Senior Services and the Senior Council are charged with bringing attention to concerns and issues of local seniors. Senior participation is generated and supported in addressing the needs for housing, continuum of care, services and program development. Regional efforts to address common issues create solutions with economy of scale and resources. There are major population and demographic developments that demand planning now for the future of the aging population of Pitkin County.

Navigating the various systems and services for medical, financial, physical and emotional care needs can be challenging at any age. Pitkin County Senior Services created this program to guide and assist seniors and their families in identifying and securing services and care appropriate for their unique needs.

Our goal is to help create and maintain a safe and healthy environment that supports the highest possible level of independence for the senior adult. Aligned with this goal is support and planning for the family to handle the responsibility of care giving.

The Senior Care Coordinator is John Lutgring, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. John has 30 years experience, and the last ten years have been spent in the settings of home health, hospice and hospital rehabilitation in the Roaring Fork Valley. John worked with 40 Pitkin County seniors in the first year of this program and he looks forward to linking more seniors with community resources, and to enrich the lives of those experiencing life changes.

The Care Coordinator's services are currently available at not cost to Pitkin County seniors over age 60 and their families. For more information on the Senior Care Management Program, contact our office at (970) 920-5432.

We help seniors and their families find answers to their questions and resources for their needs. We also refer to other agencies and professionals when appropriate. Our monthly newsletter contains a calendar of events, menu of meals at the Senior Center, descriptions of special activities and educational articles and updates of interest to seniors. To ask a question or request the newsletter, call Senior Services at 970-920-5432.

Financial assistance is available for low-income senior residents in the form of partial property tax refunds from the City of Aspen, Aspen School District and Pitkin County. Programs are administered by Senior Services. Call 920-5432 for information and forms.

Senior Services uses volunteers extensively within our own programs, and links volunteers with individual seniors who have various needs. Many of our volunteers are seniors themselves. Contact Senior Services at 920-5432 to request volunteer assistance or for more information on volunteer opportunities.