ElderLink St. Louis, the free, centralized referral program for Jewish older adults, their children and caregivers, and Temple Israel will co-sponsor a free workshop series, “Taking Care of Your Parents: Heartfelt Advice From the Experts.” The public is invited to attend any or all of the programs, which will be held from 7-8:30 p.m. on three consecutive Monday evenings, Oct. 10, 17 and 24, at Temple Israel, 10675 Ladue Road.

Throughout the series, top elder-care experts will share their experience, knowledge, strength and hope with senior adults and their families. “The presenters will not only provide helpful information, but also will offer action plans so that participants will know how to move forward,” says Marcia Mermelstein, ElderLink senior information specialist.

“With over 20 million people in the ‘sandwich generation,’ these programs will offer an important opportunity to service the needs of this growing demographic as well as the needs of those who are being cared for,” she adds.

The first workshop on Oct. 10, “Should I Stay or Should I Go?” will help attendees understand the ramifications when seniors choose to age in their own homes. Topics include home modifications and safety precautions, as well as options for home health care assistance. Facilitators will be Shelby Dersh, coordinator of the Jewish Family & Children’s Service Homemaker Program; Donna Elliot, Lifeline and Home Care Consultant for BJC Home Care Services, and Duana Russell-Thomas, Community Practice Manager at the Washington University Program in Occupational Therapy.

The Oct. 17 workshop will continue the theme of “Should I Stay or Should I Go?” However, this session will focus on critical decisions to be made when seniors opt for long-term care rather than aging in their own homes. Topics will include the many long-term care options available in the St. Louis area, as well as criteria to use and resources that are available to help make the appropriate choice. Discussion leader will be Amy Daniels, Outreach and Information Center Coordinator for the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program.

The final workshop on Oct. 24 is “The Eight Things Everyone Needs to Know About Estate Planning and Paying for Long-Term Care.” Session facilitator David A. Rubin, an attorney specializing in estate planning, will offer advice on the legal and financial issues facing senior adults.

While all three workshops are free of charge, ElderLink St. Louis requests RSVPs, by contacting Mermelstein at 314-812-9320 or e-mailing [email protected].

For more information, call 314-812-9300, email [email protected], or visit www.elderlinkstlouis.org.