vernon, NY 10550 Suggested lunch contribution for seniors is $4, nonrefundable.
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You’re Invited to the Livable Communities Village Meet & Greet August 11, 2022 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Special Guest Speaker: James C. O'Neal RSVP & Accommodations – 914-813-6263/ jqsu@westchestergov.com
Light Refreshments Available. Masks and social distancing required.
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Parenting a Second Time Around Grandparents, relatives and others who are parenting again: join us for Parenting a Second Time Around (PASTA), a free, educational series for kinship caregivers. Alissa Baalbaki, Clinic Director of WJCS Yonkers Family Mental Health Site will teach you valuable skills for kinship families: rebuilding a family, disciplinary techniques, standing up for grandparent/grandchildren rights and much more. There will be six monthly sessions. Each session is a standalone topic however we encourage you to come to all six sessions! Session dates are: June 24, July 22, August 26, September 23, October 28
For more information contact: Carolyn Fluckinger at cfluckinger@fssy.org/ 914-963-5118 x525. |
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Medicare counseling is back at two Library Sites! Grinton I. Will Library - Every 1st Thursday of the month, from 10 AM to 1 PM in the Computer Room. John C. Hart Memorial Library – Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month, from 10 AM to 1 PM Volunteer HIICAP trained counselors are available to help you find answers to your questions about Medicare. Will you be eligible for Medicare soon with no clue where to start? Do you want to know the difference between "Original Medicare" and "Medicare Advantage Plans"? Want to compare drug coverage or Medigap premiums? Come talk to our trained volunteers -- no appointment necessary! |
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The Mall Walk at The Westchester Returns The Mall Walking Club meets every Tuesday and Friday, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at The Westchester in White Plains. It’s a great way to enjoy the benefits of walking, no matter what the weather outdoors. To join, sign up at the horse fountain on retail level 2 (located between Crate & Barrel and Urban Outfitters) on Tuesday and Friday mornings during the program. Admission and parking are free for all registered members of the mall walk program. For more information, call (914) 231-4645. |
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Westchester Works Child Care Scholarship You may be eligible for help paying for childcare Learn more and apply (914) 761-3456 X 140 |
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Become a Summer Reading Buddy! Volunteers are needed to help prevent the “Summer Slide” where children lose their literacy skills and “slide back” over the summer months. Reading delays have become a major problem because of the pandemic. Be part of the solution by reading and doing other literacy work with historically underserved children. Volunteers will be given books and worksheets to work one-on-one or in small groups with children in preschool through fifth grade. Scheduling is flexible. Volunteers may sign up for their choice of sessions:
Yonkers Riverfront Library – Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 12:00 – 2:30 July 5th through August 10th
Ossining Public Library – Fridays from 10:30 – 12:30 July 8th through August 12th
For more information contact Madeline Finesmith at: 914-458-1930
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Understanding the Essentials of Your Smart Phone: An Explanation of Popular Smart Phone Functionality in 2022 Date is July 20, 2022 at 11 a.m.
Presenter: Andrew Crawford Senior Information Systems Clerk.
Join from the meeting link https://westchestergov.webex.com/westchestergov/j.php?MTID=m0bdc5b9e0110c1ae155d2c06b68206ad
Join by meeting number Meeting number (access code): 2423 872 0195 Meeting password: P73pikhpuM8
Tap to join from a mobile device (attendees only) +1-415-655-0001, 24238720195# US Toll 1-844-621-3956, 24238720195# United States Toll Free
For additional information about the program please contact: Colette Phipps – cap2@westchestergov.com or call (914)813-6441 |
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SCSEP – Senior Community Service Employment Program Discover today what MaturityWorks can offer you. • Second career training opportunities • Training at community based organizations • Training with flexible schedules • Receive On the Job Training • Receive a paid stipend while participating
What are the eligibility requirements? • 55 years or older • Be unemployed & need further training to perform jobs available in the area • Meet family income requirements (Limit of 125% of Poverty Guidelines) • Be a resident of the county where the program is managed by The WorkPlace, Inc. • Authorized to work in the US • Provide acceptable source documents to prove age, income for the last 6 or 12 month (including family size), residency and employment authorization.
For more information contact: Shelly Ameri, Career Counselor The WorkPlace - 203-340-2312/ rameri@workplace.org
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Next Stage Network The Next Stage Network will help you prepare for and take an active role in planning your future. For more information about joining this new and exciting program, contact Colette Phipps at 914-813-6441 or cap2@westchestergov.com.
Next Stage Network eSurvey: A specially designed survey for Westchester County residents ages 60 plus
In this unprecedented time of COVID-19, we are seeking to understand what our residents ages 60 and older, as well as their caregivers, are experiencing. To this end, access the tab, Next Stage Network eSurvey, below to learn more about taking this survey and to access the survey link.
The full Next Stage Network Calendar of Events is available to you upon email request to cap2@westchestergov.com.
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The Department of Senior Programs and Services in collaboration with Westchester County Department of Health and Empress, will begin administering second boosters (Pfizer and Moderna) under its Homebound Vaccination program.
Only individuals that are homebound, over the age of 50, and those who meet the required CDC/NYS Department of Health eligibility guidelines, including the immunocompromised, are eligible. The immunocompromised individuals, however, who are under the age of 50, must still be homebound and must complete additional screening questionnaire in order to be eligible.
All eligible homebound can call 914 813 6300 or email AQPJ@westchestergov.com to make an appointment for their second booster.
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Mount Vernon New York Wartburg’s Adult Day Program, which provides medical services and socialization is re-opening.
Adult Day offers a wide range of clinical management services, activities, social engagement, and nutritious meals within 10,000 square feet of space. Adult Day provides seniors living in the community with another option to assist in maintaining a healthy independent life.
For more information on Adult Day Services, eligibility, the safety protocols and regarding volunteer opportunities, contact Paulette Watts 914-513-5108. |
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Demystifying Medicare
This presentation of the library system’s Senior Benefits Individual Counseling Program is perfect for anyone trying to navigate their way through our complicated healthcare system for older adults. Presented by a HIICAP (Health Insurance Information, Counseling, and Assistance Program) trained counselor. It will help those who already have Medicare, as well as people soon to be 65, planning their retirement, or assisting relatives and friends with their medical decisions. The engaging, interactive program outlines the various parts of Medicare and lays out the costs associated with the medical and drug insurance provided by the government and private companies.
Topics include: Original Medicare Medicare Advantage Plans Prescription drug plans (Part D) Medigaps (supplemental plans) Various cost-saving programs (MSPs, Extra Help, EPIC, etc.)
NOTE: Pre-registration is requested. For more information: https://seniors.westchesterlibraries.org/demystifyingmedicare/
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Here to Talk Listen & Support 1-844-863-9314 Emotional Support Helpline Online Support Groups Website Resources
NYProjectHope.org Confidential | Anonymous | Free
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Volunteer in a research study! We would like to invite you to participate in a study about Healthy Aging
Who Are We Looking For? Participants who are 65 years young and older, that are interested in attending a free group wellness program designed for older adults delivered remotely via Zoom How Much of a Commitment? 8 weekly 1-hour group sessions, from a quiet space in your own home • It has physical aspects (yoga while seated or standing) and lifestyle aspects (sharing views & opinions) What Would We Like You to Do? Just attend 8 one-hour weekly sessions, fill out questionnaires and interview questions before, during, and after the program Want to Learn More About It? We would be happy to schedule a brief informational phone call with you. Please contact Zoie Hidalgo, OT student at zhidalgo@mercy.edu or Pri Ghosh, OT student at Pghosh@mercy.edu. Directed by: Dr. Stancanelli, OTD, MPH, Dr. Waldman-Levi, PhD, OTR/L Groups led by occupational therapy graduate students This study was reviewed and approved by the Mercy College Institutional Review Board
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ARE YOU MISSING OUT ON COST SAVING PROGRAMS?
Extra Help with Prescription Drug Coverage The Medicare Part D Extra Help program (sometimes called the Low-Income Subsidy or LIS) helps pay for your Medicare drug coverage. If you get Extra Help, your monthly premium will be lower or free, and you’ll pay less at the pharmacy.
Save on Medicare Premiums The Medicare Savings Programs help pay for your monthly Part B premium. You may also qualify for help paying other costs in Medicare.
Get information on Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) to help with utility costs; SNAP (nutrition assistance); EPIC (NYS Prescription Assistance Program), SSI (Supplemental Security Income).
Call the Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services Medicare Information Line at (914) 813-6100, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m and speak with one of our trained counselors to see if you qualify for any of these benefit programs.
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Are You Confused About Options for Long Term Services? NY Connects is your trusted place for individuals, families, caregivers and professions to turn to for free, unbiased information about long term services and supports in New York State for people of all ages or with any type of disability. Connect with a NY Connects partner to receive comprehensive counseling on options related to personal care, transportation, education counseling, medical, behavioral health, and various other supportive services and programs.
Where to Get Help:
Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services NY Connects Information and Referral Line 914-813-6300 Monday – Friday 8:30AM – 4:30PM
Westchester Independent Living Center NY Connects Information and Referral line 866-715-4700 Serves seven counties in the lower Hudson Valley: Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess, Rockland, Orange, Sullivan, and Ulster. Monday – Friday 9:00AM – 5:00PM
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Volunteers Needed for Senior Driver Research
• Are you age 65 or older and a current driver? • Did your spouse/partner stop/retire from driving within the past year for medical or safety reasons? • Are you willing to be interviewed about your experience? Occupational therapy faculty and students from Mercy College are conducting a research study. We are exploring the experience of current drivers age 65 or older who have changed to the role of primary driver after their spouse/partner stopped driving due to medical or safety reasons. Your lived experience may provide valuable insight into ways professionals in health care and social agencies can support drivers and their families during this transition.
What does the research involve: You would be asked to have a one-hour interview about your experiences related to your transition to the role of primary driver. In-person interviews will be held at a place and time convenient for you. With your permission, the interview would be video or audiotaped.
Participation in this research is voluntary. All information will be kept confidential and you and your family will not be identified in the presentation or publication of the research results.
Please contact Alexa Camilleri at (845) 521-1288 or Dr. Jeanine Stancanelli, OTD, MPH, OTR at Jstancanelli@mercy.edu or 914.674.7817
Mercy College Institutional Review Board for Research has reviewed and approved this study. |
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Are you a Senior (55+) in need of a job? We can help! For residents in Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess Counties
Looking for a job but don’t know where to begin? CAREERS can help you navigate a path to a successful future!
Preparing to find a new job can be overwhelming for anyone, especially seniors. Research shows that it's often harder for older workers to secure new jobs. One 2020 study published by the National Bureau of Economic Research found that workers over age 40 are only about half as likely to get a job offer as younger workers if employers know their age.
But don’t worry, with 34 years of experience placing people in jobs, WE CAN HELP. CAREERS Support Solutions is offering a FREE program to help seniors find jobs. Any resident of Westchester, Putnam or Dutchess County who is at least 55 years old, and in need of a job, is eligible for Jobs for Seniors.
Jobs for Seniors will: · Teach workforce readiness skills to attain, and keep, a job · Provide assistance in resume preparation · Help with finding job openings · Arrange interviews · Be available for on-the-job placement · Provide ongoing support to assure job success · Provide individual services tailored to meet the unique and changing needs of each senior, including problem solving and stress management
Let us help you take the next step! For further information contact: Allison Scorca Phone: (914) 741-8500 X106 or e-mail ascorca@careersfp.org
www.CAREERSSupportSolutions.org
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Vaccine Availability Vaccine Location Directory Click here for more information.
WMCHealth offers an interactive directory to assist Hudson Valley residents with accessing COVID-19 vaccination. The directory allows the user to search an interactive map by location types, such as pharmacy or health clinic, location name, and county. Clicking on a location serves up detailed information about that location, who might be eligible to receive a vaccine at that location, and how to register for an appointment. The directory does not represent the actual inventory of vaccines at each location, only that a location has received a recent distribution, or a distribution sometime in the past. Each location controls its own schedule and makes its own appointments. Click here, or on the image below to use the directory. |
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The ST. CABRINI Nursing Home GIVE ME A BREAK RESPITE PROGRAM Generously funded by a grant from the Field Hall Foundation
Have your loved one stay in one of St. Cabrini’s certified, private respite rooms for up to one week with no charge for daily care. He/ she will receive all the individualized care and attention he/ she needs while you are away and, at the same time, enjoy opportunities to socialize, experience new situations and participate in religious programs if desired. Seniors with dementia/Alzheimer’s disease are welcome.
For more information, contact Mary Ellen Merusi in St. Cabrini’s Admissions Department: 914-693-6800 Ext. 527
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FREE BILL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM Take advantage and take a break! Yonkers Office for the Aging Mayor Mike Spano
Are you a caregiver to a senior that would like one less task? Are you getting confused paying your bills?
Yonkers Office for the Aging & SilverBills now offer a Free Bill Management Program. Typically seniors get overwhelmed by budgeting bills and regular expenses. This program provides you with your own dedicated Account Manager who will work with you over the phone to help you organize your bills and make sure they are paid correctly. No more worrying about missed payments, paper piling up or late fees.
All fees for this service will be waived for one year.
TO REGISTER FOR THIS PROGRAM, PLEASE CALL YONKERS OFFICE FOR THE AGING 914-377-6823
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Volunteers Needed! TRA is a leading Volunteer-based provider of rides to medical appointments for older adults and visually impaired adults. Our medical appointment drivers: · Have flexible schedules. · Choose their own rides. · Supplemental Insurance, event, reimbursement and many more benefits. For more information (914) 764-3533
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VOLUNTEERS NEEDED RideConnect is a volunteer driver and referral program that serves adults age 60+. Volunteering is flexible, and every single ride is appreciated. To learn more about volunteering, go to www.rideconnectwestchester.com or call (914) 242-7433. |
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Try a FREE Online Class Today! Go to: www.getsetup.org/partner/NYSTATE
New York State Office For The Aging has partnered with the Association on Aging in New York and GetSetUp to provide free virtual classes for older adults taught by peers – ask questions, make friends, learn new things, and have fun. Use coupon code: NYSTATE Most Popular Classes Core Fitness, Yoga Food and Nutrition Virtual Travel Restarting Your Career Take Classes From the Comfort of Your Home Internet Computer iPad/Tablet Smartphone
For Help Contact GetSetup: 1-888-559-1614/ info@getsetup.io
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Stay Connected The Emergency Broadband Benefit Program Helping people stay connected during the COVID-19 pandemic. Please visit: https://getemergencybroadband.org/
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YSOP Connex: Creating Intergenerational Virtual connections Interested to know how youth are handling the pandemic? Do you enjoy talking with youth and your peers in a group setting? Then a Connex program may be for you! YSOP Connex is a program that connects senior citizens and youth in meaningful, online conversations. Our highly skilled staff facilitators lead virtual group conversations between young people, residents of senior living communities and seniors in their homes. The program is mutually beneficial to both seniors and student - Students can talk to people with a range of experience and interest and reach out to a wider community. Seniors provide much needed perspective, insight, and sense of comfort to youth participants trying to navigate so many new and unknown situations. Program Format Connex virtual Zoom conversations involve 4 seniors, 5 students and a YSOP facilitator. The group meets once a week for one hour. The program runs for 3 weeks.
Please reach out to edoty@ysop.org if you are interested in participating in a Connex program!
Learn more: Connex — YSOP | Youth Service Opportunities Project
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The YWCA of White Plains and Central Westchester is inviting you to free wellness classes offered to breast cancer survivors and patients. Please register first for this class by contacting Ned Corona at ncorona@ywcawpcw.org |
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Has the eye doctor said you or your loved one is legally blind? Contact VISIONS for free services for Westchester legally blind residents of all ages for training to stay independent or secure employment. Training is provided at home, in the community and at VISIONS residential rehab center in Rockland County. For more information call toll free 888-245-8333 or email: crivera@visionsvcb.org. |
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Zoom Training for Seniors! Learn Zoom with one-on-one training in the comfort of your home – via phone and on your computer or cellphone with a Tech Teen At your convenience Typical training lasts 30 minutes Easy walk-through with a Tech Teen
Schedule a training with a Tech Teen programintern@volunteernewyork.org/ 914-227-9316
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The Yonkers NNORC (Neighborhood Naturally Occurring Retirement Community) The NNORC assists seniors 60+ living in Northeast Yonkers with: Support and Resources for seniors and caregivers, Health and Nutrition Educational Seminars including Meditation Chair Yoga and Body/Mind Fitness, Recreational Groups including Bingo and Arts, Information and Assistance, Telephone Reassurance, Technology support with YPIE Tech Squad and Healthcare Management/Assistance and Monitoring. This program is under WJCS and the Yonkers Office for the Aging. For more information about the NNORC please call 914-391-1323 or email sally.pinto@yonkersny.gov.
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Do you enjoy talking on the phone? If you would like to receive calls from a DOROT volunteer on a weekly or semi-weekly basis, our Telephone Friends program is for you. We’ll match you with a new friend who has similar interests. Just contact us to get started at: 914-485-8354.
Ready to take a telephone class? DOROT continues to offer an array of topics with our University Without Walls (UWW) courses. For an online course catalogue go to: Click here You can register online, or call and leave a message at: 877-819-9147. Someone will return your call as well as mail you a course catalogue.
What’s this thing called Zoom? We may be social distancing, but we can still see each other through the technology of Zoom! Join your peers in a variety of classes on your computer, laptop, tablet or smart phone. DOROT offers programs through their Onsite@Home program, using the Zoom app. Go to: Click here And don’t worry, we can help you with the tech side of getting connected.
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The Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health (DCMH), together with its partner agencies, will be offering guidance and support to Westchester County’s residents as they cope with the impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19). It is projected that the health crisis precipitated by COVID-19 could have a lasting impact on the mental health of the citizens of Westchester. People may experience stress, fear, grief, depression and anxiety. DCMH will be implementing educational and supportive services through various forms of communication, including a dedicated telephone resource line, social media, taped video recordings, chat lines, printed materials and linkage to counseling.
The DCMH Information, Support and Referral line is (914) 995-1900 8 a.m. to 8 p.m./ Text #914-461-7281. For more information on how to cope with the impact of COVID-19, click here.
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Special Help is Available During this Time of Covid-19
Gatekeeper Program was designed to bring mobile and off-site services to older adults, 55+, who may need help to improve their mental well-being and need case management. This may include assistance with sadness, anxiety, memory issues, aging needs and substance abuse.
Elder Abuse Prevention & Victim Assistance Program was created to assist survivors of elder abuse (physical, emotional, sexual, financial or neglect), 50+, or who are at risk of abuse & not in immediate crisis. Contact: Nicolle Brunale, LMSW (914) 668 – 9124 x28
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For more information about Westchester’s Department of Senior Programs and Services, visit www.westchestergov.com/seniors. |
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