Getting to age 100 takes a lot of things: good health, a positive attitude, perseverance, and of course, luck. All that is embodied in a man who, with the help of The Institute on Aging, was able to receive his 100th birthday wish- discussing his incredible life and experiences, which spanned continents and included some of the 20th Century’s most decisive moments.
Celebrating an incredible life
The story begins when Georgy Sobolev immigrated to the United States with his family in 1994 – at age 80! Clearly, Mr. Sobolev is someone who embraces life-changing events. A WWII veteran of the Russian Navy, he survived grave wounds in 1941 during the battle of Sebastopol, one of the major battles on the Eastern Front. When the war was over, he served as Chief Operating Officer of numerous naval ports throughout the Soviet Union. Not only has he received several Soviet Russian and US Government awards, but he’s also written articles in American-Russian periodicals, as well as an autobiography.
Mr. Sobolev was already doing a terrific job of keeping his mind active and engaged as the years progressed – an important part of staying health as we age. But he wanted to go a step further for his 100thbirthday, and said his dearest wish would be to take a cruise on the Bay and have an in-depth political discussion.
How the IOA made it happen
In addition to being a respected and esteemed community figure, Mr. Sobolevv is also a respected IOA client. When the agency learned of his wish, they knew they had to make it happen. And so, not even a month after his birthday on December 28, Mr. Sobolev will enjoy a two-hour brunch cruise around San Francisco Bay on January 25, courtesy of Hornblower Cruises, complete with a political discussion with Dr. Andrei Tsygankov, Professor of International Relations and Political Science at SFSU.
Home care makes all the difference
It has been our privilege to provide home care to Mr. Sobolev for the past five years, keeping him independent and happy in his home. According to his caregivers, he is a playful, charming man who does not give up in the face of obstacles. He also enjoys meeting and talking to new people.
Seniors are such special people, and we are delighted to offer home care to individuals like Mr. Sobolev. Many times, having a professional to assist seniors lets them do more than they ever thought possible. In addition to providing socialization and keeping the elderly active, our staff also serves those who need help with basic tasks like feeding, bathing, dressing, and more.
Want to know more?
There will be a press conference at 10 A.M. on January 25 before Mr. Sobolev and Dr. Tsygankov set sail. Media are invited to attend on the main deck of the Hornblower on Pier 3 on the Embarcadero.
If you’d like more information about Mr. Sobolev, the Institute on Aging’s home care services, or wish to attend the press conference, please e-mail renee@grassrootspr.com.
If you are unsure of how to best help an aging loved one, the trained and compassionate staff at the Institute on Aging is here to help you make that decision and gain the best in at-home senior care. Contact us to find out more.
