Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan

11/12/2026

Caregiver University is happening next week! Join us on November 18th at 2:00 pm via Zoom for Caregiver Supports 101.

We'll be joined by Brandon Beck and Liz Barnett from the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM). You'll learn about what caregiver resources are available, whether you're seeking support for a loved one or just getting started on your caregiver journey.

Register today at www.aaawm.org/caregiver-university.

11/10/2026

⏱️60-Seconds of Senior Info: November is the perfect time for gratitude, and this month we're especially thankful for our partners, participants, caregivers, and community members.

From the AARP Caregiver Care Stop to the MI Choice Masters: Your Voice Matters meeting this month, we're making sure older adults have access to resources that support aging independently.

To learn more about AAAWM, please visit www.aaawm.org.

11/09/2026

11/06/2026

The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM) is proud to participate in Operation Green Light! We're shining a green light at the agency from November 4-11 in support of our veterans, alongside Kent County Veterans Services.

If you want to participate, Kent County Veterans Services is providing free green light bulbs at the following locations:
- Kent District Library Branches
- Kent County Veterans Services
- Sparta Carnegie Township Library

Learn more at www.kentcountymi.gov/greenlight.

11/04/2026

Are you a MI Choice participant, caregiver, or family member? You're invited to MI Choice Masters - Your Voice Matters, in partnership with Reliance Integrated Wellness Center and Senior Resources of West Michigan.

Join us on Thursday, November 19th, online via Zoom (at 1:00 pm) or in person at Tanglewood Park in Muskegon (at 12:30 pm) for a conversation focused on safety and independence.

Alec Walstra, PT, and Jacquelyn Wagner, PT, from Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation will be joining us to share important ways to reduce falls and increase balance. A short Q&A will follow with a chance to share your ideas and experiences with the MI Choice program.

Please RSVP through your Supports Coordinator or contact Melissa Wright at 616-850-1108.

11/02/2026

We invite you to join us in our 28th Annual Giving Tree!

AAAWM Supports Coordinators will nominate individuals in our programs who are most in need of receiving gifts this season! Our Supports Coordinators work directly with seniors to identify home and community-based services that can assist with daily living, helping us reach those who could use extra holiday cheer!

AAAWM staff and partners are joining together in support of our 2026 Giving Tree, and we would like to give community members the chance to contribute as well. Visit www.aaawm.org/donate to make your contribution!

All donations are tax-deductible and due by Wednesday, December 2, so that we are able to deliver these gifts before the holidays!

10/30/2026

Save the Date! AARP Michigan Greater Grand Rapids is hosting a Caregiver Care Stop in the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM) parking lot!

The Caregiver Care Stop is free for all unpaid family caregivers, but registration is required.

When: Friday, November 13, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm

Where: Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan
3215 Eaglecrest Dr NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525

Why: Without ever leaving the car, family caregivers will receive a care package filled with goodies from AARP and AAAWM designed to support the caregiving journey!

Register now at aarpmi.org/carestopgr. When you register, please select one time block that works for you. You do NOT need to be an AARP member to participate.

10/28/2026

Last week, we hosted our Apple C***r Senior Social at the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM).

The event brought together older adults, caregivers, people with disabilities, and families from across our 9-county region. Community members learned more about the aging journey, met local organizations, and enjoyed c***r and donuts!

Events like these show us just how strong our community is when we come together. Thank you to our partner network for the work you do in our community. We couldn't do it without you!

Visit www.aaawm.org/support to learn what services are available in the community to support the aging journey.

10/22/2026

Today is the day!

Come join us at our Apple C***r Senior Social! Take a walk through the aging journey, meeting people and organizations that can support you along the way.

Whether you're an older adult, caregiver, or a passionate community member, we'd love to have you join us! Stop by anytime between 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm for connections, community resources, and fall fun!

• Indoors at AAAWM (3215 Eaglecrest Dr NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525)
• Free to attend
• Register: www.aaawm.org/apple-c***r

10/20/2026

Before hearing about SarahCare of Knapp's Corner, a Kent County family struggled to balance work schedules and everyday tasks with taking care of their loved one.

Since their loved one joined the Adult Day program, the family has experienced a tremendous sense of relief, gaining flexibility to run errands and attend their own appointments.

A safe, supportive, and engaging environment like that of an Adult Day program can improve quality of life through routine, socialization, nutrition, transportation, and compassionate care. Programs like SarahCare show how supportive services support caregivers and families, reaching far beyond one person.

Community partnerships and local resources help make these essential services possible. To learn more, visit www.aaawm.org/services.