For the first time in the event?s 20 years, the annual Baltimore County Senior and Baby Boomer Expo will include speed dating, Internet lectures and Alzheimer?s seminars as the two-day event kicks off today at the Timonium Fairgrounds.
The new additions reflect current problems baby boomers and seniors have identified and themes county aging director Arnold Eppel said he plans to address throughout the next year.
A free seminar Wednesday will educate concerned parents and grandparents on MySpace.com, a popular online hangout for teens and preteens, and free seminars on Alzheimers will be offered every hour on the hour.
The expo will also feature eight-minute speed dating sessions for seniors struggling to return to the dating scene.
“It?s a safe environment, not a bar,” Eppel said. “You can meet 10 people in an hour and you can decide if you like them or not.”
The state?s largest aging expo, with more than 200 vendors, drew 8,000 people and made $100,000 last year. All proceeds benefit the county?s Department of Aging Fund for Needy Seniors, which is used throughout the year to provide emergency fuel, shelter, medications and home repairs for seniors in need.
Organizers this year are trying to attract more baby boomers ? residents born between 1946 and 1964 ? by offering free admission between 4 and 7 p.m. Wednesday.
“For baby boomers, this gives a beacon of hope,” said County Executive Jim Smith.
“It?s a showcase of all the programs and products and services available to help them as they age and cope with the responsibilities of aging parents.”
IF YOU GO
» What: Baltimore County Senior/Baby Boomer Expo
» Where: Exhibition Hall, Timonium Fairgrounds, York and Timonium Roads
» When: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday
