Advocacy, Engagement, and Opportunity Across Colorado
Colorado Commission on Aging
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Jan 02, 2026
Colorado - Northern Colorado
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Advocacy, Engagement, and Opportunity Across Colorado
Colorado’s population is aging rapidly, and with that growth comes an increased need for thoughtful policies, inclusive programs, and meaningful opportunities for older adults to remain active, engaged, and supported. From Denver to Northern Colorado, seniors contribute wisdom, experience, and leadership that strengthen communities—when the right structures are in place to support them.
The Colorado Commission on Aging (CCOA) plays a vital role in shaping how the state responds to the needs and interests of older adults. Through advocacy, education, and collaboration, the Commission helps ensure that aging Coloradans are not only cared for, but heard.
What Is the Colorado Commission on Aging?
The Colorado Commission on Aging is a governor-appointed advisory body that works to improve the quality of life for older adults across the state. Rather than providing direct services, the Commission focuses on policy guidance, public engagement, and recommendations that influence statewide aging initiatives.
Its work centers on:
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Advising state leaders on aging-related issues
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Supporting policies that promote independence and dignity
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Encouraging community engagement and inclusion
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Elevating the voices of older adults and caregivers
By acting as a bridge between seniors, policymakers, and service organizations, the Commission helps create systems that reflect real community needs.
Why Advocacy Matters for Colorado Seniors
As people live longer, aging impacts nearly every area of public life—housing, transportation, healthcare, workforce participation, and community planning. Without intentional advocacy, older adults can be overlooked in decision-making processes.
The Colorado Commission on Aging ensures that:
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Seniors’ perspectives inform policy decisions
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Barriers to participation are identified and addressed
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Programs reflect the diversity of Colorado’s aging population
This advocacy is especially important in regions like Northern Colorado, where rapid growth and changing demographics affect access to resources and services.
Kristine Burrows, who works closely with the Commission’s mission, emphasizes the importance of representation:
“Older adults deserve a seat at the table. When their voices are included, communities become stronger, more inclusive, and better prepared for the future.”
Promoting Active and Engaged Aging
Aging well is about more than healthcare—it’s about staying connected, purposeful, and involved. The Commission supports initiatives that encourage older adults to remain active participants in their communities.
This includes promoting:
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Lifelong learning opportunities
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Civic and volunteer engagement
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Age-friendly community planning
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Access to arts, culture, and recreation
These efforts align with the values of many Colorado seniors, who want to continue contributing their skills and knowledge long after retirement.
Supporting Communities Across Northern Colorado
Northern Colorado communities—from Fort Collins and Greeley to Longmont and Loveland—face unique challenges and opportunities as their senior populations grow. The Colorado Commission on Aging helps bring attention to regional concerns while supporting statewide collaboration.
By working alongside local agencies, councils, and organizations, the Commission helps:
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Identify gaps in services
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Share best practices across regions
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Encourage innovation in aging services
This collaborative approach strengthens local efforts while ensuring alignment with broader state goals.
Addressing Equity and Inclusion in Aging
Colorado’s older adult population is diverse, encompassing different cultures, languages, income levels, and abilities. The Commission prioritizes equity and inclusion, recognizing that aging experiences vary widely.
Key focus areas include:
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Reducing disparities in access to services
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Supporting underserved and rural communities
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Promoting culturally responsive programs
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Addressing social isolation and loneliness
By advocating for inclusive policies, the Commission helps ensure all older adults—regardless of background—have opportunities to age with dignity.
Collaboration with the Aging Network
The Colorado Commission on Aging works closely with Area Agencies on Aging, nonprofits, healthcare providers, and community organizations. This coordination strengthens the aging network and supports more effective use of resources.
Through listening sessions, public meetings, and advisory input, the Commission gathers real-world insights that inform recommendations and initiatives. This feedback loop helps align policy with lived experience.
Why Awareness Matters for Families and Caregivers
Many families are unaware of the systems and advocacy efforts working behind the scenes to support aging adults. Understanding the role of the Colorado Commission on Aging can empower families to engage more actively in discussions about aging policy and community planning.
For caregivers, advocacy efforts can lead to:
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Improved access to support services
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Better transportation and housing options
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More age-friendly community design
These outcomes benefit not only seniors, but entire families and communities.
Connecting Through Seniors Blue Book
Seniors Blue Book serves as a trusted resource for families and professionals navigating the aging landscape. By highlighting organizations like the Colorado Commission on Aging, it helps raise awareness of advocacy and engagement opportunities available to older adults across the state.
By exploring the Seniors Blue Book listing for the Colorado Commission on Aging, readers can:
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Learn about statewide aging initiatives
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Understand how advocacy supports senior well-being
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Discover opportunities for engagement and involvement
This connection encourages informed participation and community awareness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Colorado Commission on Aging provide direct services?
No. The Commission focuses on advocacy, policy guidance, and advisory work rather than direct service delivery.
Who serves on the Commission?
Members are appointed by the Governor and represent diverse backgrounds and regions across Colorado.
Can the public participate in Commission activities?
Yes. Meetings and listening sessions are often open to the public.
How does the Commission support Northern Colorado?
By elevating regional concerns and collaborating with local aging organizations.
Why is advocacy important for aging communities?
Advocacy ensures policies and systems reflect the real needs and experiences of older adults.
Building a More Age-Friendly Colorado
Aging is a shared experience that touches families, communities, and public systems alike. Through advocacy, engagement, and thoughtful collaboration, the Colorado Commission on Aging helps shape a future where older adults across Denver and Northern Colorado can thrive.
Those interested in learning more about statewide aging initiatives are encouraged to visit the Seniors Blue Book listing for the Colorado Commission on Aging and explore how advocacy helps build stronger, more inclusive communities.
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When an older adult spends most weekdays alone, families may need more than a place for them to go. They may also be juggling transportation, appointments, and help at home. TRU PACE in Lafayette offers a day center as part of a program that coordinates those needs for eligible older adults. What Are Adult Day Services?Adult day services offer daytime support outside the home. Depending on the program, participants may spend time with peers, eat a meal, take part in activities, or receive help with daily needs. Some centers accept people directly. The Lafayette TRU PACE center serves people enrolled in its broader Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly. TRU PACE in LafayettePhone: 303-665-0115TRU PACEs Lafayette center is at 2593 Park Lane. The program coordinates medical and social services and arranges transportation to the day center and medical visits as needed. Ask the enrollment team what a typical center day includes, how often a participant might attend, and how the team decides what support to arrange at home. Who May QualifyPACE applicants must be at least 55, live in the programs service area, meet the states standard for nursing home-level care, and be able to live safely in the community with PACE support at enrollment. Ask how enrollment would affect access to current doctors and prescription coverage before making a decision. Why This Matters in LafayetteWhen family members already drive someone to several appointments a week, a coordinated schedule can change who needs to be available and when. Ask how pickup would work at the persons Lafayette address and who to call if a ride or appointment changes. How to Get Started1. Ask for an Eligibility ReviewCall TRU PACE. Have the participants ZIP code, current coverage, and a short list of the help they need. 2. Ask to Visit the CenterFind out what the participant might do on a center day, how transportation works, and what changes to their current care arrangements enrollment would involve. Related Seniors Blue Book CategoriesCare Management Transportation Respite Care
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Senior ActivitiesColorado Commission on Aging: Championing the Well-Being of Older ColoradansColorado is home to a growing and vibrant population of older adults who enrich communities across the state through their wisdom, experience, and continued contributions. As this population grows, it becomes increasingly important to ensure that older adults have access to the services, resources, and opportunities needed to age with dignity and independence. The Colorado Commission on Aging (CCOA) plays a vital role in supporting this mission. As the states primary advisory body on aging-related issues, the CCOA works to guide policies, programs, and initiatives that enhance the lives of older Coloradans.What Is the Colorado Commission on Aging?The Colorado Commission on Aging is a governor-appointed, citizen-led, multidisciplinary commission dedicated to advising state leadership on issues that affect older adults. Members of the commission come from a wide range of professional backgrounds and personal experiences, representing both the public and private sectors. The commission also reflects the geographic and cultural diversity of communities across Colorado.By bringing together experts, advocates, community leaders, and professionals who work closely with older adults, the CCOA is able to examine aging-related challenges from multiple perspectives. Members often include individuals with expertise in healthcare, housing, social services, transportation, caregiving, financial planning, and community engagement.This diverse representation ensures that the needs of older adults are thoughtfully considered and that recommendations reflect the realities faced by seniors and their families throughout the state.A Mission Focused on Healthy and Dignified AgingThe mission of the Colorado Commission on Aging is to promote the well-being, independence, and dignity of older adults throughout Colorado. The commission works closely with the Governors office, the Colorado General Assembly, and multiple state agencies to help shape policies that support aging populations.Through research, collaboration, and public engagement, the CCOA contributes to guiding programs, services, policies, procedures, and resources related to aging. Its work touches many aspects of life that are essential for older adults, including:Health and long-term care accessHousing and community living optionsTransportation and mobilityNutrition and food security programsCaregiver support and educationFinancial stability and retirement securitySocial connection and community engagementProtection from elder abuse, neglect, and exploitationBy helping coordinate these areas, the CCOA ensures that Colorado remains a place where older adults can continue living active, meaningful lives.Advising State Leaders and PolicymakersA key responsibility of the Colorado Commission on Aging is advising policymakers about emerging issues affecting older adults. The commission studies demographic trends, community needs, and service gaps that may impact seniors across the state.These insights help guide legislative decisions, funding priorities, and statewide initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for older adults. The CCOA also provides recommendations on how existing programs can be strengthened and expanded to better meet community needs.Through this advisory role, the commission ensures that the voices of older Coloradans are represented in important conversations about public policy and community planning.Guiding the Lifelong Colorado Plan for AgingOne of the most significant responsibilities of the Colorado Commission on Aging is helping guide the implementation of the Lifelong Colorado Plan for Aging. This strategic statewide action plan serves as a roadmap for improving services and opportunities for older adults.The Lifelong Colorado Plan focuses on creating a state where people can live well at every stage of life. The plan addresses several key areas that impact aging, including health, housing, transportation, community inclusion, economic security, and caregiving support.By collaborating with state agencies, community organizations, and local governments, the CCOA helps ensure that the plans goals are implemented in meaningful ways across Colorado communities.Historical BackgroundThe Colorado Commission on Aging was originally established in the 1960s through the Older Coloradans Act. The legislation recognized the importance of creating a dedicated body to focus on the needs of older residents and to provide guidance to state leaders.Since its creation, the commission has worked to strengthen aging programs, advocate for older adults, and promote collaboration among organizations serving seniors. Over time, the needs of Colorados aging population have evolved, leading to new initiatives and expanded responsibilities for the commission.Modernization of the Older Coloradans ActIn 2022, the Colorado legislature passed House Bill 22-1035, known as the Modernization of the Older Coloradans Act. This legislation reorganized the Colorado Commission on Aging and introduced important changes designed to strengthen Colorados approach to aging services.The modernization effort included several key improvements:Expanded Commission MembershipThe number of commission members increased from 17 to 19, allowing for broader representation from communities across the state. This expansion ensures a wider range of perspectives and expertise within the commission.Colorado Department of Human Services LiaisonA liaison from the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS) was appointed to serve as the primary contact for the commission. This role strengthens communication and collaboration between the CCOA and state government.Technical Advisory CommitteeThe legislation also created a technical advisory committee composed of representatives from key state agencies. This committee provides subject-matter expertise and helps ensure that programs impacting older adults are coordinated across departments.Creation of the Lifelong Colorado InitiativeHouse Bill 22-1035 also established the Lifelong Colorado Initiative, which supports the implementation of the Lifelong Colorado Plan for Aging and promotes long-term strategies that help communities become more age-friendly.Celebrating and Recognizing Older ColoradansIn addition to advising policymakers and guiding statewide initiatives, the Colorado Commission on Aging also recognizes and celebrates the contributions of older adults throughout the state.Celebrating a Lifetime Centenarian CelebrationOne of the commissions most inspiring initiatives is the Celebrating a Lifetime Centenarian Celebration, which honors Coloradans who reach the remarkable milestone of turning 100 years old or more.This annual recognition program celebrates the lives, achievements, and contributions of centenarians throughout Colorado. Each honoree receives a certificate signed by the Governor in recognition of their lifetime of experience and service to their communities.The event highlights the stories of individuals who have witnessed a century of history and change, while continuing to inspire younger generations with their resilience and wisdom.Families, friends, and community members are encouraged to nominate their favorite centenarian for recognition. For more information or to submit a centenarian for this special celebration, individuals can call 720-724-3177.Excellence in Aging Allen Buckingham Senior Leadership Legacy AwardThe Colorado Commission on Aging also recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to improving the lives of older adults through the Excellence in Aging Allen Buckingham Senior Leadership Legacy Award.This award honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, compassion, and dedication in serving older adults in Colorado. Recipients may be professionals, volunteers, caregivers, advocates, or community leaders who have made a meaningful impact in the field of aging.The award is presented annually during the CCOA Excellence in Aging event, where the selected recipient receives the Allen Buckingham Senior Leadership Legacy Award in recognition of their commitment to improving the lives of seniors across the state.Those interested in submitting a nomination or requesting a nomination form can contact the commission at 720-724-3177Strengthening Communities Across ColoradoThe work of the Colorado Commission on Aging has a statewide impact. From urban centers like Denver and Colorado Springs to rural mountain communities and small towns, the commissions efforts help ensure that older adults have access to essential resources and opportunities.By fostering collaboration among government agencies, nonprofit organizations, healthcare providers, and community groups, the CCOA strengthens the network of services that support older Coloradans.Looking Toward the FutureColorados population of older adults continues to grow rapidly. By 2030, adults aged 60 and older are expected to make up a significant portion of the states population. This demographic shift makes the work of the Colorado Commission on Aging more important than ever.Through strategic planning, policy guidance, and community engagement, the commission is helping prepare Colorado for a future where aging is supported, respected, and celebrated.By promoting thoughtful policies, recognizing community leadership, and celebrating the achievements of older adults, the Colorado Commission on Aging helps ensure that Colorado remains a place where people can live full and meaningful lives at every stage of aging.