Upcoming Events
AARP Driver Safety Event
Session held on September 19th and September 20th.
Mindfulness & Meditation for Caregivers Course
Every Thursday
News & Media
Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan Releases Needs Assessment Findings
In January 2024, the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM) completed a Community Needs Assessment for the nine counties in the Planning and Service Area (PSA): Allegan, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo, and Osceola. This assessment, by design, investigated the experiences and identified challenges of older adults in the region using primary and secondary data.
3 Ways Assistive Devices Help to Increase Independence
Change is a part of life and as human beings grow and evolve, so do their needs. In some seasons of life people benefit from the use of assistive devices. An assistive device is designed to assist a person in completing a particular task. These devices range from tools like hearing aids to power wheelchairs to sophisticated systems like eye-tracking software. Assistive devices empower users by enhancing mobility, communication, learning, and overall independence.
Bridging Generations: The Benefits of Intergenerational Programming
In today’s society it's common for people to be grouped together based on their age. From school-aged children to college students to working adults to seniors these groups are often based around a life stage. However this separation causes people of all ages to miss out on the benefits of intergenerational programming which offers a refreshing and beneficial approach to community building.
Help Texts: A New Tool For Caregivers
Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan has partnered with Help Texts to send you hopeful, practical messages to help you increase your well-being.
6 Ways to Prevent Elder Abuse
Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, and financial. It’s estimated that one in six older adults experience elder abuse, yet only one in twenty-four cases are reported. As the population ages, the need to protect our elders from abuse becomes even more important.
Celebrating Pride Month and Supporting LGBTQ+ Seniors
This June, join the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan in celebrating Pride Month and commemorating the achievements and contributions of LGBTQ+ seniors.
The Impact of Advocacy: Supporting & Strengthening Resources for Seniors
The power to create change is one of the most important tools in any citizen’s tool belt and one of the best ways to make an impact is through advocacy. Advocacy allows people to support the causes that are most dear to them through conversations, letters, meetings, parades, and much more.
Engaging Wellness Programs Mark Senior Fitness Day with Open House Series
Join us in celebrating a special opportunity for older adults to learn about activities to stay healthy and active! National Senior Health and Fitness Day is being celebrated around the country on Wednesday, May 29th. Engaging Wellness Partners in West Michigan are offering many events to highlight our special classes designed specifically for older adults.
Age Your Way- February 2023: How does funding work?
Our February Age Your Video is out now! AAAWM Executive Director, Kendrick Heinlein, joins Liz to discuss our various funding streams and our role in the administration of these programs that go to support seniors, persons with a disability, and their caregivers.
Age Your Way- January 2023: What is an Area Agency on Aging?
Introducing our new Age Your Way Video Series! We're excited to bring you a short video each month that covers services and supports to help you age with independence and dignity. This month's video covers this question "What is the Area Agency on Aging and how can it help?". Give the video a watch above to hear from Liz Barnett, our Outreach Specialist, and a special guest.
