Decatur to Host Community Chat On Aging Services

The Atlanta Regional Commission invites residents from around the region to help prioritize aging services within the Atlanta region for the next five years.

The agency is eager to “solicit new solutions and better ways to maximize funding and the delivery of services as the number of seniors in the Atlanta region continues to grow significantly,“ the ARC said in its press release.

To solicit ideas and hear from residents, ARC is launching a series of community conversations where participants will help create the first regional strategic plan for Aging Services.

The series will include a session in Decatur on Jan. 13, 2 p.m., at Central DeKalb Senior Center, 1340 McConnell Drive, Decatur.

Ideas and suggestions gathered at these events will be prioritized for inclusion in the region’s Strategic Plan at an Aging Summit scheduled for Feb. 26, 2015.

“The desire of individuals to age in place is driving the need to re-access resources and services,” said Kathryn Lawler, manager of ARC’s Aging and Health Resources Division. “We are looking for changes that address the challenges that face us; ones that can be implemented that are grounded and realistic. It is important that we identify what is working best in various communities. More specifically, we are looking for programs and projects that allow people to enjoy a high quality of life, living independently as long as possible.”

Other community conversations will be held:

• Oct. 14, 10 a.m.: Chambers at City Center, 8534 Main St., Woodstock
• Oct. 30, 2:30 p.m.: Helene Mills Senior Center, 515 John Wesley Dobbs Avenue, Atlanta
• Nov. 10, 2 p.m.: Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia, 6500 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth
• Jan. 20, 2015, 2 p.m.: Henry County-Hidden Valley Senior Center, 600 Spraggins Memorial Parkway, Stockbridge

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