Senior Voice -

“Age Smart – Let’s Talk”, the series of forums sponsored by AARP Alaska, Older Persons Action Group and the Anchorage Senior Activity Center, returns Oct. 8, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Anchorage Senior Activity Center.

This month’s focus is on caregivers. The vast majority of older Alaskans want to live independently at home. Most seniors who receive assistance at home rely exclusively on unpaid family caregivers for help. Annually, more than 128,000 family caregivers in Alaska help their loved ones to live independently – keeping them out of costly institutions, such as assisted living homes and nursing homes. In Alaska, family caregivers provide unpaid care valued at about $1.1 billion per year. Caregivers are clearly very important -- yet few have preparation ahead of the need. For most, it’s a crash course. 

Here’s an opportunity to give some thought to what may be one of the greatest challenges -- and rewards -- of your life. Ken Helander, longtime specialist in aging issues, and an experienced caregiver, will share insights and get us thinking.

Registration is required for the free event at https://aarp.cvent.com/AWOCT2019

You can also register at the door.