Community of Detroit

In response to the many changes in our elderly population and
challenges in geriatric services and managed care, Federation is taking
dramatic steps with its partnership agencies to improve the quality of life
for senior adults.

ON THE HORIZON

The Commission on Jewish Eldercare Services is addressing a host of issues that the community has identified.
Professionals in the field of geriatric services, together with volunteer leadership, are serving on COJES committees to
develop recommendations for new programs and expansion of existing ones.

Services currently planned or under consideration include:

• More day programs for older adults are planned by
COJES , which recently surveyed family members to
assess the need for services to the elderly with dementia
disorders and those who care for them.

Community Education Seminar, the first of a series, is
scheduled for Oct. 12 to educate seniors and their families
about the benefits and services available to the elderly.

• A centralized phone number will provide callers with

information and referrals to agencies and will assist them
with accessing services for older adults.

• Expansion of support services for the frail elderly and

respite for their care givers will enable individuals to
remain in their own homes with the assistance of home-
makers and visiting professional care providers.

• Guardianship services for nursing home residents
will involve a team of professionals and volunteers who
will look after the interests of the aged who have no
family member.

• Transportation services will be expanded and coordi-
nated to enable older adults to make doctor's appoint-
ments, shop, or participate in recreational and social
activities.

FULFILLING A PROMISE

Federation is grateful to the hundreds of volunteers
and supporters who have helped our community move
forward in meeting our responsibilities. Starting with the
Elder Care Options Committee, chaired by Mark Schlussel,
Federation and the United Jewish Foundation underwent
an exhaustive process of self-examination. Significant
community resources have been invested in addressing
the vital and many-faceted issue of services to our elderly.

With all the strides that have been taken, our commu-
nity is still a long way from reaching our goals in serving

Robert H. Naftaly

our older adult population. But with Detroit's tradition of
compassion, creativity and commitment, we know we can
succeed.

We invite everyone in our community to participate
in this effort. If you have any comments, please forward
them to the Commission on Jewish Eldercare Services,
Attention Linda Blumberg, Director, Jewish Federation of
Metropolitan Detroit, P.O. Box 2030, Detroit, MI 48303-
2030, or by E-mail to: blumberg@jfmd.org
Phone: (248) 642-4260, ext. 140

Robert P. Aronson

President
Vice-President
Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit

Michael B. Perlman

Michael W. Maddin

President
United Jewish Foundation

Ellen Labes

Chairman
Co-Chairman
Commission on Jewish Eldercare Services