Jordan Brushia is a Program Coordinator for El Dorado County Area Aging Agency, (AAA).The AAA assists older adults, 60 years and older, and their families with resources and solutions, supporting a fuller, happier, healthier life. The goal of this network of agencies is to keep seniors living independently in their own homes by supporting both elders and their caregivers.
 
El Dorado County has ample need for these services.  For example, 15% of our population is between ages 65 and 74, inclusive, compared to 9% statewide.  Our County also has 26% of our seniors at an income level below $30,000, considered to be at low- and moderate-income levels.
 
The EDC AAA provides referrals to seniors who call in on their helplines in the following areas: 1) Nutrition Services, which includes Home Delivery of meals and Community Food Banks or Kitchens;  2) Legal Services, which includes Senior Legal Services, Local Fiduciaries, NorCal Legal Services and EDC Law Libraries for free or for a donation the client can afford; 3) Housing and Homelessness, which provides referrals to Apartment Listings, Board and Cares, Skilled Nursing Facilities, Assisted Living and Long Term Care Facilities; and 4) Caregiver Support Services:  including Family Caregiver Support Services, In-Home Care Agencies, In-Home Supportive Services and The Club or other Senior Day Programs.
 
Volunteer opportunities include Meal Delivery Drivers; Information & Assistance (I&A) Office (referrals, outreach, wellness checks); Senior Shuttle Attendant and Driver; Senior Health Education Class Leader; and Senior Peer Counseling.  For help or more information, the Senior Help Line (reaching the I&A Office) is 530-621-6369 or 800-510-2020.