By Melissa Evans Staff Writer
Posted: 11/05/2010 07:36:58 PM PDT
Updated: 11/05/2010 08:00:06 PM PDT

Leaders of a South Bay church hope to help members and the community at large start a conversation about end-of-life issues, such as estate planning and long-term health care.

Journey of Faith in Manhattan Beach is bringing together several health professionals Sunday for a seminar to help people plan and care for their elderly relatives.

"We have noticed that these decisions are coming up for people," said the Rev. Jason Cusick, pastor of the church's adult and care ministry. "Most people don't know where to start, or how to begin this conversation."

The 90-minute presentation will include a panel of health professionals such as Nick Arquette and Pamela Penson, co-founders of Adia Home Health; Judith Diamond, a senior care coordinator; Abby Waddell, a senior real estate specialist; and David Curry, a mortgage lender.

Also participating will be estate planners, geriatric care managers and other legal and health professionals. Topics will include reverse mortgages, options for residential living, long-term health insurance and end-of-life and hospice care.

Cusick said one of the goals is to get people thinking about difficult subjects early, before a major event that requires rushed decisions.

"One of the tragic things we experience is folks coming in for a funeral, and they have no idea what their parents wanted and don't know anything about their trust or finances," he said.

"We want a conversation to happen between parents and children that's respectful and loving and honest."

The public is invited to the event, which will also include a light lunch and time for questions before and after the formal presentation.

melissa.evans@dailybreeze.com

Want to go?
What: "Beginning the Conversation"

Where: Journey of Faith Church, 1243 Artesia Blvd., Manhattan Beach

When: 12:30 to 2 p.m. Sunday

Information: 310-370-0555