The Independence Center

Older Individuals with Blindness (OIB) services for the blind and visually impaired (for individuals that are 55 and above) are available through the Colorado Springs Independence Center and are partially funded by a Federal grant. The Center provides services in the area of advocacy, peer counseling/ leadership training, information and referral, assistive equipment access and technology rental (through Silver Key), support groups and independent living skills. Their Outreach programs serve El Paso and Teller counties. The Center opened an Accessibility Store in mid-October, 2010 for visually impaired, blind, hearing impaired, deaf and mobility products.For more information please call The Colorado Springs Independence Center 719-471-8181

I just wish I could stay in my own home. Its something that nearly every older adult has said at some point. Staying in your own home as you get older is called aging in place, and, according to reports from the AARP (American Association of Retired Persons), almost 90% of older adults surveyed would rather stay in their own home as they age.Of course, everyones needs are different, and some individuals may require more hands-on care and assistance than others. In most cases, though, aging in place is the best possible choice for seniors to continue living their best life while remaining in an environment that is comfortable, familiar, and safe.As more Americans age, it is becoming even more important to have a plan for care. Numerous studies and surveys have shown that receiving care at home leads to better outcomes in almost every aspect. Staying in your own home allows a level of comfort and independence that can be difficult to find in another setting.According to a study by the American Society on Aging (ASA) approximately 63% of seniors over the age of 75 say that their homes emotional value means more to them than its monetary value!With a few minor modifications and a little bit of adjustment, many times seniors can remain in their home. There are numerous options for choosing a caregiver from an outside care provider to friends and family members who may already be providing the care.For many people, knowing that a loved one is in a skilled nursing facility because they are financially unable to take care of them can be heartbreaking. Fortunately, in Colorado, family members and friends can be paid caregivers, allowing many who have the ability and desire to care for a loved one to do so.Benefits to aging in place include greater independence, comfort, and having a healthier and safer living environment. Home is where the heart is! For more information visit The Independence Center website at www.the-ic.org,Editors Note: This article was submitted by The Independence Center, who can be reached at 719-471-8181, or by email info@the-ic.org. 

Aging in place as a Veteran has its own unique challenges. A program at the Veterans Administration (VA) is stepping in to help.Veteran Directed Care is a unique program available through the VA that allows veterans and their families more control over the care they receive. Unlike traditional healthcare programs, Veteran Directed Care puts the power back into the hands of those who have served our country. Veterans can choose their own caregivers, decide on the specific services they need, and even manage their own budgets. This personalized approach not only ensures that Veterans receive the care they deserve, but also gives them a sense of empowerment and autonomy. Within this program, Veterans and their families can tailor their care to meet their individual needs, providing a higher level of satisfaction and overall well-being.Veteran Directed Care empowers veterans and their families in several ways. Firstly, it allows them to have more control over the type and quality of care they receive. They can choose their own caregivers, ensuring that they feel comfortable and supported in their care journey. This sense of choice and autonomy can greatly improve their overall well-being. Secondly, veteran directed care gives veterans and their families the power to manage their own budgets. They can prioritize the services that are most important to them, ensuring that they are getting the care they truly need. This financial empowerment can greatly reduce stress and provide a sense of security. Overall, veteran directed care puts the power back into the hands of those who have served our country, allowing them to live their lives with dignity and independence.The program doesnt require a service-related injury or disability and doesnt impact Social Security or Social Security Disability benefits. Your local-area Veterans Administrations offices can assist with any questions about the Veteran Directed Care program as well as other benefits that are available to Veterans.   Editors Note: This article was submitted by The Independence Center.  They can be reached at 719-471-8181, or by email info@the-ic.org.