Community Medical Center & Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey Host Luncheon in Honor of 2017 Older Americans Month

Over 20, 95 to 102-year-old old residents living independently recently attended a special luncheon hosted by Community Medical Center in honor of Older Americans Month (OAM) in May. The invited guests receive services from Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey (CVCJ), a nonprofit that enables individuals to remain independent and to allow them to live with dignity and joy.

The annual OAM observance offers an opportunity to learn about, support and recognize the nation’s older citizens. This year’s OSM theme, “Age Out Loud,” emphasizes the ways older adults are living their lives with boldness, confidence, and passion while serving as an inspiration to people of all ages – demonstrating that age is just a number.

During the festive event, guests and their caregivers enjoyed a video featuring highlights of the decades, a delicious meal served by six volunteer Community Medical Center staff members, and lively conversation about the past and present. One guest, 95-year-old Edna of Toms River, recalled how she has seen many changes in the world since she was born. “When I was a small child, there was only one vaccine and it was to prevent Small Pox. We all called it "The Vaccination.” Now, I know there are so many more vaccines and ways to stop illness.” The day was also very special to another guest, Rita, who was pleasantly surprised with a birthday cake and celebratory happy birthday song for her 97th year.

“As part of our commitment to keeping people healthy and active through every stage of life, we take

health care outside of the four walls,” said Patrick Ahearn, Chief Operating Officer, Community Medical Center. “The individuals who gathered for this luncheon are living testaments of what living healthy can do. It was great to see so much excitement and enthusiasm for being recognized for their longevity.”

At the luncheon, Lynette Whiteman, CVCJ’s Executive Director, acknowledged the important role of the caregiver and volunteers who brought special guests to the luncheon and spend countless hours taking them to doctor’s appointments, shopping or just being good company.

According to the 2013 census, one of the fastest growing segments of the 60+ population in Ocean County is the 85 and over cohort. This group, which numbered 14,914 in 2000, increased to 18,913 in 2011 and 20,050 in 2013.

Also in attendance was Jackie Rohan, Director, Ocean County Senior Services, who noted how typically she’s invited to a nursing home when a resident is going to celebrate their 100th birthday. But she had never been to an event where so many people were approaching a century of living. “I really like being in a setting where people are enjoying their life,” she said.

PHOTO: Cassandra Glowinski, RN, BSN, Director of Patient Care Services at Community Medical Center spent time with Marie O'Connor at a luncheon held during Older American’s Month at the hospital. Over 20 people, ages 95 to 102 who receive services from Caregiver Volunteers of Central Jersey, attended the event held in their honor.

About Community Medical Center

Community Medical Center, an RWJBarnabas Health facility, offers a comprehensive array of services including sophisticated neurology and neurosurgery services with a neuro-interventional lab with a bi-plane, and a Level 3 Epilepsy program for children and adults. Our cardiac care features three cardiac catheterization labs and elective and emergency angioplasty programs for patients with heart disease. Patients have access to advanced cancer care including one of the most sophisticated linear accelerators used for radiation therapy and a CyberKnife for treating inoperable tumors. Surgical services include two daVinci robotic surgical platforms, and the hospital’s commitment to technology is evidenced by access to advanced imaging equipment not typically found in a community hospital. As a trusted provider of maternal and children’s services, a Level 2 special care nursery with onsite neonatologists for newborns requiring special care, a dedicated pediatric unit and a pediatrician in the Emergency Department are provided.

Community Medical Center’s cancer program has been accredited by the Commission on Cancer of The American College of Surgeons since 1986 and is the recipient of the Outstanding Achievement Award, one of only two cancer programs in New Jersey to earn this designation, and also offers an accredited Breast Center. The Joint Commission has awarded the hospital their Gold Seal of Approval for the care of Stroke, Acute Coronary Syndrome, Heart Failure and Total Joint Replacement – Hip and Knee and our Cardiac Rehabilitation program.