The halls are full of schoolchildren once again – their minds absorbing the wisdom they’ll need to lead us into a bright future. But learning doesn’t stop there. Resources abound for learning and growth at any age. And, at Valley Program for Aging Services (VPAS), school is always in session.
Part of a nationwide network of area agencies on aging, VPAS is a nonprofit organization empowering adults 60 and over with the resources and opportunities they need to lead engaged lives. Here are the ABCs of VPAS, which has been serving local residents throughout the Shenandoah Valley for over 50 years.
Access - A neighbor once wrote, “VPAS staff are part of the little chain of people that make my life possible.” VPAS provides access to programs designed to help people age in place successfully: case management, group and home delivered meals, senior transportation, emergency services and many other programs tailored to individual needs and goals. This is important because, according to a 2021 AARP study, more than three-quarters of adults in their 50s want to remain in their homes as they age. Living independently allows adults to continue enjoying what they value on their own terms, giving them dignity and hope.
Belonging - VPAS is committed to being an organization where all are welcome. Voluntary donations help VPAS support the increasing number of older adults in the area, but there is no cost to participate in programs or receive services. Older adults, more of whom are now living alone, don’t always have adequate support systems in place for dealing with a chronic illness or simple daily needs like grocery shopping or transportation to medical appointments. VPAS is there for these neighbors, but also creates a sense of belonging through VPAS Cafes, Aging with Confidence workshops, concerts, health and wellness classes, shared meals, and more.
Care - Once accessed, VPAS provides a supportive network to assist adults – and their loved ones - as needs change over time. VPAS case managers often work with multiple generations of adults within the same family, forming a unique and special circle of care. Family caregivers are the backbone of the long-term care system in this country, and VPAS provides support especially for them - offering classes, support groups, care partner programming, lending libraries, conferences, dementia care kits, referrals and more. “We address the specific needs of caregivers, many of whom fell into their role without any warning and are really struggling,” said Heather Lawrence, VPAS caregiver support coordinator. “As we are able to meet their needs, it boosts quality of life for their loved ones, too.”
That support system, along with their growing confidence in aging, is helping more and more neighbors continue to learn and grow into some of the best years of their lives. For more information about VPAS, visit vpas.info or call (540) 261-7474.
