Almost 300 community members visited The Ranch on May 1 for the inaugural Larimer County Office on Aging Community Fair hosted by the Office on Aging, part of the Aging and Adult Services Division within the Department of Human Services.
The free event offered a space for older adults, caregivers, and individuals planning for the future to learn about aging initiatives in the community and connect with resources. Attendees connected with 50 community organizations during a vendor fair that included health services, transportation, home care assistance, leisure activities, respite, and more.
Deputy Director Katie Stieber welcomes Visitors
Educational breakout sessions gave community members valuable knowledge and insights:
Speaker Barb Bennett
• Barb Bennett, “Chief Scambuster” for the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office, shared tips to avoid fraud, especially as technology evolves and puts seniors at higher risk of falling victim to scammers.
• The Larimer County Office of Emergency Management provided critical information residents need to prepare for and stay informed about emergencies.
• Staff from the Office on Aging hosted workshops to familiarize seniors and their caregivers with the county’s Aging and Disability Resource Center and free counseling services that can assist with end-of-life planning.
LCOA 2024 Volunteers Janus Markuson & Bob Branch
The Community Fair concluded with a ceremony celebrating the 2024 Older Americans Month Awards winners. Each May during Older Americans Month, the Office on Aging honors two exceptional community members for their advocacy and dedication to seniors in our community. This year, Larimer County Commissioners Shadduck-McNally and John Kefalas presented the Outstanding Senior Volunteer Award to Janis Markuson and the Outstanding Family Caregiver Award to Bob Branch. See our adjacent cover story on the award winners. For more information on the programs and services Larimer County Office on Aging offers, visit larimer.gov/seniors.