The needs and care of the elderly are a primary concern for the Jewish community.  Demographic changes, new funding structures, longevity and health care delivery are just some of the many issues contributing to a need for serious review and consideration of Aging Services and planning in the Jewish community.  This publication is an important contribution to discussions which will impact all of us:

What is the community’s responsibility in ensuring that elders can enjoy a vibrant Jewish community? That there is quality of life for Jewish elders? That there is quality of care for Jewish elders?  That there is support for their caregivers?
 

Is Kosher the threshold issue for Jewish services for the elderly? Rabbi David Ellenson, of HUC-JIR explores “What Makes an Organization Jewish?”  New models of Long Term Care are considered in articles by Anita Altman, Karen Alexander and others.  The spiritual needs of the elderly are considered, as well as the need for Elder Abuse Shelters.
 

This issue celebrates the accomplishments of all our colleagues who labor to assure an excellent quality of life for our elders (and us in the years to come!), as well as the 45th Anniversary of the Association of Jewish Aging Services, an Affiliated Professional Association of JCSA and our partner in publishing this issue. Together, we have dedicated this issue to Marty Silverman (z”l), a modest and generous philanthropist whose foresight and generosity significantly expanded and improved the capacity of the Jewish community to meet the needs of its elderly. 
 

Table of Contents: