Seniors listen to a speaker in a lecture hall
Senior Living Week

Senior Living Week is brought to you by the Housing Bureau for Seniors, a program of Community Health Services. The week kicks off with an expo and then is followed by a week long series of educational events.

These events are Washtenaw County’s only “One-Stop-Information Shop” for older adults and those who care about them. The series of events are held at senior living communities, which provide an opportunity to visit a type of residence that you may not have otherwise explored. Senior Living Week generally covers topics like health, wellness, elder law planning and more!

Register for Senior Living Week 2024 here

Senior Living Week Highlights

At the Expo

  • Explore dozens of vendors who will be offering products and services to aid, assist and inform seniors and those who care about them
  • Free Flu vaccines and health screenings by Community Health Services at Michigan Medicine
  • Medication Take Back: drop off unused medications (pills, liquids or secured needles) -no questions asked! Contact us for specific details
  • Hearing Screenings

During the Week

  • Daily in-person or virtual workshops presented by experts in health, financial and legal services, caregiver support, diversity and much more
  • Open houses: Tour beautiful senior living communities at your pace. Ask questions, gather information, consult with resident coordinators
  • Continuing education for social workers and nurses
Two senior women speak at an expo booth
Masked woman helps patient check in at table
Senior Living Week 2024

Senior Living Week EXPO

Time:                9:30am – 1:30pm        

Location:         Morris Lawrence Building, Washtenaw Community College, Towsley Auditorium

Phone:            734-998-9338

This year’s expo will offer over 50 vendors promoting senior resources, health services, home health care, senior living communities financial and legal services, among other things, which lead to healthier living and increased independence as one ages.

 

Meeting the Challenge of Solo Aging

Time:               12:00 pm - 1pm with Q+A

Location:         Morris Lawrence Building, Washtenaw Community College, Towsley Auditorium

Phone:            734-998-9338

Speaker:        Dr. Sara Zeff Geber

Dr. Geber’s presentation will be an engaging and informative discussion about options and decisions necessary to create a fulfilling life now and a secure future in the years ahead. Her presentation will focus on:

  • Identifying what matters most in later life
  • Finding resources in lieu of family to provide care as you age
  • Building and maintaining a support system
  • Considering how and where to live
  • Navigating post-retirement life

The Dementia Experience

Time:        10:00am - 11:00am
Location:    University Senior Living, 2865 S. Main St, Ann Arbor, MI 48103    
Phone:        734-669-3030

Speaker:    Tracy Ann Carr, RN, BSN, MHA

The Dementia Experience: we’ve all heard about dementia – but have you ever had the opportunity to experience what it may be like to live with it? This workshop will not only provide education about dementia but will also give you the opportunity to experience just a small part of what it actually feels like to live with it.

Choosing a Fiduciary that is Right For You & Maximizing Your Resources

Time:        1:00pm - 2:00pm
Location:    Hybrid (zoom and in person attendance opportunities available)
Phone:        734-998-9338

Speaker:    Bassett Murray Law Group, PLLC

This workshop will go over how to choose a patient advocate and attorney in fact that meets your needs. It will also explore resources to assist you as you age, whether that be in place or in an alternative living arrangement.

What Should Be in My Legal First Aid Kit?

Time:        3:00pm - 4:00pm
Location:    Pittsfield Senior Center, 701 W. Ellsworth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Phone:        734-822-2118

Speaker:     Terry Bertram, JD

As we age, it is critical that we consider and plan for managing the financial, personal, and legal impacts of incapacity. Attorney Terry Bertram will talk about what essential documents are needed to allow your loved ones to help you in an emergency.

Open House

Location:     Regency At Bluffs Park
Time:        12:00 - 4:00 pm
Address:    355 Huron View Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Phone:     734-887-8700

 

Solo Aging: Will Your Money Last as Long as You? 

Time:        10:00am - 11:00am
Location:    All Seasons Ann Arbor, 4600 All Seasons Circle, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Phone:        734-864-4004

Speaker:    Scott Wiard, President Horizons Planning Corporation

Everyone should be concerned about financial survival post-retirement, but especially Solo Agers. This workshop will provide an overview of how to get ready for retirement and live comfortably – no matter how long you live. We will look at: Specific Risks & Challenges, What Does it Mean for Me and What Matters Most relative to Solo Aging and retirement. Get your retirement savings questions answered here!

Step Into the Shoes of Someone with Dementia 

Time:        10:30am - 3:00pm 
Location:    Atria Park of Ann Arbor, 1901 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Phone:        734-741-9500

Speaker:    Kirby Clark, Sales and Operations Specialist BrightStar Care

We believe that in order to provide the very best in dementia care we must first be able to step into the shoes of the older adults we care for and understand their experience. That’s why, at a specialized dementia care experience we do just that. Sensory limitations such as sight and hearing loss, arthritis pain, and reduced mobility are common for older adults, and often accompany dementia. Our dementia care experience is giving an opportunity to experience the ways in which sensory restrictions shape a person’s experience of the world.

Healthy Gut, Healthy Aging

Time:        2:00pm - 3:00pm
Location:    Turner Senior Resource Center (Debrodt Room) 2401 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Phone:        734-998-9353

Speaker:    Mona Alaudhi, MS, RD

As we age, our digestive system can change, impacting our health and wellbeing. Join Registered dietitian Mona Alaudhi, MS RD to discuss age related changes in digestive system, common digestive issues in seniors and natural strategies to promote optimal digestive health.

Open House

Location:     Huron Valley PACE
Time:        10:00am - 12:00pm
Address:    2940 Ellsworth, Ypsilanti, MI 48197
Phone:     734-879-0323

Location:     Linden Square
Time:        11:00am- 1:00pm
Address:    650 Woodland Drive, Saline, MI 48176
Phone:     734-429-7600

Location:     Brecon Village
Time:        1:30pm - 3:30pm
Address:    200 Brecon Drive, Saline, MI 48176
Phone:     734-429-1155
 

Oral Health Watch-Outs As We Age

Time:        10:00am - 11:00am
Location:    United Way, 2305 Platt Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Phone:        313-226-9301

Speaker:    Dr. Abdallah Awada, DDS, MSD

Your mouth allows you to eat, drink, speak, smile, and so much more. But do you really understand what’s actually happening in your mouth as you age? Join Dr. Abdallah Awada from ClearChoice Dental Implant Center in Ann Arbor to uncover facts, bust myths and learn helpful tips on what signs to look out for in your mouth as you age. Further, Dr. Awada will share various tooth replacement solutions at different budgets, how to stop the progression of jawbone loss, and what questions to ask at your next dental appointment.


Decisions for Dignity

Time:        1:00pm - 2:00pm
Location:    Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor, 2935 Birch Hollow Dr, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Phone:        734-234-6398

Speaker:    Sarah Russman, Case Manager WISE Aging Services

End of life planning is important for everyone, but can be more challenging as a "Solo Ager." Please join Sarah Russman, Jewish Family Services WISE Case Manager and Death Doula, in a discussion on ideas and options in designing a meaningful end of life plan to reflect your unique wishes. The workshop will help participants understand how specific forms are utilized and explore options in finding a trusted advocate.


Cool Tech to Support Older Adults Aging in Place

Time:        3:00pm - 4:00pm
Location:    United Way, 2305 Platt Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Phone:        313-226-9301

Speaker:    James Giordani, MSW, Founder of Clear Computing

Discover how technology is changing the lives of older adults, learn why it can be so
frustrating to use, and explore exciting devices, apps, and websites designed to help seniors stay connected, healthy, and age in place.

Open House

Location:     Cedars of Dexter
Time:        9:00 am - 11:00 am
Address:    411 Cedars Lane, Dexter, MI 48130
Phone:     734-822-4844

Location:     Chelsea Retirement Community
Time:        12:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Address:    805 W. Middle St, Chelsea, MI 48118
Phone:     734-822-4844

Location:     Silver Maples of Chelsea
Time:        10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Address:    100 Silver Maples Drive, Chelsea, MI 48118
Phone:     734-475-4111
*Space is limited, attendees MUST register for the Open House and select a tour time. Use the the registration form.

 

How to Thrive While Aging Solo

Time:        10:00am - 11:00am
Location:    Brecon Village, 200 Brecon Drive, Saline MI 48176
Phone:        734-429-1155

Speaker:    Hanna Rauch, Executive Director of Life Choices, EHM Senior Solutions

In this enlightening presentation, you’ll learn proactive strategies to age confidently solo. Whether by choice or circumstances, solo agers find themselves planning their futures independently without the support of a partner, spouse, or family. Take charge by developing a comprehensive plan that ensures independence, freedom of choice and personal satisfaction. Topics include practical tips on aging, aging in place home modifications, crafting essential medical directives, establishing robust social networks, and assembling a care team before any crisis arises. By planning now, you can confidently embrace the future and embrace the joys of living life to the fullest.

Aging with Confidence: Strategies from a Geriatric Care Manager

Time:        1:00pm - 2:00pm
Location:    Turner Senior Resource Center (Debrodt Room), 2401 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Phone:        734-998-9353

Speaker:    Natalie Adewunmi, RN & Founder of Care Management by Natalie

Join Natalie Adewunmi, a Registered Nurse & expert Geriatric Care Manager, as she demystifies the role of care management in supporting the elderly. Addressing your top aging concerns, from maintaining independence to managing health and financial planning. Natalie's workshop will provide actionable insights and strategies to help you navigate the complexities of aging with confidence. Don’t miss this essential session designed to empower those facing the challenges of aging alone or with limited support.

Fraud Awareness for Solo Agers

Time:        3:00pm - 4:00pm
Location:    Turner Senior Resource Center (Debrodt Room) 2401 Plymouth Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Phone:        734-998-9353

Speakers:     Deiga Griffin CFCI, Fraud Prevention & Investigations Officer
        Jessica Salerno, eBanking Officer & Fraud Analyst

Join us as we discuss fraud trends that are plaguing the solo aging community. Learn how to avoid becoming a victim of scams, how to identify these scams early on to protect yourself and your money and what to do if you suspect you might have been victimized by a fraudster.

Open House

Location:     Glacier Hills 
Time:        2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Address:    1200 Earhart Rd, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Phone:     734-929-6811

Location:     Hillside Terrace
Time:        2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Address:    1939 Jackson Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Phone:     734-761-4451

Location:          Vibrant Life
Time:                 10:00am-2:00pm
Address:           8100 Geddes Rd, Ypsilanti, MI 48198
Phone:               734-484-4740
 

Volunteering as an Older Adult

Time:        10:00am - 11:00am
Location:    KMS, 3621 S. State St Door 700, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Phone:        734-998-9338

Studies show that volunteerism among older adults doesn’t just strengthen communities but enriches their own lives by strengthening their bonds to others, and helping them feel a sense of purpose and well-being. Join us to hear how volunteering has impacted older adults in our community.

Aging in Place: Empowering Safe and Independent Living at Home

Time:        11:30am - 12:30pm
Location:    KMS, 3621 S. State St Door 700, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Phone:        734-998-9338

Speaker:    Soheyla Marzban, President Home Instead

This presentation explores the essential strategies and resources to help seniors maintain their independence and live safely in the comfort of their own homes. We will discuss key factors, including home modifications, community support, and financial expectations, to ensure a secure and fulfilling life as you age in place. Whether you're a senior, a family member, or a caregiver, this session offers valuable insights to make aging in place a viable and enriching option.


Facing the Challenges of Aging with Faith

Time:        1:00pm - 2:00pm
Location:    KMS, 3621 S. State St Door 700, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Phone:        734-998-9338

Speaker:    Pastor Rodrick Green, JD

This workshop explores the myriad of challenges that we face as we get older and looks at the opportunities that faith can provide in meeting those challenges. To this end, the Bible speaks to these challenges and gives us a roadmap to hope from which we can find hope and direction. In the midst of this endeavor, we may discover these are the best times of our lives! 
There are many perspectives to aging with faith. This workshop offers one such perspective and is not meant to exclude anyone else's beliefs or faith.

Treat Me, Not My Age: Addressing Bias on Your Healthcare Journey

Time:        3:00pm - 4:00pm
Location:    KMS, 3621 S. State St Door 700 Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Phone:        734-998-9338

Speaker:    Alfreda Rooks, MPA,     Director, Community Health Services    
                    Director, Program for Multicultural Health

Older adults often experience issues in the healthcare system with being heard. This is often a result of bias on the part of the provider based on the person’s age. This interactive session will include how to recognize bias, specifically ageism, when seeking health care. Program participants will have an opportunity to share their experiences with healthcare providers to serve as learning aids to practice effective communication skills for engaging as a part of their care team. Participants will also receive information on whom to contact if they experience ageism or bias while seeking care.
 

Upcoming Events
Senior Living Week Expo 2024
The Senior Living Week Expo will take place October 5, 2024.