Over 400 seniors, caregivers, and practitioners in the field of aging attended the Elder Law Fair on May 15th at the Hearthstone Manor in Depew, NY. Attendees received free, objective information on a variety of elder law topics including estate planning, substitute decision making,payment options for long term care, patient's rights, and predatory lending to name a few.

In addition, attendees were able to obtain assistance in completing a health care proxy and sign up for New York State's "Do Not Call" Telemarketing Registry to reduce unwanted telephone solicitations.

The program began with a skit entitled, "Don't Borrow Trouble" by the talented theater group, Theatre for Change under the direction of Artistic Director, Darleen Pickering Hummert. This interactive skit depicted a scenario illustrating predatory lending and home improvement scams that are often targeted to senior citizens in our community.

Cast from Theatre for Change

The Elder Law Fair was co-sponsored by the Erie County Department of Senior Services;the Network in Aging of WNY; AARP - New York; Legal Services for the Elderly; New York State Bar Association/Elder Law Section; the Bar Association of Erie County; University at Buffalo Law School; State of New York Unified Court System - Eighth Judicial District;Southwest Airlines; Living Prime Time Magazine; and WECK Radio-1230 AM. Many thanks to all who contributed to the success of this event.