Growing older often brings up planning questions around health, housing, finances, and long-term care. But when the time comes to find answers, many families don’t know where to begin or how to access the support and resources they need.
Fortunately, older adults in the City of Boulder and throughout Boulder County have the advantage of a robust network of programs and organizations designed to help them stay safe, connected, and independent at home. This includes local support groups, nonprofits, community-based programs, and care providers like Homewatch CareGivers of Boulder. Here, we’ve compiled some local resources for older adults and families in Boulder that are worth exploring!
Local Senior Centers in Boulder
Social engagement and activity are essential ingredients for mental, physical, and emotional well-being later in life, and senior centers are one of the most valuable resources for older adults looking to stay active and engaged as they age.
Run by the City of Boulder’s Older Adult Services program, the West Age Well Center in western Boulder, and the East Age Well Center, which covers the city’s eastern region, both offer programs focused on wellness and lifelong learning, including educational workshops, mobility and fitness classes, social events, volunteer programs, intergenerational programming, and activities designed specifically for older adults.
Both senior centers also offer assistance and support for older adults, including case managers who can help with navigating care, benefits, and community resources; caregiver support groups; and information and referrals to local services.
Resources for Aging in Place
Many older adults prefer to remain in their homes as they age rather than move into assisted living. The Boulder County Area Agency on Aging (BCAAA) is a county-based organization that offers programs, information, and referrals to help seniors connect with services that support aging in place, including:
- Transportation assistance
- Meal delivery services
- Home safety modifications
- Caregiver referrals
- Caregiver support groups
- Companion care
- Household assistance
- Wellness checks
Organizations like Meals on Wheels and local home care providers like Homewatch CareGivers of Boulder can also help older adults remain safe and independent at home through meal support, companionship, personal care, and respite care services for family caregivers.
Caregiver Support for Families in Boulder
Family caregivers are often balancing work, personal, and caregiving responsibilities at the same time. Without adequate support, caregiver stress can build up over time and become hard to manage alone. The Boulder County Area Agency on Aging offers supportive resources for caregivers such as:
- Caregiver education
- Caregiver support groups
- Respite care resources
- Long-term care guidance
- Community referrals
Caregiver support groups can provide reassurance and practical advice for families caring for someone living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or chronic illness.
Financial and Housing Assistance for Older Adults
Older adults living in Boulder County may also qualify for county-run programs designed to ease financial pressure for seniors living on fixed incomes. Available relief and assistance include:
- Property tax exemptions
- Senior tax deferral programs
- Utility assistance
- Food assistance
- Housing support referrals
Boulder County also operates the Senior Tax Worker Program, which allows qualifying adults aged 60 and older to earn assistance toward their property taxes through community service.
Veteran Resources for Older Adults in Boulder County
Boulder County also offers a range of veteran-focused resources that address the unique challenges aging veterans face as well as help for navigating VA benefits, healthcare, and housing support. Accredited Veteran Service Officers can assist veterans and their dependents with:
- Disability claims
- Pension applications
- Survivor benefits
- Healthcare benefits enrollment
- Housing and financial assistance referrals
Boulder County publishes a Veterans Resource Guide and hosts annual veteran resource fairs throughout the year, while the Boulder Vet Center in the City of Boulder provides counseling and support services for eligible veterans outside of larger hospital systems.
Signs Additional Support May Be Needed at Home
While community resources can provide strong support for seniors, some older adults may also benefit from more individualized assistance at home. Families may want to explore home care if a loved one is:
- Missing medications
- Struggling with mobility
- Feeling isolated
- Forgetting appointments
- Having difficulty preparing meals
For many families, home care can serve as an important complement to the local programs and senior services available throughout Boulder County.
Building a Strong Support System in Boulder
Boulder County offers a wide range of supportive resources designed to help older adults age well. Combining those community programs with in-home support can help older adults continue living safely and comfortably as care needs change. For families, understanding what support options are available can help make future care decisions less stressful.
At Homewatch CareGivers of Boulder, we provide families with compassionate non-medical care services tailored to the needs of older adults and veterans. We also offer a free in-home care assessment to help families better understand care options.
To learn more, call us at (303) 444-1133 or contact us online. Our team is here to help families in Boulder County, north suburban Denver, and eastern Colorado navigate their next steps and connect older adults with the support they need.