(Courtesy of JFS Clifton-Passaic) Growing older brings its share of transitions. Biological changes might spring to mind first. However, aging can usher in other shifts, such as retirement, relocation and the loss of friends and loved ones. New ways may take shape or be needed to relate to adult children, siblings, spouses or life partners.

For older adults navigating these changes, research consistently shows that the key to maximizing health, longevity and independence involves taking a holistic approach. This means staying physically active, while taking care of one’s mental and emotional health through socialization and human connectivity.

JFS of Clifton-Passaic offers services for the minds and bodies of seniors, as well as for their hearts and souls, in addition to providing the latest in resources and information for caregivers. JFS provides comprehensive services for older adults in a variety of modalities: dynamic socialization program, specialized care for Holocaust survivors, psychiatric medical management, in-home counseling, and assistance with government resources. Its dedicated team of professionals specialize in the unique needs of older adults.

One way JFS addresses the mental health needs of older adults is by providing free in-home therapy funded through Passaic County’s Department of Senior Services. Mental health clinicians go to homes of individuals to provide the same quality therapy they would receive in the office. This ensures that anyone who is eligible for services can receive quality therapy without having to leave home.

JFS clinicians conduct a thorough assessment on the first session to determine the best treatment options and suggest other services clients may benefit from. They provide counseling for issues such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and relationship conflicts.

A new and exciting addition to JFS’s array of services is the Caregiver Support Group. Two avenues of services will include a weekly support group for people in the caregiver role, as well as a monthly professional speaker series on relevant topics of interest to caregivers. JFS welcomes anyone who is interested in learning more about these services to join the virtual caregiver event on Monday, Aug. 14 at 8 p.m. Registration is now open at jfsclifton.org/caregiver.

For older adults seeking ongoing social connection and community engagement, Sequoia Wellness Center offers a variety of programs to strengthen mental, physical and emotional health. These include game playing, guest speakers, and innovative arts programming such as creative writing, painting, and dramatic theater arts.

Staying physically active comes with a host of benefits including injury prevention, faster healing if an injury occurs, as well as improved brain functioning as researched by Dr. Kirk Erickson, director of Translational Neurosciences at AdventHealth Central Florida.

Above all, one of Sequoia’s greatest offerings is its sense of warmth and community. The U.S. Surgeon General has reported that human connection reduces health risks and is key to aging well. The lively discussion groups and camaraderie are some of many things that make the Sequoia program so unique and cherished.

JFS continues to service Holocaust survivors with home care at this advanced and fragile era of their lives through a grant from the Claims Conference. Survivors receive assistance with their activities of daily living to enhance their ability to live with dignity. The JFS Holocaust Survivor Department coordinates the care with their family members, the Claims Conference, and the home care agency providing services, and is the core of a network which helps survivors live with the dignity they deserve.

For more information about Holocaust survivors or general information regarding seniors, contact Director of Senior Services Pearl Ricklis, LCSW, at (973) 777-7638 ext. 140 or [email protected].

For more information about in-home therapy services, contact Assistant Director of Senior Services Sarala Katz, LSW, at (973) 777-7638 ext. 205 or [email protected].

For more information about the Sequoia Wellness Center, contact Program Coordinator Shaina Bodenheim, LSW, at (862) 400-2074 or [email protected].