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News & Media
A Call to Protect: Addressing Elder Abuse in Our Communities
Right now, some older adults in our community are isolated, vulnerable, and in some cases, unsafe in their own homes. June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month, a time when we shine a light on the prevalence of abuse that affects far too many older Americans. Here in Michigan, more than 73,000 older adults are victims of abuse, neglect, or exploitation each year. Many are harmed by someone they know. Most never report it. Behind every one of those cases is a real person, someone’s parent, neighbor, or friend.
Back to School Support for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
Helping Kinship Care Families Start the School Year Strong! The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM) is offering $250 Meijer gift cards to support grandparents raising grandchildren. This one-time assistance helps cover back-to-school essentials like clothes, backpacks, and classroom supplies.
Join the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan in recognizing Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Join the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan in recognizing Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. May marks Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, a time when we celebrate the contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to our society and culture.
Take Action to Protect Senior Services
Tools to help you advocate for the programs that keep older adults safe, independent, and connected.
Save the Date to Share your Feedback on our FY26 Annual Implementation Plan
Are you an older adult? Do you care for a loved one who is over 60? Are you a professional in the aging network? Share your feedback on the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan's FY26 Annual Implementation Plan.
Taking Stock of the Flock: Therapy Chickens & Adult Day Programs Go Hand in Hand
We’ve all heard of therapy dogs, goat yoga, and even cat cafés, but have you ever met a therapy chicken? These feathered companions are making a big impact, bringing joy, comfort, and even cognitive stimulation to older adults, particularly those experiencing memory loss or other challenges related to aging.
National Nutrition Month 2025: Food Connects Us
March is National Nutrition Month! Throughout the month of March, dietitians in the community invite everyone to learn more about nutrition and how food choices affect our health. This year’s theme, created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, is Food Connects Us.
Advocacy Alert: Essential Aging-at-Home Programs Face Uncertain Future, Putting West Michigan Seniors at Risk
Thousands of older adults in West Michigan rely on essential programs like home-delivered meals, in-home care, transportation, and respite for caregivers to maintain their independence and age safely at home. These services not only enhance the quality of life for seniors but also provide significant benefits to families, caregivers, and the broader community. However, funding for these critical programs through the Older Americans Act (OAA) and Medicaid is currently uncertain, threatening the well-being of older adults and the sustainability of long-term care solutions in the region.
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.
