NAVIGATING NEW BEGINNINGS
GEEZER FORUM - October 2026
The Coeur d'Alene Press - Senior Sentinel
by Virginia Taft, Occupational Therapist/Author
Life, like the seasons, has transitions. As we move into a new season, there are challenges and opportunities. Some we welcome, some may be painful, but they can lead us to connect in different ways or deepen the relationships we already have.
Transitions may be related to retiring, moving to a different home, losing a friend or passing of a loved one. Sometimes there is a health or financial challenge which may seem frightening and overwhelming. A change in roles, as caregiver, retiree or grandparent can be disorienting or lonely, but also exciting and empowering
These transitions have been going on our entire lives. However, as we get older it is sometimes difficult to maintain a support network, make new connections or renew a bond with people and things that give us purpose. We no longer have the unplanned contact we had in earlier life that feeds connections and friendship. It is reported that the loneliness epidemic even affects younger folks despite the increase in social media and supposed connectivity.
Research by University of Kansas professor Jeffrey Hall found that relationships require substantial shared time to deepen. The exact number of hours matters less than the truth underneath it: friendship needs exposure.
Real face to face connection and a purpose in life are the hallmarks of health and longevity. Connection and finding or renewing your purpose in life is what the Geezer Forum is all about. In the past year The Geezer Forum has been focused on supporting the interests of seniors.
Topics last year were:
"Ready Set Travel!” - Tips and Tricks
“Stay Connected and Involved” - Volunteering and Employment”
“Organize Your Life” - Senior Friendly Resources and More.”
This fall Geezer Forum honors the changes in the seasons of our lives. Remember, a Geezer is not a cranky old man, but a person with a zest for living, who may just happen to have gray hair and wrinkles. We hope you will join us for the next Geezer Forum. “Navigating New Beginnings” Wednesday, Sept 9th at Lake City Center - 916 N. Lakewood Drive , Coeur d Alene ID (208) 667-4628
The Forum, starts at 12:45, is free and walk-ins are welcome.
If you would like to join us for lunch 12-1 p.m., please call to reserve (60+ donation; under 60/$7 fee per meal)
Speakers:
Nancy Phillips, Lake City Center Executive Director - Activities & Events
Jonathan Peel, Family Stewardship Services “Navigating Life’s Transitions with Strength and Purpose”
Virginia Taft, "Leaving a Legacy - Humor, Heart & Hope on the Journey of Aging"
Jimmy Lewis, Grief Counselor
Julie Lilienkamp, Life Coach
Diane Blanchard, Ramblin Rovers - Senior Travel
Three C's - Cancer and Community Charities
Lorna Hamilton, Senior Spotlight “A Caregiver’s Story: The Healing Journey”
If you would like more information contact geezerforumcda@gmail.com or view our Facebook group page Geezer Forum CDA. Previous Geezer Forum articles and downloads are available at virginiataft.com Virginia Taft can be reached at virginiataft@virginiataft.com
Taft is the author of “The Memory Box Journey - Capturing a Life Story” (Dream Seed Rising 2024) available on Amazon or audiobook on Audible. “A Little Bit of Blue - Humor, Hope & Heart on the Journey of Aging” (Coming 2027)
