VirginiaNavigator offers many services in Botetourt
VirginiaNavigator has been part of the Botetourt Health Launch Steering team. 22.7 % of the citizens of Botetourt are over the age of 65 according to the US Census in 2018. VirginiaNavigator’s Cindy Markham is also a local advocate for seniors and aging in place. She lives and works in the county.
Eighty-seven percent of adults aged 65 and older want to stay in their current home and community as they age, according to the AARP. Many of Botetourt County’s older adults feel the same way – but it’s tough to do alone.
In fact, “aging in place and transportation aimed at residents 65+” is one of the top three health concerns identified by the Botetourt County Health Steering Committee, as the Botetourt Bee reported in August.
Fortunately, there’s free help available for residents who need services. VirginiaNavigator (virginianavigator.org) is a statewide, public/private partnership nonprofit that provides free health and community support information to older adults, people with disabilities, veterans, and their caregivers and families. VirginiaNavigator also employs a local Community Specialist, Cindy Markham, who does outreach to Botetourt County’s older residents.
It’s easy to use! Just visit www.VirginiaNavigator.org. On the homepage, enter your ZIP, county or town, and the service you need. You’ll see local listings for transportation, caregiver support, companion services, home health care and other resources.
Seniors and caregivers may be surprised by the variety of resources out there. Did you know that Friendship Health and several other local providers offer temporary respite care? Or that the nonprofit Blue Ridge Independent Living Center can help people with disabilities obtain assistive technology and apply for home modifications? Or that Vital Services Transportation can help low-income seniors with an emergency need for transportation to a doctor, pharmacy, grocery store, government benefits offices or other critical appointment?
If you don’t have reliable internet access at home, call VirginiaNavigator’s toll-free number: 1-866-393-0957. Staff can help connect you with the services you need.
submitted by VirginiaNavigator
