Council on Aging’s (COA) 2019 annual report is now available to the public.
We made some significant updates to the report this year. First and foremost is a name change. No longer is it an “annual report” – although you will still see the same financial and program information as in the past – but an “impact report.” Our focus is to illustrate the significant impact our programs and services make on our region.
We’ve also changed the size of the report to better meet the needs of our readers. It is smaller and more streamlined, which makes is easier for readers to comprehend how the facts and figures related to our programs and services translate into the real, tangible impact we have on seniors, caregivers and the business community in our region.
Readers will find stories of five families who have been impacted by COA programs. These emotional stories call attention to the commitment and sacrifice of local caregivers while also revealing the broader impact of COA on our community. These are caregivers who are committed to carrying out their loved-one’s wishes, even while juggling careers and child-rearing. Because of Council on Aging, these caregivers can go to work each day knowing their loved one is safe and cared for. The stress and worry that often goes along with caregiving may still be there, but the burden is lightened and they can focus on their careers, family responsibilities and other important parts of their lives. Readers may scan a QR code to watch each caregiver tell his or her full story in a video.
Clearly illustrated in graphic format in the report are significant 2019 impact numbers, for example:
- 26,121 seniors and people with disabilities remained independent in their homes with our help
- COA provided 1.5 million meals through home-delivered and congregate meal programs
- We fulfilled 50,329 requests for information and referral
- Federal and state funds allocated by COA provided legal assistance to 1,107 seniors, long-term care ombudsman services to 9,746 seniors, and Alzheimer’s education to 3,521 caregivers, among other services
The report continues to include yearly highlights. During 2019, some of these included;
- The FastTrack Home program continued to grow, helping more seniors successfully transition from hospitals or nursing homes to their homes with meals, transportation and other supportive services.
- COA conducted an innovative “care census” research project in which we partnered with area businesses to better understand the impact caregiving has on our region’s workforce.
- COA received an Access and Mobility Partnership Grant from the Federal Transit Authority. We will use the funds to improve transportation options and service for area seniors.
- Requests for Proposals issued by COA to service providers who deliver our in-home and community-based services are yielding $320,000 in savings to the Elderly Services Programs.
To read the full report, click here. Contact us to receive a paper copy of the report.