But dementia caregiving can bring a complex mix of emotions. You might experience grief as you watch your loved one change, frustration when communication becomes difficult, or guilt when you need a break. 

It’s important to know that these feelings are completely valid and are shared by incredible caregivers across our Colorado mountain communities. In fact, studies show that nearly 70% of caregivers feel that they experience high levels of stress trying to keep up with care needs.

Seeking help as a caregiver isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s an important realization that you need more than your gut instinct to provide quality care. 

Whether that help comes from family, friends, professional services, or community support groups, reaching out creates a network that benefits everyone involved.

Practical Tips for Daily Caregiving

Create Structure and Routine

People with dementia often feel more secure with predictable daily patterns. Simple routines for meals, medication, and activities can reduce confusion and anxiety.

Focus on Communication

When verbal communication becomes challenging, remember that connection goes beyond words. Use gentle touch, maintain eye contact, and pay attention to body language. Speaking slowly and clearly, using simple sentences, can help maintain understanding longer.

Ensure Safety at Home

Small modifications can prevent injuries. Remove tripping hazards, install grab bars, secure cabinets containing potentially dangerous items, and consider door alarms if wandering is a concern.

Maintain Physical and Mental Engagement

Encourage activities that match your loved one’s current abilities. This might include looking through photo albums, listening to favorite music, or taking gentle walks. These activities can improve mood and maintain cognitive function.

The Importance of Caregiver Self-Care

The above tips can help you provide better care for those with dementia. But how do you care for you? 

Caregiver burnout is real and can impact your health and ability to provide care. Make time for activities you enjoy, keep up those vital social connections, and don’t hesitate to reach out for respite care services.

Just as you would look to the mental and physical wellness of those in your care, do the same for yourself. Regularly exercise, get adequate sleep, and stay on your nutrition to boost your energy and emotional resilience. 

You can’t pour from an empty cup – and though they may not be able to show it in the moment, your loved one would want the best for you as well.

Want To Grow In Your Caregiving? Join Our Caregiver Conference!

Vintage offers various services to support both older adults with dementia and their caregivers throughout Eagle, Grand, Jackson, Pitkin, Routt, and Summit counties.

We’re excited to invite you to our free Caregiver Conference on June 11, 2025, from 10 AM to 2 PM at Colorado Mountain College in Steamboat Springs. 

This incredible conference aims to address the emotional challenges of dementia caregiving and provide practical tips for accepting help throughout your journey.

You’ll also learn essential techniques for safely moving your loved one without injury – knowledge that can prevent accidents and protect both of you. It’s a great way to connect with other caregivers and learn from experts in the region with access to key resources that Colorado dementia caregivers need.

Space is limited, so please RSVP by May 28. You can learn more online or call 970-531-4087 for registration and additional details.

Vintage Is Your Partner In Caregiving

Caregiving is a process. What works today might need adjustment tomorrow, and that’s perfectly normal. Stay flexible, be patient with yourself, and when you need help, reach out to a team that is here to support you.

Vintage is here to help you navigate this path with dignity, resources, and community support. Your dedication as a caregiver makes a profound difference in your loved one’s life, and we’re honored to support you in this important role.

Join us for our Caregiver Conference – we can’t wait to see you soon!

Learn More About Our Caregiving Resources

Register For the Caregiver Conference Online

The post Caregiving 101: Tips For Working With Dementia Patients first appeared on Vintage.

As part of a network of Colorado aging services, Vintage connects you to the resources, support, and advocacy you need to continue thriving in Eagle, Grand, Jackson, Pitkin, Routt, and Summit counties. 

We believe that every member of our community deserves support and respect as they age, and we strive to provide comprehensive services that meet the unique needs of older adults.

What Are Area Agencies on Aging?

Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) are regional organizations designated by the state to administer federal, state, and local funding designed to meet the needs of older adults in the community. 

AAAs serve as providers and connectors, helping individuals and their loved ones access direct services while also creating bridges to other vital resources. 

We like to say that we are your roadmap to aging well – helping you navigate each twist and turn and finding supportive helpers along the way!

Why Aging Services Matter

For many older adults in our mountain communities, keeping up with daily life and maintaining independence is central to their well-being and identity.

However, the realities of aging can mean that individuals need additional support systems, particularly in regions where weather, elevation challenges, and geographic isolation can create barriers to accessing necessary services.

Government and nonprofit aging services fill in those gaps that might otherwise leave older adults vulnerable. Whether it’s transportation assistance that helps them reach medical appointments or nutrition programs that keep you fed and nourished, these services address the range of needs that can impact quality of life and independence.

Federal funding makes up almost half of the budget for Vintage. Through our own services and funding Vintage passes through to community organizations, we collaboratively provide nutritious meals, support to caregivers, transportation, case management, Medicare counseling, financial assistance, legal assistance, ombudsman services, and so much more.

It is now time to advocate for fiscal year (FY) 2026 funding and if you feel that Vintage’s services are important, reach out and let your elected officials know. Our collective goal is to ensure that members of Congress recognize that funding for AAA programs and services needs to be protected and increased on a long-term basis for three reasons:

• serve the rapidly growing numbers of older adults who need AAA support,
• meet the greater complexity of needs among the older adults, and
• address workforce challenges that are affecting older adults’ service access.

The Vital Services We Provide

At Vintage, we are proud to serve our mountain communities with a set of services that keep you connected with your community:

• Transportation to help you maintain mobility and connection to your community
• Nutritional support through meal programs and food assistance
• Case management to help coordinate your care and services
• Caregiver support to assist those caring for older adults
• In-home services allowing you to age in place
• Medicare counseling to navigate complex healthcare decisions
• Legal assistance to protect your rights and assets
• Long-term care advocacy through our Ombudsman program

Each service is just a part of our larger commitment to honoring your dignity and supporting your independence, because we all deserve to age with grace and respect!

Your Partner in Aging Well

As healthcare becomes more complex, housing needs change, and mobility challenges emerge, having advocates and experts in your corner matters.

For many older adults – especially those who may be living on fixed incomes – government and nonprofit services provide support that might otherwise be out of reach.

We honor the wisdom that comes with age while providing the practical support needed to thrive. Whether you’re looking for aging services for yourself or a loved one, remember that you don’t have to navigate the process alone!

Vintage is here to help – connecting you to resources, advocating for your needs, and celebrating the richness that comes with every stage of life in our beautiful alpine communities.

For more information on how Vintage can support you or a loved one, contact us at 970-455-1067 or visit our offices in Silverthorne.

The post The Importance of Aging Services for Older Adults first appeared on Vintage.

Enter Lauren Jefferson, RN, BSN, NC-BC, and founder of Lauren Jefferson Health and Business Consulting. Lauren is a board-certified nurse coach serving clients virtually across Colorado (including the regions Vintage serves) and beyond. She acts as a guide, advocate, and compassionate listener, helping people navigate the complexities of their health journey with clarity and confidence.

From ICU Nurse to Personal Health Advocate: Lauren’s Journey

Lauren’s path to nurse coaching wasn’t instantaneous; it was forged through years of experience and a deep desire to reconnect with the core of nursing – being truly present for people in their most vulnerable moments.

Her initial spark came during a middle school shadowing experience. Amidst the chaos of an emergency room dealing with a scared, injured teenager, Lauren witnessed the nurse she shadowed bring calm, intention, and gentle care to the patient.

“In her worst moment, the nurse was there for her,” Lauren recalls. “And that’s where I was like, that’s what I want to do.”

Years spent working in ICUs and clinics revealed the frustrations many feel within the system – not enough time with patients, staring at screens instead of connecting, rushed interactions. These feelings intensified when her own father was diagnosed with cancer. Being on the “other side” highlighted the lack of deeper conversations, the missed details, and the immense challenge for patients and families without medical backgrounds to navigate the system effectively. “What do people who don’t have a nurse in the family do in these situations?” she wondered.

During the challenging times of the pandemic and processing her father’s illness, a serendipitous click on a Facebook ad for nurse coaching resonated deeply. The program spoke directly to her experiences – the desire for more time, deeper connections, and treating the whole person (mind, body, and spirit). Lauren realized nurse coaching could bridge the critical gap between evidence-based modern medicine and the holistic, patient-centered approach many seek. It was a way to use her medical background to truly empower patients, ensuring they felt heard while receiving informed guidance.

“It’s brought me full circle back to I get to be with people when they’re having their roughest moments and help them navigate it, which is why I got into nursing in the first place,” Lauren shares.

What Does a Nurse Coach Do?

Lauren Jefferson Health and Business Consulting isn’t about replacing your doctor; it’s about enhancing your care. Lauren works with you and your medical team. Her services include:

1. Deep Listening & Goal Setting: Taking the time to truly understand your health concerns, values, fears, and what “quality of life” means to you.
2. Navigating Diagnoses: Helping you understand complex medical information, treatment options, and potential side effects after a significant diagnosis (like cancer, chronic illness, or major injury).
3. Doctor Appointment Support: Preparing you for appointments, ensuring your questions are ready, attending virtually to provide support and clarity, and debriefing afterward.
4. Medication Management Discussion: Facilitating understanding of why a medication is prescribed, monitoring its effects, and helping you have informed conversations with your doctor about whether it aligns with your goals and lifestyle. (Remember Lauren’s example of the social woman hesitant about a diuretic!)
5. Bridging Holistic & Traditional Care: Integrating discussions about lifestyle, emotional well-being, and spiritual health alongside medical treatments.
6. Difficult Conversations: Providing a safe space to discuss challenging topics like aging, loss of independence, end-of-life planning (like filling out Five Wishes), and adjusting to a life different than expected.
7. Connecting to Resources: Helping clients identify and overcome barriers to accessing valuable community resources (like those offered through Vintage, senior centers, or transportation services).

Who Can Benefit?

While anyone feeling lost in the healthcare system could benefit, Lauren often works with:

• Older adults, particularly single individuals, who may lack a partner for discussion and support regarding health decisions.
• Individuals facing major diagnoses or chronic conditions requiring ongoing medical care and navigation.
• People grappling with aging-related changes and decisions about future care.
• Caregivers feeling overwhelmed and needing support for themselves or their loved ones.
• Patients who feel anxious, confused, or unheard by their medical providers.
• Individuals struggling to follow through with medical advice or access necessary community support services.
• Even middle-aged men whose wives lovingly suggest they find someone else to talk through their chronic health issues with!

How It Works

Lauren offers a free initial consultation to understand your needs and see if her services are a good fit. From there, she offers flexible, customizable packages on a month-to-month basis, ranging from intensive support (weekly meetings, appointment attendance) to less frequent check-ins or hourly sessions as needed. All virtual services are conducted via a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform.

Benefits for Patients & Providers

• For Patients: Feel heard, empowered, and less alone. Gain clarity on your health situation and make informed decisions aligned with your values. Improve communication with your doctors and navigate the system more effectively. Receive emotional support and practical guidance.
• For Providers (Doctors, PTs, Case Managers): Patients come to appointments better prepared and informed, leading to more efficient and meaningful interactions. Lauren reinforces medical recommendations and helps improve patient understanding and follow-through. This ultimately supports better patient outcomes and can free up provider time.

Your Ally in Health

Lauren Jefferson offers a unique and invaluable service, acting as a knowledgeable guide and compassionate ally through the often-turbulent waters of healthcare. She helps clients find their voice, understand their choices, and navigate their health journey with greater peace of mind.

Want to learn more?

Visit Lauren Jefferson Health and Business Consulting to learn more and schedule a free consultation. Lauren serves clients throughout Colorado’s northwest region and beyond.

The post Finding Clarity and Compassion in Healthcare: Meet Lauren Jefferson, Your Nurse Coach Ally first appeared on Vintage.

The brand new Vintage website has been rebuilt from the ground up with one goal in mind: bring the best resources and information to Colorado residents and family members – and now we’re better equipped to build on that legacy.

As your local Area Agency on Aging serving Eagle, Grand, Jackson, Pitkin, Routt, and Summit counties, our new, intuitive online experience helps you find the resources and support you need. 

It’s Easier Than Ever To Navigate Your Way to Resources

Life in Northwest Colorado means enjoying the best of a tight-knit community and the beauty that only the Rockies can offer. But sometimes, we all need some help to help one another thrive.

We understand that finding reliable information and accessing essential services can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve redesigned our site to put the best resources at your fingertips.

Two Simple Ways to Search

Our redesigned site offers two primary ways to find what you need:

1. Search by County: Looking for resources specific to your area? Simply select your county from the dropdown menu under “Counties We Serve.” 

Whether you’re in Steamboat Springs, Silverthorne, or anywhere in between, you’ll find services tailored to your location.

2. Search by Service Type: Need specific support like transportation, caregiver resources, or nutrition programs? Use the “Find Services & Resources” dropdown to browse by category. 

This feature helps you quickly locate exactly what you need without sifting through unrelated information – and will give you all the information you need at a glance. 

Quick Search Function

Are you in a hurry to find and share critical information? You can use our enhanced search bar at the top of every page to get where you need to go faster. Simply type keywords related to what you’re looking for, and our site will present the most relevant resources.

Another Step In Connecting You To Aging Resources

While we’re excited to release our new site, we know that to serve our community better, we need to be more than just a website – we have to be your local aging expert. 

As part of the Northwest Colorado Council of Governments, we serve as connectors, helpers, and bridges to keep everyone informed and equipped to handle anything life throws our way:

• Connectors: We link you to essential resources across our six-county region.
• Helpers: We support older adults and caregivers through life’s ups and downs.
• Bridges: We create pathways between individuals and service providers.

Our mission remains unchanged: to provide and connect our community with support and services that promote independence and dignity in aging for individuals sixty and older and their caregivers.

Check Out Our New Site & Stay Connected

Our new site makes it easier than ever to stay informed. Whether you want the latest updates from our team of experts or simply want to reach out to request more information, our new site makes it easy:

• Blog & Momentum Newsletter: Check out our regularly updated blog for regional events, information, and resources for aging well.
• Newsletter: Join our mailing list at the bottom of any page to receive updates directly in your inbox.
• Contact Us: Have questions? Our dedicated team is just a phone call (970-455-1067) or email (yourvintage@nwccog.org) away.

We’re Here for You

Whether you’re seeking transportation options in Routt County, caregiver support in Summit, or nutrition services in Eagle, our new website puts these resources at your fingertips.

To us, Vintage means respecting the passage of time and valuing the journey of aging. We’re excited that our enhanced digital presence will help us better serve you on this journey.

Explore our new site today and discover the wealth of aging resources available in Northwest Colorado. We’re here to help you age well in the place you call home!

The post How to Use The Brand New Vintage Site – Your Guide to Aging Resources in Northwest Colorado first appeared on Vintage.

This celebration holds particular space in our hearts – particularly in how we care for our community members in Eagle, Grand, Jackson, Pitkin, Routt, and Summit counties. 

Living in our beautiful mountain communities presents unique challenges and opportunities for long-term care residents, making their voices even more crucial in ensuring quality care that reflects their needs and preferences.

Celebrating Residents’ Rights Through Awareness

One of the key parts of Residents’ Rights Month is raising awareness about the rights and responsibilities of long-term care residents. The 1987 Nursing Home Reform Law established essential rights for long-term care residents, including:

• The right to individualized care
• Freedom to make independent choices
• Privacy and dignity
• The right to receive visitors
• The ability to voice complaints without fear of retaliation

These rights aren’t just legal requirements – they’re fundamental to ensuring our elderly neighbors maintain their dignity and autonomy while receiving the care they need.

Mountain Living and Resident Voices

Here in Colorado’s mountain communities, long-term care residents face distinct challenges. 

Their voices are essential in creating solutions that work for our unique geographic and cultural landscape, from managing transportation during snowy months to maintaining connections with family members who might live hours away.

For example, when a blizzard hits and roads are closed, long-term care facilities must have contingency plans in place to ensure residents receive necessary medical treatment and supplies.

And many elderly residents in our mountain communities may not have family members nearby to visit or advocate for them. This makes it all the more critical for these individuals to have the freedom to make independent choices, whether choosing their preferred daily routines or making decisions about their healthcare.

How You Can Support Residents’ Rights

So, how can you play a part in promoting and protecting the rights of elderly residents in long-term care facilities? Here are a few of the best ways to get involved this month!

Listen Actively

Sometimes, a caring ear is all it takes to make a difference. Whether you’re a family member, caregiver, or community member, take time to truly hear what residents say about their experiences and needs. You never know what you might learn when you actively listen and engage with these individuals.

Advocate for Change

If you notice any issues or concerns regarding resident rights, don’t be afraid to speak up and advocate for change. This could mean bringing attention to inadequate care or treatment, working with facility staff to improve policies and procedures, or even advocating for legislation at the local or national level.

Know the Resources Available

Have a concern but don’t know where to turn? Vintage serves as a bridge between residents and available services. Our Resource Center (970-468-0295) can connect you with:

• Long-term care ombudsman services
• Transportation assistance
• Healthcare advocacy support
• Caregiver resources

Celebrate Success

This month isn’t just about concerns – it’s also about celebrations! Share stories of residents who have successfully advocated for themselves or others. These moments inspire and empower others to use their voices – and make it known that they can make a difference.

Every Voice Matters

As we celebrate Residents’ Rights Month this October, remember that every voice matters in creating positive change. 

Whether you’re a resident, family member, or community supporter, your advocacy helps ensure that long-term care facilities in our mountain communities remain places where dignity, respect, and individual choice are paramount. So, let’s create care communities where every voice matters and where the unique needs of mountain living are understood and addressed.

If you or a loved one needs support understanding or exercising residents’ rights, contact Vintage at (970) 455-1067. Our team is here to help navigate the complex landscape of long-term care while ensuring every resident’s voice is heard and respected.

At Vintage, we believe that respecting residents’ rights isn’t just about following regulations – it’s about building communities where every person can age with dignity, purpose, and the power to shape their own journey.

Learn More & Get Involved

The post The Power of My Voice: Celebrating Residents’ Rights Month 2024 first appeared on Vintage.

Books can serve as trusted companions, offering wisdom, comfort, and practical advice as we face the challenges and opportunities that come with growing older. Plus, they help each of us grow a bit more comfortable in our own skin (and mind).

Here are five must-read nonfiction books that we believe can help you navigate the aging process with resilience, purpose, and joy:

1. Women Rowing North: Navigating Life’s Currents and Flourishing As We Age by Mary Pipher

Mary Pipher explores the cultural and developmental issues women face as they age, drawing on her own experiences and those of others. She offers insights into how women can cultivate resilient responses to the challenges they encounter and find joy in their later years.

Why we like “Women Rowing North”: Pipher’s book is a beacon of hope and empowerment for women entering their golden years. It celebrates the wisdom and resilience that come with age while providing practical strategies for thriving.

2. From Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life by Arthur C. Brooks

Harvard professor Arthur Brooks provides a roadmap for finding purpose, meaning, and success as we age. He challenges the notion that our most productive years are behind us and offers insights on transforming our later years into a time of progress and fulfillment.

Why we like “From Strength to Strength”: Brooks offers a refreshing perspective on aging, encouraging readers to embrace new opportunities and find deep purpose in their later years. His practical advice and research-backed insights make this book a valuable guide for anyone entering the second half of life.

3. This Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism by Ashton Applewhite

Activist and TED speaker Ashton Applewhite challenges our culture’s obsession with youth and calls for an end to age-based discrimination. She debunks myths about aging and encourages readers to embrace their later years with positivity and purpose.

Why we like “This Chair Rocks”: Applewhite’s passionate manifesto is a wake-up call to recognize and combat ageism in our society. Her witty and engaging writing style makes this book both an informative and enjoyable read.

4. Disrupt Aging: A Bold New Path to Living Your Best Life at Every Age by Jo Ann Jenkins

AARP CEO Jo Ann Jenkins challenges readers to reconsider what it means to grow older. She argues that 50 is not the new 30, but rather that 50 is 50 – and that’s something to be celebrated and embraced.

Why we like “Disrupt Aging”: Jenkins offers a positive and empowering message about aging, encouraging readers to view their later years as a time of opportunity and growth. Her practical advice and inspiring stories make this book a valuable resource for anyone looking to redefine aging on their own terms.

5. The Happiness Curve: Why Life Gets Better After 50 by Jonathan Rauch

Drawing on cutting-edge scientific studies, Jonathan Rauch explores the U-shaped trajectory of happiness throughout our lives. He offers insights into why many people experience increased happiness and life satisfaction after age 50.

Why we like “The Happiness Curve”: Rauch’s book offers a hopeful and evidence-based perspective on aging, showing that our best years may still be ahead of us. His exploration of the “happiness curve” provides valuable insights for those navigating midlife and beyond.

Let Books Guide You Toward A Deeper Understanding of Aging Well

At Vintage, we believe that knowledge is power, especially when it comes to aging well. Each of these books offers so much for any reader – and can be picked up at any local library or on audiobook format for reading!

As your connection to information, resources, and advocacy in Eagle, Grand, Jackson, Pitkin, Routt, and Summit counties, we’re committed to helping you navigate the journey of aging with confidence and grace. Whether you’re entering your golden years or supporting a loved one who is, we encourage you to explore these resources and discover the wisdom they hold.

Learn More

The post 5 Must-Read Nonfiction Books for Navigating Aging first appeared on Vintage.

This year’s theme, “Powering Connections,” is a testament to the true value that senior centers in Colorado bring to our communities – places of connection, support, and growth for older adults.

Throughout the month of September, Colorado senior centers are in the spotlight, and our team at Vintage is proud to help bring awareness to this unique celebration.

What is National Senior Center Month?

National Senior Center Month is a time to recognize and appreciate the invaluable services provided by more than 10,000 senior centers across the United States. 

Established by the National Council on Aging (NCOA), this month-long observance aims to raise awareness about the positive impact these centers have on the lives of older adults, their families, and communities.

What Role Does A Senior Center Play?

Senior centers are more than just gathering places; they are hubs of activity, learning, and support for older adults. Here’s why it’s crucial to learn more about senior centers and their offerings:

• Senior centers combat social isolation by providing opportunities for older adults to interact, make friends, and engage in group activities.
• Many centers offer exercise classes, health screenings, and nutrition programs to promote physical and mental well-being.
• Centers often serve as gateways to community resources, helping seniors navigate various services and benefits.
• Many centers provide volunteer opportunities, allowing seniors to give back to their communities and maintain a sense of purpose.
• Some centers offer programs that bring together people of all ages, fostering understanding and connection across generations.

Colorado’s Senior Centers: Serving Our Communities

Colorado is home to numerous senior centers, each tailored to meet the unique needs of its local community. Let’s explore some of the centers serving different regions of the state – and how you can get involved to help support and empower older adults across our region.

Pitkin County

• Pitkin County Senior Services: Located in Aspen, this center offers a wide range of programs including fitness classes, social events, and educational workshops.

Eagle County

• Golden Eagle Senior Center (Eagle): Provides meals, activities, and transportation services.
• El Jebel Community Building (El Jebel): Hosts regular senior gatherings and events.
• Vail Ski and Snowboard Academy/Maloit Park Senior Space (Minturn): Offers a dedicated space for seniors to socialize and participate in activities.

Summit County

• Summit County Community & Senior Center (Frisco): A vibrant hub offering diverse programs, from fitness classes to creative arts workshops.

Grand County

• Mountain Family Center (Granby): This nonprofit organization offers resources and support for seniors, including transportation services.

Jackson County

• Jackson County Council on Aging (Walden): Serves the senior population with meals, transportation, and social activities.

Routt County

• Steamboat Springs Senior Center: Offers a full calendar of activities and services.
• South Routt Community Center (Oak Creek): Provides a gathering place for local seniors.
• Haven Community Center (Hayden): Hosts regular senior activities and meals.

Help Us Celebrate and Support Colorado Senior Centers

As we celebrate National Senior Center Month, let’s recognize the invaluable contributions these centers make to our communities. 

Whether you’re an older adult looking to engage in new activities, a caregiver seeking support, or a community member interested in volunteering, Colorado’s senior centers are ready to welcome you. This September, consider visiting a local senior center to discover the wealth of opportunities they offer and the connections they foster.

Want to learn more? Visit Vintage to learn all about how to get involved with senior centers across Colorado, as well as ways to help support older adults in our community with resources and services. Let’s show our appreciation for these vital centers and the older adults who make them thrive!

The post National Senior Center Month + Colorado Senior Centers first appeared on Vintage.

For many, simple tasks can become challenging, and accessing the right resources can be difficult. Whether you’re a senior yourself, a caregiver, or simply planning for the future, understanding the role of Area Agencies on Aging is crucial. 

These organizations are a hero of the aging community, working hard to provide a variety of services and support to older adults and their families. But for those who have never heard of them, you may be wondering – what exactly is an Area Agency on Aging and why is it important?

What is an Area Agency on Aging?

An Area Agency on Aging (AAA) is a public or private nonprofit organization designated by the state to address the needs and concerns of older adults at the regional and local levels. These agencies serve as vital connectors between older individuals and the services they need to maintain independence and quality of life.

At Vintage, we’re proud to serve as the AAA for Eagle, Grand, Jackson, Pitkin, Routt, and Summit counties in Northwest Colorado. Our mission is to provide and connect our community with support and services that promote aging with independence and dignity for individuals sixty and older and their caregivers in their community of choice.

Why are Area Agencies on Aging Important?

Comprehensive Support

AAAs offer a wide range of services tailored to the unique needs of older adults in their specific geographic areas. This can include:

• Helping older adults navigate available resources
• Providing personalized support to assess needs and coordinate care
• Offering home-delivered meals and congregate dining options
• Helping older adults get to medical appointments and other essential destinations
• Providing support to help older adults remain in their homes safely
• Offering resources and respite care for family caregivers
• Promoting active aging through evidence-based health initiatives

Local Expertise

AAAs understand the specific needs and resources of their communities. At Vintage, we’re deeply familiar with the unique challenges and opportunities of aging in the Alpine region.

Advocacy

AAAs serve as powerful advocates for older adults at local, state, and federal levels. They work tirelessly to secure funding for vital programs and push for policy changes that benefit older adults and their caregivers.

Aging in Place

By coordinating a network of services, AAAs help prevent unnecessary institutionalization and allow older adults to remain active members of their communities for as long as possible.

Single Point of Contact

Instead of navigating multiple agencies and organizations, older adults and their families can turn to their local AAA as a one-stop shop for information, referrals, and services.

The Growing Importance of AAAs

As our population ages, the role of AAAs becomes increasingly crucial. The U.S. Census Bureau projects that by 2060, nearly one in four Americans will be 65 years old or older. This demographic shift will increase demand for aging services and support systems.

AAAs are leading the charge in preparing for this “silver tsunami.” They’re developing innovative programs, fostering community partnerships, and advocating for policies that will help communities adapt to the needs of an aging population.

How Can You Benefit from Your Local AAA?

Your local AAA can be an invaluable resource if you’re an older adult, a caregiver, or simply planning for the future. Here are a few ways you might benefit:

1. Get information about local services and programs for older adults
2. Receive help understanding and applying for benefits
3. Access nutrition services, including home-delivered meals
4. Find transportation options
5. Get support for caregiving responsibilities
6. Participate in health and wellness programs
7. Connect with volunteer opportunities

At Vintage, we’re more than just an agency – we’re your partners in aging well. We understand that every individual’s needs are unique, and we’re here to help you navigate the journey of aging with confidence and dignity.

Want to learn more about accessing the resources available through your local AAA? Visit our website or visit the local AAA directory for contact information. Our team of experts is here to provide you with the information and support you need!

The post What is an Area Agency on Aging? first appeared on Vintage.

Elder abuse is a global problem that affects millions of older adults every year. It can take a variety of forms, and when we hear about it, we often think of physical or emotional abuse. However, elder abuse can also manifest in financial exploitation, neglect, and abandonment.

It’s time to shine a light on this growing issue and take action to prevent it. On WEAAD, individuals can show their support by wearing purple, the official color of elder abuse awareness. Here at Vintage, we are proud to continue our efforts to raise awareness and show you how to get involved!

What is Elder Abuse? 

Elder abuse involves any deliberate or neglectful action that harms or poses a significant risk to an older individual It manifests in many ways both seen and unseen:

• Physical abuse – inflicting physical pain or injury
• Emotional abuse – causing mental anguish through verbal or nonverbal acts 
• Sexual abuse – non-consensual sexual contact of any kind 
• Financial exploitation – illegally misusing an older adult’s money, property, or assets 
• Neglect – failure to meet an older adult’s basic physical, emotional, or social needs 
• Abandonment – desertion of an older adult by someone who has assumed responsibility for their care

Knowing the signs of elder abuse is essential to protect our vulnerable older population. That’s why, on this WEAAD, we raise awareness and promote education on how to prevent, identify, and respond to elder abuse.

The Devastating Impact of Elder Abuse

The consequences of elder abuse are devastating – it robs older people of their dignity, security, and quality of life. Victims often suffer from physical injuries, depression, anxiety, broken trust, and financial exploitation. 

And the abuse has ripple effects. Those who are abused or neglected are more likely to be hospitalized, require long-term care, and experience a decline in physical and mental health. The families of those who are abused also suffer, facing feelings of guilt and helplessness.

Protecting Our Community

So, how can we protect our loved ones and neighbors from elder abuse? We all have a role to play in identifying and responding to this issue. If you suspect that an older person is being mistreated or neglected, it’s vital to speak up. You can report your concerns to local authorities, such as adult protective services or law enforcement.

But we also need to take preventative measures. Educating ourselves and our community about the signs of elder abuse and how to prevent it is crucial. This includes understanding the common types of abuse – physical, emotional, sexual, financial, and neglect – and knowing the warning signs.

At Vintage, we are proud to join organizations across Colorado and worldwide in commemorating WEAAD 2024 and doing our part to prevent elder abuse. We believe knowledgeable communities play a vital role by understanding the warning signs and knowing how to report suspected abuse. 

Join Us In Our Efforts to Protect Others

We all have a role in building a society that safeguards and uplifts its elders. Let us reaffirm our commitment to protect the rights, dignity, and well-being of older adults not just on June 15th but every day. Together, we can break the silence and put an end to elder abuse.

To learn more about how you can join our efforts, visit our website or reach out to us directly. You can also learn more on the WEAAD website and find resources to help educate yourself and your community. Let’s work together to create a world where our elders are respected, cherished, and safe from harm.

Find Resources Online

The post Shining a Light on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day first appeared on Vintage.

In the spirit of Volunteer Application Week, we’re shining a spotlight on one of our remarkable volunteers, Sherrie Ford, who hails from Routt County.

Sherrie’s journey into volunteering stems from her rich background as a Benefits Manager for an industrial construction company. With a knack for explaining complex concepts to thousands of workers, she found her calling in helping seniors navigate the intricacies of Medicare.

What Sets Sherrie Apart

What sets Sherrie apart are her heartwarming experiences. From saving a woman over $90,000 on crucial MS medication to assisting a couple in slashing their drug plan costs, her impact resonates deeply.

One of her most cherished memories from volunteering encapsulates the profound impact she can have on people’s lives through guidance and support during challenging times. In this instance, not one but two heartwarming encounters stand out vividly.

The first involved a woman who walked into their office during open enrollment, her face etched with worry. She shared her distressing news – her current drug plan had notified her that they would no longer cover her essential medication for MS in the coming year. The financial burden looming over her was staggering; projections showed her costs soaring over $100,000. Determined to help, they delved into exploring alternative options. After thorough research and careful consideration, they discovered a plan that offered relief – it would cost her $7000 for the year. Although still a significant amount, the weight lifted from her shoulders was palpable. She could breathe easier knowing she could afford the medication vital to her well-being.

The second encounter involved a married couple seeking financial respite during open enrollment. What began as a routine visit turned into a revelation. They had unknowingly been overpaying for their drug plans for a decade, shelling out $60 each per month. Shockingly, these plans didn’t even cover the medications they required. Armed with knowledge, she navigated through the intricacies of open enrollment, emphasizing their rights to switch plans annually. She empowered them with information on exploring different providers and tailoring plans to their specific needs. Together, they uncovered more affordable options, saving them hundreds of dollars each. As they left her office, they carried not just savings, but newfound awareness and confidence in managing their healthcare expenses.

Why She Volunteers

Beyond the numbers, volunteering has transformed Sherrie’s life. It’s not just about giving back; it’s about staying connected with her community, forging new bonds, and strengthening existing ones. The satisfaction of helping others and witnessing their empowerment is unmatched.

Sherrie’s story serves as an inspiration to us all. As Volunteer Application Week unfolds, let’s celebrate individuals like Sherrie whose compassion and dedication make our communities brighter. If you’re looking to make a difference, consider joining us as a volunteer.

Thank you, Sherrie, for your unwavering commitment and the positive ripple effect you create from all of us at Vintage!

The post Meet Volunteer Sherrie Ford from Routt County first appeared on Vintage.