As people age, their needs and abilities also evolve. This is particularly true for seniors who have chosen to age in place, and who may eventually have difficulty navigating their normal routines and activities without a little extra help.

Fortunately, there are a variety of resources for senior citizens available. However, for people who aren't familiar with where to look, it can be difficult to know what senior resource services are available. Here, we've outlined a few of the most common needs that seniors have, and where to look for help:

• Meal Programs
  Shopping for groceries, cooking, and cleaning can be laborious and expensive. For one reason or any other, many seniors face food insecurity. If you or your elderly loved one isn't receiving adequate nutrition, consider looking into meal delivery services or group meals, such as Spectrum's Meals on Wheels or dine-in Senior Meals program.  
• Transportation
  Lack of transportation can be a major impediment to seniors' ability to live independently. Many local organizations offer transportation help for seniors who can no longer drive or are not able to take public transportation.
  
• Home Repair & Modification
  Homes take a lot of work to maintain, and what's more, many homes pose a fall risk for older individuals. For seniors who are in need of assistance, some local organizations provide physical or financial help with home repairs or renovation. For example, Spectrum offers guidance on fall-proofing homes, as well as help with weatherization for people who qualify.

If you or a loved one needs help but isn't sure where to start, consider reaching out to a local organization that offers resources for the elderly. The odds are good that even if they can't assist with the specific issue at hand, they'll be able to point you in the direction of someone who can.

Spectrum Community Services is committed to improving the quality of life for low-income families, seniors, and individuals in Alameda County. Through financial assistance and other services, our goal is to support community members in building healthy, safe, and independent lives. Visit our website for more information, or contact us to learn about current volunteer opportunities. We can't wait to work with you!