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Many of us take the time spent with family during the holiday season as a given. Houses full of laughter, home-cooked meals, family games, stories, and general merriment. The traditions we have may change over the years, but the setting is often the same…home.

However, as we get older, it could become harder to stay living at home. The independence we once had may wane, and, in some cases, older adults could find themselves in a long-term facility setting. For four years, Darlene, 61, was in a facility due to a cancer diagnosis and ongoing health-related issues. For some, a facility is a great fit for their care needs, but Darlene dreamed of returning home, though she never thought it would happen. After small improvements in her health, she stated, “I put my heart and soul into getting well!”
Read the Article
Keeping with the Home for the Holidays theme, we joined The WGVU Morning Show with Shelley Irwin this month to discuss the many services that exist to support seniors as they age at home. You can give the interview a listen below.
Listen to the WGVU Interview
The FY2023 Older Americans Act Service Directory is now available! Older Americans Act funding supports services that help older adults remain in their own homes and communities as they age. These services are available in a nine-county region; Allegan, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo, and Osceola. You can see the complete list of services in this year's directory below.
View the Directory

New Year, New Habits 

The New Year is often when people pledge to take up new hobbies or start new habits that will improve their health and well-being. One goal you can set for yourself this year is avoiding scammers and their never-ending tactics to steal your information.

Protect Yourself
  • Shred or secure personal information
  • Use secure websites (starting with https) and no personal business on public WIFI
  • Check your bank, credit card statements, and credit reports frequently
  • Use a credit card when shopping online for extra protection
  • Screen your calls- Register your number at DoNotCall.gov
  • Download a call-blocking app or call your phone carrier about call-blocking services
  • Read emails and websites carefully-never click a link
If you suspect abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation report it to Adult Protective Services at 855-444-3911. You can report scams to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov

For more information on elder abuse and scams, visit ProtectKentSeniors.org or call the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan at 616-456-5664. 

SOURCE: AARP, The State of Financial Fraud Conference, October 2, 2019
We’re coming off of our busy events season—as you can see from the latest Notes from the Field! AAAWM Outreach Specialist Liz Barnett traveled throughout the region to a number of events, helping seniors and caregivers learn about our services and programs. We also held a CarFit Event with AARP in conjunction with the Grand Valley State University Occupational Therapy Students for seniors to learn how the fit of their vehicle can impact their driving.
You've likely heard of the Kent County Senior Millage (KCSM), but what resources does it provide for older adults? Why should someone care about the millage if they aren't a senior? We work to answer these questions and explain the importance of the millage for seniors and caregivers alike in our "More Than a Millage" series. We also highlight how the KCSM partner network works together to look out for the County's older adults. This month's series will look at senior millage partners Legal Aid of Western MichiganThe Rapid, and Renew Mobility.
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Save the Date: Upcoming Events


Please note our office will be closed for the holidays
Friday, December 23, Monday, December 26, and Monday, January 2. 


Engaging Wellness Classes
In-person classes have returned!
Visit the website here!

January Caregiver Resource Network Meeting
Tuesday, January 10, 2023 | 8:00 am - 10:00 am
See the flyer here!

NEW Active Living Every Day
Wednesdays, January 11 to March 29 | 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
See the flyer here!

Upcoming Dementia Friends Sessions
Thursday, January 19, 2023 | 10:30 am - 12:00 pm Zoom*
Learn more and register!

Advocates for Senior Issues
Friday, January 20, 2023 | 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Location: Salvation Army Kroc Center
Visit the website here!

Virtual Family Caregiver Support Group
Tuesdays | 10:00 - 11:00 am via Zoom
See the flyer here!

18th Annual Art & Science of Aging Conference
Fashion a New Image of Aging
Friday, February 24, 2023 | 8:15 am - 3:00 pm
In-Person & Streaming
See the flyer here!
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Copyright © Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan, All rights reserved.
Our mailing address is:
3215 Eaglecrest NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Phone: 616-456-5664
 






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Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan · 3215 Eaglecrest Dr. NE · Grand Rapids, Mi 49525 · USA

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