February is National Senior Independence Month! In honor of this important month, we at AgeWell Atlanta want to share some different tips and resources to help aging adults maintain and celebrate their independence.
A great way for seniors living alone to maintain their independence is to stay connected to their friends, build new friendships, and stay active doing fun activities they love. AgeWell Atlanta Neighborhoods is a great program for exactly that, and operates in Roswell, Toco Hills, Dunwoody, East Cobb, and other metro Atlanta neighborhoods. Members enjoy different social activities and classes for all interests, group trips, lunch outings, support groups, and more activities and resources to help maintain their independence.
Ashley Maloy, AgeWell Atlanta Neighborhoods Managers, says of the members: “While the Neighborhood groups offer structure and serve as a catalyst for communication, many members have built community with one another. Our participants look after one another and become friends in a real way, and it’s lovely to witness.”
Not all older adults choose or are able to live alone. Others may choose affordable housing, assisted living facilities, or nursing homes. If you or a loved one plan on aging outside a family home, it’s important to apply for subsidized senior housing as early as possible. While AgeWell Atlanta concierges are happy to provide information, resources, and referrals to these housing options, prior planning is essential.
“The wait lists for places are very long due to high demand and not as much supply,” said AgeWell Atlanta Program Manager, Jennifer Curry. “It’s best to get on these waiting lists as early as possible.”
She continues: “We get a lot of calls from people who are looking for a quick solution for somewhere to stay or somewhere to take their loved ones, but these facilities fill up and getting in takes time.”
Jennifer added that the AgeWell Atlanta concierge staff are very knowledgeable about assisted living facilities and countless other age-related topics. If you have any questions or concerns about subsidized housing, you can always call at
Housing options within the Jewish HomeLife Network include Berman Commons, The Cohen Home, the Zaban and Jewish Towers, and the William Breman Jewish Home. Each facility is tailored to older adults with varying levels of independence, and seeks to retain and grow that independence as much as possible through social events, personalized care, and other activities.
“I love living at The Towers,” says one resident. “I love the location, the staff, and the activities. I love having a social worker and clinic, activities staff, and the restaurant and convenience store which makes it like our own little city. It’s the best thing I have done for myself in the last 10 years.”
AgeWell Atlanta is committed to enhancing the lives of seniors year-round by providing important resources and promoting independence. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter, follow us on Facebook, and check our calendar page for more. You can contact AgeWell Atlanta at 1.866.AGEWELL(243-9355) any time, or through our online form.