For many of us, reaching the age of retirement is a major accomplishment in our lives. The expectation of working less, enjoying life more, while having the financial means to do so, is hitting the bullseye of senior living! But, hitting this mark is not easy. Changes in our health status, finances, family connections and community can tarnish our "golden years."

As we face the aging process and challenges to maintain a high quality of life, there is an agency that is in place to help us. It’s called the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (AAA). Their vision is to build a society that values and supports people as they age. Their mission is to build the capacity of AAAs so they can help older adults live with dignity and choices in their homes and communities for as long as possible. As of 2016, there were 622 AAAs serving older adults in virtually every community in the nation.

AAAs offer five core services:

Supportive Services:   Information and referral for in-home services like homemaker and chore services, transportation and home modification.

Elder Rights:   Abuse, prevention and long-term care ombudsman programs.

Caregiver’s Support Services:   Support groups, respite resources.

Nutrition Support:   Home delivered meals and congregate meals.

Health and Wellness Resources:   Health and Wellness resources for seniors.

To find an AAA that serves your community go to https://www.n4a.org/.  Look for the “locator” on the homepage of the website.  It will help you find the AAA in your area and many of the supports needed to stay connected to your home, community and good senior health.