Upcoming Events
News & Media
Celebrating National Family Caregiver Month
Each November, during National Family Caregiver Month, the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM) gratefully recognizes all of the family members who have stepped up every day to provide care for their loved ones. In 2022 alone, more than 37 million family caregivers provided unpaid support to someone age 65 or older.
Recognizing Indigenous Peoples/Native American Heritage Month
The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM) recognizes November as Indigenous Peoples/Native American Heritage Month. Throughout this month, we encourage everyone to pay tribute to the valuable ancestry and traditions of Native Americans and Indigenous peoples. This month also provides us with an opportunity to bring awareness to the unique challenges Indigenous peoples have faced historically and in the present.
Help Shape Michigan’s Next State Plan on Aging
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is developing the next State Plan on Aging, and they want to hear from you! The plan outlines Michigan’s statewide goals, priorities, and strategies for supporting older adults, caregivers, and the aging services network.
The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan Celebrates Partner Networks’ Outstanding Support of Older Adults Across West Michigan
The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM) is celebrating the collective impact of its partner network in Fiscal Year 2025, highlighting how collaboration and responsible use of local, state, and federal funding have helped more than 35,000 seniors and caregivers this year live independently and at home.
Join Us to Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month
The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan joins the Hispanic community in celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month, which takes place from September 15 to October 15. We pay tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our West Michigan community and our nation.
Advocacy is for Everyone
Advocacy isn’t self-serving. Advocacy is a collective effort showing “public support for or recommendation of a particular cause or policy”. At its heart, advocacy shines a light on important issues affecting community members and works to improve quality of life for everyone, creating an environment where everyone can thrive. Advocacy is a critical tool that elevates community members’ voices and drives change through collective action.
Updated LGBTQIA+ Senior Resource Guide
We’ve released an updated version of our LGBTQ+ Resource Guide. First created in 2018, the guide connects LGBTQIA+ older adults and their caregivers to services that are safe, affirming, and accessible. The 2025 update expands information on housing, in-home support, healthcare, nutrition, caregiver support, and opportunities for community connection.
Falls are Not a Natural Part of Aging: Take Control of Your Stability This Fall
As the seasons change, so can you. For older adults in West Michigan, fall is the perfect time to focus on building strength, improving balance, and taking steps to stay independent. The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan’s (AAAWM) Engaging Wellness programs are here to support your journey with two powerful, proven wellness classes starting this season: A Matter of Balance and Tai Chi.
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.
