Asheville, North Carolina boasts a variety of highlights for residents and visitors. Beyond the beautiful scenery and bustling businesses, Asheville also has a variety of resources specifically for the seniors that call the area home. If you or a loved one are over the age of 60, be sure to take advantage of one or all of the resources throughout the Asheville area. Get started with improved health and socialization by beginning your research with our list of resources that you may not have realized were right at your fingertips.
- Area Agency on Aging
Your one-stop shop for all things senior-focused is the Area Agency on Aging. The Asheville organization’s mission is to provide advocacy, assistance, and answers. You can find almost anything here, from a list of senior living communities in the area to volunteers who will help you navigate Medicare.
- Alzheimer’s Association
The western chapter of North Carolina’s Alzheimer’s Association offers a variety of caregiver support groups throughout the Asheville area. Groups meet three times each month. You can find more information on the master schedule here.
- Meals on Wheels
Many seniors who are unable to reliably and safely get to the grocery store or other meal options find a sense of joy and relief during Meals on Wheels delivery. More than 500 local seniors currently receive meals on weekdays, and each nutritious meal is delivered by a caring volunteer.
- Memory Cafe
Seniors with memory challenges can benefit greatly from routine and socialization. They can find both, along with a hot meal, at Memory Cafes throughout the Asheville area. The First Baptist Church in Asheville hosts a Memory Cafe on the third Thursday of the month, from 1 p.m- 3 p.m. Call (828) 252-4781 for more information.
- Senior Community Services Employment Program
Seniors over the age of 55 who meet certain requirements are eligible for employment placement and support. This program is wonderful for Asheville seniors who aren’t quite ready to retire yet or who are looking to learn new skills.
- Senior Opportunity Center
Run through the Asheville Park District, the Senior Opportunity Center is nestled downtown and is easily accessible for seniors of all abilities. Enjoy programs and events, as well as meals and trips, all planned with the active Asheville senior in mind.
- Asheville Community Yoga
Practicing yoga can build strength, endurance, and flexibility for anyone of any age. However, seniors who participate in specialized yoga classes can find even more benefits, including relief from arthritis pain and increased balance. Asheville Community Yoga offers yoga classes specifically for seniors throughout the week.
- Project C.A.R.E
Originally developed and tested in North Carolina, Project C.A.R.E. (Caregiver Alternatives to Running on Empty) is now nationally recognized as a best practice in senior services. This initiative provides a specially trained senior advisor to families who are attempting to navigate caring for their loved one who has dementia or memory challenges.
- Library Branches
Asheville boasts multiple library branches throughout the area, all with an extensive selection of books, music, movies, and more. Consider an audio book if reading is difficult, or try out a book club discussion or other activity to meet some new friends. Their event calendar is packed full of options for seniors to enjoy.
- Arbor Terrace of Asheville
Senior living communities are excellent places to turn to when seeking senior-specific resources. The team at Arbor Terrace of Asheville is well versed in assisted living and memory care topics, and they offer community events throughout the calendar year. Call for information about this thriving community. The team there can set you up with a full tour to experience the services their assisted living and memory care communities offer to residents.
Asheville is a wonderful place to retire, and seniors here love the options they have to become involved. Whether you have lived here for years or are new to the area, be sure you are familiar with the senior resources throughout the city.
