The current growth of the population ages 65 and older, driven by and large by the baby boom generation, is unprecedented in U.S. history. Many of our aging population are searching for tools to navigate the changes that come with aging and to lead a richer, more meaningful life. One of the popular courses helping seniors is the Aging Mastery Program (AMP) developed by the National Council on Aging.

AMP is a ten-week curriculum that combines education with goal-setting, daily practices and peer support to help participants make meaningful, measurable and enduring changes in the areas of health, finances, life enrichment and advanced planning.  Each Master Class is delivered by an expert from the local community.

Jewish Aging Mastery incorporates all of the components of AMP, but supplements with two sessions that help participants view the aging process through a Jewish and spiritual lens. The twelve-week course will be offered this winter from January 8 – March 25 at Chabad of the Shoreline in Guilford, and via zoom in case of inclement weather.

“You will learn the core competencies of aging well, and empower yourself and your community to be the champions, advocates, and masters of your own aging,” enthuses Elanit Linder LMSW, Director of Aging Adult Services at Jewish Family Services of New Haven

Rabbi Yossi Yaffe of Chabad of the Shoreline will present the Jewish and spiritual components for JAMP. "I believe that this Jewish addition to the program is needed today more than ever," says Rabbi Yaffe “In today's secular culture, the veneration of youth has replaced the Bible's injunction to venerate the elderly. Innovation is prized over experience, and the external appearance of young age is deemed more valuable than the wisdom of the aged sage. This approach has impacted the younger generation but, sadly, has been internalized by many baby boomers and seniors, negatively impacting the way they view themselves and their purpose in life as they age."

Jewish scripture, tradition, and teachings are full of insights about living well in old age that can enrich the AMP curriculum. A re-examination of this ancient wisdom will illuminate Judaism's approach to finding meaning, growth, and spiritual direction in the aging process.

"There is such a thing as aging gracefully, but there is also the grace of aging. AMP helps provide physical, material, and emotional components to aging well; but with Jewish Aging Mastery we hope to add the soul of aging well," observes Rabbi Yaffe.

The Jewish Aging Mastery Program is free for participants and made possible through a Community Impact Grant from the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven. Space is limited so sign up now. Priority will be given to those who sign up first.

Complete the form at www.JewishShoreline.org/JAMP  and choose the option Chabad of the Shoreline to join us for twelve Mondays, January 8th - March 25th, 1:30-3:00 PM. Classes will be held at Chabad in the New Haven Middlesex Real Estate Association, 2730 Boston Post Rd, Guilford. Please ensure you have Zoom compatibility due to potential winter weather. Snacks will be provided.

For any other questions please contact Elanit Linder at [email protected]