Improving Outcomes for Aging Adults By Bette Erickson
“There’s no doubt about it,” a friend said. “We are a throwaway society. Youth is better.”
W
hile that may sound harsh, there is some truth to it. Simply the way older people are represented in the media has a wider impact on the public’s attitudes toward seniors. Just look at, for example, the popular Progressive Insurance commercials mocking new homeowners, warning about morphing into their parents. Admittedly the commercials are laugh-outloud funny, but they also may negatively influence viewers’ perceptions of what it means to be an older adult. With approximately 49.2 million Americans who are 65 and older, is that really appropriate? Senior Resources of Broomfield (SRB), not only strives to thwart ageism, the non-profit organization importantly seeks to improve the quality of life for older adults and their families living in the City and County of Broomfield. Many in Broomfield know and appreciate that this community is a pretty desirable place to enjoy our later years. “I love that we are helping older adults feel valued and appreciated,” SRB Boardmember, Desirae Rose, said. “We live in such a wonderful community of giving people and it is so nice to see that, especially during these days of COVID and violence.” Longtime Broomfield resident, John Freeman, agreed. “The most important thing in my two years serving on the SRB Board is being out in the field, being able to find out what
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Our Broomfield™ Magazine | June 2021
The SRB Board of Directors pose during a tour of the new Broomfield Community Center before its Grand Opening last October. Courtesy photo.
Boardmember Desirae Rose hopes to see SRB grow in its outreach to more older adults in the community. Courtesy photo.
seniors’ needs are and meeting those needs,” he explained. “I get the greatest joy.” Freeman paused for a long moment. “While I like the administrative piece of being on the SRB Board, I enjoy mingling with people; my personality thrives on that contact.” In collaboration with the city and county, SRB offers numerous and important services to Broomfield’s older adults. Services like Meals on Wheels, Easy Ride, Lakeshore Café congregate meals, the medical equipment loan closet, respite and iPad programs, Christmas gift bags, Blizzard bags, celebrating birthdays, and more. Rose explained, “I want to see SRB grow in its
