(Cass Co.) Healthy Cass County recently hosted a community discussion focused on redefining senior services in rural Iowa.
Cass Health Community Wellness Coordinator Grace McAfee says the conversation focused on bringing people together to look at what resources already exist, what gaps remain, and how local organizations can better support older adults.
The discussion focused on ways to help seniors stay connected, active and informed. McAfee says many services and activities are already available across Cass County, but not everyone knows about them.
Ideas discussed included better promotion of events such as bingo nights, card games, community meals and other local gatherings. Community partners also talked about cross-promoting events and working together so older adults have more opportunities to socialize and access resources.
McAfee says one of the biggest takeaways was the collaboration that happened after the discussion, as organizations and businesses shared resources with each other and looked for ways to work together moving forward.
The next steps include improving communication and marketing efforts aimed at older adults, while continuing to build partnerships among local organizations.
