When Herb, 68, suddenly needed surgery for a serious heart condition, his sister, who lives in New Jersey, turned to Jewish Family Service for help. She was afraid that her brother would have a hard time managing in his home because, in addition to his heart condition, he was somewhat unsteady on his feet, depressed and socially isolated.

The JFS social worker first met Herb at a rehabilitation facility after surgery and talked to him and the rehab staff about what he would require to return home independently. JFS was able to pay for a home health aide to come into Herb’s home two days a week for three months. The social worker set him up with an emergency call button in case he fell or had an accident.

Since Herb was not driving, the JFS social worker arranged for him to have volunteer drivers take him to medical appointments. She signed him up for Meals on Wheels. He also loved the special packages he received on Jewish holidays from JFS.

When Herb started feeling better, he asked the JFS social worker to find a support group that he could attend to talk about his experiences. Herb expressed gratitude to his sister for reaching out to JFS.

Thank you to our 8ish Over 80 supporters and all of our donors who make these services possible for Herb and many others.