Home. Every inch of space can hold invaluable memories. For many, as they age, it can be very difficult to think of leaving the home that means so much to them. Often, with assistance, these residents can live happily at home for a longer period of time without sacrificing health or safety.

Lenawee County residents, John and Helen Brown, have been able to enjoy many years together in their home due to several services they receive from the Lenawee Department on Aging (LDA). Helen, 86, who has survived a stroke and a heart attack, and John, 98, who has experienced two strokes and three heart attacks in the last six years.

“We’ve been using the Department on Aging for the last six or seven years,” said Helen. “We have home-delivered meals, a young lady who helps with health care, and a homemaker. I’m very grateful for all three of them.”

The Browns, like many seniors, take pride remaining in their own home, as opposed to transitioning into an assisted living or another special care facility. Often the difference between seniors staying in their homes or not relies on these services that help them with healthy meals, medical assistance, housekeeping, and more.

“Rather than go into an assisted living facility, or perhaps something even more complicated than that, we’ve been able to stay in our own home. These services allow us to live a more normal life, in our own home.”

With continuing health issues and children living on opposite coasts of the country who are unable to help the Brown’s daily needs, the LDA continues to make a significant impact on their lives.

“If these services were not available, or had to be discontinued, I’m not quite sure what route we would have to take,” said Helen. “Perhaps if our general health deteriorated too much more we might have to go into assisted living, which neither one of us want. I don’t know what we would do.”

In addition to the health and home care assistance the Browns receive, the LDA and seven senior centers also offer a wide range of social activities and education and fitness classes aimed at keeping our seniors living healthy and active lives.

For more information, stay tuned to the Lenawee County blog or visit Lenawee Department on Aging here: http://www.lenaweeseniors.org/