Pivot just might be the most frequent word we hear now related to COVID-19. It is the word we have all used to describe the changes we made in our work, home and other daily routines so they could be done remotely, distanced, touchless and otherwise safely. Pivot is how we all survived.

In early spring 2020, Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) across Indiana and the nation pivoted too. When Indiana shut down, our AAAs stepped up. We immediately galvanized to provide a front line of defense and services so older adults and persons with disabilities of any age could quarantine safely and comfortably in their homes. Driven by an intense sense of responsibility for vulnerable persons in our communities, we met the pandemic challenge with urgency and creativity, even prior to assurances of additional state and federal supports. We continue to adjust services on a weekly basis as COVID-19 data and local needs change in communities across Indiana. Some of our pivots included:Read More

In tough times, communities find strength in people—and people find strength in their communities. In the past year, we’ve seen this time and again as Hoosier friends, neighbors, and businesses have found new ways to support each other.

In Indiana, older adults are a key source of this strength. Through their experiences, successes, and difficulties, they have built resilience that helps them to face new challenges. When communities tap into this, they become stronger too.

Each May, the Administration for Community Living leads the celebration of Older Americans Month (OAM). Our own Governor Eric Holcomb issued this proclamation recognizing May as Older Americans Month for our state. This year’s theme is Communities of Strength, recognizing the important role older adults play in fostering the connection and engagement that build strong, resilient communities.Read More