It’s natural to want to stay at home as one ages. After all there’s really no place like home. Knowledge opens the door to independent living, remaining in one’s home and community. On Thursday, September 27 in partnership with Mid-coast Energy Solutions Spectrum Generations Coastal Community Center will be hosting an Aging in Place Symposium to mid-coast Maine.  This first in Lincoln county, community based, model program will take place at 33 Mid-Coast Road in Damariscotta. 

Aging in place refers to living where you have lived for years, typically not in a healthcare environment, using products, services, support systems and conveniences which allow one to remain home as circumstances change.  In other words, one continues to live in the home of their choice safely and independently as one gets older.  Universal design is the creation of environments and products which are meant to be usable by all people to the greatest extent possible, without the need for adaptation or specialization.

Spectrum Generations and Mid-Coast Energy’s mission in bringing together local experts to facilitate panel discussions and workshops on topics that are essential for creating a plan for aging in place is simple, provide the resources community members need and the information people  want to become knowledgeable about aging in place.  By participating in the morning, 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., afternoon, 1:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., and/or evening, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. sessions attendees will have the opportunity to determine if aging in place is in their future and to learn about and discover the resources that are available within Lincoln County for individuals who want to take the first steps in the development of an aging in place plan. 

During the morning and afternoon sessions aging in place will be defined through a panel presentation titled “Designing for Life, Designing for Independence: Remodel Your Home for the Future” followed by workshops covering the following topics and issues: Creative Downsizing: Planning is the Key; A Solid Foundation Equals Financial Stability; Living Better, Living Longer Through Technology; One Stop Peace of Mind: Legal and Financial Essentials Intertwined; and Care is There: A Guide to In-Home Care Options and Community Support.  Morning and afternoon panel members and workshop facilitators will vary. The evening program, Imagining the Future of Aging – Difficult Dialogs-Can We Talk?, panel discussion,  moderated by  David Nealley, Publisher, Maine Senior’s Magazine, is designed for boomers, family members and friends .

“Aging in Place” requires careful planning.  When one is healthy, one may not give thought to the possibility of one’s own circumstances changing through accident or illness. Physical needs change as we grow older. What can help me stay at home? Listen to experts, learn about local resources and develop a plan so that you can stay at home longer. Spectrum Generations “There’s No Place Like Home 2012” Aging in Place Symposium on September 27  will assist you with this.  Take the first step towards aging in safety, aging in comfort, and aging in place join Spectrum Generations and Mid-coast Energy Systems for an informative and interactive day of exploration into the possibilities of making your home, a home for life.  For more information, a symposium overview, and workshop details as well as to register call 563-1363 or e-mail coastal@spectrumgenerations.org.