That was the day the very first personal emergency response unit (known as Help-Line at the time) was installed in the home of a JFSA client. 

Since then, the technology has changed drastically. The first button worn by users was the size of a garage door opener. Today users can wear it as a small pendant or hidden in a stylish wristwatch. 

 

"It's gratifying to see how many people have benefited from this technology, not just older adults but their family members as well," says Maxine Margolis, LISW, who has been the program's coordinator for the past 22 years and currently serves on the National Lifeline Advisory Board.

The unit is also beneficial for people with early dementia or memory impairment, physical limitations or learning disabilities of any age. Even caregivers use Lifeline to ensure their care giving responsibilities are protected in the event of an emergency.

"There are other providers of these services available, but what makes JFSA different is that we have so many more years of experience. That's been a real plus for the thousands of individuals we've helped," says Maxine.

In honor of its 30th year, JFSA's Lifeline program is extending a limited offer to brand new subscribers: Free installation and the first month service free! For more information, contact Maxine at 216.378.3439.

Joan "I overcame my anxiety and I had fun partaking in the event. I felt more positive with myself after going up and down the runway."

Howard "I felt the fashion show was an artistic masterpiece. My dress clothes made me feel festive. I had a lot of fun."

Michelle "I enjoyed interacting with the audience, and it was a great feeling being in front of all those people."

Laren "Every fashion show becomes livelier. I have a fear of public speaking; it is not easy for me. Tricks do not work. It became easier as I was speaking. I was more open and comfortable as the speech progressed."

Aaron  "I learned new uses for packing peanuts." On the question of how it was to speak in front of people, "I acted as a kid, so it was not that weird."

Jack "It was well organized, there was good participation, it was nice, and the hard work paid off. I learned through the participation and excitement."

Eric "I enjoyed the whole thing. I used to teach, so being in front of people was comfortable and I had fun."

Judy "I learned good taste in fashion is ageless."

Beth "Best experience ever had in fashion show. Good variety. It was wonderful. I enjoyed it. I was comfortable walking down the runway."

Vince "Even though I was not there, I was still involved, as my art was there. My presence was known by my art."

Ted "I realized my peers never cease to amaze me. Fresh ideas came together to make the show. We're not by ourselves up there, we're together."

Marie "At the last show I was in treatment and wore a hat. This year I have hair. This reminded me I have come far since last year. I enjoyed signing for the audience. I liked the whole atmosphere of the classical times."

Mike "It showed me the potential of being the subject of public pleasure, and also the permanence of the art of fashion and how it can be appreciated as acted in dynamic form, it is reborn."

Judy "I was relaxed and calm in front of the audience."

Special thanks to Board member Linda Azoff who is an active volunteer with the group. "This was my first fashion show, and I immersed myself in the whole era," she says. "There were so many projects, and dressing up was enjoyable, fun and exciting."