Pasadena Village Launches Free Series to Support Aging-in-Place Adults

Pasadena Village, a nonprofit supporting aging-in-place older adults, is introducing a new weekly series called Village Connections. The free program, starting Sept. 26, is specifically produced for individuals aged 50 and above in Pasadena.

Held every Thursday at 2 p.m., the series will take place at the recently opened Washington Park Community Center. 

Attendees can enjoy complimentary coffee and tea during a social half-hour before each session’s featured topic.

Jim Hendrick, a Pasadena Village member who moved to the neighborhood to be closer to family, conceived the series. He collaborated with fellow members to curate diverse educational and cultural themes.

“Washington Park neighborhood has a lot of older people — it is a vibrant neighborhood,” Hendrick said. 

He worked with Washington Park Site Coordinator Johnny Mack to plan a free summer concert that drew over 70 attendees.

The program’s topics range from healthcare and financial planning to creative pursuits. On Sept. 26, Rick Holliday will discuss Medicare changes. Holliday states, “For the first time, Medicare is changing how members are able to access healthcare and prescription drugs. It is going to have a huge impact financially, and everyone should know more about it.”

Other sessions include a presentation on osteoporosis, estate planning guidance, and a Tai Chi demonstration. On Oct. 24, participants can create Halloween masks in a “Schmoozendoodle” session, followed by a Halloween celebration on Oct. 31.

Hendrick also leads a Poetry Gathering, which will meet on Oct. 10 and Nov. 14 as part of the series. Fellow Villager Gary Smith wrote about the liberating experience of sharing poetry in retirement.

Pasadena Village’s Educational Programs Team scheduled topics crucial for aging adults, including Medicare and estate planning. The organization’s programming is designed by members in their 60s, 70s, 80s, and 90s to build community and foster authentic relationships.

Pasadena Village Executive Director Katie Brandon expressed enthusiasm about the partnership with Washington Park. “We hope this series brings together more adults from all backgrounds and experiences who are looking for community,” Brandon stated.

The Village Connections series is part of Pasadena Village’s broader mission to foster independent living and community engagement among older adults. The organization currently serves over 200 members in the west San Gabriel Valley area.

Pasadena Village offers various activities, including walking groups, support groups, and discussion meetings. These programs aim to promote lifelong learning and community connection for its members as they age in place.

While reservations are suggested for the Village Connections events, they are not required. The series is open to all interested individuals aged 50 and above in the Pasadena area. 

More information about the Village Connection series can be found on the Pasadena Village website.