Pierce County has a wealth of resources, services, programs, supports and benefits to help older adults and individuals of all ages remain safe, independent and active at home. Making the Link 2015 is the premiere opportunity for professionals, volunteers and family members to get to know what those resources are and how to make use of them.

“Most older adults and people with disabilities want to remain in their own home,” said Aaron Van Valkenburg, manager of Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources. “Whether coping with long term chronic conditions or short term recovery, sometimes a little extra help can make it possible to remain in the familiar environment of home and family.”

Knowing about available resources in the community and how to access them is one of the best things that people can do for their loved ones. Making the Link 2015 offers the opportunity for the individuals and families to learn about a wide range of local service, providers and programs in Pierce County. Services include in-home care, assisted and skilled nursing facilities, elder law, equipment providers, health care insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, caregiving, emergency assistance, social service agencies, funeral services and much more.

Making the Link 2015 will be held at the Metro Parks STAR Center, 3873 S. 66th Street in Tacoma on Wednesday, Oct. 21 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is a free, drop-in event. Come when you can and leave when you want. Over 60 service providers from throughout Pierce County will share their information and be available to answer questions about ways to keep loved ones comfortable at home.

Making the Link 2015 is designed for health care providers and office staff, social service professionals, faith community staff and volunteers serving the needs of older adults and people of all ages with disabilities. In addition, the public is welcome to attend and benefit from this opportunity to visit a variety of providers in a casual, information-only environment.

Participants will receive an annual compendium of independent, assisted living and skilled nursing facilities in the area, copies of the 2015-2016 edition of Senior Media Service’s popular “Where To Turn” resource guide and other valuable resource information. No registration is required to attend. Participants can enter to win a $5 Starbucks card by registering at Eventbrite.

The event is sponsored by the Pierce County Aging and Disability Resource Center in collaboration with the Health Care Providers Council of Pierce County. For more information about Making the Link 2015, call the Pierce County Aging and Disability Resource Center at (253) 798-4600.