The Region IV Area Agency on Aging is gearing up to celebrate its 50th anniversary.
The Area Agency on Aging’s Alexandra Newman tells us the organization was created under federal law in 1974 to help seniors in any way it can. She says its main mission is to give people choices.
“Mainly, we help older adults, people with disabilities, stay living independently in their homes as they age,” Newman said. “So we help get them whatever services they may need. We help answer questions as far as Medicare, Medicaid, anything they may need to help them live independently. Maybe it’s an in-home caregiver, maybe it’s a volunteer opportunity, maybe they want to give back to the community.”
Or, Newman says the agency could point seniors to their local senior center or help them sign up for a computer class.
The Area Agency on Aging is planning a celebration for October 3 at the Mendel Center at Lake Michigan College to reflect on its work in the community these last five decades. The event will feature a keynote panel moderated by Board Chair Bernie Williamson, “Envisioning the Future of Aging.” Panelists will include Van Buren and Cass District Health Department Health Officer Danielle Persky, Berrien County Commissioner Chokwe Pitchford, and Corewell Health South President Natalie Baggio.
