By the Vintage Team | June 2026
Key Takeaways
- In-home care provides direct support in an individual’s home, including services such as daily tasks, personal care, and health-related care.
- An older adult center is a community hub that often offers space for meals, social connection, classes, and activities.
- Both in-home care and an older adult center can be used simultaneously, and the right fit depends on the individual’s independence level, their transportation availability, and how much caregiver support is available.
- Vintage can help families in all six Colorado counties find the right starting point – no referral needed.
When a loved one starts needing extra day-to-day support, the first question is typically the hardest: what kind of help do they need, exactly?
Both in-home care and older adult centers play important roles in aging services, but they often solve different problems. Knowing the difference between them – and which may fit you or a loved one’s needs – can save hours of confusion and make sure everyone has the support and access they need.
What is In-Home Care?
In-home care is exactly what it sounds like: specific support delivered directly where the individual lives. Depending on the in-home care provider, this can include:
- Help with bathing and getting dressed each day
- Preparing meals and housekeeping
- Daily companionship
- Aid with transportation to appointments
- In some cases, health-related services
No matter the services offered, the goal is the same: to help someone stay safe and comfortable at home when they need extra support for daily tasks.
In Colorado, home care agencies are licensed and regulated through the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. If you’re researching in-home care providers, verifying licensure is a great first step. The Colorado Gerontological Society and Vintage also offer information on what to look for.
What is an Older Adult Center?
It’s important to note that an older adult center is a community-based gathering place, not a care facility. Older adult centers typically offer a variety of activities and opportunities, such as shared and prepared meals, social and fitness activities, and access to local services.
While generally open to anyone, these centers are designed for those who are largely independent but could benefit from routine and connection, and who want a reason to get out of the house occasionally!
Two great examples of regional centers are Summit County’s Community & Senior Center in Frisco and Pitkin County Senior Services in Aspen. You can find a full list of centers across the region on our website!
When Does Each Option Make Sense?
As you can imagine, both in-home care and older adult centers offer several benefits, many of which go hand in hand. So when is each right for you or someone you love?
In-home care is a great option when…
An older adult needs help with daily tasks or has mobility limitations that make leaving home difficult. In-home care is also great for those who need consistent support that family members can’t provide on their own.
An older adult center is a good fit when…
An individual is safe at home but would like social engagement and structured activities on a day-to-day basis. They can also benefit from hot meals and transportation. Centers are great for giving caregivers reliable daytime relief.
Many families take advantage of both – someone might attend a center twice a week but also have an in-home aide help them with bathing or meal prep on other days.
The options aren’t either/or, and combining them often works better than relying on one alone.
Vintage Is Your Resource for Aging Well in Colorado
Not sure where to start with services for aging in Colorado? Vintage connects older adults and caregivers across Eagle, Grand, Jackson, Pitkin, Routt, and Summit counties.
If you’re trying to figure out what you or a loved one needs and what’s available locally, we can help you sort it all out. Visit us online or call us at 970-455-1067 today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is in-home care covered by Medicare or Medicaid?
Medicare may cover certain skilled home health services when ordered by a doctor after a qualifying event. Non-medical in-home care is typically not covered by Medicare but may be available through Medicaid or local programs depending on eligibility.
Do older adult centers charge fees?
Many centers offer free or low-cost programming, meals, activities, and more. Some locations may have suggested donations rather than set fees. All Vintage-connected centers across the region are designed to be accessible, and cost shouldn’t be a barrier to accessing the services they need.
Can someone use both in-home care and an older adult center at the same time?
Yes, and it’s quite common to take advantage of both. A person might receive in-home support in the mornings and attend a center for a meal or activities on certain days of the week.
How do I find in-home care or an older adult center in Summit County or other parts of Northwest Colorado?
Vintage’s Summit County resource page and centers directory are great starting points. You can also call us directly, and someone will help you navigate what’s available in your area.