Bill and Janice Anderson have lived on the same quiet street for 45 years. These days, their children’s bikes are no longer scattered in the yard and the address numbers on the house have faded. Other than that, things are pretty much the same.
Janice still plants her flowerbeds every spring, and each afternoon Bill waves through the kitchen window to the mailman. They sip coffee together in the morning, quietly enjoying each other’s company.
It’s a simpler season of life, but to them, it means so much to be there. Bill, now 82, has experienced health issues in recent years. Janice does her best to care for him, making sure he is at appointments and getting what he needs. Their adult daughter, Laura, often brings Sunday dinner to reheat and catch up on their grandchildren’s busy schedules. And their adult son, Mark, helps with small fixes around the house that Bill’s hands can no longer do.
As we age, we encounter numerous challenges, often only realizing their full impact when confronted directly. Luckily, people and organizations across Northeast Ohio are working hard to create a community where seniors can thrive wherever they call home.
When Bill and Janice began to slow down in their daily lives, their children knew they would need some extra support beyond them. “Figuring out where to start wasn’t easy,” said Laura, “but when you start looking, you realize there are endless resources in our area to step in. I love being able to care for my parents, but it does get hard trying to juggle young kids and a job. I think we were all ready to explore more options for our family.”
Northeast Ohio has taken a proactive approach to meet the growing needs of adults age 60 and older, which will rise to over 30% by 2030. Collaborative efforts and innovative solutions make it possible for older Ohioans and their families to live healthier, fuller lives.
In 2020, Summit County joined AARP’s Age-Friendly Network with a goal to make its communities livable for all people. In doing so, the Age-Friendly Initiative must demonstrate steps taken to become a place where people of all ages, income levels, and abilities can thrive. Among Age-Friendly’s state and local partners, Northeast Ohio residents can find resources for community and health services, housing, transportation, work, social inclusion, and more.
Those living in Summit County can find help with coordinating a comprehensive plan of home- and community-based care through the Summit Senior Coalition’s GettingWiser.org website. These services are free to residents and center around an individual’s needs.
Collaborative initiatives help families like the Andersons find solutions for staying independent, healthy, and connected to their communities. Bill and Janice began receiving home cleaning services and delivered meals to lighten the load of household duties. And through various services, they gained a better understanding of their finances, estate, and Medicare plans.
The added services not only helped Bill’s health stay on track, but they also gave Janice the confidence and time to get out in the community where she volunteers with friends. “It was important for us that our mom continued to have a full life and not get completely caught up in taking care of our dad,” said Laura. “Now that they have some extra help, she can do that.”
Wherever seniors call home, Northeast Ohio’s network of community-based organizations is committed to ensuring that all people have access to resources and support services that preserve their independence, wellness, safety, comfort, and dignity.
“Our story is not unique,” said Laura. “I hope by sharing some of our experiences, others can know that there are tons of resources available in our community and even more amazing people who are willing to give help and guidance.”
This spring, Summit County residents are invited to the 2024 Senior Summit Expo on May 18th, from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm, at Firestone CLC. The event features providers from healthcare, government, cultural institutions, and service agencies who work with and for seniors throughout Summit County, all under one roof. Free lunch is provided for the first 500 guests. Guests will also enjoy activities, entertainment, education, and more.
Register to attend the 2024 Senior Summit Expo online or by calling 330-899-5255.
Sources: SAPA-Summary-Assessment-of-Older-Ohioans-Executive-Summary.pdf
