Just a few generations ago, older adults rarely lived far from other family members, and their adult children and extended family often stayed with them at home throughout later life’s challenges and joys.

Today, many families live in different states, even different countries. Adult children are often working long hours outside their own homes, and older adults are living longer than ever before. And as beautiful and caring as Cass County’s residential care facilities are, most people want to stay at home.

The Cass County Council on Aging provides several options to help families keep older adults at home with dignity and independence for as long as possible, no matter what their situation.

For families worried about feeding older adults during the day, Meals on Wheels provides fresh, hot meals to adults more than 60 who might otherwise not get the nutrition they need.

Older adults concerned about getting to medical appointments can make use of our Out-of-county Medical Transportation program. Volunteer drivers pick up seniors at their homes and take them to medical appointments outside of Cass County.

The COA has Home Care Aides who go into the homes of older adults and provide help with things like getting dressed, eating, and getting around the house.

If an older adult has a memory impairment and can’t be left alone, Adult Day Services is a comfortable place for them to stay while their family members work, run errands, or rest.

They can attend the program during the day and be at home in the evening. And anyone with memory impairment can benefit from Project Lifesaver, which can help find people who wander away from safety.

To learn more about COA programs to help older adults, call (269) 445-8110 or go to www.casscoa.org.