HENDERSON COUNTY COUNCIL ON AGING INC

The Sammy Williams Center for Active Living ("the Sammy") is the congregate nutrition site for older adults in Henderson County. The Sammy provides a place where people can join for social, health, recreational, and educational activities five days a week--including a hot lunch. For those clients who cannot drive, transportation is provided.

This program includes Caregiver Consultation, Caregiver Respite Grants, Community Resource Coordination, and a heat relief program. Staff assists caregivers and older adults in making informed decisions about what available services meet their needs. Respite grants provide financial assistance to caregivers who require time away from their loved one.

The Council on Aging offers consultation and respite for those who look after loved ones with long-term physical or cognitive ailments. For those experiencing anxiety, stress or burn-out related to the toll exacted by providing long-term care, our specialists assist with accessing resources that can support that process. Gratns can help cover the costs of in-home services, adult day care, or an overnight stay so the primary provider can get a break.

This program engages adults age 55 and over to provide peer-to-peer companionship, support, and assistance to other older adults in the community who are in need of extra help to continue living independently at home. Trained volunteers serve an average of 20 hours per week. Companions provide time and attention to ease isolation and loneliness, and they provide transportation, assistance with meal preparation, help with light chores, and sharing particular skills they have that may be helpful. They work closely with families and serve as "eyes and ears" to other professionals while find purpose, resurrect erstwhile skills, and form meaningful relationships.

We have knowledgeable specialists who connect people with resources that are available in the area for a variety of issues that cause challenges when aging, including in-home care, transportation, housing and facilities, medical questions, home repairs, and much more.