Archive: Around Town

Over 60 people attended a public information session on May 11 at Kendal at Ithaca to learn about Love Living at Home (LLH), a new 501(c)(3) nonprofit, recently opened in Tompkins County to help older adults live at home as long as possible.  LLH follows a national model that seeks to improve access to services, increase socialization and civic engagement, and strengthen a sense of community among its participants.  These virtual villages are a consumer driven strategy to support successful aging at home.

"Love Living at Home is not a place on a map - it is a gateway to relationships and resources for older adults who desire to live in the homes and neighborhoods they love. We are a welcoming network of people helping people. Our programs enrich life and forge connections for new friendships. When you need peace of mind, support is one phone call away," LLH board chair Kathleen M. Garner said.

LLH does not duplicate Tompkins County resources that already exist, but helps seniors move through the maze of service options by making one call.  In Tompkins County, as around the country, the population over age 60 is the fastest growing segment of the community. Similarly, locally and nationally, 90% of older adults prefer to stay in their homes as they age.

However, it is difficult to access the array of area services and providers necessary to stay at home though the life span. Recognizing this challenge, an engaged group of local community members formed LLH.

"Love Living at Home will provide practical solutions to everyday problems.  As a physician practicing in the community, I see the need for this among my older patients who live at home; and I look forward to working with LLH as they move forward," said Dr.  Ann Costello, MD.


Elena Flash has been named the organization's executive director.  Flash brings to LLH 30 years of experience as an attorney for nonprofit, health care and long-term care organizations.

She stated, "The Village Movement is sweeping across the country.  This elegantly simple model empowers seniors to stay active and engaged in their homes and neighborhoods. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to help create a Village for Tompkins County and look forward to serving our LLH members."

"There are so many different factors that can adversely affect the health and wellness of our aging community members.  Many of these seniors are living alone, in isolation, and are especially vulnerable to sudden shifts in health. When I learned about LLH and how they wanted to help seniors to age gracefully in their homes, with the support needed to remain a part of our community, it immediately became a cause I wanted to be involved with," said President & CEO for Family & Children's Service of Ithaca David Shaprio.

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