By Paula Wolfson, Avenidas Care Partners Manager
I was in the lobby of Avenidas when a new visitor walked up to the front desk, made eye contact with all of the staff, and proclaimed, “I have never been here before. I‘ve lived locally over 50 years. I guess I am old. What can you do for me?”
As the Manager of the Avenidas Care Partners program, which provides social work services, and as a newly minted 65 year old myself, I smiled and said, “I can answer that. We are the gift that keeps on giving. Follow me.”
After we toured the building and reviewed all the listings of the recreational, health, and wellness courses Avenidas offers, plus our transportation, aging-in-place and handyman services, and the adult day health center we run in Mountain View, we had a private conversation in my office. I asked, “What brings you here today? Has something changed?“
She said, “Yes. I am active and enjoy people but my husband is slowing down. He seldom wants to be with others. He might be changing. And I might need help but I am not yet a caregiver. I have heard for years about how helpful Avenidas is, but I don’t know if I belong here.”
“Everyone belongs here!” was my answer. We encourage members to bring their families to our events because we support and promote inter-generational dialogue. We have an array of inclusive programs, innovative courses and events, plus counseling services, volunteer opportunities, and strategies to help you stay independent and to secure needed help when challenged by changes in your health.
We do not believe that aging means giving up. All you have to do is just walk through our doors and let us know what you need. We will help you and your family, and that is our gift.