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.

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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.

As we age, access to resources and help becomes increasingly essential. From organizations that offer transportation to resources on aging well, older adults rely on these services for a better quality of life. 

Whether you are an older adult in Summit County or a loved one who is looking for resources, here are some of the best ones available in Summit County:

Summit County Community & Senior Center

The Summit County Community & Senior Center (SCSC) is a useful place for older adults in the area. From Mountain Meals on Wheels to a place to find local information and resources, this heart of the community is the perfect place to connect with others in the region.

Beyond being a great place to access help and resources, the SCSC hosts tons of activities and classes just for older adults. Opportunities such as health and wellness classes, art workshops, financial planning seminars, and more are offered.

Some highlights include the large event spaces and full kitchen available to rent for community functions. The SCSC is also home to Summit 50 Plus, formerly known as Summit Seniors, a membership organization that provides opportunities for enhancing the quality of life for individuals who are 50 and older. 

Supporting the SCSC through volunteering or donations is a great way to support local adult health, well-being, and involvement.

Summit County is a certified AARP Age-Friendly Community and has an action plan to help make the county more age-friendly and livable for all.

Summit 50 Plus

Summit 50 Plus is an organization that has been supporting the health and well-being of older adults in Summit County for over 40 years. With dozens of activities, events, and social gatherings yearly, it aims to foster community and engagement among older adult residents and visitors.

Some key offerings and initiatives of Summit 50 Plus include:

• Indoor and outdoor recreation activities like hiking, cards, dance classes, yoga, and more
• Educational programs and speaker events
• Day trips and social outings
• Volunteering opportunities
• Health and nutrition classes
• Fundraising events like an annual rummage sale

Summit 50 Plus partners closely with the Summit County Community Center. The organization helped develop and fund the center, which provides space for many Summit 50 Plus programs and events.

Memberships are available for those interested in participating. The organization also relies on volunteers and donations from the community to keep its programs running. Check out their events calendar for upcoming activities open to members and non-members.

Lenka’s Loving Care

Lenka’s Loving Care is a locally owned home care agency serving older adults in Summit County, Colorado. As a family-owned business, they aim to help older adults continue living independently in their own homes with compassionate, dignified care.

The caregivers at Lenka’s Loving Care get to know each client and their preferences to provide customized care plans. Their services are tailored to make daily living easier and safer so individuals can find enjoyment in everyday activities.

As an alternative to facility-based care, home care allows older adults to maintain their freedom and remain close to family. It can also delay or prevent the need for more intensive levels of care in some cases. The agency aims to provide reliable support 24/7 as clients’ needs change.

Building Hope

Building Hope is a grassroots non-profit organization serving Summit County, Colorado, with the mission of improving local mental health. Their goal is to promote emotional well-being, reduce stigma, and increase access to mental health care and support.

The organization provides several resources to residents struggling with mental health issues:

• A crisis response line to offer immediate support when needed
• Referrals to licensed therapists and other care providers
• Support groups and community events like yoga and art classes
• Mental health navigation to find the right services
• Suicide prevention training

Building Hope partners with various local businesses, government entities, nonprofits, and community organizations. These partnerships allow Building Hope to pursue its mission and host awareness events like the 5Point Adventure Film Festival.

The Faces of Hope project features stories and interviews with Summit County residents who have experienced mental health challenges. By sharing their journeys, it aims to reduce stigma and connect community members.

Building Hope also shares mental health resources and information through its website, newsletter, and social media. Anyone in need of support can get in touch by phone, email, or by visiting the Frisco office.

FIRC

The Family & Intercultural Resource Center (FIRC) is a non-profit organization serving Summit County, Colorado. Their mission is to strengthen local families through education and financial resources.

FIRC believes strong, sustainable families are the foundation for a caring, thriving community. Their services aim to equip people with the tools to succeed as individuals, parents, and community members.

FIRC offers various services, including financial empowerment programs like tax prep, budgeting classes, and financial coaching. They also focus on parenting, food access, clothing access, and much more for families.

FIRC’s dedicated volunteer base helps to bridge the gap for families in need and ensures everyone has access to necessary resources. By providing education and financial support, FIRC is helping to build a stronger Summit County.

Staying in Summit County

Staying in Summit (SIS) is a nonprofit organization based in Summit County, Colorado, with the mission of developing housing and care options to allow older adults and those with disabilities to safely age in place.

The organization aims to facilitate housing communities for assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing. SIS is partnering with Summit County to develop older adult housing as part of the Lake Hill workforce housing development.

By developing housing and connecting residents to support services, Staying in Summit works to enable Summit County residents to remain in the community as they age. The organization values improving quality of life and providing care options so individuals do not have to relocate outside the county.

Find The Resources You Need in Summit County, Colorado

When you know where to look for valuable information and resources, you can live with peace of mind. The above organizations are each playing their part in helping ensure that older adults in Colorado have the support they need to age safely and happily in their own homes.

You can also find more resources via One Degree – an online portal providing one-click access to a variety of emergency and non-emergency contacts in the county. Bookmark this page to keep access to these valuable organizations at your fingertips. 

With the right information, you can make informed decisions about your care needs and ensure that you receive the best care for yourself or a loved one.

No matter where you live in Colorado, accessing resources and support is essential for older adults as they age. Start by exploring the local options above – and remember to visit Vintage to learn more about helpful programs, services, and partners that may be available in your area.  

Together, we can ensure that everyone has access to the resources they need to age safely and happily in their own homes.

The post Summit County, CO: The Best Resources for Older Adults first appeared on Vintage.

So what should be on your list of things to do in Summit County? Here are the top ten activities you won’t want to miss when you’re in town!

1. Hit the Slopes at World-Class Ski Resorts

Summit County is home to several top-tier ski resorts, including Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, Arapahoe Basin, and Keystone. 

Whether you’re an experienced skier, snowboarder, or just starting, you’ll find slopes for all skill levels. Each unique resort offers its own exceptional amenities, so make sure you check them out before heading up the mountain.

2. Explore the Great Outdoors in Summit County’s National Forests

Not a ski-aficionado? Want to see some of Colorado’s best mountain views? Make sure to check out the White River National Forest and Eagles Nest Wilderness for breathtaking scenery.

From fishing the High Country’s lakes and streams to taking a leisurely hike through the pristine backcountry, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy here.

3. Cruise Along the Scenic Boreas Pass Road

There’s nothing quite like taking a leisurely drive along Boreas Pass Road. This winding, two-lane highway connects the towns of Breckenridge and Frisco with a picturesque journey through mountain valleys and pine forests. Whether you’re in the mood for sightseeing or just want to hit some back roads, this scenic road can’t be beaten.

4. Indulge in the Culinary Scene

Summit County has a thriving food scene featuring a variety of cuisines, local breweries, and charming cafes. 

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to savor delicious dishes from famous local establishments – such as the Arapahoe Cafe in Dillon – or to explore the craft beer scene at Breckenridge Brewery.

5. Immerse Yourself in Local Culture

If you want to get in touch with the heart and soul of Summit County, check out some of the local events and festivals. 

Interact with the vibrant community and delve into Summit County’s rich history at its numerous museums and art galleries. You’ll find something unique for every taste and style in the county year-round!

6. Enjoy a Day at the Senior and Community Center in Frisco

Summit County’s Senior and Community Center is an excellent gathering spot for people of all ages to engage in activities, enjoy social events, and dine at the on-site cafe.

Here, older adults can get involved with the Vintage Agency on Aging and access the valuable information, resources, and support they need. The center also hosts various classes and entertainment events, such as line dancing, yoga, movie screenings, lectures, and more.

7. Embark on a Fishing Adventure

Summit County is a haven for anglers, with many rivers, streams, and lakes offering prime fishing conditions. Cast your line for rainbow trout, brown trout, and other fish species at the numerous fishing spots across the county. 

Don’t forget to explore the serene mountain surroundings while you’re at it!

8. Conquer the Summit on a Guided Mountaineering Expedition

Test your physical and mental stamina by scaling one of Summit County’s majestic peaks. Guided expeditions with professional educators will ensure your safety and success on these remarkable adventures. 

Or, if you’d rather take the easier route, opt for a scenic hike up one of the gentler trails!

9. Shop at Boutique Stores and Designer Outlets

Summit County’s charming towns boast a collection of unique boutiques and designer shops to satisfy the most discerning shopper. Don’t forget to pick up a souvenir or two as a reminder of your visit. 

10. Take in the Scenery on a Winter Sleigh Ride

A classic winter experience, sleigh rides through Summit County’s snow-covered hills will leave you enamored with stunning scenery and wildlife sightings. Sit back and relax in a cozy sleigh as your guide takes you on a magical journey.

There’s Something New Everywhere You Turn in Summit County

The abundant offerings in Summit County, CO, make it the perfect destination for an unforgettable getaway. And with resources like Vintage at your side, you can uncover the best of the region without any hassle. So, what are you waiting for? Come explore Summit County and all it has to offer! Please visit our website to learn more about Vintage and our resources for older adults and caregivers in Summit County, Colorado.

The post 10 Things We Love To Do in Summit County, CO first appeared on Vintage.