A Lifeline for Caregivers: The Critical Role of Area Agencies on Aging in Pennsylvania
| Caregiving
When Ron’s wife, Margie, underwent knee replacement surgery in 2009, he never expected the ripple effect it would bring. The next few years began a difficult journey. When Margie began suffering from flu complications, she was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia. Ron and his daughter were there to become her caregivers. Ron gives credit to support from his local Area Agency on Aging (AAA), the Chester County Department of Aging, which made it possible for Ron to honor his promise to keep Margie at home until she passed away in 2022.
Connecting Through Care
Ron, a Chester County resident, first learned about local aging services through a caregiver support group in Malvern. Tara Simmons, a Care Manager with Chester County’s Department of Aging, was his first point of contact. Tara guided Ron and his family through a variety of care options.
Through Tara’s recommendations, Margie began attending an adult day center several times a week. She was going up to four days, providing her with social interaction and giving Ron time to focus on his own health. When COVID-19 shut down the day centers, Tara worked to arrange in-home care from the AAA to provide support for Margie.
Hospice eventually came to their home, with a nurse visiting weekly. Margie passed away in October 2022, after ten years of care. “With the support of Tara, the agencies she connected us to, and my daughter, I was able to keep my wife here with me,” Ron says. “I couldn’t have done it without them.”
The Power of Awareness
Ron shares information about the AAA with others in his 55+ community. “People don’t know these services exist. I try to tell them, start with the Department of Aging in your county,” he says.
Tara, who’s been in her role for over 12 years, still hears from Ron with updates about his grandchildren. “It’s about keeping that human connection,” she says. “This work isn’t just professional, it’s personal.”
Their connection is a reminder that this work extends beyond paperwork and referrals, it’s about building trust and offering comfort. For Tara and others in aging services, the impact is not just professional, it’s personal.
Learn More & Get Connected
Whether you’re a caregiver, a family member or loved one of an older adult, or an older adult yourself, AAA’s can provide countless resources to keep you connected and supported. To learn more about your local AAA, visit p4a.org for more information on the services AAAs provide.