The Baby Boom generation has rocked the demographics of the nation since the first child was born in 1946. When the Boom finally tapered off, this group made up 40 percent of the U.S. population. As Baby Boomers age, they will change the way aging is perceived, and it will be the first time in history that adults age 65 and older make up the largest population group in the country.

Due to medical advances, many Boomers are also dealing with parents who are aging and living longer. This presents issues that feel unique to each adult child of an aging parent but are so common that many are relieved to know they are not alone in their dilemma. Tackling these problems alone can seem insurmountable and very taxing. But that’s where the Cass County Council on Aging plays a very important role for this group.

At present, 30 percent of the Cass County population has a head of household who is older than 65. And that number will expand dramatically in the next decade. To help address the needs of adult children as they try to assist their parents with issues concerning when to break up housekeeping, give up the car keys, medical and hospital care, finances, the stresses of adult sibling relationships, caregiving  and a host of other issues, the COA presents an educational program called “Journeying with Your Parents as They Age.”

During the next several months, “Journeying with Your Parents as They Age” is being offered at three locations. There is no charge to attend, but due to their popularity, advance registration is required by calling the COA at (269) 445-8110 or (800) 323-0390.

Coming up at the COA’s Front Street Crossing, the program will take place from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on three Fridays, June 7, 14 and 21. Front Street Crossing is located at 227 S. Front St. in Dowagiac.

In July, Lakeland Community Hospital in Niles will feature “Journeying” from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 11, 18 and 25. Lakeland is located at 31 S. St. Joseph in Niles.
Finally, the program will be also offered in the fall in Benton Harbor at Orchard Grove Extended Care at 1385 E. Empire Ave. The dates are Sept. 13, 20 and 27 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.