Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services (SCES) proudly marks half a century of championing independence and dignity. In this spirit, we’re thrilled to present The Future of Aging Forum on October 19.

“This forum serves as a spotlight on the evolving landscape of aging in Massachusetts,” said SCES CEO Marta Corvelo. “It’s a platform for dynamic conversations on the role of technology, social connectivity, and innovative collaborations in enhancing health, equity, and self-reliance. We envision this assembly as the ignition spark for a broader, continuous dialogue on co-creating a more enriching future for aging.”

SCES is a non-profit agency dedicated to providing information, services, and advocacy to empower older adults to live on their terms in the comfort of their chosen settings. Through our tireless efforts, we’ve touched the lives of thousands in Cambridge and Somerville, assessing individual needs, offering personalized care, and coordinating support in their homes.

The 2020 U.S. Census highlighted a surge in the 65-and-over community, which grew five times faster than the general population since 2010. With over 18% of Massachusetts’ residents aged 65-and-up – a figure set to rise to 21% by 2030 – our mission has never been more vital. This forum is uniting thought leaders from diverse sectors to explore emerging trends and pioneer strategies for a brighter aging future.

The keynote panel “The Future of Aging – Advancing Health, Equity and Independence” will feature:

Speakers:

• Robyn I. Stone, DrPH, SVP of Research at LeadingAge; Co-Director for the LeadingAge LTSS Center at UMASS Boston
• Caitlin E. Coyle, Ph.D., Director, Center for Social and Demographic Research on Aging UMASS Boston
• Manuel Lopes, MBA, Interim CEO of Fenway Health; Founding Member, Health Equity Compact

Moderator: Olivia Umoren, MPH, Director, Public Policy and Advocacy, USAging

We also welcome Dr. Elizabeth Chen, Secretary of the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs, and Dr. Kiame Mahaniah, Undersecretary for Health at the Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services, who will provide invaluable policy insights on aging in Massachusetts.

Our forum will also spotlight three transformative breakout sessions:

• AgeTech Design – “Understanding the Aging Experience”
• Driving Innovation through Social and Health Care Partnerships
• Expanding How We Think About Home-Based Healthcare

Join us on Thursday, Oct. 19, from 1:00 to 4:30 p.m. at the Norton’s Wood Conference Center at the American Academy of Arts and Sciences (136 Irving Street, Cambridge). Let’s continue the conversation and connections with a cocktail hour from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. Please note that entry to this transformative event is by invitation only.

For more information about the forum, visit eldercare.org/forum.

Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services is a non-profit organization that supports the independence and well-being of older adults and adults with disabilities in Somerville and Cambridge. For free advice and guidance on questions of aging, caregiving or disability, contact our Community Support Center at 617-628-2601, email info@eldercare.org, or visit our website eldercare.org.