Press Release, Shoreline Eldercare Alliance

Shoreline Eldercare Alliance (SEA) held it’s 11th annual “Celebration of Healthy Aging” September 7 at Woodwinds in Branford. The event was attended by 350 seniors ages 55 to101.

Attendees experienced a Wellness Tent of exhibitors with services for seniors. Entertainment included the fantastic big band, The Survivors. The event’s keynote speaker was Dr. Lisa Sanders, a Yale Medical School physician and award-winning columnist for the New York Times. Humorist Dr. Joyce Saltman, an emeritus professor from Southern CT University, shared the value of humor in adult learning and aging well. Guests experienced therapies such as Tai Chi and Reike and art therapy. Attendees also enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and lunch by Woodwinds.

Bernadette DiGiulian, SEA founder and program chair, presented the first “Bernadette DiGiulian, Embrace Life- Healthy Aging Award”. This award will be given annually to a person between the ages of 80 to 100-plus who embraces life; physically, intellectually, socially and spiritually.

Sylvia Rifkin, 101, a resident of The Towers at Tower Lane (New Haven), senior living community, received the 2022 award. Sylvia was married to the late Jerome Rifkin and has two sons, four grandchildren and two great grandchildren. She worked for the VA hospital, she was secretary for a Yale psychiatrist and then a psychologist who dedicated his book to her for her outstanding service and dedication. She was the the business manager at the Yale Child Study Center until her retirement. After retiring, she volunteered at the Jewish Home for the Aged, the Jewish Community Center and Dr. Bernie Siegel’s workshops for the terminally ill. She also started tap dancing and joined a group, The Blossom Tappers, who were together for 20 years. Sylvia and her group danced in SEA’S first Celebration of Healthy Aging. Sylvia moved to The Towers in 2009 and continues to be actively involved in numerous activities including managing the hospitality desk and playing many challenging card games. Sylvia embraces life every day.

About SEA

Shoreline Eldercare Alliance, or SEA, is a group of ethical business owners and representatives of area organizations who provide senior adults and community members with information, resource referrals, education, and quality professional services.

At SEA, our members strive to raise public awareness of issues important to older adults, families, and community members.

The Alliance is an advocacy group for elders and a compass to help people navigate both the stormy waters of aging and the healthcare services maze.

SEA offers many services, including Home Sale and Improvement, Financial Planning, Daily Money Management, Long-term and Hospice Care, Geriatric Care Management, and Home Care Services.

For a full list of SEA’s services and to learn more about SEA, visit sea-ct.org