The New York City Department for the Aging (DFTA) is a co-sponsor for this year’s 8th Annual Elder Abuse Conference on Wednesday, June 5, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at The New School, 66 West 12th Street. Join professionals from a broad range of fields—including social workers, attorneys, home care managers, policy makers and more—to learn strategies about how to prevent elder abuse.

A new City initiative is offering disabled residents of Canarsie/Flatlands (Brooklyn CD 18) and Astoria (Queens CD 1) an alternative to Access-A-Ride. The Taxi Smart Card Program issues to eligible participants a pre-loaded Taxi Smart Card that can be used for the fare in yellow taxicabs and for livery car services. Enrollees contribute a small amount toward the Card and the program contributes the rest. For more information, call the Department for the Aging at 212-442-3026 or the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities at 311.

Seniors Partnering with Artists Citywide (SPARC) is a community arts engagement program that places artists-in-residence at senior centers. Center members and artists engage in creative projects over the course of the residencies. There is often a public program at the end of the residency. For a calendar of public programs this spring visit the Department of Cultural Affairs Cultural Calendar and select category (SPARC), borough and start/end dates you are interested in.

On May 28th between 10:00 and 1:00PM, the Mayor's Office of Veterans’ Affairs (MOVA) is sponsoring a Veteran Employment Fair for New York City veterans, service members and spouses at 108 Leonard Street, 8th Floor, in Manhattan. Representatives from a variety of companies will be present. Call 212-442-4171 for more information or register online.

Register your walking club with DFTA's Big Apple Senior Strollers Walking Clubs for the 2013 season. This year clubs may participate in Walk with Ease, the Arthritis Foundation's evidence-based walking program. Walk with Ease participants benefit from increased stamina, flexibility and strength. If your club would like to be considered for Walk with Ease, please indicate your interest on the registration form.

If you’re new to Medicare or soon will be eligible, join one of DFTA’s upcoming monthly orientation classes. The class includes information on Medicare Part A and Part B, Medigap insurance, Medicare Advantage plans, Medicare Part D drug coverage and the Medicare Savings Programs. Orientation is held at 40 Worth Street (west of Church Street), Room 328 once a month throughout the year. Here is the current schedule of classes – each class covers the same material.

Monday, June 17th 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Space is limited so please register in advance by emailing ehausman@aging.nyc.gov or reserve a place at 212-442-0922.