Knoxville is popular among seniors, thanks in part to the city’s arts and culture, scenic natural surroundings, and strong community feel. It’s also an area that provides a great support system for those who are 60 and up, whether they require specialized healthcare or are simply looking to connect with other people their age.
To help maintain both physical and mental wellness, it’s important for seniors to build a support network of friends and family members, peers, and senior care professionals. For caregivers, it’s helpful to get some outside support so that you can take breaks and maintain a balance.
Here, we count down six senior care resources in the Knoxville area that are helpful for both seniors and their caregivers and families.
Alzheimer’s Association
The Tennessee Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association offers a variety of helpful resources for seniors who are living with Alzheimer’s, and their caregivers. These include caregiver support groups, a 24/7 helpline for help with memory care, access to clinical trials, and useful information on Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Alzheimer’s Tennessee
Alzheimer’s Tennessee is a financial assistance program available to seniors living with Alzheimer’s, and their caregivers. The group provides scholarships to those in need to help them pay for necessities like personal care items, respite care, baths provided by in-home care professionals, and more.
Alzheimer’s Tennessee also includes the Howard Circle of Friends, an adult day service that caters to seniors with memory care needs. The program welcomes seniors throughout the day, offering fun therapeutic activities, personal care, help with health monitoring, and more, all under close supervision. Howard Circle of Friends is a great opportunity for seniors to enjoy a bit of activity while receiving excellent care and giving caregivers a respite.
Knox County Public Libraries
Local public libraries aren’t just a valuable resource for information on aging, memory care, and senior health. They are also centers of the community, with programming and events tailored to seniors and their families.
One great example is the Senior Centers of Knox County, the goal of which is to promote recreational, social, and educational opportunities for adults ages 50 and up. The centers offer exercise equipment, computer labs, and a calendar of events that range from card clubs to arts and crafts evenings. This is a great opportunity to connect with fellow seniors while keeping the mind and body engaged.
National Family Caregiver Support Program
The National Family Caregiver Support Program, or NFCSP, is a nationwide effort to help families care for seniors who have chronic illnesses or disabilities at home. By teaming up with Knoxville-area agencies, the NFCSP provides assistance for local seniors with memory care disorders. Their services include counseling and support groups, respite care, caregiver training, personal care, homemaker services and adult day care.
Office on Aging
The Knoxville-Knox County Community Action Committee has a dedicated Office on Aging, which offers an incredible amount of information in its free Senior Service Directory. The directory includes any and all services seniors and their caregivers may require, from adult day services and hospice information to lists of senior advocacy groups, transportation services, and volunteer opportunities.
Senior Living Communities
Finally, Knoxville is home to a wide variety of senior living communities, which are fantastic senior care resources. Locally, you can find senior communities that accommodate residents of all ability levels, and a range of needs, such as Arbor Terrace of Knoxville.
Senior living communities not only provide exceptional care for residents, but they also offer an incredible variety of events, delicious meals, and a sense of community — all of which can be beneficial for seniors who are struggling with memory loss or who simply need more engagement in their lives.
For seniors and their families, identifying the right senior care resources in Knoxville can make a big difference. When it comes to senior care, it really does take a village. Be proactive about reaching out for outside help when you need it. That’s exactly what our incredible Knoxville community is here for.
