Resources abound for senior citizen support
Oct. 5-6, 2017, the Northeastern Colorado Area Agency on Aging and Northeastern Colorado Association of Local Governments hosted the Age Well Eastern Colorado Conference at the Clarion Inn in Fort Morgan.
Approximately 100 participants, ages 60 years of age or older, attended this event that included activities, entertainment, food and a legislative forum with state representatives and senators from Colorado.
There were many vendors at this event providing information on all the programs that are available to help seniors stay independent in their own homes.
The theme for the event was focused on proper nutrition. Thus, CSU Extension was available to provide information on food safety and nutrition for participants.
As I was able to interact with participants and other representatives from other agencies and business, I learned a lot about all of the different resources that are available to the senior population that can make their lives safer and more enjoyable.
I found out through my experience that “without in-home and community-based services, seniors are more likely to: 1. Be admitted to costly long term care facilities. 2. Deplete their personal savings. 3. Receive Medicaid benefits totaling $2,232 to $7,197 per person, per month.” (Northeastern Colorado Area Agency on Aging)
Ninety-five percent of Northeastern Colorado Area Agency on Aging clients said the services they received helped them become more independent or remain independent. However, like other government agencies, the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging is working with Congress to safeguard spending on older adult programs.
Consequently, I not only became sensitive to the needs of those near and dear to me but to those in my community. A healthy community addresses the needs of all its residents. One way to help is to educate. Being that I was behind in knowing about these resources, I thought I would try to help “spread the word.” Here is a list of contact information for agencies or businesses that provide services or support to the older population.
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