Cross cultural and religious perspectives on aging and death will be the focus of the Inn Along the Way’s third summer “Challenging Conversation Circles” series. The program is scheduled to take place at 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 29 at the Chapman Farm, 741 Main St. in Damariscotta.

Aging isn’t just a biological process — it’s also very much a cultural one. As a society we get excited about discussions concerning the birth of a child or younger people. Yet in many cultures people discuss aging and death with extreme reluctance. Although we may use the same words to describe aging and death, the actual meaning and conceptualization of these two words differs widely across cultures and religions, according to a new release from the inn.

Different cultures apply differing meanings and divergent values to the concepts of aging. Eastern cultures tend to highly value age and wisdom, while Western cultures tend to highly value youth. Each culture has its own beliefs about the meaning and purpose of life, aging, what happens when death approaches and after one dies. On August 29 guided by your facilitator Carolyn Lukensmeyer, Ph. D learn about Wabanaki, Judaic, and Muslim traditions and beliefs surrounding aging, end of life care, death and dying within different cultures and religions as you meet and interact with our panelist’s: The Wabanaki Nation, Lisa Sockabasin, MS, RN, Director, Wabanaki Public Health Interim Director, Wabanaki Healing & Recovery Departments, WPHW; The Jewish Community, Minda Gold, MD FAAFP, physician, Full Circle Direct Primary Care; and The Muslim Community, Rifat A. Zaide, MD – Orthopedic Surgeon, LincolnHealth.

Each panelist will share their stories, perspectives, values and beliefs across cultural and religious divides.

Cross Cultural perspectives on aging and dying will end with the opportunity to continue conversations while enjoying light refreshments. Current State of Maine CDC guidelines and protocols will be followed. For the safety of all, vaccinated and unvaccinated participants will be asked to wear a mask .

The IAW’s fourth conversation circle “Embracing Your Season of Life & Journey No Matter Your Age” is planned to take place at3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 19.

For more information, contact Sherry Flint at 207-751-6261 or sherry@innalongtheway.org.

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