Commission on Aging Priority Funding Areas
Steeped in history, beauty and a welcoming spirit, Ridgefield’s quality of life ranking is among the very highest nationwide. Charged with understanding the needs of Ridgefield seniors and coordinating programs to meet those needs, with a “no senior left behind” motto, we identify the following priority funding focus areas:
Behavioral Health
We aim to elevate support for seniors grappling with behavioral health challenges by:
- empowering social service professionals to deliver personalized support services
- integrating pet therapy services
- delivering post-care community paramedic follow-up
This multidisciplinary approach is intended to enable early intervention, foster holistic well-being, and achieve sustained long-term recovery across the community in need.
Digital Divide
We aim to reduce or eliminate disparities in access to information and communication technologies among seniors. The intent of this initiative is to foster social interaction and empower isolated seniors through a connected and inclusive community and use the power of technology to bring seamless community engagement opportunities right to the point of need and into the homes of Ridgefield senior citizens, thereby creating a new robust option to overcome loneliness and social isolation so common to seniors today.
Emergency Assistance
This priority focus area is dedicated to ensuring the well-being of vulnerable senior citizens facing relentless crippling financial constraints. By providing essential support services for heating, electricity, medical assistance, physical activity and recreation, and other necessities, we aim to create a safety net that preserves the dignity and comfort of seniors living with illness, disability, and other life challenges.
Food Insecurity
Overcoming the scourge of food insecurity among seniors, we seek resources to implement new initiatives that provide nutritious meals, support community gardens, and develop sustainable solutions to ensure their well being. Our aim is to enhance the quality of life for all seniors and foster a healthier and more resilient aging community.
Social Isolation
Our goal is to reinforce vibrant community hubs where seniors - at all levels of health status - can connect, share experiences, and thrive, fostering a culture of inclusivity and support to combat social isolation among our aging population. We aim to enrich senior living experience in Ridgefield, open new avenues of accessing community, and break down barriers that diminish the quality of life.
Transportation
Our commission seeks to enhance the well-being of non-driving seniors by establishing expanded in town and out of town transportation options. This initiative aims to break the barriers of isolation, fostering community engagement and ensuring that our seniors can lead active, independent, and fulfilling lives outside their homes.