Age Well Arrowhead Supports Senior Independence

Supportive Services Enhance Quality of Life for Seniors Amid Challenges

DULUTH — In the face of the ongoing challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, age-related obstacles have intensified for many seniors, prompting innovative responses from community organizations. A poignant example is the experience of 90-year-old Bethel Anderson, a resident at Ecumen Lakeshore, who found herself in need of assistance after giving up her car. Faced with difficulties accessing essential services, Anderson discovered the grocery delivery service offered by Age Well Arrowhead through a brochure, which proved to be a turning point in her daily life.

“I saw that and thought, that’s great because it was so hard to go to the store,” Anderson remarked. With her son and daughter-in-law managing their careers and raising five children, she felt the grocery delivery service was the perfect solution. This service allowed her to regain independence while freeing her family to focus on spending quality time together, rather than routine chores.

According to Jacob Dreyer, Executive Director of Age Well Arrowhead, the organization’s mission is to enrich the lives of seniors by providing support services that facilitate family interaction. “Getting extra help isn’t a negative thing,” Dreyer emphasized. “Now, when family members visit, they can concentrate on enjoyable moments, such as celebrating new additions to the family, rather than being preoccupied with household tasks.”

For Anderson, the grocery and transportation services provided by Age Well are not just about logistical support. They represent vital lifelines for social engagement. The staff and volunteers who deliver groceries often take time to converse, broadening her social interactions beyond the confines of her apartment. “I look forward to my grocery deliveries and doctor visits because they are major sources of my socialization,” she shared.

During her medical appointments, the Age Well staff assist by providing transportation and companionship, ensuring her comfort throughout the process. Anderson fondly recalls her driver’s thoughtful gestures, such as ensuring she could enjoy scenic views of Lake Superior during their drives. These small acts of kindness significantly enhance her daily life and emotional well-being.

Age Well Arrowhead offers a range of services tailored to individual client needs, including homemaking, respite care, lawn care, transportation, grocery delivery, and companionship. As consultant Kelly Friedges explained, the initial consultation focuses on assessing the specific needs of each client, allowing for a customizable support system.

“Our services don’t require a minimum commitment,” Friedges noted. “We can assist with tasks from basic snow clearance in winter to more extensive in-home care, ensuring that seniors can remain in their homes comfortably and safely.”

Friedges initially became involved with Age Well while volunteering for a public health class at the University of Minnesota Duluth. Her connections with clients like Anderson inspired her to pursue a career in community health support, emphasizing the benefit of personal interactions in enhancing quality of life for seniors.

For those seeking more information about the services provided by Age Well Arrowhead, further details can be found at www.agewellarrowhead.com.

The support provided by organizations like Age Well Arrowhead serves as a critical component in sustaining the independence and well-being of seniors, especially during challenging times. By fostering a strong community connection and delivering essential services, these initiatives ensure that many seniors can age with dignity and support, enriching both their lives and those of their families.