From Community Council to Aging Matters in Brevard
The name “Brevard County Commission on Ageing” can be misleading because the primary senior services agency is not a government commission but a private, not-for-profit corporation. Originally incorporated as the Community Services Council of Brevard in 1965, the organization changed its name to Aging Matters in Brevard in 2012 to better reflect its singular focus on the aging population. This evolution represents a strategic shift toward a more focused mission and brand identity while continuing to honor its decades-long legacy of community service.
The Mission Behind the Name
Aging Matters in Brevard's core mission is to support the independence, health, safety, and overall quality of life for the elderly and disabled adults in the county. The organization's vision is for Brevard to be nationally recognized as a community that truly advocates for and supports its seniors. This philosophy is brought to life through a compassionate approach, ensuring clients are treated with dignity and respect. The welfare of every client is of paramount importance to the agency and its many dedicated volunteers and staff.
Key Services and Support Programs
Aging Matters in Brevard offers a robust portfolio of services designed to help seniors age in place safely and with dignity. These programs are often funded through a mix of federal, state, and private resources, and some may have a co-pay or donation-based structure.
Nutrition and Food Security
- Meals on Wheels: Provides home-delivered, nutritionally balanced hot meals to homebound seniors, often accompanied by a friendly volunteer's check-in.
- Seniors at Lunch: Offers congregate dining at various neighborhood sites, giving older adults a chance for social interaction and a hot meal.
- The Brevard County Kitchen: Prepares meals for the above programs as well as for community events, demonstrating a commitment to addressing food insecurity.
Transportation
- Senior TranServe: Individualized, door-to-door transportation provided by volunteers for medical appointments, grocery shopping, and other important errands.
- Vets Driving Vets: Matches veteran volunteers with non-driving veterans to ensure they can access crucial services, including trips to the VA Clinic.
In-Home and Caregiver Support
- In-Home Care Services: Provides assistance with personal care, light housekeeping, and meal preparation for seniors in their homes.
- Respite Care: Offers temporary relief for family caregivers, available in-home or at a facility.
- Sunflower House (Caregiver Resource Center): A central resource for information, education, support groups, and counseling for caregivers.
Home Safety and Wellness
- Senior Assistance Program: Provides minor home maintenance and modifications, such as installing grab bars, to enhance home safety.
- Emergency Alert Systems: Offers a means for seniors to get immediate help in case of an emergency.
How to Access Services
Potential clients can initiate the process by calling the agency to schedule an over-the-phone assessment. This evaluation helps determine needs and eligibility for state and federally funded programs. Private pay options are also available for those not eligible for subsidized services.
The Importance of Volunteers
Volunteerism is the lifeblood of Aging Matters in Brevard. Programs like the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) allow individuals 55 and older to contribute their skills to local non-profits and governmental organizations. With more than 800 volunteers, the agency can deliver compassionate care to hundreds of seniors annually.
Aging Matters in Brevard vs. Other Senior Care Options
| Feature | Aging Matters in Brevard | Private Home Care Company | Family/Informal Care |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost Structure | Federal/state funding, donation-based, sliding scale, and private pay options | Primarily private pay, often higher cost | Unpaid labor; potential for financial strain on family |
| Service Scope | Comprehensive programs including meals, transport, in-home care, and caregiver support | Focused on in-home care, companionship, and medical support | Varies significantly based on family capacity and availability |
| Service Delivery | Combination of paid staff and dedicated volunteers | Paid, trained staff provides consistent services | Often inconsistent and emotionally taxing for caregivers |
| Eligibility | Often income-based for government-funded services | Open to anyone who can afford the cost | Available to those with family willing and able to help |
| Funding Source | Diverse sources (federal, state, donations) | Primarily client payments | Self-funded by family or informal network |
Conclusion
The organization formerly known as the Brevard County Commission on Ageing is now Aging Matters in Brevard, a powerful force for senior support in the community. By providing a crucial safety net of services from nutrition and transportation to in-home and caregiver support, the agency enables countless seniors to maintain their independence and dignity. Through the dedication of its staff and a vast network of volunteers, Aging Matters in Brevard remains committed to its mission of enhancing the quality of life for the county's aging population. To learn more about their incredible work, visit their official website Aging Matters in Brevard.
