Elizabethtown, NY – Knowing where to turn for help shouldn’t be the hardest part of getting it. Yet for many elders in the North Country, understanding insurance, avoiding scams or getting a ride to their next appointment can feel overwhelming.

“The challenge isn’t a lack of resources,” says Jodi Gibbs, community benefits coordinator at University of Vermont Health Network – Elizabethtown Community Hospital. “It’s knowing what’s available, who to trust, and how to get help without frustration or fear.”

That’s why the hospital is bringing resources together under one roof with its first-ever Senior Social – a free, welcoming event designed to help elder adults find trusted information, reliable support and make real connections in their community. The event is scheduled for Wednesday, May 6 from 11 am to 2 pm at the Knights of Columbus Hall on South Main Street in Port Henry.

More than 20 exhibitors are expected to participate, offering guidance and hands‑on support on topics that matter to older adults and their families, including:

• Fraud prevention and internet safety
• Insurance coverage and legal aid
• Food insecurity and transportation
• Exercise, wellness, and Alzheimer’s support
• Veterans’ services and end‑of‑life planning
• Technology support – attendees are encouraged to bring their cellphone, tablet or laptop for help

Whether someone has a specific question or is just curious about what services are available, the Senior Social offers a chance to learn, ask questions and talk face‑to‑face with knowledgeable professionals.

“This event is just as much about connection as it is education,” organizers added. “It’s a chance to meet neighbors, share a meal, and leave with useful information you can take home and use.”

There is no cost to attend. RSVPs and questions are encouraged by contacting Jodi Gibbs at 518‑585‑3761, but walk‑ins are welcome.

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About Elizabethtown Community Hospital

University of Vermont Health – Elizabethtown Community Hospital is a not-for-profit critical access hospital with locations in Elizabethtown and Ticonderoga and six community-based primary care centers serving Essex County and the Adirondack Park region. As part of a rural academic health system serving Vermont and northern New York, we provide essential emergency, inpatient, rehabilitation and specialty care close to home. Together, we deliver access to leading-edge technology, advanced treatment options and the highest level of compassionate care while addressing the critical needs and unique challenges facing our patients, their families and our employees.

About University of Vermont Health Network

University of Vermont Health Network is a rural academic health system with more than 100 years of service to small towns and cities across Vermont and northern New York. We are deeply committed to reimagining rural health in ways that will benefit our communities for generations to come and keep exceptional care close to home. Our system includes an academic medical center, two community hospitals, three critical access hospitals, a children’s hospital, a cancer center, a multispecialty medical group, 154 outpatient sites and care beyond the hospital through home health, hospice care, four skilled nursing facilities and other support services. Our care is informed by an essential partnership with University of Vermont’s The Robert Larner, M.D. College of Medicine and College of Nursing and Health Sciences. Together, as a health system serving a rural area, we are tackling health care’s biggest challenges — supporting the communities we serve and investing in our employees by addressing housing affordability, quality childcare and professional development needs. To learn more, visit us at www.uvmhealth.org.