As each of us ages it is important to keep abreast of all sorts of things for as long as possible. No one wants to let go of handling their affairs and everyone wants to be in control of their destiny for as long as possible.
In many cases, we find that families are scattered all over the world and that parents are left behind to fend for themselves, which can often be daunting as they age. Usually, when children leave our shores, parents are at a stage where they are still gainfully employed, enjoy a good life and generally continue to live well, often able to visit their children overseas fairly regularly.
Unfortunately, this does not continue forever. Work-life comes to an end, spouses pass away, and we age; this is why we all need to plan carefully. Keep abreast of your financial situation either by engaging someone in the know who can manage your affairs or, better still, manage them yourself.
We cannot emphasise how important it is to keep records of all important things in a safe place where you have ready access whenever needed. That includes medical records, passwords and financial information.
Cape Jewish Seniors assists their members, encouraging all to remain self-sufficient and part of our community for as long as possible, and assisting everyone to live life to the fullest and to be able to cope with all necessary tasks. Our social workers are there for support and assistance, wherever needed, encouraging independence and interaction with other like-minded people.
We regularly interact with family members who live overseas when they visit and request us to engage with their parents when they return to their homes. We are aware that this is done because there are concerns about the parents they leave behind, but it is so important that we accede to the wishes of the parents and do not invade their privacy at all. There is usually an initial resistance to us becoming involved and this takes careful negotiations. Thankfully, in most instances, we succeed in forming a relationship and the outcome is successful – with CJSA gaining a member and the person receiving community support, guidance and encouragement to engage. CJSA provides a home-from-home environment where our members become friends as they interact with one another. Transport is provided for those who no longer drive so it is always possible to become involved.
The weekly programme contains information about activities at each branch, as well as a programme of YouTube clips for those who are housebound or unable to get out for any reason. We send the programme out via email and WhatsApp to all members, and it is up to each member to book and plan when they want to attend activities at a centre or go on an outing. ●
Have a great month!
Warm regards
Diana Sochen, Executive Director
Social and Personal
We congratulate our members who have had joyous occasions during the last month.
Birth: Shirley Elvey – Great Grandson
Birthday: Debbie Epstein – 80th
Engagement: Sonia Norrie – Granddaughter
New Members welcomed: Victoria Kretschmer
Special Mazaltov wishes to: Shirley Kellner on her daughter being awarded an MBE by King Charles for the work she is doing in dentistry.
Our thoughts and wishes of strength are with those members who are ill or grieving.
Get Well wishes: Leina Sank, Lilian Sheldon, Paul Sternberg, Jean Tocker, Dorothy Woolf
Cape Jewish Seniors Association
Director: Diana Sochen, 021 434 9691, director@cjsa.org.za
Admin: Amanda, 021 434 9691, admin@cjsa.org.za
CJSA on Facebook
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