Help Us Bridge the Gap

In Oceana, Muskegon, and Ottawa counties, there was a 19% increase of adults ages 60 and older over the last ten years. Thestate of Michigan now ranks the 14th highest population of elders in the United States, while at the same time Michigan’s population is declining. AgeWell Services has properly planned for this growth over…

The Wellness Center: Muskegon’s Hidden Gem for All Adults

You won’t find brassy blondes in tight leotards or Spandex-clad muscle heads. Instead the Wellness Center at Tanglewood Park provides holistic wellness opportunities for all adults, with a focus for those over the age of 55, to be nourished, active, learning and living independently! All at the pace they need and to accommodate any mobility…

Winter 2023 Letter from the Director

Last year was a big season of change for AgeWell Services, and many of our team members entered their next season of life: retirement! Just like every company and every sector, we are experiencing a retirement boom. Last year, our “triplets” Sue Cloutier (HR Director), Betty Johnson (Finance Director) and Diane Smith (Advancement Director) retired,…

This Giving Tuesday, Invest in Senior Health

Established in 2012, Giving Tuesday was created as a “day that encourages people to do good” in a way that is most meaningful to them. This looks different for everyone, but might include volunteering, making a charitable donation or sharing social media posts. Over the decade, Giving Tuesday has continued to grow. In a 24…

National Philanthropy Day is November 15

“Philanthropy” means “love of humanity”. Derived from the Ancient Greek phrase philanthropia, the word was first coined by Aeschylus, a famous writer of Greek Tragedy more than 2,500 years ago. The National Philanthropic Trust noted that “from the very beginning, civilizations around the world were built with the idea that empathy – caring for and…

I WON! I WON!

Or did I? Never mind, I’m so excited I can’t think!! Sweepstakes are one way that imposter scammers try to trick you into sending them your hard-earned money. They’ll send you a letter, an email, or a text, maybe even call you on the phone with the amazing news that you’ve one a million dollars….

Preparing the Ever-Changing Volunteer Program Needs for the Future

Ever-changing needs means we need to be ever changing how we try to meet those needs. Learning to shift and adapt is challenging for anyone. Shifting an entire team’s approach seems to be even more difficult. Time and time again, I have seen our team continue to rise to every challenge presented and shift in…

Dementia is Not a Natural Part of Aging, and Other Key Messages

Guest post by Lisa Tyler of Senior Resources of West Michigan As we age, our chances of getting a disease like dementia increases. More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s Disease, the most prevalent form of dementia. In order to help people live well, and to increase understanding of what dementia is, for…

During Suicide Prevention Month, We Want You to Know That It Is Ok To Not Be Ok

This blog post contains sensitive topics that may be difficult for some people to discuss. Reader discretion is advised. One of the reasons people who are depressed don’t ask for help is the fear of the unknown. What will happen if I say I’m thinking of suicide? Will I be locked up? Will the hospital…

3 Reasons to Make or Revisit Your Will

Guest post by Community Foundation for Muskegon County We are happy to celebrate August as National Make-A-Will Month at the Community Foundation for Muskegon County as it brings end of life planning to the forefront. Many of our donors find the process not as tedious as they thought and gives them and their loved ones peace…

Meeting the Needs of an Aging Workforce

Is your business ready for an increase in wage earners over the age of 55? By 2031, more than 25% of all American workers will be over the age of 55, according to a report from global consultants Bain & Co. That’s a nearly 10% jump from 2011. Seniors are working longer – many by…

Benefits of Going to the Farmer’s Market for Older Adults

Rows of colorful fruits and vegetables lining the pathways. Green and yellow squash. Red tomatoes in every size. Fragrant green and red peppers. Blueberries, cherries, and apples. The farmer’s market can be a wonderful experience and it has many benefits for patrons. Eat Local at the Farmer’s Market Local farmers sell their produce at area…

3 Benefits of Regular Physical Activity

A recent Harvard University study showed a strong link between regular physical activity and feeling a greater sense of purpose in life. This focus can help with longevity and a lower risk of heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease. 1. Happiness Regular exercise makes you happier. Studies have shown a consistent connection between happiness and physical…

Helping Seniors Keep Their Cool

High temperatures with high humidity can affect adults over the age of 60 more quickly and more intensely. Conditions like obesity, heart disease and some diuretic medications can make it harder to stay cool when the thermometer soars. Here are some simple things you can do to keep your cool. 1. Drink Water Avoid beverages…

Zeke Johnson – Everyday Hero

Zeke Johnson, a volunteer driver for the Senior Medical Transportation Program, was honored as an “Everyday Hero” at the 2023 United Way of the Lakeshore Heroes Celebration on May 4. He was among more than 40 volunteers at community organizations nominated for the award. Zeke, who attended the evening event with his wife Theresa, wore…

Donor-Advised and QCD Funds for Charitable Giving Making an Impact

A growing number of donations to AgeWell Services of West Michigan and other nonprofit organizations come directly from donors’ investment accounts. Changes in tax laws in recent years have given some donors considerable tax advantages using donor-advised funds and gifts made directly from some investment accounts. Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) In 2021, donors gave $45.7 billion…

Senior Symposium 2023

Stronger Together: Staying Connected! This year’s Senior Symposium builds on last year’s “Together Again” theme by celebrating that we are stronger together and when we are staying connected! The day starts with a continental breakfast and a morning filled with informative presentations including Dementia Friends: Turn Understanding into Action; Palliative Care: A Team Approach to…

Thank You, Thank You, Thank You! Heels for Meals & More was Outstanding!

To say the 8th Heels for Meals & More fundraising event was amazing would be an understatement. It was an absolute blast and definitely knocked our socks and shoes off! On Saturday, April 22, over 260 guests joined AgeWell Services of West Michigan to raise critical funds to support adults 60 and older in Muskegon,…

Thank You, Volunteers!

When you volunteer, you are making a commitment to share that most precious of resources – your time – to make life better for those who are in need. The fruits of your labors make a tangible impact, of course, but perhaps it is the fact that you are willing to share your time and…