MONTEREY COUNTY — September is Healthy Aging Month, and Alliance On Aging is using the national observance to encourage Monterey County residents to celebrate aging while connecting older adults and their families with resources that support independence, dignity and well-being.
Healthy aging encompasses far more than physical wellness. Staying socially connected, having access to nutritious food, understanding health care benefits, receiving emotional support and knowing where to turn when navigating long-term care decisions can all play an important role in helping older adults remain independent and engaged in their communities.
“Healthy Aging Month reminds us that aging should be celebrated and embraced,” said Nicki Pasculli, development director for Alliance On Aging. “It is an opportunity to focus on the resources, relationships and resilience that empower seniors to thrive.”
Throughout September, Alliance On Aging is highlighting several of its programs, services and community resources designed to support Monterey County’s growing population of older adults.
Connecting Older Adults With Resources
Finding the right assistance for an older adult or family member can be challenging, particularly when families are navigating multiple services at the same time.
Alliance On Aging provides information and assistance related to Medicare, long-term care, emotional support, counseling and other needs facing older adults. The organization also maintains a Senior Resource List that connects individuals and families with organizations and services throughout the region.
Resources are available at AllianceOnAging.org/resources.
Senior Benefits Check-Up
Alliance On Aging collaborates with community partners to connect older adults with essential services, resources and referrals, including CalFresh food assistance, transportation options and home energy assistance.
These resources can help older adults address everyday needs, maintain their independence and better understand assistance programs that may be available to them.
For information about Senior Benefits Check-Up and available resources and referrals, call 831-655-7562.
Ombudsman
State-certified Long-Term Care Ombudsmen advocate for the rights, safety and well-being of residents in nursing homes and residential care facilities for the elderly.
Ombudsmen investigate and help resolve complaints, protect residents from abuse and neglect, safeguard confidentiality and provide a trusted voice for vulnerable seniors who may be unable or afraid to speak for themselves.
The program also assists families with long-term care information and placement resources and educates the community about residents’ rights and issues affecting those living in long-term care.
More information is available at AllianceOnAging.org/programs/ombudsman/.
Volunteers Make the Mission Possible
Healthy communities depend on connection, and volunteers play an important role in the work of Alliance On Aging.
The organization’s Volunteer Corps includes more than 200 individuals who help older adults throughout Monterey County stay connected, informed and supported. Volunteer opportunities include peer counseling, Medicare support, Ombudsmen, special events and other programs that promote independence and well-being.
Community members interested in volunteering can learn more at AllianceOnAging.org.
Supporting Older Adults Throughout the Year
Alliance On Aging is also encouraging community members to consider becoming monthly donors. Recurring gifts of any amount help sustain programs, services and resources for Monterey County older adults throughout the year.
Monthly giving provides ongoing support for the organization’s mission and helps ensure older adults and their families continue to have somewhere to turn when they need information, advocacy and assistance.
To make a gift or become a monthly donor, visit AllianceOnAging.org/give/.
“Healthy aging is something our entire community has a role in supporting,” Pasculli said. “Whether someone volunteers, makes a donation, shares information about our programs or simply checks in on an older neighbor or family member, those connections matter.”
