We find ourselves in a unique era in the ever-evolving human experience. The world’s aging population is now larger and more vibrant than ever before. Over the past 100 years, the average life expectancy has increased by 50 percent, allowing folks to live longer and creating new opportunities and challenges for the population as a whole.
We have a profound moral obligation to serve our older adults, and not just for their invaluable contributions to society. Our mothers and fathers; our grandparents and in some cases, our great-grandparents enrich our collective well-being. They have the “institutional knowledge,” if you will, and it is our duty to honor their lives and empower them to age with grace, dignity, and a continued sense of purpose.
The vision of Jewish Family & Career Services is that ALL live with dignity and purpose. Guided by our Jewish values, we serve EVERYONE, regardless of race, religion, gender identity, socio-economic background, and, of course, age.
Last year, the Klein Older Adult Program provided over 10,000 hours of home care to older adults and more than 950 rides to medical appointments, grocery shopping, banking, and other important errands. JFCS served 68 older adults who were victims of crime, and 191 received case management or counseling to help them cope with the challenges of aging.
JFCS has worked hard over the years to develop a wide range of support services for older adults that are comprehensive and recognize that their needs evolve over time. We also recognize that caregivers play a crucial role in that support system and that caregiving comes with a unique set of challenges. JFCS’s support groups and other services for caregivers highlight our commitment to supporting those who devote themselves to caring for older adults in our community.
“The well-being and dignity of older adults is one of JFCS’s core missions,” said Dr. David Finke, CEO. “Through the Klein Older Adult Program, we’re providing comprehensive and personalized care to ensure that every older adult we serve can age with the dignity, compassion, and the quality of life they deserve.”
In July, JFCS will join nonprofits across the country participating in the national Give65 Event – a 65-hour, online crowdfunding effort hosted by Home Instead Charities exclusively for organizations serving older adults. This is the first time JFCS has been part of Give65, but the program has raised and awarded more than $5 million in support of older adults in the United States since 2016.
Between 9 a.m., Tuesday, July 11, and 2:00 a.m., July 14, the community will be asked to go to www.give65.org, find JFCS in the list of eligible non-profits, and make a secure gift. JFCS is eligible for a matching gift from Give65. Donations made within that window will be matched dollar for dollar up to $5,000. All proceeds go to the Klein Older Adult Program.
For more information on the wide array of services offered through the Klein Older Adult Program, click here, or call (502) 452-6341.
There are times we all need support and care…JFCS is there for those times.
May is widely recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to creating a more open dialogue about the importance of mental well-being and eradicating the stigma associated with mental health. At JFCS, this month holds great significance.
The United States is grappling with significant challenges in mental health following the COVID-19 pandemic, as individuals face increased levels of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. There’s also growing recognition of the racial inequalities in mental health support, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive and equitable support systems to address the unique experiences and needs of marginalized communities.
Through individual, group, and family therapy sessions, our team of compassionate clinicians at JFCS work each day to help individuals and families find healing. It’s our mission to help individuals improve their overall quality of life through a holistic approach that empowers them to take charge of their mental well-being.
Mental Health Awareness Month is a time when communities worldwide come together to spread awareness, educate, and work to break down barriers to mental health challenges. And while many use this month as an opportunity to prioritize mental health, at JFCS, our hope is that society learns to support those around us EVERY DAY!
Here are five things you can do to support someone with mental health challenges:
- Stay connected and offer support: Regularly check in, offering a listening ear or a shoulder to lean on. Simple gestures like sending encouraging messages or planning activities together can make a significant difference.
- Listen actively and non-judgmentally: Be present and avoid making assumptions or passing judgment. Validate their experiences and emotions, letting them know that you are there to support them.
- Educate yourself: Take the time to learn about the particular mental health condition the person is facing to better understand their experiences and challenges.
- Encourage professional help: Offer to help them find resources such as those at JFCS. You could even accompany them to appointments, if they feel comfortable with your support.
- Be patient and practice self-care: Recovery from a mental health crisis takes time. Understand that healing is a process and be patient with the person. Take care of your own mental health needs by seeking support, setting boundaries, and practicing self-care to ensure you are better equipped to help others.
Remember, while you can provide support, it’s essential to respect the person’s autonomy and boundaries. If the person is in immediate danger or experiencing a severe crisis, it’s crucial to involve emergency services as appropriate.
As Mental Health Awareness Month takes center stage each May, JFCS is working each and every day to not only reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and work with those struggling to help create a community where individuals and families can thrive.
To find out more about JFCS Family Stability and Clinical Services, click here.