A demographic shift is taking place throughout much of the world. Population aging is changing lives and institutions. Never before have so many people lived to such old age. In the USA, the number of people age 65 and over is projected to leap from about 54 million in 2019 to more than 80 million by 2040. By 2030, all Baby Boomers (1946-1964) will be 65 years of age and older.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) wants people to know how to get help when they need it. This is especially important during the pandemic, when in-person service is by appointment only for limited issues. SSA created a new flyer that explains how to get help.

While Cookeville First United Methodist Church already had a Facebook page for seniors, it was primarily a bulletin board announcing various events. Interaction between individuals was limited and missing a sense of community and togetherness. As a result, our Senior Adult Council established a Facebook group for seniors in February 2020.

Creative workarounds are helping senior adults at Cookeville First UMC stay connected and active during COVID: Adventures in Lifelong Learning and a seniors singing group that makes house calls.