By Perry Schaible
Enquirer contributor

MOUNT HEALTHY - By the time Tom Egner sees families in his office at Arlington Memorial Gardens, they are likely in one of the worst times of their lives. Egner is a family services counselor at the cemetery.

"We oftentimes have families that come in during a time of crisis without any plans whatsoever, so we're trying to encourage families to think about things in advance," Egner said.

The Mount Healthy Christian Home, 8097 Hamilton Ave., and Arlington Memorial Gardens, in cooperation with US Bank, will host a "Fact Finding Forum on Aging: The Things You Need to Know" at 7 tonight.

The free session, open to anyone 50 and older, will focus on financial planning.

Charlotte Coleman, 86, has already planned for her future.

"It's something that everyone should know about," she said.

That's why the 20-year volunteer at Mount Healthy Christian Home plans to attend the forum. "The things that they're covering are necessary things to know to plan your retirement," Coleman said.

Seven speakers will cover topics such as investments, living wills, and Medicaid.

"We're an older community here," said Debbie Pitman, community relations coordinator at Mount Healthy Christian Home. "We're just trying to get back out and get connected to the community."

Registration begins at 6:30 p.m. in the chapel of the retirement home. US Bank will be giving away three $50 savings bonds. To register early call 931-5000.