Building resilience in older adults
“Thank you for giving us things that are practical and easy to apply. You [JFS Abby’s Impact Instructor and Program Coordinator Paula Stephens] didn’t share anything that we didn’t already know, but sometimes we forget and need reminders, and I’m glad for a wellness topic that didn’t include diet and exercise.”—Workshop participant
Aging is a natural part of life, and at JFS, we strive to create a community where aging is supported, yet many people don't learn about available resources until they face a crisis. Conferences on aging help challenge common misconceptions about growing older and highlight the many ways people can remain active, engaged, and independent as they age. Most older adults want to continue living in their own homes, and the right support can make that possible, which is why conferences like the Kavod 13th Annual Positive Aging Conference & Resource Fair are vital for moving these conversations forward—and JFS Abby’s Impact Resiliency Instructor and Program Coordinator Paula Stephens was invited to host a break-out workshop on resiliency.
Kavod Senior Life provides ongoing, engaging programs for older adults in the greater Denver community, and JFS is proud to be a member and community partner of the organization. At their June conference, Stephens led two workshops on “Wellness and Resilience for Changing Times: Everyday Ways to Stay Steady,” which explored practical, everyday approaches to building resilience and supporting emotional well-being during challenging times. The groups also looked at how small choices can help calm the body, ease stress, and foster a greater sense of balance.
“All of the participants were very engaged and shared experiences and worries; I don’t mind leading discussions, but it’s always more powerful when you hear from peers,” said Stephens. “We had rich conversations about how their stress looks different today than it did 30 years ago because at that time, maybe they were busy raising a family or starting a career, and now they’re navigating grief and loss, relationships, and health concerns.”
Stephens shared with the groups that there are little things they can do to make a big difference in their daily lives and stay grounded and well, no matter their age. She focused on three easy ideas that participants could use right away to feel steadier, more supported, and more resilient in daily life, including getting better rest, finding moments of humor, and spending time outdoors. “I hoped people would leave the session feeling they learned tips they could do without a learning curve and adding time to their day—and like the suggestions were achievable,” said Stephens. “You may have to change how you’re in nature from what you did years ago, for example, but conversations like these are a good reminder to appreciate what we can do even if it looks different now from years ago.”
“Conferences like Kavod's Positive Aging one help connect community members, caregivers, volunteers, and professionals with tools and information that promote healthy, successful aging,” shared JFS Director of Aging Care & Connections, Rachel Rotach. “Every day in JFS's Aging Care & Connections department, we work to normalize conversations about aging and make it easier for people to seek help when they need it. Whether it's care management, food services, social connection, or homemaker support, these resources help older adults remain active and engaged as members of our community.”