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# CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions

Central Indiana’s resource for aging, disability and caregiving support

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://cicoa.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Know CICOA Before You Need Us: Celebrating Older Americans Month](https://cicoa.org/know-cicoa-before-you-need-us-celebrating-older-americans-month/) - Every May, Older Americans Month gives us a chance to celebrate the older adults who shape our families, neighborhoods, workplaces, faith communities, and civic life. This year’s national Older Americans Month theme, Champion Your Health, highlights prevention, wellness, self-advocacy, informed decision-making, and community partnerships that help older adults lead healthy, independent lives. That message is
- [CICOA Awarded $27,000 Grant to Support Home Safety for Homebound Veterans](https://cicoa.org/2026-helping-homebound-heroes-grant-for-veterans/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions has received a $27,000 grant through the Helping Homebound Heroes Program for a third year in a row. This program is a national initiative led by The Home Depot Foundation in partnership with Meals on Wheels America that supports critical home safety and accessibility modifications for homebound veterans in Central
- [Indiana Aging Network Showcases Innovative Solutions on National Stage](https://cicoa.org/indiana-aging-network-showcases-innovative-solutions-on-national-stage/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions and the network of area agencies on aging across the state are bringing expertise from Indiana to the national stage.
- [Peace of Mind: Free Ring Devices for Indiana Older Adults](https://cicoa.org/free-ring-devices-for-indiana-older-adults/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions will distribute 500 Ring camera devices to support Indiana seniors, individuals with disabilities and their caregivers.
- [Harvest Hope: A Celebration of 50 Years of Caring](https://cicoa.org/harvest-hope-a-celebration-of-50-years-of-caring/) - To commemorate CICOA's 50th anniversary, we invite you to join us for an online fundraising campaign, Harvest Hope, running from Oct. 1-12, 2024.
- [A Community Comes Together to Help Paula Stay Safe at Home](https://cicoa.org/community-comes-together-to-help-paula-stay-safe-at-home/) - Volunteers spent a day making her home safer and more accessible. Low-cost, high-impact home modifications help reduce the risk of falls for seniors.
- [HUD Awards $2 Million to CICOA to Help Seniors Live Independently and Safely in Their Homes](https://cicoa.org/hud-awards-2-million-to-cicoa/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions has been awarded $2 million from HUD for a Home Safety & Accessibility program to keep older adults safe in their homes.
- [Aging in Indiana: CASOA Survey Highlights & Opportunities for Improvement](https://cicoa.org/aging-in-indiana-casoa-survey-highlights/) - Explore the 2024 CASOA survey results: insights on quality of life, community trends and benchmarks for seniors in Central Indiana.
- [CICOA Appoints Lisa Schneekloth as President and CEO](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-appoints-lisa-schneekloth-as-president-and-ceo/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions today announced that its board of directors has unanimously chosen Lisa Schneekloth as the nonprofit’s next president and chief executive officer, effective March 15. Schneekloth is the organization’s first woman CEO in its 50-year history and previously served as CICOA’s first chief compliance officer, establishing a strong foundation for compliance,
- [Finding Peace of Mind and Independence: Introducing CICOA Flourish at Home](https://cicoa.org/finding-peace-of-mind-and-independence-introducing-cicoa-flourish-at-home/) - CICOA introduces Flourish at Home, a self-pay care management service designed to bring our expert coordination directly to you, offering peace of mind.
- [Community Health Workers: A Scalable, Proactive Approach to Care](https://cicoa.org/community-health-workers-a-scalable-proactive-approach-to-care/) - Community Health Workers fill critical gaps that traditional healthcare often misses. CICOA's CHW program prevents more costly care and reduces hospitalizations.
- [CICOA Announces 2025 Community Champions Awards](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-announces-2025-community-champions-awards/) - CICOA's Community Champions Awards honor those who make a significant impact on the lives of older adults, people with disabilities and their family caregivers.
- [CICOA Named Recipient of Prestigious Aging Achievement Award from USAging](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-named-recipient-of-prestigious-aging-achievement-award-from-usaging/) - Postbook, an intergenerational postcard exchange and keepsake journal designed to create connection, received a 2023 Aging Achievement Award from USAging.
- [From Stumble To Strength: Reclaiming Independence After Falls](https://cicoa.org/from-stumble-to-strength-reclaiming-independence-after-falls/) - Lillie was working as a DeCA teller at the Harrison Village Commissary at Fort Ben on Indy’s northeast side in 2016 when an odd thing happened: She began losing her equilibrium and falling. A lot. She fell downstairs. She fell upstairs. She fell standing still. “I had a lot of things going on,” the now-69-year-old
- [CICOA and CIRTA Relaunch My Freedom Program for Central Indiana Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-and-cirta-relaunch-my-freedom/) - The My Freedom program increases accessibility by providing affordable cross-county transportation for people with disabilities and seniors in Central Indiana.
- [Saving Superwoman: CICOA Caregiver Helps Others Overcome Burnout Through Self Care](https://cicoa.org/saving-superwoman-cicoa-caregiver-helps-others-overcome-burnout-through-self-care/) - How do you focus on your wellbeing amid everything that you're experiencing in life and work? This question has been the focus of April Ervin’s personal and professional life for the past decade. Born and raised in Indianapolis, April spent the first 25 years of her adult life working in Chicago before returning to Indy.
- [Nourishing Hearts and Souls: Anna and Her Beloved Pets](https://cicoa.org/nourishing-hearts-and-souls-anna-and-her-beloved-pets/) - As Anna navigates the challenges of a fixed income and limited mobility, receiving home-delivered meals from CICOA ensures a nutritious meal each day.
- [Navigating the Future: PathWays for Aging Medicaid Waiver Program in Indiana](https://cicoa.org/navigating-the-future-pathways-for-aging/) - Indiana PathWays for Aging is set to launch on July 1, 2024. Hoosiers 60 and over who receive Medicaid benefits will transition to this new program.
- [CICOA President & CEO Attends White House Meeting](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-president-ceo-attends-white-house-meeting/) - CICOA President & CEO Tauhric Brown was invited to the White House for the distinguished event, "Communities in Action: Building a Better Indiana and Illinois."
- [CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions Named a 2024 Top Workplace](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-named-a-2024-top-workplace/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions has been awarded a Top Workplaces 2024 honor by Indianapolis Star, landing in the No. 3 spot in the large business category.
- [Bishara Family Establishes CICOA Professional Development Fund](https://cicoa.org/bishara-family-establishes-cicoa-professional-development-fund/) - The fund aims to bolster CICOA’s workforce by hiring and retaining talented employees and enhancing their ability to serve clients effectively.
- [CICOA Announces 2024 Annual Awards](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-announces-2024-annual-awards/) - For five decades, CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions has been a cornerstone in our community, providing vital services and support to older adults, people with disabilities and their families. This wouldn't have been possible without the incredible dedication of countless individuals and organizations. As we celebrate 50 years of service, we also express our deepest
- [Small Things Often Can Make a Big Difference for People and Pets](https://cicoa.org/small-things-often-can-make-a-big-difference-for-people-and-pets/) - We’ve all heard that we shouldn’t sweat the small stuff. There is good logic in the advice, but maybe sometimes we should sweat the small stuff. When trying to solve big issues — social isolation, loneliness, depression, poverty — focusing on small things matters. I look at the success of CICOA’s Pet Connect program. Since
- [TCC Gives Community Grant Supports Pet Connect](https://cicoa.org/tcc-gives-community-grant-supports-pet-connect/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions has received a $5,000 grant from the TCC Gives Community Grant program. These funds will help support our Pet Connect program.
- [Glick Philanthropies Grant Supports Community Members' Basic Needs](https://cicoa.org/glick-philanthropies-grant-supports-community-members-basic-needs/) - To help strengthen communities facing hardships caused by inflation and continued high prices, CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions received a $7,500 grant from the Glick Community Relief Fund, a grant program of Glick Philanthropies that supports local nonprofit organizations providing access to basic needs. The grant was one of 87 totaling $500,000 to organizations supporting communities where
- [How You Make Innovation Possible](https://cicoa.org/how-you-make-innovation-possible/) - When good people and good ideas come together to create innovative solutions for communities, the resulting social impact makes a difference in countless lives.
- [Breaking the Cycle of Loneliness and Depression Among Seniors](https://cicoa.org/breaking-the-cycle-of-loneliness-and-depression-among-seniors/) - It’s not just during the pandemic that seniors suffered from loneliness; for many it’s an everyday occurrence. This new program helps Central Indiana seniors.
- [The Passion to Care for Others](https://cicoa.org/the-passion-to-care-for-others/) - Lisa Cotten, Director of Business Development, shares the path she took and her heartfelt reasons for trying to make a broad impact on healthcare and patients.
- [The Will to Make a Will: Empowering Your Legacy](https://cicoa.org/the-will-to-make-a-will-empowering-your-legacy/) - Did you know that August is National Make-a-Will Month? While the topic of creating a will might not be the most exciting, it is undoubtedly one of the most crucial steps in ensuring that your wishes are honored, and your loved ones are cared for when the time of your passing comes. Having the will
- [Fall Clean-Up Has Become One of My Favorite Days of the Year](https://cicoa.org/fall-clean-up-one-of-my-favorite-days/) - Falls are a serious hazard for seniors. CICOA's annual Safe at Home event brings together volunteers to make homes safer for seniors to age in place.
- [Investing for Good: A New Era in Philanthropy](https://cicoa.org/investing-for-good-a-new-era-in-philanthropy/) - In a world where change is the only constant, the words of Bob Dylan's iconic song, "The Times They Are A-Changin'," resonate more than ever. Within the sphere of philanthropy, these words couldn't ring truer. Recent research has revealed a significant transformation in the landscape of charitable contributions: Impact Investing is taking root in America,
- [Aging Gracefully: Conversations to Have with Your Aging Parents and Relatives](https://cicoa.org/aging-gracefully-conversations-to-have-with-your-aging-parents-and-relatives/) - Have you ever found yourself seated across from an aging parent or relative, sharing a cup of tea or coffee, when the conversation takes an unexpected turn towards their health, finances or future plans? These discussions can sometimes be uncomfortable, yet they are an essential part of helping our elderly loved ones navigate the journey
- [Why a Strong Mission Is the Guiding Light of CICOA Foundation](https://cicoa.org/why-a-strong-mission-is-the-guiding-light-of-cicoa-foundation/) - The mission for any charity should drive everything, including creating a community of donors who feel connected to that mission.
- [CICOA Receives $10,000 Donation from CenterWell Senior Primary Care](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-donation-from-centerwell-senior-primary-care/) - This unrestricted contribution will support CICOA's ongoing efforts to empower seniors and their caregivers, making a meaningful impact across Central Indiana.
- [Central Indiana Senior Fund Grant Supports Safety and Accessibility for Seniors](https://cicoa.org/central-indiana-senior-fund-grant-supports-safety-and-accessibility-for-seniors/) - CICOA received a grant from the Central Indiana Senior Fund, a CICF fund, to provide home safety and accessibility modifications for low-income seniors.
- [Comfort And Social Connection For Seniors Through Cultural Cuisine](https://cicoa.org/comfort-and-social-connection-for-seniors-through-cultural-cuisine/) - Sharing a meal is a universal act that transcends generations and cultures. Cultural meals connect seniors with their roots, providing comfort and belonging.
- [Year-End Giving and the Power of Your Support](https://cicoa.org/year-end-giving-and-the-power-of-your-support/) - While some might associate year-end giving with tax benefits, we know that for our exceptional donors, it's about something much deeper.
- [Bridging Gaps in Mental Health Support for Older Adults](https://cicoa.org/bridging-gaps-in-mental-health-support-for-older-adults/) - Explore the work being done to ensure aging in place for older adults with mental illness, and partnerships forged to integrate mental health and social care.
- [Jen Kugler is MedScope’s Care Manager of the Year](https://cicoa.org/jen-kugler-medscope-care-manager-of-the-year/) - CICOA Assistant Director Jen Kugler was honored as MedScope 2023 Care Manager of the Year. The award came with a $1,000 gift, which she directed to CICOA.
- [A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Incredible Donors](https://cicoa.org/a-heartfelt-thank-you-to-our-incredible-donors/) - As we navigate the tail end of 2023, I find myself reflecting on the profound significance of relationships, especially during this festive season.
- [New Year's Resolutions and Dieting](https://cicoa.org/new-years-resolutions-and-dieting/) - The cycle of yo-yo dieting often leads to feelings of failure. Instead, focus on small, practical changes that help maintain a healthier lifestyle.
- [Accelerating and Amplifying Impact: The Power of Impact Investing at CICOA](https://cicoa.org/accelerating-and-amplifying-impact/) - Impact investing an ideal resource for nonprofits looking to expand and deepen their impact. Two donors kickstart CICOA's Wrinkle Innovation endowment fund.
- [Innovation: Pioneering Possibilities in 2024 and Beyond](https://cicoa.org/innovation-pioneering-possibilities-in-2024-and-beyond/) - Innovation has the power to transform the way we provide care and support to older adults, people with disabilities and family caregivers.
- [50 Years of Philanthropy: The Impact of Corporate Giving at CICOA](https://cicoa.org/50-years-of-philanthropy-impact-of-corporate-giving-at-cicoa/) - Corporate giving at the CICOA Foundation is about building a community of like-minded organizations dedicated to a common cause.
- [Steve Gerber Recognized with Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® Designation](https://cicoa.org/steve-gerber-chartered-advisor-in-philanthropy/) - CICOA Foundation Chief Development Officer Steve Gerber has earned the Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP) designation, with expertise in legacy planning.
- [Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam Honored with CICOA Outstanding Woman of Service Award](https://cicoa.org/carmel-mayor-sue-finkam-honored-with-cicoa-outstanding-woman-of-service-award/) - CICOA honored the mayor for her commitment to protect affordable neighborhoods and her advocacy for making Carmel a place where older adults can thrive at home.
- [50 Years of Philanthropy: The Impact of Grants at CICOA](https://cicoa.org/50-years-of-philanthropy-the-impact-of-grants-at-cicoa/) - Let's look deeper into the essential aspects of grants and the pivotal role of grant-making organizations to nonprofits like the CICOA Foundation.
- [Connect Healthcare and Aging Services to Improve Care and Reduce Costs](https://cicoa.org/connect-healthcare-and-aging-services/) - Most health happens outside of traditional healthcare settings—at home and in the community, where social services support an individual’s care and wellbeing.
- [You Can Dig It!](https://cicoa.org/you-can-dig-it/) - Include more fresh or dry herbs and spices in your recipes (with a spotlight on basil), and experience the benefits of gardening for your health.
- [50 Years of Philanthropy: The Impact of Individual Major Donor Giving at CICOA](https://cicoa.org/50-years-of-philanthropy-impact-of-individual-major-donor-giving/) - As we continue to commemorate five decades of dedicated service to the older Hoosiers in Central Indiana, we reflect on a journey defined by resilience, progress and the unwavering backing of our community. While our 50-year history fills us with pride, it's the vision of a brighter tomorrow that fuels our passion and drives us
- [CICOA Receives $25,000 to Repair Homes of Aging Veterans](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-receives-25000-to-repair-homes-of-aging-veterans/) - Meals on Wheels America and The Home Depot Foundation team up to support Central Indiana’s seniors CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions today announces that it has received a grant of $25,000 from Meals on Wheels America and The Home Depot Foundation through their joint initiative, Helping Homebound Heroes – a program that provides home repairs
- [Celebrating the Heart of Our Community: Volunteers](https://cicoa.org/celebrating-the-heart-of-our-community-volunteers/) - Join us for National Volunteer Week at CICOA! Celebrate 50 years of service by making a difference in Central Indiana seniors' lives.
- [Light the Way: Help Us Unlock a $25,000 Matching Gift for Wrinkle Innovation](https://cicoa.org/light-the-way-matching-gift-for-wrinkle-innovation/) - Every Wrinkle venture is designed to create a positive impact in our community. We need your help to make it a reality, and your gift can be multiplied!
- [Culture of Care: CICOA Honored as a Top Workplace](https://cicoa.org/culture-of-care-cicoa-honored-as-a-top-workplace/) - What makes CICOA a Top Workplace? The culture we’ve built here wouldn’t be possible without the supportive spirit of Team CICOA who embody our ICARE values.
- [Unlock the Power of Donor Advised Funds for Your Philanthropy](https://cicoa.org/unlock-the-power-of-donor-advised-funds-for-your-philanthropy/) - Have you considered establishing a Donor Advised Fund (DAF) to streamline your charitable giving? DAFs can be a powerful tool for achieving philanthropic goals.
- [Summer Sunshine for Seniors: How You Can Make a Difference](https://cicoa.org/summer-sunshine-for-seniors/) - Summer brings sunshine, cookouts and backyard fun. But for some older adults in our community, these joyful months can feel isolating. With longer days and potentially increased heat, staying cool and connected can be a challenge. Here at CICOA, we're dedicated to helping Central Indiana seniors and people with disabilities live safely and comfortably at
- [The Power of Your Portfolio: Donate Stock](https://cicoa.org/the-power-of-your-portfolio-donate-stock/) - Have you ever considered donating appreciated stock to charity? Maximize your impact with simplified giving. Here's how to donate stock to CICOA Foundation.
- [CICOA Receives $10,000 Grant from Glick Philanthropies to Support Basic Needs](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-receives-10000-grant-from-glick-philanthropies-to-support-basic-needs/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions received a $10,000 grant from the Glick Community Relief Fund to support basic needs of Central Indiana seniors.
- [Connecting the Dots: How to Access Home-Based Care and Support in Central Indiana](https://cicoa.org/how-to-access-home-based-care-and-support-in-central-indiana/) - Don’t wait for a crisis. CICOA is your guide to maintaining independence and dignity at home. Discover expert resources and caregiving support across Indiana.
- [Blooming Where You Are: The Power of Home and Community Support](https://cicoa.org/the-power-of-home-and-community-support/) - Explore how Home and Community-Based Services provide independence to flourish at home. CICOA helps seniors and individuals with disabilities navigate care.
- [Paying for Different Types of Care: What Caregivers Need to Know](https://cicoa.org/paying-for-different-types-of-care/) - Compare the costs of in-home care vs. nursing facilities. Learn about the 5 Indiana Medicaid waivers, VA benefits, and the importance of Power of Attorney.
- [When Independence Slips Away: Protecting Dignity and Choice](https://cicoa.org/when-independence-slips-away/) - Watching a loved one lose control is hard. Learn how caregivers can protect dignity, use tools, and foster autonomy for seniors and people with disabilities.
- [The Galentine's Effect: Why Women are the Heart of CICOA's Mission](https://cicoa.org/the-galentines-effect-why-women-are-the-heart-of-cicoas-mission/) - CICOA's Galentine’s event is a celebration of the power of women in philanthropy. Explore why collaborative giving is the secret to sustaining vital programs.
- [Senior Loneliness & Social Isolation: A Caregiver’s Guide](https://cicoa.org/senior-loneliness-social-isolation-a-caregivers-guide/) - Social isolation in seniors is a serious health risk. Learn the signs, the impact of "social fatigue" and practical ways caregivers can foster connection today.
- [IBJ Recognizes CICOA's Community Health Worker Program for Excellence in Health Care](https://cicoa.org/ibj-recognizes-cicoas-community-health-worker-program-for-excellence-in-health-care/) - IBJ honors CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions with the 2026 Excellence in Health Care Award for its cost-effective and impactful Community Health Worker program.
- [Navigating the Gap in Elder Care](https://cicoa.org/navigating-the-gap-in-elder-care/) - Many families realize their parents need help after the holidays. CICOA Flourish at Home provides expert care management for older adults.
- [Aging in Place: Solving the Hidden Hurdles to Senior Independence ](https://cicoa.org/aging-in-place-solving-the-hidden-hurdles-to-senior-independence/) - Most seniors want to age in place. Learn how care coordination solves the hidden hurdles to aging at home and helps families find a clear path forward.
- [Corporate Partner Spotlight: American Senior Communities](https://cicoa.org/corporate-partner-american-senior-communities/) - American Senior Communities (ASC) is one of the largest senior care providers in Indiana, offering a wide range of lifestyle and care options for seniors.
- [Corporate Partner Spotlight: Careforth](https://cicoa.org/corporate-partner-careforth/) - CICOA's mission closely aligns with Careforth's mission—to help our aged and disabled community members live as independently as possible in the community.
- [Corporate Partner Spotlight: Centerwell Senior Primary Care](https://cicoa.org/corporate-partner-centerwell-senior-primary-care/) - CenterWell Senior Primary Care is one of the largest and fastest-growing senior-focused, value-based care providers in the country.
- [Addressing the Unseen Crisis: Supporting Working Caregivers is Essential](https://cicoa.org/supporting-working-caregivers-is-essential/) - 1 in 5 employees are caregivers. CareAware Journey is an innovative platform that gives your staff resources to prevent burnout and boost employee retention.
- [Holiday Travel Safety: Your Guide to Stress-Free Trips with a Loved One](https://cicoa.org/holiday-travel-safety-your-guide-to-stress-free-trips-with-a-loved-one/) - Traveling with a loved one with dementia this holiday season? Get tips on planning routes, packing safety items, and preparing family for a stress-free trip.
- [Your One-Click Guide: CICOA and Caregiving.com](https://cicoa.org/your-one-click-guide-cicoa-and-caregiving-com/) - CICOA partners with Caregiving.com to offer caregivers one-click access to essential local resources, support, and financial aid information. Find help now!
- [Anticipatory Grief: Coping With Loss Before It Happens](https://cicoa.org/anticipatory-grief-coping-with-loss-before-it-happens/) - Caregivers, learn to cope with anticipatory grief, a complex emotion when facing inevitable loss. Find strategies to manage sadness, anxiety, and helplessness.
- [Are You a Caregiver? Why Recognizing Your Role Matters More Than You Think](https://cicoa.org/are-you-a-caregiver-recognizing-your-role/) - Are you a caregiver without realizing it? Discover why identifying your role is crucial for finding support, managing stress, and accessing resources.
- [Understanding What Motivates Charitable Giving](https://cicoa.org/understanding-what-motivates-charitable-giving/) - Discover the three core motivations for charitable giving. Learn how belief in mission, personal connections, and year-end tax planning can shape your strategy.
- [We Need a Community of Heroes to Fuel the Future of Social Care](https://cicoa.org/we-need-a-community-of-heroes-to-fuel-the-future-of-social-care/) - Learn why private funding is the strategic link for innovation in social care. Become a hero who fuels long-term community impact through CICOA's mission.
- [Worried About Falls? How Home Modifications Can Help You Age in Place](https://cicoa.org/worried-about-falls/) - This guide provides statistics and a clear plan for low-cost, high-impact home modifications like grab bars and handrails to help older adults age safely.
- [A Solid Foundation: Home Modifications as a Fall Prevention Strategy](https://cicoa.org/home-modifications-as-a-fall-prevention-strategy/) - Learn how home modifications are a low-cost, high-impact strategy to prevent falls. CICOA helps people stay safe at home and avoid expensive long-term care.
- [A Guide to Building Your Caregiving Support Team](https://cicoa.org/a-guide-to-building-your-caregiving-support-team/) - Feeling isolated as a caregiver? Discover how a strong support system—from medical experts to peer groups—can reduce stress and empower you.
- [Empowering Caregivers, the Unsung Heroes](https://cicoa.org/empowering-caregivers-the-unsung-heroes/) - Learn how CICOA's strategic plan is tackling the caregiver crisis by partnering with employers to offer vital support and strengthen the workforce.
- [Celebrating National Nonprofit Day: A Look at CICOA’s Impact](https://cicoa.org/national-nonprofit-day-cicoas-impact/) - Discover why nonprofits are essential. Learn how CICOA's work helps the community and find out how you can volunteer, advocate, and give back.
- [Caregiver Self-Care: Fueling Your Journey, Not Adding to Your Load](https://cicoa.org/caregiver-self-care/) - Caregivers, learn how to practice realistic self-care without adding to your stress. Discover simple strategies to boost your well-being and avoid burnout.
- [Grant from Glick Philanthropies to Help Community Members Meet their Basic Needs](https://cicoa.org/glick-basic-needs-2025/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions received a $10,000 grant from the Glick Philanthropies Community Relief Fund to support meals and basic needs for seniors.
- [Changes to Indiana's Long-Term Care Assessment Process Starting July 1, 2025](https://cicoa.org/indiana-lcar-changes-starting-july-1-2025/) - Learn about the upcoming changes to Indiana's assessment process for long-term care. CICOA remains a vital resource for information and support.
- [Expanding Our Reach and Sustaining Impact with Private Pay Solutions](https://cicoa.org/expanding-our-reach-and-sustaining-impact-with-private-pay-solutions/) - Find out how CICOA's new strategic plan is helping more people get the care support they need and making our community even stronger.
- [Keeping Your Loved One Safe Around Water: Essential Tips for Caregivers](https://cicoa.org/water-safety-essential-tips-for-caregivers/) - Learn water safety tips for caregivers of people with dementia. Discover how technology, home safety and communication can prevent accidents near water.
- [Campaigns: Why They Matter for Our Future](https://cicoa.org/campaigns-why-they-matter-for-our-future/) - Discover why fundraising campaigns are vital for nonprofits like CICOA. Learn how strategic planning, donor impact and strong relationships power our mission.
- [A New Chapter Begins: CICOA Reimagined](https://cicoa.org/a-new-chapter-begins-cicoa-reimagined/) - Leading an area agency on aging at this significant moment in time comes with both challenges and opportunities to grow and better serve our community.
- [FSSA Launches Online HCBS Waitlist Dashboard](https://cicoa.org/fssa-launches-online-hcbs-waitlist-dashboard/) - The Family and Social Services Administration is launching a new online resource for individuals and families to confirm an individual’s waiting list placement for the Health and Wellness, PathWays, and Family Supports waivers. The Online HCBS Waitlist Dashboard is available at ddrsprovider.fssa.in.gov. This resource provides an opportunity for the individual, family members, or advocates to confirm
- [CICOA Receives $27,000 to Repair Homes of Aging Veterans](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-receives-grant-for-aging-veterans/) - Helping Homebound Heroes is a program that provides home repairs and modifications for aging veterans to help enhance mobility and prevent falls.
- [Navigating Caregiving: Essential Resources and Support](https://cicoa.org/navigating-caregiving-essential-resources-and-support/) - Here at CICOA, we understand the challenges and rewards of caregiving. Let's explore the tools and support we offer to help you thrive.
- [Beyond Funding: The Importance of Relationships in Nonprofits](https://cicoa.org/beyond-funding-nonprofit-relationships/) - Learn how building relationships strengthens nonprofits in times of decreased funding. Discover how your connection to CICOA supports our vital services.
- [Low-income Seniors to Receive Fresh Produce Thanks to $4.4 Million Grant from the Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Foundation](https://cicoa.org/low-income-seniors-to-receive-fresh-produce/) - A $4.4 million Connecting Older Hoosiers with Healthful Foods grant from Anthem helps seniors across Indiana get fresh fruits and veggies year-round.
- [Community Health Workers Help Older Adults on the Road to Healthier Lives](https://cicoa.org/community-health-workers/) - Community health workers work with high-risk individuals in the hospital or a rehabilitation facility, addressing barriers to health such as transportation.
- [Picking a Home Care Provider](https://cicoa.org/picking-a-home-care-provider/) - In an earlier blog post, we established that respite is essential for caregivers who want to remain strong and healthy. Depending on circumstances, this respite is likely to come in the form of in-home assistance through a professional home care agency. If you have determined that it is time to find in-home help for a loved one,
- [Strengthen the Safety Net](https://cicoa.org/strengthen-the-safety-net/) - As one of Indianapolis' largest nonprofits, CICOA wants to develop collaborative partnerships to address current and emerging community needs.
- [Focus on Alignment](https://cicoa.org/focus-on-alignment/) - Dear Friends, FY2023 was a year characterized by remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication to address the gaps between our vision for tomorrow and today’s realities. Alignment around that vision has been a driving force across the organization in all our endeavors, and it is with great pride that I share some of the many ways
- [COVID’s Lingering Effects on Mental Health Hit Black Community Hard](https://cicoa.org/covid-mental-health-hit-black-community-hard/) - The pandemic exposed long-standing inequities related to race, ethnicity and income. A new mental health crisis is hitting the Black community especially hard.
- [Former CICOA Board Chair Anita Harden Joins Mission to Find Cure for Alzheimer’s](https://cicoa.org/anita-harden-mission-to-find-cure-for-alzheimers/) - Anita Harden wants to help find a cure for Alzheimer's disease, and she's making sure that African Americans and minorities are included in research studies.
- [Man’s Letter to Nike Inspires Shoes for People with Disabilities](https://cicoa.org/mans-letter-to-nike-inspires-shoes-for-people-with-disabilities/) - Knowing that many with physical disabilities struggle to put on and tie shoes by themselves, Matthew wrote a letter to Nike asking them for accessible shoes.
- [CICOA Announces New Partnership with Web Accessibility Market Leader, accessiBe](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-web-accessibility-accessibe/) - CICOA has a new alliance partnership with web accessibility market leader accessiBe to strengthen the relationship with the disability community.
- [Transportation Is a Freedom Many in Our Community Lack](https://cicoa.org/transportation-is-freedom-many-lack/) - I take for granted my freedom to get up and go. A lot of us take our ease of travel for granted. If we want to go to the grocery, visit friends, or see a doctor, we hop in the car and drive. Our only concern may be which route to take. Recently I read
- [CICOA Names Lisa Schneekloth Interim CEO and Erica Seabaugh COO](https://cicoa.org/schneekloth-interim-ceo-seabaugh-coo/) - CICOA's Board of Directors has appointed Lisa Schneekloth as Interim Chief Executive Officer, and Erica Seabaugh has been named Chief Operating Officer
- [Recognizing the Signs: How to Help an Older Loved One at Home](https://cicoa.org/signs-an-older-loved-one-needs-help-at-home/) - Concerned about an aging parent? Learn the key signs they may need help at home and discover valuable resources and support from CICOA. Get help today!
- [CICOA Receives Grant from Marion County Public Health Department](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-receives-grant-from-marion-county-public-health-department/) - Health First Indiana addresses core public health services, and CICOA is positioned to help address chronic disease prevention and access to clinical care.
- [Hendricks County Community Foundation Grant Supports Home Accessibility](https://cicoa.org/hccf-home-accessibility/) - Funding will support CICOA’s Home Safety & Accessibility program, providing home modifications to help low-income older adults.
- [Advancing Westfield Grant Supports CICOA Meals & More](https://cicoa.org/advancing-westfield-grant/) - CICOA will use the grant funds to support efforts and impact the Meals & More senior nutrition service, which delivers meals to Westfield residents.
- [A Recipe for a Good Life: The Social Impact of Senior Meals](https://cicoa.org/the-social-impact-of-senior-meals/) - Beyond the social benefits of the senior programs, CICOA Meals & More services also play a vital role in Donna’s health and well-being.
- [Give Thanks, Give Back: Make a Difference This Holiday Season](https://cicoa.org/give-thanks-give-back/) - What are some of your favorite Thanksgiving family traditions? What special activities make this holiday so memorable? I have a particularly fond memory of a Thanksgiving from my high school years. Our family gathered at a clubhouse in my aunt's housing complex. It was a truly memorable time filled with laughter, delicious food and heartfelt
- [United Way of Central Indiana grant supports basic needs for older Hoosiers](https://cicoa.org/united-way-of-central-indiana-grant/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions has received a multi-year grant from the United Way of Central Indiana Basic Needs Fund.
- [Central Indiana Senior Fund grant supports services for older adults](https://cicoa.org/central-indiana-senior-fund-grant/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions has received a grant of $42,000 from the Central Indiana Senior Fund, a CICF Fund. This grant supports CICOA’s general operating needs in its role as a key provider of services for older adults. The investment from the Central Indiana Senior Fund, a CICF Fund, will be used by CICOA
- [CICOA and Caregiving.com Partner to Support Family Caregivers](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-and-caregiving-com-partner-to-support-family-caregivers/) - The platform is designed to empower caregivers by offering them the tools and support they need to better manage the demands of caregiving.
- [Lives Changed Through Your Heart of Hope](https://cicoa.org/lives-changed-through-your-heart-of-hope/) - For 50 years, CICOA has been a beacon of hope for older adults, people with disabilities and their caregivers. Will you be the heart of hope for others?
- [Old National Bank Foundation Grant Supports CICOA's Wrinkle Innovation Studio](https://cicoa.org/old-national-bank-foundation-wrinkle/) - The grant from the Old National Bank Foundation supports Wrinkle Innovation at CICOA, a social impact venture philanthropy initiative.
- [Noyes Foundation Grant Supports CICOA's Faith Summit](https://cicoa.org/noyes-foundation-grant-faith-summit/) - This grant is in support of CICOA’s 4th annual Faith Summit to be held Nov. 13, 2024.
- [Help Us Serve You Better: Complete the 2024 CASOA Survey](https://cicoa.org/help-us-serve-you-better-complete-the-2024-casoa-survey/) - Central Indiana older adults — Your voices matter. Your experiences shape our community. CICOA and our partner organizations are committed to ensuring that our services meet your unique needs. We're inviting you to share your thoughts and perspectives through the 2024 Community Assessment Survey for Older Adults (CASOA). Your input is invaluable. It helps us
- [Community Assessment Survey for Older Adults 2024](https://cicoa.org/casoa-2024-mailing/) - Indiana is conducting the 2024 Community Assessment Survey for Older Adults in partnership with Polco, a leader in civic engagement and survey research. All area agencies on aging in Indiana are conducting this survey in conjunction with Indiana's Division on Aging. Results from this survey effort will help inform the development of related policies, initiatives,
- [Monthly Giving: A Small Act, A Big Impact](https://cicoa.org/monthly-giving-small-act-big-impact/) - Discover the powerful impact of monthly giving. Join CICOA's community of dedicated donors and support our mission for seniors and people with disabilities.
- [Do You Trust Me?](https://cicoa.org/caregivers-making-decisions-for-parents/) - Decision making is a task all too familiar to family caregivers. It can be difficult to make choices on behalf of your parents or someone under your care.
- [Unpaid, Untrained Caregivers Face Challenges; CICOA and Its Network of Partners Are Here to Help](https://cicoa.org/unpaid-untrained-caregivers-face-challenges/) - Caregiving can be lonely, stressful, and mentally and physically exhausting. CICOA and its network of partners are here to help in Central Indiana.
- [Preventing the Unthinkable – Elder Abuse](https://cicoa.org/preventing-the-unthinkable-elder-abuse/) - CICOA is helping to spread awareness about elder abuse, neglect and exploitation through a new video, “Preventing the Unthinkable.”
- [Three Needs of Special Needs Caregivers](https://cicoa.org/three-needs-special-needs-caregivers/) - Writing or presenting new ideas for parents of children who have been living with disability for any length of time is an enormous challenge, and if you’re one of those parents, you know why! You have already championed, researched, reached out and kept up. You know so much—not only about your child’s diagnosis, needs and
- [10 Tips From Experienced Caregivers](https://cicoa.org/10-tips-from-experienced-caregivers/) - “A moment’s insight is sometimes worth a life’s experiences,” wrote American physician and author, Oliver Wendell Holmes. What does this have to do with caregiving? Well, similar to an abstract painting in an art gallery, Holmes’ quote encourages us to think. It’s a conversation piece. Just as an abstract painting isn’t bound to one meaning,
- [I'll See You Again Someday](https://cicoa.org/ill-see-you-again-someday/) - A care manager reflects on a client's passing Connie was unlike anyone I have ever known. She lived with post-polio syndrome for most of her life, which left her with limited movement in her upper body and none in her lower body. Nonetheless she lived a full, beautiful life. She was a loving mother to
- [Millennial Caregivers Among Most Stressed, Study Finds](https://cicoa.org/millennial-caregivers-most-stressed/) - Caregiving is becoming a more frequent discussion among one particular generation: millennials.
- [Caregivers’ Mental Health: Managing Stress, Anxiety and Depression](https://cicoa.org/caregivers-mental-health-managing-stress-anxiety-depression/) - Feelings of stress, anxiety and depression can manifest in numerous ways for caregivers. Find strategies to address these feelings and avoid triggers.
- [An Ordinary Instant and a New Life](https://cicoa.org/an-ordinary-instant-and-a-new-life/) - July 26, 2014, began as an ordinary, beautiful summer day. But in an ordinary instant, our lives changed dramatically. It was about 4:00 p.m. that Saturday when I received a call from my son’s girlfriend that she couldn’t rouse Matt. She had tried all day and couldn’t get a response. She asked me what to do.
- [CICOA receives $25,000 grant from Faith & Action Project](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-faith-action-project/) - A new program brings social services and faith communities together. A CICOA community health worker will hold office hours at three Indianapolis churches.
- [New Art Class for Older Adults Inspires Creativity](https://cicoa.org/new-art-class-for-older-adults/) - "My Story: Drawing from Collage" is an art class for Indianapolis older adults. CICOA is offering this class in thanks to a grant from Indiana Arts Commission.
- [OAA Reauthorization: Act Now, Contact Your Reps](https://cicoa.org/oaa-reauthorization-act-now-contact-your-reps/) - The Older Americans Act is up for reauthorization in Congress, and your voice is needed to ensure these critical senior services continue.
- [CICOA Receives Grant from Meals on Wheels America to Help Keep Central Indiana Seniors and Their Pets Together](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-receives-grant-from-meals-on-wheels-america-to-help-keep-central-indiana-seniors-and-their-pets-together/) - CICOA receives grant from Meals on Wheels America to help keep Central Indiana seniors and their pets together.
- [CICOA Receives Grant from Meals on Wheels America to Address Social Isolation and Loneliness in Central Indiana](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-receives-grant-from-meals-on-wheels-america-to-address-social-isolation-and-loneliness-in-central-indiana/) - CICOA received a Meals on Wheels America Social Connection Grant to fund community gardens and a creative arts program for older adults.
- [The Power of Your Portfolio: IRA Gifts](https://cicoa.org/the-power-of-your-portfolio-ira-gifts/) - Your IRA is a valuable asset that can be strategically used for charitable giving without depleting your cash reserves.
- [Medicaid Waiver waiting lists begin to reopen](https://cicoa.org/medicaid-waiver-waiting-lists-begin-to-reopen/) - The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration’s (FSSA) Office of Medicaid Policy & Planning has begun to invite individuals off the waiting lists for PathWays and Health & Wellness waivers. FSSA had implemented the waiting list in April as part of the Medicaid strategies when the Aged and Disabled waiver reached maximum capacity. On July
- [CICOA Case Manager Receives Community Champion Award](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-case-manager-receives-community-champion-award/) - Richard Gaidoo, a case manager for CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions, has been named recipient of the 2024 Community Champion Award. Tauhric Brown, President & CEO of CICOA, accepted the award on behalf of Richard at USAging’s 49th Annual Conference and Tradeshow in Tampa, Florida. The award was presented by Mom’s Meals®, the leading provider
- [Empowering Independence: How We Help Older Adults and People with Disabilities Thrive](https://cicoa.org/empowering-independence/) - At CICOA, we believe that independence is about living life on your own terms, with dignity and purpose. We offer a range of home and community-based services.
- [At a Loss for Words: Indy Woman Loses Her Career (Not Her Spirit) to Dementia](https://cicoa.org/at-a-loss-for-words-dementia/) - Becky isn’t shy about sharing the challenges she’s faced since being diagnosed with dementia. She prefers to focus on what she can do and educate others.
- [How to Be Productive While Working from Home](https://cicoa.org/how-to-be-productive-while-working-from-home/) - How can we stay focused on our work despite all the uncertainty at this moment? A CICOA care manager shares her tips for working from home.
- [Estate Plans: Time to Get Them Done or Updated](https://cicoa.org/estate-plans-time-to-get-them-done-or-updated/) - Indiana and all other states allow you to consult with an attorney remotely, so now is a great time to get your estate plans done or updated.
- [Estate Plans: Let's Complete the Process](https://cicoa.org/estate-plans-complete-the-process/) - Complete an estate plan to make sure there are formal, legal instructions as to what is to happen to everything you own when you pass away.
- [A Resolution That You Can and Should Keep](https://cicoa.org/resolution-estate-plan/) - Now that January has come and gone, how are you doing on your New Year’s resolutions? If you are like me, making New Year’s resolutions is easy; keeping them is a different story. Whether you did or didn’t make any resolutions this year, one you should make now is to create an estate plan (if
- [Charitable Planning and the American Rescue Plan](https://cicoa.org/charitable-planning-and-the-american-rescue-plan/) - Legislation passed in early 2021 can have an effect on your charitable gifts and plans for this year.
- [Ready to Cash in Your Business? Tips to Save Some Money](https://cicoa.org/cash-in-your-business-tips-to-save-money/) - When you're ready to sell your business to fund retirement, consider these tips to save money, reduce taxes and contribute to charity.
- [It’s Time for Our Voices To Be Heard, Even if We Can’t Buy Twitter](https://cicoa.org/time-for-voices-to-be-heard-cant-buy-twitter/) - Only half of Central Indiana older adults feel informed about available services and activities. We must speak up about access, information and assistance.
- [The Making of a Caregiver, Advocate](https://cicoa.org/making-of-caregiver-advocate/) - CICOA Board member Deanna Conerly brings passion and experience to her role, advocating for the organization’s mission and raising awareness of CICOA services.
- [CICOA Announces 2023 Annual Award Winners](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-announces-2023-annual-award-winners/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions presented six awards to honor the contributions of volunteers and partner organizations over the past year.
- [Meals on Wheels America Grants Support CICOA Seniors and their Beloved Pets](https://cicoa.org/meals-on-wheels-america-grants-support-cicoa-seniors-and-their-beloved-pets/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions is a recipient of a 2023 Meals on Wheels Loves Pets Regional Cohort Grant, made possible by PetSmart Charities, in the amount of $7,500.00. CICOA also is receiving a Pet Program Ambassador Award and will receive an additional $1,500.00. These funds will help support CICOA’s Pet Connect program, which provides
- [Grant Helps Seniors Live at Home Longer with Accessibility Modifications](https://cicoa.org/grant-helps-seniors-live-at-home-longer-with-accessibility-modifications/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions has received a grant from the Hoover Family Foundation to provide accessibility modifications for low-income senior homeowners.
- [Getting to Know You](https://cicoa.org/getting-to-know-you/) - For the CICOA Foundation, getting to know our volunteers and donors better is critical, and it allows us to talk about the things that matter most to you!
- [FSSA Grant Supports Aging in Place for Adults with Mental Illness](https://cicoa.org/fssa-grant-supports-aging-in-place-for-adults-with-mental-illness/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions has received a grant of $1.5 million from the Family and Social Services Administration, Division of Mental Health & Addiction. This funding for Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) will support aging in place by providing home- and community-based services for older adults with mental illness. CICOA will identify and provide
- [UWCI Grant Provides Access to Food, Transportation, Housing](https://cicoa.org/uwci-grant-provides-access-to-food-transportation-housing/) - United Way of Central Indiana has awarded a Basic Needs Fund grant of $360,000 to CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions.
- [Knowledge Is More Than Power, It's a Lifeline](https://cicoa.org/knowledge-is-more-than-power-its-a-lifeline/) - More than 9,000 people called CICOA’s Aging & Disability Resource Center in May. It’s a new record for incoming calls. We’ve been setting records at our call center every month since July 2022. The “silver tsunami” is real. Our community is aging. Older adults want to stay in their homes, but they need help. The
- ['This is my Caryn, and she's from CICOA'](https://cicoa.org/this-is-my-caryn-and-shes-from-cicoa/) - While caregiving for her husband, Pauline didn't expect that CICOA would help her, too. A caregiver counselor helped her understand her feelings and challenges.
- [Building a Better Life Begins with Nutrition and Exercise](https://cicoa.org/building-a-better-life-begins-with-nutrition-and-exercise/) - It’s never too late to build a better life. Just ask Jan, 76, who said her life started changing for the better earlier this year when she joined a Bingocize® class offered by CICOA. “I’ve lost seven pounds. I have more energy. I used to never get up until around 10:30. Mama’s up by eight
- [Hug a Senior Today!](https://cicoa.org/hug-a-senior-today/) - I have a big favor to ask everyone. I want you to call an older adult in your life today. Let them know you care. Better yet, visit an older adult and give them a big hug. Tell them how much they mean to you. May is one of the most important months of the
- [Volunteers to Clean up Seniors’ Yards in Northeast-side Neighborhood](https://cicoa.org/volunteers-to-clean-up-seniors-yards-in-northeast-side-neighborhood/) - More than 100 volunteers will spend the morning trimming shrubs, picking up trash, weeding and doing general yard cleanup for 10 low-income seniors.
- [8 Challenges of Aging: Financial Security Starts With Getting a Lay of the Land](https://cicoa.org/8-challenges-of-aging-financial-security/) - Talking about senior finances is hard, but what’s even harder is being a caregiver who doesn’t know the full picture of your loved one’s financial situation.
- [Lead the Way with Innovation](https://cicoa.org/lead-the-way-with-innovation/) - We're looking for investors to help us bring innovative solutions to market to improve quality of life for older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers
- [8 Challenges of Aging: Empowerment & Purpose](https://cicoa.org/8-challenges-of-aging-empowerment-purpose/) - Step one to living an empowered life is to find purpose. Lead an empowered, joyful life as you age with these tips for caregivers and older adults.
- [8 Challenges of Aging: Getting Older Doesn't Have to Mean a Change of Address](https://cicoa.org/getting-older-doesnt-have-to-mean-a-change-of-address/) - Most seniors want to live in their own homes as they age. Here are some tips to help your loved one live safely at home and extend independent living.
- [Volunteers Enrich the Lives of More Than 20,000 People in Central Indiana](https://cicoa.org/volunteers-enrich-the-lives-of-people-in-central-indiana/) - This is National Volunteer Month, and we are taking time to thank the people across central Indiana who give their time and talents to help those in need.
- [All Foods Fit into a Healthy Diet](https://cicoa.org/all-foods-fit-into-a-healthy-diet/) - Healthy eating is important at every age. You can use serving sizes on containers or packages to help guide you to eat the appropriate amounts of foods.
- [Community Connections Empower Indy Mom to Break out of Homelessness](https://cicoa.org/community-connections-empower-indy-mom-to-break-out-of-homelessness/) - While Medicaid does not cover housing costs, it does provide housing-related support through its partnerships with local community resources, including CICOA.
- [Social Workers Help Those in Need Live Their Best Lives Possible](https://cicoa.org/social-workers-month/) - March is National Social Work Month, honoring those who make sure the most vulnerable members of our community are living their best lives possible.
- [Create Stronger Communities Through Effective Outreach](https://cicoa.org/create-stronger-communities-through-effective-outreach/) - Many older adults don't know what community resources and services are available. CICOA wants to do more outreach and education to help those in need.
- [Promoting Equity by Meeting Basic Needs](https://cicoa.org/promoting-equity-by-meeting-basic-needs/) - CICOA is an Indiana nonprofit that is working toward promoting equity by meeting the basic needs of older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers.
- [Getting out of the House Is Good for Your Health, but Many Older Hoosiers Feel Stranded](https://cicoa.org/getting-out-good-for-health-older-hoosiers-feel-stranded/) - Central Indiana seniors say transportation helps them live their lives independently, but funding isn't adequate to meet the growing need.
- [Way2Go Transportation Reduces Worry for Cancer Patient](https://cicoa.org/way2go-transportation-reduces-worry-for-cancer-patient/) - Knowing that Way2Go transportation is there has made a huge difference in my recovery by not having to worry about it. It's been a great experience.
- [Facing Eviction, Senior Finds New Home After Life-changing Call](https://cicoa.org/facing-eviction-senior-finds-new-home-after-life-changing-call/) - Homelessness looked inevitable for Ron, an Indianapolis senior. Within two days of calling CICOA, he was approved for Medicaid, a service plan and relocation.
- [Food Insecurity Is a Symptom of Deeper Issues](https://cicoa.org/food-insecurity-is-a-symptom-of-deeper-issues/) - One of my goals for Indy Hunger Network is to look deeper into why people are food insecure and then work together to help overcome those challenges.
- [Indy Hunger Network Names CICOA's Tauhric Brown Chairman of the Board](https://cicoa.org/indy-hunger-network-tauhric-brown-chairman/) - CICOA President and CEO Tauhric Brown has been named Chair of the Board of Indy Hunger Network, a collaboration of Indiana organizations fighting hunger.
- [Charitable Giving at Year's End](https://cicoa.org/charitable-giving-at-years-end/) - December is the most giving time of the year. End-of-year charitable giving provides tax benefits for the donor while supporting the organization's mission.
- [All I Want for Christmas Is for More Seniors to Live Safely at Home](https://cicoa.org/more-seniors-to-live-safely-at-home/) - In Indiana, we're working to rebalance Medicaid spending on home and community-based care to help aging seniors live safely at home.
- [Meal Delivery Has Been a Godsend for Franklin Woman](https://cicoa.org/meal-delivery-has-been-godsend/) - Rosemary didn't have energy to cook a nutritious dinner, so she called CICOA. She now receives home-delivered meals through CICOA’s Meals and More.
- [Eat Your Age: The Essential Nutrients You Need as You Get Older](https://cicoa.org/eat-your-age-the-essential-nutrients-you-need-as-you-get-older/) - My top recommendations for the essential nutrients you need as you get older and your body's needs change. Calcium, vitamin D, fiber, vitamin B12, potassium.
- [Cholesterol: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly](https://cicoa.org/cholesterol-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly/) - What is cholesterol and how do we control it? Include or eliminate certain foods and habits for healthy good and bad cholesterol levels as you get older.
- [Fishers Mom Inspires New Business to Encourage Letter Writing](https://cicoa.org/fishers-mom-inspires-new-business-to-encourage-letter-writing/) - CICOA launches Postbook™, a postcard-writing kit designed to connect children with older adults through the lost art of letter writing.
- [Bringing Innovative Ideas to Life](https://cicoa.org/bringing-innovative-ideas-to-life/) - Venture philanthropy offers a way for individuals to invest in a high-potential business with a measurable social impact.
- [Simple Recipes for Holiday Gatherings](https://cicoa.org/simple-recipes-for-holiday-gatherings/) - Whether you're looking to grow your list of go-to recipes to bring to a holiday potluck, or seeking a simple, fast and cheap side, try these recipes.
- [Every Organization Needs Protection from Fraud, Waste and Abuse](https://cicoa.org/every-organization-needs-protection-from-fraud-waste-and-abuse/) - Every organization, from large to small businesses to nonprofits, needs a solid compliance program. It needs to be woven into your organization’s culture.
- [Cancer Awareness and Prevention: Make Healthy Food Choices for Protection](https://cicoa.org/cancer-awareness-prevention-make-healthy-food-choices/) - A diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes has been proven to provide protective abilities against breast cancer and other types of cancer.
- [Recognizing and Supporting Family Caregivers Who Give Selflessly Every Day](https://cicoa.org/recognizing-and-supporting-family-caregivers/) - I became a dementia caregiver without giving a second thought to how it would impact my life and, eventually, my career. After all, family takes care of family.
- [I'm Keeping You](https://cicoa.org/im-keeping-you-dementia/) - Pat's family started noticing memory loss, a sign of Alzheimer's or dementia. She still has a good quality of life, with an understanding and patient husband.
- [Older Adults Are Fueling Our Economy](https://cicoa.org/older-adults-are-fueling-our-economy/) - Let's Keep Them Employed Here’s a statistic that blows my mind: Older adults – those 60-plus – are helping fuel our local economy to the tune of more than $5.37 billion annually in Central Indiana. It’s a stat that came out of our 2021 Community Assessment Survey for Older Adults (CASOA). In Marion County, older
- [Celebrating Five Years of Dementia Friends Indiana](https://cicoa.org/celebrating-five-years-of-dementia-friends-indiana/) - Dementia Friends Indiana is changing how Hoosiers think, act and talk about dementia and breaking down the stigma of Alzheimer's and other dementia.
- [Stroke Survivor Gets Help To Stay Safe At Home](https://cicoa.org/stroke-survivor-gets-help-to-stay-safe-at-home/) - During Fall Prevention Awareness Month, volunteers help seniors with home modifications to increase safety and accessibility and reduce the likelihood of falls.
- [MOOve to Calcium-Rich Foods](https://cicoa.org/moove-to-calcium-rich-foods/) - Older adults, especially females, should eat calcium-rich foods daily to prevent bone loss and osteoporosis. Many foods contain calcium besides dairy!
- [Alzheimer's Rocked Their World; CICOA is Helping Them Stick Together](https://cicoa.org/alzheimers-rocked-world-cicoa-helping-them-stick-together/) - When his wife developed Alzheimer's, Mike wanted to care for her at home. They're getting support with a care manager, an aide, home-delivered meals and more.
- [Times Are Changing, and That's Good for Seniors](https://cicoa.org/times-are-changing-good-for-seniors/) - CEO Tauhric Brown shares takeaways from the USAging Conference. CICOA is working to change the way we do business through innovation, research and partnerships.
- [CICOA Receives United Way of Central Indiana Basic Needs Fund Grant](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-receives-united-way-of-central-indiana-basic-needs-fund-grant/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions has received a Basic Needs Fund grant of $225,000 from United Way of Central Indiana. This critical funding supports essential elements of CICOA’s work and ensures that an adequate safety net exists for vulnerable older adults and people with disabilities. United Way funding will help thousands of CICOA clients in
- [Heat Can Be Deadly for Older Adults](https://cicoa.org/heat-can-be-deadly-for-older-adults/) - For older adults, extreme heat not only is uncomfortable, but also potentially deadly. Help vulnerable seniors who need an air conditioner.
- [Eat Fresh: Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables in Central Indiana](https://cicoa.org/eat-fresh-seasonal-fruits-and-vegetables-in-central-indiana/) - Let’s explore fruits and vegetables in season late summer and early fall in Central Indiana. This produce can be found at local groceries and farmers markets.
- [Eating a Rainbow for Better Health](https://cicoa.org/eating-a-rainbow-for-better-health/) - Fruits and vegetables come in all colors of the rainbow. Have you ever wondered what gives fruits and vegetables their distinguishing colors?
- [Fire Gives Care Manager New Perspective on Caring for Seniors](https://cicoa.org/fire-gives-care-manager-new-perspective-on-caring-for-seniors/) - After a fire at an Indianapolis assisted living facility, CICOA care managers and community partners work quickly to find new housing for the displaced seniors.
- [Home Repairs Make Homes Safer For Seniors; Paying For Them Is A Challenge](https://cicoa.org/indianapolis-seniors-home-repairs/) - Local nonprofit INHP provides interest-free loans to Indianapolis seniors to help make costly home repairs and make their homes safer.
- [Way2Go Transportation Helps 93-Year-Old Indy Woman Stay Independent](https://cicoa.org/way2go-transportation-helps-93-year-old-indy-woman-stay-independent/) - When 93-year-old Cordie needs to go to an appointment or to the grocery, she makes a call to CICOA. The nonprofit’s Way2Go transportation service picks her up at her house and takes her to wherever she needs to go. More than that, drivers help her board the van and load her walker. “I just thank God for CICOA,
- [Creativity, Innovation, Advocacy Inspire CICOA 2022 Annual Awards](https://cicoa.org/creativity-innovation-advocacy-inspire-cicoa-2022-annual-awards/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions presented six awards to recognize individuals and organizations that have made a significant impact on our mission.
- [Lilly Endowment Inc. Awards CICOA $5 Million Sustainability Grant](https://cicoa.org/lilly-endowment-inc-awards-cicoa-5-million-sustainability-grant/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions has received a grant of $5 million from Lilly Endowment Inc. through its latest round of financial sustainability grants.
- [Understanding People's Pain Points Helps CICOA Build Solutions](https://cicoa.org/understanding-peoples-pain-points-helps-cicoa-build-solutions/) - Gaining knowledge through data and research is crucial to best understand how we can serve older adults in Indiana.
- [CICOA Selected to Present at National Geriatrics Conference](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-selected-to-present-at-national-geriatrics-conference/) - CICOA's work with Alzheimer’s and dementia to provide services and education to the community has been recognized by the American Geriatrics Society.
- [Age My Way! Staying Connected](https://cicoa.org/age-my-way-staying-connected/) - May is Older Americans Month, and the theme for this year is Age My Way! Aging in community with family and friends is the wish of many older adults.
- [10 Hydrating Fruits and Vegetables](https://cicoa.org/10-hydrating-fruits-and-vegetables/) - With warm temperatures, hydration is very important. Water-rich foods, such as these 10 hydrating fruits and vegetables, are a great option to stay hydrated.
- [Better Housing Means Better Quality of Life for Indy Senior](https://cicoa.org/better-housing-better-quality-of-life-indy-senior/) - Moving from a poorly managed apartment to senior housing radically changed Paul’s life. His CICOA care manager helped him find a place to call home.
- [INHP Grant Supports Home Accessibility for Seniors](https://cicoa.org/inhp-grant-supports-home-accessibility-for-seniors/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions has received a $20,000 grant from the Indianapolis Neighborhood Housing Partnership® (INHP), a local Community Development Financial Institution supporting affordable housing in Indianapolis. The grant supports CICOA’s Safe at Home program, which provides home safety and accessibility modifications that enhance mobility, promote independence, and prevent falls for older adults and people
- [Let’s Get Physical! The Proven Benefits of Exercise for Older Adults](https://cicoa.org/lets-get-physical-the-proven-benefits-of-exercise-for-older-adults/) - Let's explore the benefits of exercise for older adults and how seniors can get started with regular exercise for healthy aging.
- [How One Woman's Drive To Survive Made Local History](https://cicoa.org/how-one-womans-drive-to-survive-made-local-history/) - At 91, Mildred won a talent show for singing, yodeling and playing harmonica. She also made Indy history as the first female electroplater at Naval Avionics.
- [Volunteers Make the World Go Round](https://cicoa.org/volunteers-make-the-world-go-round/) - April is National Volunteer Month, where we celebrate the impact of volunteers and encourage people to volunteer for community-based organizations like CICOA.
- [Purdue University Center for Health Equity and Innovation Partners with CICOA](https://cicoa.org/purdue-university-center-for-health-equity-and-innovation-partners-with-cicoa/) - A grant supports new Community Health Worker (CHW) positions at CICOA, a nonprofit serving older adults and people with disabilities in Central Indiana.
- [Beans: A Secret Superstar for Excellent Nutrition](https://cicoa.org/beans-secret-superstar-for-excellent-nutrition/) - March is National Nutrition Month®, during which we spotlight different aspects of nutrition and how to fuel our bodies to their fullest potential. Today, we are highlighting a great source of plant protein—beans! Beans have an excellent nutrition profile, come in a variety of types, are cost-effective and versatile. Let's explore each of these areas
- [An Open Letter to Central Indiana Seniors](https://cicoa.org/casoa-letter-central-indiana-seniors/) - Results and statistics from 2021 Community Assessment Survey for Older Adults (CASOA) help organizations like CICOA better align services with seniors' needs.
- [Grant Expands Capacity to Serve Homebound Seniors and Their Pets](https://cicoa.org/grant-expands-capacity-to-serve-homebound-seniors-and-their-pets/) - Low-income, homebound seniors no longer must choose between feeding themselves or their pets with grant from Meals on Wheels America and PetSmart Charities.
- [Respite Care: Why Caregivers Need Eight Hours A Week and Where to Get It](https://cicoa.org/respite-care-why-caregivers-need-eight-hours-a-week-and-where-to-get-it/) - Caregiving can take a toll on caregivers, physically, mentally and emotionally. According to the Family Caregiver Alliance, caregiving can lead to increased stress, chronic health challenges and depression. It is important that caregivers have a break, or respite, from their caregiving responsibilities on a regular basis. Respite care can be good for both the caregiver and
- [Rethink, Redefine, Reintroduce:  The Economics of FUN!](https://cicoa.org/rethink-redefine-reintroduce-economics-fun/) - If you’ve been a caregiver for awhile, chances are you’ve frequently set aside some of the activities you consider nonessential in order to accomplish the necessary tasks of caring for someone else. The experience of having fun, for example, is commonly categorized by family caregivers as unnecessary or even selfish because, let’s face it, there
- [Awareness Turns to Action](https://cicoa.org/awareness-turns-action/) - The term “elder abuse” has many and varied connotations. When we hear the term, some of us are inclined to think of an elderly person being tricked into giving up major portions of a life’s savings, whether to unscrupulous family members or perfect strangers. Some of us imagine an older person who is deliberately isolated
- [Indianapolis Museums Offer Extra Help for People with Special Needs](https://cicoa.org/indianapolis-museums-offer-extra-help-people-special-needs/) - It’s summer time. And, we all need to take a break from our daily routines, whether it’s a weeklong family vacation or even just a day-long staycation. Deciding where to go can be a challenge for caregivers, as they want to assure a positive experience for their loved ones and minimize complications. Thankfully, Indianapolis has
- [Disaster Planning and Dementia](https://cicoa.org/disaster-planning-dementia/) - Only a couple of decades ago, the concepts of “emergency preparedness” and “disaster planning” were rarely discussed in public. Of course, all of us have experienced the required drills at school or work (practicing evacuations for fire, extreme weather, or earthquakes, depending on one’s area of the country). However, for those of us not directly
- [Running to Win](https://cicoa.org/running-to-win/) - Are you familiar with the world’s 800+ marathon events annually? This long-distance foot race of about 26 miles is completed by running, walking or a combination of the two, and there are also wheelchair divisions. Marathons are fascinating and wildly popular across the globe, crossing boundaries of culture, ethnicity, gender, language and age (and how
- [Questions to Ask Your Care Manager](https://cicoa.org/questions-to-ask-your-care-manager/) - Caregivers (whether new to the role or seasoned with lots of practice) often seem to be unaware of the extensive help that is available to them in the form of professional case management. Without the help of a case manager, a caregiver may feel lost and frustrated as he/she tries to discover resources and fresh ideas
- [Managing Change From a Distance](https://cicoa.org/managing-change-from-a-distance/) - Caregiving is challenging, whether near or far away from a loved one. When living in close proximity, caregivers may feel overwhelmed by the routine itself, i.e. the number, frequency and difficulty of tasks required. However, performing the caregiver role from a distance can complicate things in unanticipated ways and deliver an additional set of challenges.
- [Who You Gonna Call?](https://cicoa.org/who-you-gonna-call/) - As a caregiver coach for CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions, I’ve seen many new caregivers suddenly in need of information about Home and Community Based Service (HCBS) or other resources for optimizing quality of life for a loved one. Without any preparation at all, new caregivers can find themselves stressed over what to do, where
- [Caregiving and Your Financial Future](https://cicoa.org/caregiving-and-your-financial-future/) - What happens when a loved one’s needs increase and you, as a caregiver, are faced with the daunting responsibility of providing extensive care? Perhaps caregiving started with transporting the loved one to doctor appointments or the supermarket, and now the loved one cannot safely be left alone for any length of time. For any of
- [Three Unique Challenges of Long-Distance Caregivers](https://cicoa.org/three-unique-challenges-of-long-distance-caregivers/) - Many people in the United States eventually will find themselves in the role of caregiver. While some are thrust into the role in a crisis situation, others—sometimes without realizing it—slowly assume the role over time. Either way, the many transitions, decisions, tasks and challenges to navigate can make even the thought of caregiving seem overwhelming.
- [Learning How to Love—Again](https://cicoa.org/learning-how-to-love-again/) - Caregiving is no easy task, whether the care recipient is a child, a spouse or an aging parent. Caring for a loved one with dementia can be one of the most challenging tasks a person may face. As our loved ones undergo changes in their cognitive and physical wellbeing, they may experience changes in personality
- [Loneliness Is Bad for Your Health](https://cicoa.org/loneliness-bad-for-your-health/) - Loneliness, commonly accepted as part of the human condition, is no stranger to any generation, but it is increasingly familiar in the older population. It’s difficult to pinpoint every cause for loneliness because it is felt so personally. But we do know that some of the less pleasant aspects of growing older can create the
- [Let the Outdoor Fun Begin!](https://cicoa.org/let-the-outdoor-fun-begin/) - When caring for a loved one with dementia around Indianapolis, here are some ideas for partial-day outdoor outings and activities to do.
- [Communication Tips for a Loved One with Dementia](https://cicoa.org/communication-tips-for-a-loved-one-with-dementia/) - Communication—both verbal and nonverbal—is intrinsic to the human experience. Effective communication, however, far from being an innate trait, is a learned skill. Throughout our lifetime, social environments (i.e. parents, teachers, friends, jobs, and other life experiences) shape our understanding of the world and determine the ways in which we express ourselves. These thoughts and patterns
- [Mindful Fall Prevention for All Ages](https://cicoa.org/mindful-fall-prevention-for-all-ages/) - All of us have fallen at one time or another. My own experiences include more than falling in childhood when learning to walk or ride a bicycle. Remember disco dancing? I cannot begin to describe the mortification I felt sliding across the dance floor when an overly enthusiastic partner lost hold of my hand. Or
- [Lowering Expectations: A Formula for Stress-Free Holidays](https://cicoa.org/lowering-expectations-for-stress-free-holidays/) - Here are three recommendations for caregivers to ensure that celebrations are enjoyable without becoming exhausting.
- [National Caregiver Day: Express Your Appreciation](https://cicoa.org/national-caregiver-day/) - On National Caregiver Day, express your appreciation through the Five Love Languages.
- [Techniques to Help Calm, Redirect Loved Ones with Dementia](https://cicoa.org/techniques-to-help-calm-redirect-loved-ones-with-dementia/) - This approach allows you to direct your loved one’s attention away from feelings of anxiety and fear to feelings of relaxation and peace.
- [5 Ways to Reduce Caregiver Loneliness During COVID-19](https://cicoa.org/5-ways-to-reduce-caregiver-loneliness-during-covid-19/) - Caregiving can be a lonely experience at any time, and with increased social isolation imposed by COVID-19, caregivers may feel even more disconnected.
- [Millennials Are Stepping Up as Caregivers](https://cicoa.org/millennials-stepping-up-as-caregivers/) - The profile of caregivers is changing, and more young people are stepping up to care for aging parents and grandparents. It’s a trend that is going to continue as Baby Boomers age. A 2020 AARP survey found that 1 in 4 family caregivers are millennials – those born between 1981 and 1996. While traditional caregivers
- [IADLs and ADLs... What's the Difference?](https://cicoa.org/iadls-and-adls-whats-the-difference/) - Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) and Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) help identify challenges that a person with a disability may face.
- [5 Tips for Optimizing Your Health Coverage for 2021](https://cicoa.org/5-tips-medicare-open-enrollment-2021/) - Open Enrollment extends from October 15 until December 7 every year so you can review your Medicare plan and make changes based on your needs.
- [4 Ways to Help Struggling Caregivers](https://cicoa.org/4-ways-to-help-struggling-caregivers/) - Caregivers are more stressed and in greater health decline. Together, we can find ways to help stressed caregivers.
- [5 Signs You May Need to Talk to Someone](https://cicoa.org/5-signs-need-to-talk-to-someone/) - Many caregivers don’t even realize they need help until they’ve literally worked themselves sick. Ask yourself these questions to see where you stand.
- [Preserving Memories into Family Treasures: No Time Like the Present](https://cicoa.org/preserving-memories-into-family-treasures/) - Documenting a family member's treasured memories has never been easier. Check out these ways to save family stories.
- [Is It Safe for Mom to Live Alone?](https://cicoa.org/is-it-safe-for-mom-to-live-alone/) - As your parents get older, talk with them about any help they may need around the house. Read these tips for conversations about your parents' independence.
- [A Closer Look at Family](https://cicoa.org/a-closer-look-at-family/) - Of all the challenges that can be observed among family caregivers of an elderly parent, there is none so intriguing and complex as that of family dynamics and their potential to produce damaging, long-term conflict among adult siblings. For a variety of reasons, there’s bound to be a lot of emotion associated with caring for
- [Respite for the Caregiver…Optional, or Mandatory?](https://cicoa.org/respite-for-the-caregiveroptional-or-mandatory/) - As caregivers, we want to provide the very best possible care for our loved ones. Often, though, we can fall into the trap of being the sole caregiver, convinced that we don’t need much help (if any at all) and that no one else can perform the necessary tasks to meet our high expectations. Unfortunately,
- [And the Best Substitute for Sleep Is...](https://cicoa.org/best-substitute-for-sleep/) - Actually, there IS no substitute for sleep! Ironic, isn’t it? Some of the things that make us better caregivers are the very things that are in short supply because of caregiving. One glaring example of this is sleep. We don’t need research to prove that sleep deprivation causes problems with reflexes and decision making. What
- [Building Your Caregiver Network](https://cicoa.org/building-your-caregiver-network/) - Several years ago I was delivering a workshop for family caregivers when I noticed someone in the audience crying. It didn’t seem appropriate to proceed without at least acknowledging this person’s discomfort and possibly adjusting my message. I paused and gently asked, “Is everything okay?” The caregiver responded that, yes, everything was great…now. This person
- [Take Action Against Caregiver Stress](https://cicoa.org/take-action-against-caregiver-stress/) - One of the more interesting things to me about the phenomenon of caregiving is that every situation is unique, and yet its participants often share important characteristics. For example: They often are unprepared for the role. They frequently feel isolated with less time for social interaction. They commonly neglect self-care and are reluctant to ask for help. Of
- [Taking STEPS for Fall Prevention](https://cicoa.org/taking-steps-for-fall-prevention/) - Recently I had the unnerving experience of losing my balance and falling while hiking precariously close to the edge of a deep gorge. Fortunately, there was no serious physical injury, but the impact certainly was painful! In hindsight, I know that I fell because I wasn’t paying attention to the path, but instead was distracted
- [Inclusion via Nonverbal Communication: Good for All of Us!](https://cicoa.org/inclusion-via-nonverbal-communication-good-for-all-of-us/) - “There is a road from the eye to heart that does not go through the intellect.” – G. K. Chesterton Are you as intrigued as I am that newborn humans know instinctively to look another human in the eye? This is true of other creatures, as well. How is it that your dog knows to
- [What’s Good for the Goose](https://cicoa.org/whats-good-goose/) - What’s good for the goose is good for the gander, as the old adage goes. The saying sounds odd in today’s culture, but its meaning is quite applicable as we consider a double-standard that sometimes occurs among caregivers and their loved ones. If you’re like many caregivers whose care recipient is an elderly parent, no
- [A Vehicle Called Hope](https://cicoa.org/vehicle-called-hope/) - “Cheer up—things can’t be that bad!” How often has a well-meaning observer said something similar to you in an effort to be helpful, and the comment seemed flippant and insensitive to you? You probably were less than appreciative (and the temptation to knock out some teeth might even have crossed your mind, depending on how
- [Make a Difference for a Lifetime](https://cicoa.org/make-difference-lifetime/) - “Well, you know, she’s almost 80,” the daughter replied, with the classic wink and apologetic head-tilt when asked how her mother is doing. Too often, we as a society take for granted a progressively lower quality of life and less productivity in people as they age—and in turn, many seniors succumb to a self-fulfilling prophecy
- [Senior Finances…More Than Meets the Eye](https://cicoa.org/senior-financesmore-meets-eye/) - Most of us know the importance of an annual eye exam for the purpose of early detection of eye abnormalities and changes in vision. You might be surprised to learn that the eye also can betray hidden problems elsewhere in the body long before other symptoms appear. For example, ophthalmologists often are the first to
- [Clear the Clutter!](https://cicoa.org/clear-the-clutter/) - Years ago, I was invited to the home of a brilliant scientist, a retired professor in her nineties who claimed that she had never thrown out a daily newspaper in her entire adult life. Imagine my intrigue when entering her enormous eighth-story apartment to be ushered (in single file) through a high and narrow maze
- [Wanted: Good Dirt](https://cicoa.org/wanted-good-dirt/) - Some think it was Plato, others certainly not, but whoever said this seems to have had the right idea: “People are like dirt. They can either nourish you and help you grow as a person, or they can stunt your growth and make you wilt and die.” Perhaps without realizing it, each of us has
- [The Healing Properties of Art Therapy](https://cicoa.org/healing-properties-art-therapy/) - If you are a non-artist like many of us (let’s face it, we’re the ones who consistently draw in stick figures and circles, all the while admiring the artistic work of other people whom we believe actually have “talent”), it is likely that even hearing the phrase “art therapy” produces anxious thoughts that just might
- [Threats to Safety in the Home](https://cicoa.org/keeping-seniors-safe/) - When observing caregiving situations, we see that it is very often the caregiver—rather than the elder—who is concerned about threats to safety in the home. This is not surprising; many who have lived independently the majority of their lives feel quite confident that they are capable of continuing to do so, while their caregivers worry
- [Just a Thought…in the Interest of a Healthy Brain](https://cicoa.org/just-thoughtin-interest-healthy-brain/) - Memory loss is one of the most feared consequences of aging. After all, it’s natural to want to learn and remember new things, make good decisions, interact well socially, and concentrate in our later years of life. If our interest and hope in maintaining cognition weren’t there, we wouldn’t be reminded constantly by the media
- [Bringing Light to Dark Thoughts](https://cicoa.org/bringing-light-dark-thoughts/) - This is not your typical holiday blog post. This commentary—based NOT on research from the experts but on the personal observation and experience of its author—is for those of us facing the holiday season with some measure of grief, hardship, discouragement, confusion, isolation, disappointment, futility or fear. Given current events and the complexity of life
- [Why We Love Bad News, and How to Kick the Habit](https://cicoa.org/why-we-love-bad-news-and-how-to-kick-the-habit/) - Statistically, we are more attracted to grave, negative stories than to positive stories. When bad news is all around, how can you deal with it?
- [5 Ways to Redirect Dementia-Related Behaviors](https://cicoa.org/5-ways-to-redirect-dementia-related-behaviors/) - Although it might not be possible to prevent dementia-related behaviors all the time, diversion techniques can often redirect the scenario.
- [The Importance of Touch](https://cicoa.org/the-importance-of-touch/) - Have you ever thought about the importance of touch? Author Paula Cocozza states, “The pleasantness [of touch] encourages us to keep touching, nourishes babies and binds adults, and threads wellbeing into the fabric of our being.” We don’t think twice to hug our children when they’re crying, and it’s therapeutic to pet our dogs when
- [Mindful Eating: Focusing on the Experience](https://cicoa.org/mindful-eating-focusing-on-the-experience/) - Mindful eating is having awareness of the present moment and applying it to food, using all senses to focus on the experience of eating food.
- [Volunteer Shares Passion for Service and Innovation](https://cicoa.org/volunteer-shares-passion-for-service-and-innovation/) - Essential to the success of any nonprofit’s mission and vision for the future is building strong relationships with community volunteers. CICOA Board Chair Peter Bisbecos has a relationship with the organization that goes back nearly 30 years. It’s an association based on mutual interests in service and innovation that fulfills a mission of caring for
- [Happy Holidays, Caregivers and COVID-19](https://cicoa.org/happy-holidays-caregivers-and-covid-19/) - Caring for a loved one with dementia during the holidays in 2020 is compounded by the additional stress of COVID-19. Follow these tips for less stress.
- [5 Tips to Reduce Stress During the Holidays](https://cicoa.org/5-tips-to-reduce-stress-during-the-holidays/) - If you're caring for a loved one with dementia, these five tips will help you reduce stress around the holidays as a caregiver.
- [The Call That Saved a Life](https://cicoa.org/call-that-saved-a-life/) - When care manager Kia called to check on Dennis, she could tell something wasn't right. It turned out, he had a high fever due to pneumonia and COVID-19.
- [Seniors No Longer Have to Decide Between Feeding Themselves and Their Pets](https://cicoa.org/pet-food-for-indy-seniors/) - CICOA receives Meals on Wheels America grant to provide pet food for Indy seniors so they don't have to decide between feeding themselves or their pet.
- [Fitness, Nutrition and Prizes: Bingocize®](https://cicoa.org/fitness-nutrition-prizes-bingocize/) - Bingocize® is a ten-week, evidence-based wellness program aimed at promoting fitness and nutrition to seniors.
- [CICOA Receives Meridian Foundation Arago Honors Award for Innovation](https://cicoa.org/meridian-foundation-arago-honors-award-for-innovation/) - Indianapolis-based Meridian Foundation has awarded CICOA an award of $10,000 to honor and support its innovative approaches to serving the community.
- [It’s Time to Reinvent the Wheel](https://cicoa.org/time-to-reinvent-the-wheel/) - The new world demands new ways of thinking and new ways of doing business, whether you are a nonprofit like CICOA or a for-profit business.
- [Indy Mom Finds Inspiration From Their Miracle Baby to Create Children’s Books](https://cicoa.org/miracle-baby-childrens-books/) - After her twins were born at 26 weeks and learning how to advocate for her surviving child, Shecara published books to help other children in hospitals.
- [My Holiday Wish: An End to Food Insecurity](https://cicoa.org/my-holiday-wish-end-food-insecurity/) - One in five Indianapolis residents live in a food desert. CICOA and other community organizations are working to make sure people have access to food and meals.
- [A New Year. A New Playbook.](https://cicoa.org/a-new-year-a-new-playbook/) - How can our organization improve in 2021, providing exceptional experiences to employees and clients? Reconnecting is vital to our organization's culture.
- [The Monumental Impact Of Meal Delivery For Seniors](https://cicoa.org/monumental-impact-meal-delivery-for-seniors/) - With a food budget of $50 a month, Joyce couldn’t afford fresh fruit and vegetables, so she shopped at budget stores and made meals of Little Debbie snack cakes and other processed foods. She knew it wasn’t good for her or her high blood pressure, but she didn’t know what else to do. “They say
- [How to Add Variety to Your Plate This Holiday](https://cicoa.org/how-to-add-variety-your-plate-holiday/) - Using MyPlate as a guide for the food groups, here are a few ways to incorporate a variety of healthy foods into your holiday meal this Thanksgiving.
- [Veterans Day: A Care Manager’s Perspective](https://cicoa.org/veterans-day-care-managers-perspective/) - For CICOA Care Manager Darrell Pierce, a U.S. Army veteran, Veterans Day is a somber occasion. Darrell came to work for CICOA to get help for people.
- [CICOA Receives $25,000 from Healthcare Initiatives for Home Modifications](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-healthcare-initiatives-grant/) - Funding will provide home safety and accessibility modifications through CICOA’s Safe at Home program to help low-income older adults maintain independence.
- [Retired Noblesville Engineer Becomes Full-Time Volunteer](https://cicoa.org/retired-noblesville-engineer-becomes-full-time-volunteer/) - CICOA honors Lamar Ziegler as 2019 Senior Volunteer of the Year After people retire, they often spend their time golfing, traveling or working on a hobby. Not Lamar Ziegler. The 70-year-old from Noblesville often can be found repairing a roof or installing a grab bar, fixing loose deck boards or repairing a leaking faucet. When
- [How to Donate Your IRA Required Minimum Distribution to CICOA](https://cicoa.org/how-to-donate-your-ira-required-minimum-distribution-to-cicoa/) - Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always consult your tax, legal, or accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction. Have CICOA’s services positively impacted your life or the lives of family members? If you are retired, you may want to consider giving back to CICOA and satisfying your IRA required minimum distribution at
- [Make CICOA Part of Your Legacy](https://cicoa.org/make-cicoa-part-of-your-legacy-planned-giving/) - Through planned giving, you can leave your mark on the world and transform a nonprofit organization like CICOA at the same time.
- [CICOA Receives $10,000 from Glick Philanthropies to Support Transportation](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-glick-philanthropies-grant-transportation/) - CICOA has received a $10,000 grant from the Glick Community Relief Fund. Funding will support CICOA’s Way2Go transportation service.
- [CICF Grants $10,000 to CICOA Innovation Fund](https://cicoa.org/cicf-grant-cicoa-innovation-fund/) - Central Indiana Community Foundation has awarded CICOA a $10,000 grant to the CICOA Innovation Fund to invest in social entrepreneurship.
- [5 Ways to Eat More Autumn Harvest Fruits and Vegetables](https://cicoa.org/5-ways-eat-autumn-harvest-fruits-vegetables/) - Some autumn-harvested produce includes sweet potatoes, spinach, pumpkin, cranberries and apples. Add these fall fruits and vegetables to your loved one's diet.
- [CICOA Recognized as a COVID Stops Here Workplace](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-recognized-as-a-covid-stops-here-workplace/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions has been recognized as a Silver COVID Stops Here workplace for achieving an 88 percent staff vaccination rate.
- [Tips for Traveling With People With Disabilities](https://cicoa.org/tips-for-traveling-with-people-with-disabilities/) - Planning ahead, knowing your destination, and being patient are key when traveling with a person with disabilities.
- [Shortage of In-Home Aides is Challenge for Team USA Power Soccer Player](https://cicoa.org/shortage-of-in-home-aides-team-usa-power-soccer/) - Like many CICOA clients, Natalie, a Team USA power soccer player who uses a wheelchair, struggles to find in-home assistance from healthcare aides.
- [Med Students Become Dementia Friends](https://cicoa.org/med-students-become-dementia-friends/) - First-year students at Indiana University School of Medicine’s Indianapolis and Fort Wayne campuses will attend training seminars with Dementia Friends Indiana.
- [Oats: A Simple yet Beneficial Food Favorite of Caregivers](https://cicoa.org/oats-simple-beneficial-food-caregivers/) - Caregivers often need to prepare multiple meals a day for their care recipient. If that’s you, and you want to learn about foods that are the right balance of easy to prepare, inexpensive, versatile and nutritious, look no further than the (seemingly) simple oat. Oats seem like a simple food—small, lightweight grains that are similar
- [Falling is Big Concern for 76-year-old Twin Sisters Who Live Together](https://cicoa.org/falling-big-concern-for-twin-sisters/) - After Shirley’s divorce in the 1990s, she and her twin sister, Verlie, bought a house together in Perry Township. Now at age 76, they don’t get around as well as they once did. Verlie has spinal issues. Shirley has Alzheimer’s. “One of my biggest concerns is falls,” said Shirley’s daughter, Courtney, who regularly stops by
- [Want to Live a Happier, Healthier Life as a Senior? Volunteer!](https://cicoa.org/happier-healthier-life-senior-volunteer/) - Remaining actively engaged after retirement extends cognitive, physical, and emotional health. Volunteering helps seniors live a happier, healthier life.
- [Increased Gun Violence Impacts Indy Seniors](https://cicoa.org/gun-violence-indy-seniors/) - Gun violence causes seniors who once felt safe sitting on their front porches to isolate themselves inside.
- [Five Unexpected Foods for Eye Health Nutrients](https://cicoa.org/five-unexpected-foods-for-eye-health-nutrients/) - Diet plays an important role in eye health. Getting essential vitamins and nutrients to help each part of the eye function can help prevent common eye problems.
- [Taking Time to Thrive at 105](https://cicoa.org/taking-time-to-thrive-at-105/) - Alice McGinnis, a CICOA client who turned 105, says the secret to longevity is that she is never in a hurry.
- [CICOA Receives $20,000 Qsource Grant for Dialysis Transportation](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-receives-20000-qsource-grant-for-dialysis-transportation/) - Qsource Community Partnerships has awarded a $20,000 grant to CICOA’s Way2Go transportation service to pilot a transportation program for dialysis patients.
- [CBO Innovation in the Era of Value-Based Care](https://cicoa.org/cbo-innovation-value-based-care/) - Community-based organizations like CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions not only provide valuable resources and services for vulnerable populations, but also increasingly must become innovators as part of an integrated, multidisciplinary healthcare delivery model. So said Dr. Venus Wong and Dr. Sarah Rosenbaum, researchers at the Stanford University School of Medicine’s Clinical Excellence Research Center, during
- [CICOA Receives $10,000 from Glick Philanthropies to Support Residents Amid COVID-19](https://cicoa.org/glick-philanthropies-grant/) - The Glick Community Relief Fund, a grant program of Glick Philanthropies, helps local nonprofit organizations continue responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- [Background Music During Mealtime to Create a Calm Environment](https://cicoa.org/music-during-mealtime/) - Research suggests that calm background music during mealtime can increase time spent at the table and impact nutritional intake.
- [CICOA announces launch of its first for-profit company, Duett](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-announces-duett/) - CICOA announces the launch of Duett, a for-profit tech start-up designed to match people who need in-home care with providers who offer the services.
- [Two Colleagues Find Tech Solution to Connect Clients to Home Healthcare Faster](https://cicoa.org/two-colleagues-find-tech-solution/) - Two CICOA employees sought a better solution to connect clients with home healthcare services and Duett, a tech start-up, was born.
- [Forget the Box!](https://cicoa.org/forget-the-box/) - It’s how CICOA launched a for-profit business, Duett, and created an innovation studio How many times have you been told to “think outside the box?” My motto is, forget the box! What if we don’t let any boundaries get in the way of creative thinking? That’s where the real magic happens. As an example, let
- [CICOA Receives Aging Achievement Award](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-receives-aging-achievement-award/) - CICOA's innovative online application Duett streamlines the process of matching older adults and people with disabilities with care providers.
- [Grant Helps Eliminate Hazards to Reduce Fall Risk](https://cicoa.org/grant-helps-eliminate-hazards-to-reduce-fall-risk/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions has received a grant of $10,000 from the Hoover Family Foundation to provide home safety and accessibility modifications for low-income senior homeowners through CICOA’s Safe at Home program. CICOA is the only organization in Central Indiana targeting home accessibility modification services for the low-income senior community. Modifications completed by CICOA
- [Nonprofits Join Forces to Keep People Safe at Home](https://cicoa.org/nonprofits-join-forces-to-keep-people-safe-at-home/) - INdependence At Home Network helps people make their homes safer and improve the quality of life for older adults and people with disabilities.
- [Innovation, Compassion during Pandemic Inspire CICOA Awards](https://cicoa.org/innovation-compassion-during-pandemic-inspire-cicoa-awards/) - Innovation and compassion during the pandemic inspire CICOA's 2021 Awards. Award winners show great impact on Central Indiana's most vulnerable residents.
- [Giving from the Heart](https://cicoa.org/giving-from-the-heart/) - Central Indiana is home to enough nonprofit organizations with worthy causes to make an interested donor’s head spin. How to choose one over another? Laurinda Swank believes in following her heart. “Seniors and children are a soft spot for me,” said Laurinda, 50. She finds value in CICOA’s focus on the long-term health and safety of its
- [Person-centered Thinking Improves Quality of Life, Quality of Care](https://cicoa.org/person-centered-thinking-improves-quality-of-life-quality-of-care/) - Managed care long-term services and supports will improve access, cost and quality of services for older adults and people with disabilities across Indiana.
- [What is Quality of Life and Quality of Care?](https://cicoa.org/what-is-quality-of-life-and-quality-of-care/) - Quality of life is a person's behavioral competence, environment and wellbeing. Quality of care is the way healthcare affects health outcomes.
- [Best Senior Care Options: It’s About Location](https://cicoa.org/best-senior-care-options-location/) - When considering the best senior care options for your loved one, location matters. The care they need and available resources can play into where they live.
- [CICOA Seeds Encourage Gardening](https://cicoa.org/seeds-encourage-gardening/) - Richard and Linda Daily grow their own food and flowers at their Shelby County home. CICOA sent seed packets to over 300 senior meals clients this spring.
- [Eating Without Utensils](https://cicoa.org/eating-without-utensils/) - Many older adults live with a condition such as dementia, arthritis or tremors that make it hard to use utensils. Here are nutritious handheld and finger foods.
- [CICOA’s First Occupational Therapy Resident Was Inspired by Her Grandparents](https://cicoa.org/cicoas-first-occupational-therapy-resident-was-inspired-by-her-grandparents/) - Sarah Baumgartner always knew she wanted to work with elderly people. She’s fascinated by their stories and passionate about helping them live independently. “I have the most wonderful grandparents and am very close to them,” Sarah said. “I would rather hang out with them than anyone else.” So, when it was time for her to
- [Medical Research is Driving CICOA’s Future](https://cicoa.org/medical-research-is-driving-cicoas-future/) - Stanford publishes caregiver research conducted in part with Indianapolis-based nonprofit CICOA, setting the stage for the future of caregiving.
- [Army Veteran Relies on Way2Go After a Fall](https://cicoa.org/army-veteran-relies-on-way2go-after-a-fall/) - One year ago, Elroy, 63, missed a step while walking in the dark and fell down a staircase. He fractured several vertebrae in his lower spine, which required reconstructive surgery at the Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center in Indianapolis. Suddenly, this self-described “man’s man” who had served in the United States Army and worked in construction
- [Child Fights Brittle Bones With Unbreakable Spirit](https://cicoa.org/child-fights-brittle-bones-with-unbreakable-spirit/) - This is a story about perseverance. Steven Jr. was born May 27, 2008, with a rare congenital bone disorder commonly referred to as brittle bone disease. Undiagnosed until after delivery, Steven entered the world with over 40 fractures, a shattered skull and hemorrhaging in his brain. He left the hospital on hospice care, but he
- [6-Year-Old Superhero Models Winning Spirit](https://cicoa.org/6-year-old-superhero/) - Owen is like any other 6-year-old boy. He loves superheroes, video games, baseball and garbage trucks. He can run like the wind, with or without his Star Wars-themed prosthetics. As a toddler, Owen was burned on more than 98 percent of his body. He has endured numerous surgeries to repair his skin, hands and eyes.
- [Son's Smile Brings Joy](https://cicoa.org/sons-smile-brings-joy/) - Jackson is all smiles. A 7-year-old who loves bowling and swimming, Jackson has a twin brother named Matthew and an older brother named Jacob. He loves going to school. In March, he will celebrate his 8th birthday with a trip to Walt Disney World provided by the Make-A-Wish Foundation. “Jackson is the happiest kid ever!”
- [UIndy Student Seeks to Break Stereotypes](https://cicoa.org/uindy-student-seeks-to-break-stereotypes/) - Leaving home for college is a big transition in any young person’s life. But for Megan, 18, the move from her home in Martinsville to the University of Indianapolis last fall was a little trickier than for most. Megan has spastic quadriplegia cerebral palsy, a condition that affects her entire body. She cannot walk and
- [A Newborn Teacher](https://cicoa.org/a-newborn-teacher/) - Lilah was born on April 17, 2015, with Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa (RDEB), a disease in which the skin is not anchored to the body. Affecting only one in one million births, it is known as "the worst disease you've never heard of." RDEB has no cure and requires constant attention, because the slightest touch
- [81-Year-Old Mary Stays Active](https://cicoa.org/81-year-old-mary-stays-active/) - For 81-year-old Mary, staying active is not difficult. She is soft-spoken and sweet, and greets people with a warm hug. Every day she calls members of her St. John Missionary Baptist Church congregation to see how they are doing and to chat for a few minutes. Mary first connected with CICOA after undergoing open-heart surgery
- [Mary Still Enjoys Cooking, Gardening](https://cicoa.org/mary-still-enjoys-cooking-gardening/) - For 81-year-old Mary, staying active is not difficult. She's soft-spoken and sweet, and greets people with a warm hug. Every day she calls members of her St. John Missionary Baptist Church congregation to see how they are doing and to chat for a few minutes. Mary first connected with CICOA after undergoing open-heart surgery and
- [From Disease-Centered to Person-Centered Care Management](https://cicoa.org/person-centered-care-management/) - Dr. Healey, a geriatrician with St. Vincent’s Center for Healthy Aging, made a presentation to CICOA’s care management staff in May about the need for a paradigm shift in the medical field from disease-centered to person-centered care management. As a care manager, this presentation hit me like a ton of bricks at exactly the right
- [Boost Health and Nutrition with Bingocize®](https://cicoa.org/bingocize/) - Who doesn’t love Bingo? Individuals of all ages can share enjoyment and friendly competition in a classic game of Bingo, but the game is especially popular among older adults. A program developed at Western Kentucky University, Bingocize ® combines the beloved game with nutrition education and exercise to help reduce falls and improve the health
- [Anna’s New Friend Helps Her Get Organized](https://cicoa.org/annas-new-friend-helps-her-get-organized/) - Life can get lonely as you age. Which is why CICOA offers the Friendly Visitor program, where volunteers visit seniors in their homes or in health care facilities to offer companionship and encouragement. “As we age, we don’t always have same level of support and can become isolated,” said Dan Amonett, director of CICOA’s Safe
- [CICOA Honors Conner Prairie for Working to Help People with Dementia](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-honors-conner-prairie-for-working-to-help-people-with-dementia/) - When CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions was looking for partners to help expand Dementia Friends Indiana, it turned to Conner Prairie in Fishers. The living history museum embraced the idea immediately. Since 2018, Conner Prairie has made significant improvements to make the museum a friendlier place for those with dementia. CICOA presented Conner Prairie with
- [Try These Mealtime and Kitchen Hacks for Aging](https://cicoa.org/try-these-mealtime-and-kitchen-hacks-for-aging/) - How can you make forks, knives, spoons and plates easier to use for aging parents or grandparents? Try these hacks for kitchen safety and adaptability.
- [After a Pandemic Winter, Share the Renewal of Spring](https://cicoa.org/after-a-pandemic-winter-share-the-renewal-of-spring/) - Spring represents new beginnings. How is your faith community breathing new life into others? Now is the time to check in again with your senior members.
- [How Faith Communities Are Staying Connected](https://cicoa.org/how-faith-communities-are-staying-connected/) - Faith communities have been challenged to stay connected while remaining socially distant during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- [You Make the Sunshine](https://cicoa.org/you-make-the-sunshine/) - Mable told her employees to "make the sunshine." Now 92, she receives in-home services from CICOA to help her age with independence at home.
- [CICOA works with local, national organizations to find solutions through research](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-local-national-research/) - When organizations like the prestigious Regenstrief Institute, Stanford or Indiana University call to ask for help, your ears perk up. Afterall, we’re a community-based organization, not a national program. Our expertise is caring for vulnerable populations, not research. Nevertheless, CICOA has earned a national reputation for its programs, innovation and outcomes. That is why
- [How to Eat Healthy from a Dollar Store](https://cicoa.org/how-to-eat-healthy-from-a-dollar-store/) - You can find healthy foods at a dollar store to help meet your nutritional needs and save money.
- [CICOA Working to Improve Healthcare Access and Affordability for Aging Hoosiers](https://cicoa.org/improve-health-access-and-affordability-for-aging-hoosiers/) - CICOA is working on solutions to ensure that as Hoosiers age, they will have better access to affordable healthcare regardless of income and where they live.
- [Meals & More Brings Peace-of-Mind to Indy Activist, Researcher and Caregiver](https://cicoa.org/meals-more-brings-peace-of-mind-to-indy-activist-researcher-and-caregiver/) - Jean marched with Martin Luther King in Washington D.C., was the first African American to work in the chemistry lab at Methodist Hospital, put two sons through college, has been chased by the Ku Klux Klan, met four U.S. presidents, crusaded with Billy Graham, and buried all seven of her siblings. At 87, she said
- [Providing Peace of Mind](https://cicoa.org/providing-peace-of-mind/) - Andrea is a caregiver to her mom and aunt. With timely assistance from CICOA, she manages to get herself and her loved ones through the days.
- [10 Tips for Adding Fruits and Veggies to Your Diet](https://cicoa.org/10-tips-for-adding-fruits-and-veggies-to-your-diet/) - Eating fruits and vegetables is important for healthy aging and may help you live independently for longer. A high-quality diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables may also reduce one’s risk of dementia. Fortunately, eating fruits and vegetables does not have to be expensive. Buying canned, frozen, on sale, or in-season produce are all ways
- [CICOA Seeks Volunteers in the Fight Against Social Isolation](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-seeks-volunteers-in-the-fight-against-social-isolation/) - People are getting creative to stay connected during this pandemic. We hear stories daily of drive-by birthday parties and visiting loved ones through windows. We recently shared the story about Chuck, a client who was recovering from surgery in a rehab center. His wife put on a wedding veil and held up a sign outside
- [5 Lifestyle Behaviors to Lower the Risk of Alzheimer's Disease](https://cicoa.org/5-lifestyle-behaviors-to-lower-risk-of-alzheimers/) - Following these five lifestyle behaviors can reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease or other types of dementia by 60%.
- [The Only Face They May See](https://cicoa.org/the-only-face-they-may-see/) - CICOA employees have a well-deserved reputation of going the extra mile for their clients. For Meals & More driver Pete Shields, 79, it is more accurate to say he goes the extra miles. Delivering Meals to Homebound Seniors Home-delivered meals are vital to the wellbeing of many clients. During the COVID-19 pandemic, most of CICOA’s
- [Home-delivered Meals Offer Lifeline for Indy Woman](https://cicoa.org/home-delivered-meals-offer-lifeline-for-indy-woman/) - For more than eight decades, Janice has made ends meet. It’s not always been easy, especially as a single mom. But last summer, Janice knew she could no longer could do it alone. At 82, she returned to Indianapolis from southern Indiana, where she had cared for a terminally ill son. Her social security check barely
- [This Will Pass](https://cicoa.org/this-will-pass/) - I began working from home full-time last spring, two weeks before my kids started e-learning for the rest of the school year. I had found the balance of calling clients, going on home visits, and not missing events with my kids in school. Then COVID-19 shut everything down. My kids still had schoolwork to do
- [It's the Little Things](https://cicoa.org/its-the-little-things/) - Care managers take pride in little victories for their clients. Developing person-centered goals and seeing people get the assistance they need is rewarding.
- [Three Generations Caring for One Another Through Alzheimer’s and COVID](https://cicoa.org/three-generations-caring-for-one-another-alzheimers-covid/) - Raisha is a millennial caregiver, caring for her grandma with Alzheimer's and her aging dad with health issues, while raising her own children.
- [10 Inexpensive Kitchen Gift Ideas for Seniors](https://cicoa.org/10-inexpensive-kitchen-gift-ideas-for-seniors/) - If you're looking for inexpensive gift ideas for seniors, gifts that promote good nutrition are fun and easy. Pair a useful kitchen item with a recipe.
- [Pandemic Exposes Vulnerabilities and What Matters](https://cicoa.org/pandemic-exposes-vulnerabilities/) - It’s not the year I had anticipated when I moved here in 2019 to lead an organization that serves our most vulnerable citizens. As we wrap up this crazy, surreal, unpredictable mess called 2020, I don’t want to diminish all that has been lost during the pandemic — more than 5,000 Hoosier lives, jobs, school
- [CICOA Partners with IU School of Medicine on Collaborative Dementia Care Model](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-iu-school-of-medicine-collaborative-dementia-care-model/) - When people with Alzheimer’s and other dementia receive specialized care at home, their quality-of-life improves and it costs less than a facility.
- [Eat What's in Season for Healthy Aging](https://cicoa.org/eat-whats-in-season-for-healthy-aging/) - Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables is essential for healthy aging. Fresh produce is less expensive when it is in season.
- [Facing the Holidays Alone](https://cicoa.org/facing-the-holidays-alone/) - For Nancy, 71, this Thanksgiving and Christmas will look different than in years past. She is facing the holiday season alone without Steve, her husband of 47 years, a career Army man who died in July. “That made me mad, because I was supposed to die first, not my husband,” Nancy fumed. “I've had three
- [Thinking About Caregiving on a Milestone Birthday](https://cicoa.org/caregiving-milestone-birthday/) - As I approach my 50th birthday, I'm thinking about my wishes for caregiving, aging and end-of-life care.
- [One Size Does Not Fit All](https://cicoa.org/one-size-does-not-fit-all/) - Putting Person-Centered Care into Action CICOA’s Flourish Care Management department places great value on practicing a person-centered approach to care management. What exactly does this mean? To me, person-centered care means viewing each client as an individual with different wants and needs. It also means that the client should be highly involved in every decision
- [CICOA Announces New Leadership on Board of Directors, Foundation Board](https://cicoa.org/new-board-leadership/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions recently elected new leadership positions on its Board of Directors and Foundation Board of Trustees. New board members’ terms will last through June 2022. “The coronavirus pandemic has underscored the need for enhanced public-private partnerships to address access to resources, services and long-term care options for older adults and people
- [Be Active Every Day to Improve Your Life](https://cicoa.org/be-active-every-day/) - Exercise has many physical and cognitive benefits. Physical activity can improve sleep, mood and balance, as well as reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. Exercise also may reduce the risk of developing dementia. Even though the pandemic means many of us are spending more time at home, we can stay
- [Zionsville Students Deliver Holiday Totes to Seniors](https://cicoa.org/zionsville-students-deliver-holiday-totes-to-seniors/) - Ten Zionsville high school students delivered 19 plastic totes of food to CICOA clients as part of our annual Very Merry Days celebration.
- [Indy Millennial Helps Grandmother Live Safer at Home](https://cicoa.org/indy-millennial-helps-grandmother-live-safer-at-home/) - Mae has lived in the same home on Indianapolis’ northeast side for the last 50 years. While the 88-year-old grandmother is still able to cook and do some light housework, getting in and out of the shower was getting increasingly difficult. Mae admits she was afraid she might fall, but she can be a little
- [CICOA partners with IU School of Medicine on collaborative dementia care model](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-partners-with-iu-school-of-medicine-on-collaborative-dementia-care-model/) - The Alzheimer's Disease Programs Initiative will improve quality of life and enable more people living with dementia to remain independent in their communities.
- [Making Indianapolis Home](https://cicoa.org/making-indianapolis-home/) - Hoosier Hospitality is alive and well, even during a pandemic. This is one of the many things I’ve learned since my wife, Laura, and I packed up our dogs Coco and Cookie and made the move from Kalamazoo, Mich. People are friendly here. They are quick to give advice, too. Move to Carmel, some said.
- [Drink up: Preventing Dehydration in Older Adults](https://cicoa.org/drink-up-preventing-dehydration-in-older-adults/) - Did you know that as we age, our sense of thirst decreases? This means that, even though we still need to consume fluids regularly, we may not feel thirsty. Dehydration can exacerbate the negative effects of chronic conditions and even lead to hospitalization. So, don’t wait until you feel thirsty to consume fluids! Sometimes thirst
- [Honoring Mom's Wishes](https://cicoa.org/honoring-moms-wishes/) - Jewell always told her family she wanted to die at home. With CICOA services, her family worked together as caregivers and honored her wishes.
- [Make Sure Your Voice Is Heard - Register to Vote](https://cicoa.org/make-sure-your-voice-is-heard-register-to-vote/) - Register to vote in the 2020 election and make your voice heard for issues affecting older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers.
- [Seniors With Dementia Need an Advocate in the ER; Indy Doctor Provides Tips](https://cicoa.org/seniors-with-dementia-need-an-advocate-in-the-er-indy-doctor-provides-tips/) - Going to the emergency room is stressful in the best of circumstances. For older adults – especially those with dementia – a trip to the ER can lead to confusion, extra medical tests and often longer hospital stays. Considering that 30 percent of seniors need emergency treatment annually, families need to prepare for the inevitable
- [Fall Prevention, Kitchen Safety Go Hand-in-hand](https://cicoa.org/fall-prevention-kitchen-safety-go-hand-in-hand/) - September is Fall Prevention Awareness Month and the perfect time for older adults and caregivers to use CICOA’s Home Assessment Checklist and Home Safety Tips. The kitchen poses many dangers for young and old alike, but older adults who may not see or hear well or can’t move around very easily are especially susceptible to
- [Twiddle Muffs: A Sensory Tool for People with Dementia](https://cicoa.org/twiddle-muffs-sensory-tool-for-people-with-dementia/) - Twiddle Muffs are sensory therapy tools designed to keep the restless hands of people with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia occupied, calm and warm.
- [Giving Back Was a Lesson Learned at an Early Age](https://cicoa.org/giving-back-was-a-lesson-learned-at-an-early-age/) - Philanthropy, or giving back to make life better for others, is often a lesson learned at an early age.
- [CICOA Client Perseveres After Death of Husband, COVID and Health Setbacks](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-client-perseveres-after-death-of-husband-covid-and-health-setbacks/) - When Tamara France first met Sallie Preston five years ago, she felt sorry for the woman. At only 67, Sallie is blind in one eye and losing vision in her other eye. Her leg, three fingers and toes have been amputated. She has kidney disease, coronary artery disease, diabetes, neuropathy and MRSA. She had a
- [Meals on Wheels America Provides Second Round of Emergency Funding for CICOA](https://cicoa.org/meals-on-wheels-america-provides-second-round-of-emergency-funding-for-cicoa/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions has received a second grant from the Meals on Wheels COVID-19 Response Fund. This grant award of $75,000 allows CICOA to respond to an unprecedented increase in need and provide more nutrition options for vulnerable seniors during this evolving crisis. According to CICOA Meals & More Director, Lisa Schneekloth, CICOA
- [Partnership with Eskenazi Health connects patients to CICOA services](https://cicoa.org/partnership-with-eskenazi-health-connects-patients-to-cicoa-services/) - When Eskenazi Health doctors have an elderly patient struggling to find a ride to an appointment, they talk to Greg Gorden. If their patient is struggling to live alone, but doesn’t want to go to a nursing facility, they call Greg Gorden. In fact, CICOA’s field operations manager is so well known at Eskenazi, many
- [Flourish Care Management Remains Committed to Clients' Needs](https://cicoa.org/flourish-care-management-remains-committed-to-clients-needs/) - The Flourish Care Management department now serves more than 9,300 case managed clients and continues to keep pace during these challenging times. Life and work flow and processes have changed for the Flourish team during this pandemic, but our staff has risen to the challenge. In early March, care managers identified clients who were most
- [ADRC Continues to Answer the Call](https://cicoa.org/adrc-continues-to-answer-the-call/) - The Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) is often a client’s first point of contact with CICOA, either through a phone call, an online request, or an in-person Options Counseling session. The department of 29 staff members has traditionally worked in the office full time under the leadership of Nicole Annen, ADRC Director. When the
- [Way2Go Transportation Adapts to Continue Serving Seniors](https://cicoa.org/way2go-transportation-adapts-to-continue-serving-seniors/) - During the COVID-19 pandemic, CICOA’s senior transportation service, Way2Go, has remained on the front line, implementing “new norms” to our work routine and establishing new protocols to ensure passenger and driver safety. The first of these new measures was to make the CDC’s social distancing guidelines mandatory. To accomplish this, we reduced the number of
- [Home Accessibility Modifications Keep Seniors Safe at Home](https://cicoa.org/home-accessibility-modifications-keep-seniors-safe-at-home/) - Safe at Home is a service offered by CICOA to help our neighbors age in place through home accessibility modifications. According to AARP, more than 90 percent of people aged 60 or older want to stay in their home and community for as long as possible. One primary barrier to aging in place is when
- [Keeping a Promise to Keep Her at Home](https://cicoa.org/keeping-a-promise-to-keep-her-at-home/) - “Mike, honey, I don’t know where I am or how to get home.” Sitting in the parking lot of a local store, Corinne called her husband, confused. They both realized something was not right. She was able to describe her surroundings, however, and Mike was able to retrieve her. The diagnosis of early onset Alzheimer’s
- [Meals & More Feeds Seniors in Time of Need](https://cicoa.org/meals-more-feeds-seniors-in-time-of-need/) - Meals & More is a much needed and valued service of CICOA. We generally serve over 1,600 seniors a month via our home-delivered meal option and 875 seniors a month via the commodity box program. By the end of March, all of our neighborhood meal sites and hospital/restaurant voucher sites closed due to the COVID-19
- [Positive Attitude and Love Sustains Couple](https://cicoa.org/positive-attitude-and-love-sustains-couple/) - Beverly and James have been married for 36 years and have a home filled with love and laughter. Beverly was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1989, but faith, a positive attitude and love for one another has sustained the couple. "We've learned over the years it's not about the things you give each other. Sometimes
- [Caring Neighbor and CICOA Open New Doors for Michael](https://cicoa.org/caring-neighbor-and-cicoa-open-new-doors-for-michael/) - Families sometimes have difficulty knowing how much care a loved one needs, and Michael's family was no exception. A concerned neighbor, Melissa, called CICOA when she believed the 62-year-old with disabilities needed more attention. "CICOA got me my Medicaid waiver and helped me start putting money in a trust, so I can save up for
- [Granddaughter of Freed Slave Leads Life of Service](https://cicoa.org/granddaughter-of-freed-slave-leads-life-of-service/) - Born in 1906, Willa, 105, is CICOA's oldest client. The granddaughter of a freed slave, Willa was taught from her earliest childhood to honor the memory and sacrifice of her ancestors by leading a life of service. Despite growing up in Mississippi during the Jim Crow era, Willa was well educated and became a teacher
- [What She Lacks in Mobility, She Makes Up for in Attitude](https://cicoa.org/what-she-lacks-in-mobility/) - Elizabeth was paralyzed in June 2000 when a car ran a red light, t-boning her Chevy Blazer. Her car rolled seven times, throwing Elizabeth out the driver-side window and pinning her underneath. Diagnosed with quadriplegia because of the location of the injury, she now uses a power wheelchair to get around both inside her home
- [Carlos Finds Support to Live Independently Again](https://cicoa.org/carlos-finds-support-to-live-independently-again/) - Carlos was a social worker living in Florida three years ago when he became ill with a spinal infection. His doctors gave him no hope to live and sent him home to die. A brother, who lives in Indianapolis, flew Carlos here so he could attend to him. Carlos was admitted to the hospital, and
- [Twins Love 'Girlie' Stuff](https://cicoa.org/twins-love-girlie-stuff/) - Shailyn and Kaitlyn are 9-year-old twins who love "girlie stuff" -- makeup, clothes, shopping, anything pink. They enjoy music, particularly Hannah Montana and Katy Perry. And they enjoy being outdoors, riding on the back of their dad's golf cart, outfitted especially for them. The girls were born with Cerebral Palsy and developmental disabilities. Shailyn also
- [Cycling Accident Changes Life](https://cicoa.org/cycling-accident-changes-life/) - Stephen, 62, once held a successful career in commercial real estate with Marsh Supermarkets. He enjoyed travel, history, architecture, anything in the Country French style, and music. All that changed in September 2007 while riding a bicycle through a golf course at dusk. A construction crew had cut a gaping hole across the path, and
- [CICOA Clients Help U.S. Team Clinch Second Powerchair Football World Cup](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-clients-clinch-second-powerchair-football-world-cup/) - Case Calvert and JC Russo, members of the U.S. National Power Soccer Team and CICOA clients, recently brought home the FIPFA 2011 Powerchair Football World Cup. The U.S. team competed for its second World Cup in Paris, France, Nov. 2-6, becoming the first team to win back-to-back World Cup titles. According to the United States
- [Carrying Hope - How One CICOA Family Finished the Mini-Marathon](https://cicoa.org/carrying-hope/) - Five-year-old Hope Parker finished the OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon in 3 hours, 34 minutes and 23 seconds. She didn’t run or walk. Her parents, Jennifer and Andrew Parker, carried her in a backpack. Hope has Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, which is incurable. In addition to her heart condition and developmental delays, Hope has a history
- [Pearl Remembers Her Hymns](https://cicoa.org/pearl-remembers-her-hymns/) - Lee, age 90, met his future wife Pearl at the Indiana State Fair. "I was a freshman and she was a senior," he recalls. "I thought she was just being nice, but a few days later she sent me a note asking why I wasn't talking to her anymore." They were married shortly after Lee
- [Marian Prevents WWII Raid on New York](https://cicoa.org/marian-prevents-wwii-raid/) - In 1943, Marian was working in the original L.S. Ayres Tea Room when she met an Army recruiter having lunch. As a result, Marian decided to enlist in the Women's Army Corps (WAC). She served in military intelligence, first at the Pentagon and then in New Jersey, intercepting German radio transmissions. If Marian hadn't heard
- [So Grateful For the Help CICOA Provides](https://cicoa.org/so-grateful-for-help-cicoa-provides/) - At 103, Dorothy still gets around, which is not always a good thing. A year ago she was residing in an assisted living facility when she wandered outside and got lost. Dorothy suffers from dementia, among other ailments. Her daughter Phyllis, who was managing a building in the complex, was told that her mother was
- [Decorated Veteran Fought at Iwo Jima](https://cicoa.org/decorated-veteran-fought-at-iwo-jima/) - Jesse is a talker, and at age 83 he has plenty of stories to share. He is a decorated veteran. He fought at Iwo Jima and earned five combat medals and two bronze stars during his military service. He recounted his military experiences in a book called China Marine and often is invited to Veterans
- [Samantha Proves Doctors Wrong](https://cicoa.org/samantha-proves-doctors-wrong/) - Life can change in an instant. Sixteen-year-old Samantha Allen and her family learned this painful lesson nine years ago when Samantha was struck by a car after stepping off of her school bus. Samantha suffered a "Christopher Reeve-type" spinal cord injury, which left her paralyzed from the neck down. Samantha's quality of life is enhanced
- [Sylvia Page Dines on CICOA's 17 Millionth Meal](https://cicoa.org/sylvia-page-dines-on-17-millionth-meal/) - Sylvia Page, 84, the honorary recipient of CICOA’s 17 millionth meal, has snow white hair, smile lines and a soft spoken manner. And a British accent, which alerts the listener that this petite woman has a story. Sure enough, when Sylvia moved here in 1955, she was homesick and wanted to be near her sister,
- [Can't Imagine Mom With Anyone Else](https://cicoa.org/cant-imagine-mom-with-anyone-else/) - "I wish you could have known my mom. She was so vibrant at one time," said Sondra. "She loved to dress in suits and hats. I never saw her in pants until she had her stroke." Sondra is the daughter of Corrine, 80, who was first diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 1997, around the same
- [Doctors Said Keith Would Not Live to His First Birthday](https://cicoa.org/doctors-said-keith-would-not-live-to-first-birthday/) - "Can I call you Mom?" Keith, 51, asked his cousin Tracy, 47. Normally, Keith calls her by her name. But when he is feeling low, he asks for the reassurance that comes with the name "Mom." Keith is diagnosed with developmental disabilities, which give him the mental functioning of a child. He also has severe
- [Respite Gives Parents Time to Refocus](https://cicoa.org/respite-gives-parents-time-to-refocus/) - In 2008, Stacie was pregnant with twin girls when she went into premature labor at 20 weeks. One of the twins was born and didn't survive. Four weeks later, the second twin, Sydni, was born without a pulse but was resuscitated. Sydni spent her first nine months in the hospital, fighting literally for life and
- [CICOA Care Transitions Provides High Quality of Care, Reduces Health Care Costs](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-care-transitions-provides-high-quality-of-care-reduces-health-care-costs/) - After Clarissa, 84, fell down the stairs of her home, she was rushed to Methodist Hospital where she was diagnosed with a brain contusion and spent seven days in the Intensive Care Unit. For the next several weeks, however, she remained hospitalized, dealing with secondary health conditions including multiple infections, pneumonia, memory loss and difficulty
- [Five Ways to Help Seniors Keep Their Minds Sharp](https://cicoa.org/five-ways-to-help-seniors-keep-their-minds-sharp/) - To help seniors keep their minds active, caregivers can encourage them to: Learn something new. It’s never too late to take up a new hobby, visit a new park or theater or learn to play an instrument. Stay connected. Seniors should meet with friends and family in their homes and outside the home if possible.
- [Medicaid Waiver Helps Eligible Individuals Remain at Home](https://cicoa.org/medicaid-waiver-helps-eligible-individuals-remain-at-home/) - Moving into a nursing facility may not be the only option for seniors or those with disabilities who require assistance with activities of daily living. Individuals who meet Medicaid requirements who are at risk of institutionalized care may want to consider contacting CICOA’s ADRC to determine their eligibilty for the Medicaid Waiver program. Services provided
- [Betty Finds Purpose in Encouraging Others](https://cicoa.org/betty-finds-purpose-in-encouraging-others/) - Visitors who meet Betty, 82, tend to stay awhile. She tells stories in an easy-going manner with a wide, friendly smile. Betty is a lifelong resident of Indianapolis who raised her family on the city's west side while working for RCA for 38 years. She fondly recalls hosting themed parties, shopping and serving in various
- [Easy Access to Home Improves Independence](https://cicoa.org/easy-access-to-home-improves-independence/) - Outside Yolanda's front door is a wooden ramp. The ramp has sturdy handrails around it, which allows Yolanda to leave her home safely without the worry of maneuvering stairs in a wheelchair. Easy access to her home is just one aspect of Yolanda's recent independence. For the past few years, Yolanda has been able to
- [Chris Pursues Love of Technology](https://cicoa.org/chris-pursues-love-of-technology/) - In 1987, Chris wrote in an article for Indianapolis Monthly magazine, "You either do something in your life, or sit and do nothing." Chris is definitely a "do something" person. The 58-year-old was born with a hereditary form of muscular dystrophy, which has caused muscle deterioration, and means he needs help bathing, dressing and moving
- [Aging & Disability Resource Center: What Happens When I Call?](https://cicoa.org/aging-disability-resource-center-what-happens-when-i-call/) - The Aging & Disability Resource Center often is referred to as the “front door” of CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions. The ADRC is a one-stop resource center for programs and information on services for older adults and people with disabilities in Central Indiana. While the majority of client and caregiver interaction happens by phone the
- [Caregivers: Take Care of Your Heart](https://cicoa.org/caregivers-take-care-of-your-heart/) - While caregiving is a rewarding experience, the added burden of caring for a loved one can have a tremendous physical and emotional impact. Oftentimes, caregivers get so caught up in maintaining their loved one’s health that they forget to take care of themselves. According to the Center for Advancing Health, this neglect leads to an
- [Friend With Caregiver's Heart Looks After Neighbor](https://cicoa.org/friend-with-caregivers-heart-looks-after-neighbor/) - In 2000, Lawrence was standing on the porch outside his apartment door when he suffered a grand mal seizure. His girlfriend at the time dragged him across the concrete back into the apartment before calling 911, leaving him with permanent scars. Lawrence, now 62, has suffered from epileptic seizures since early childhood and also is
- [Clara Prays for Strength In Caring for Her Sister](https://cicoa.org/clara-prays-for-strength-in-caring-for-her-sister/) - Clara, a cheerful 89-year-old, brought her 93-year-old sister, Louise, into her Haughville home in 2009 after discovering her neglected and living in difficult circumstances. Both widows, Clara felt some trepidation about being able to provide the necessary care for her sister so soon after losing her own husband, but she was determined to keep her
- [Soft-Spoken Marjie Receives Round-the-Clock Care](https://cicoa.org/soft-spoken-marjie-receives-round-the-clock-care/) - Marjie isn't much of a talker, but that doesn't mean the 66-year-old is being rude, said her caregiver, Chiffon. Marjie has a developmental disability that causes her to process information slower. Chiffon was 10 years old when she met Marjie. At the time, Marjie was under the care of a friend, who also happened to
- [Former Client Achieves Independence](https://cicoa.org/former-client-achieves-independence/) - Brandon’s story is a classic “happily ever after” tale. Born in 1987 missing most of all four limbs, the prospects for his future looked bleak. But his parents got involved in support groups for families of children with special needs, including the Indiana Parent Information Network and About Special Kids (ASK). These organizations provided the
- [Way2Go Keeps Indy Senior From Being Homebound](https://cicoa.org/way2go-keeps-indy-senior-homebound/) - Julia doesn’t like to think what her life would be like if she didn’t have CICOA’s Way2Go transportation service. Julia, 73, not only is concerned about taking care of her own needs, but she also cares for her 75-year-old brother. Thanks to the transportation assistance, she’s able to get to their doctor appointments, the grocery
- [10-Year-Old Emma Is Beating the Odds](https://cicoa.org/10-year-old-emma-beating-odds/) - When Jeff’s daughter Emma was born, he prepared for the worst. He knew Emma had holoprosencephaly, and that babies with this brain defect typically live only a few weeks or sometimes months. Emma beat those odds. She’s now 10. She goes to school for a few hours twice week, and a teacher comes to the
- [150 Volunteers Make Homes Safer for 100-Year-Old Woman and Elderly Neighbors](https://cicoa.org/150-volunteers-make-homes-safer/) - Jimmie Luton celebrated her 100th birthday this year, and she’ll admit, she doesn’t get around quite as well as she used to. She welcomed volunteers into her home in Martindale-Brightwood in Indianapolis on Sept. 30 for CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions’ annual Safe at Home event. Volunteers built a ramp, installed a grab bar and an
- [Daughter Leaves Life in California to Care for Her Parents](https://cicoa.org/daughter-leaves-california-to-care-for-parents/) - Mimi Ventresca was enjoying life in San Diego. She’d retired after working more than 30 years for the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, so she spent time in the sunshine, hanging out with friends, walking her dog, going to the gym and taking it easy. That all changed in December 2009 when her mother suffered
- [Getting Troubles Out of Your Head](https://cicoa.org/getting-troubles-head/) - “Things are stressful, so it may be small, but it means the world,” Cindy said. “It makes you get your own troubles out of your head for a little bit.” Cindy was sitting in her recliner where she spends the better part of each day, talking to her care manager. In her lap was a
- [How to Make Healthy Food Fun for Kids](https://cicoa.org/make-healthy-food-fun-kids/) - Ah, the challenges of raising a picky-eater. You know the type. They won’t eat anything green. They don’t want to try new things. They only want chicken nuggets. Pizza can only have cheese, and it has to the right kind of cheese. It’s a challenge to figure out ways to get kids to try and
- [Atypical Diagnosis, Atypical Strength](https://cicoa.org/atypical-diagnosis/) - People don’t know how strong they are until they have to be. “I’ve been lifting her every day since she was born, so I’ve been growing with her. She’s not heavy to me,” Sherry said. Sherry is speaking about her 10-year-old daughter, Robyn, who is three feet tall and weighs 45 pounds. When Sherry first
- [Learning from Annalise](https://cicoa.org/learning-from-annalise/) - At three and a half months old, Annalise had her first seizure. “We didn’t know what it was, so we took her to Riley,” said Annalise’s mom, Myriam. The doctors at Riley Hospital for Children ordered a CT scan. While Myriam and her husband, Sean, were anxiously waiting on the results, Annalise had another seizure,
- [Mary Celebrates 109th Birthday](https://cicoa.org/mary-celebrates-109th-birthday/) - Ask Mary her secret to living to be 109, and she’ll pause for a minute to think about it. Not because she has trouble speaking, it’s just that she’s not really sure the secret to her longevity. “Well, I had to work, and had good health, good parents and good kids,” she said. Plus, she
- [Barbara Finally Able to Breathe Easy](https://cicoa.org/barbara-finally-able-to-breathe-easy/) - Barbara Hayes used to be afraid to sleep in her own bed for fear she’d stop breathing and not wake up. Her doctor told her she stopped breathing 20 times in one night. So, she moved to her living room recliner to try to ease her sleep apnea. During the day, she wasn’t herself. “I
- [91-year-old woman survives COVID](https://cicoa.org/91-year-old-woman-survives-covid/) - Sidney, the mother of Indiana Rep. Gregory Porter, survived pneumonia, a broken hip and COVID-19 in the span of several months.
- [When in Doubt, Toss it Out!](https://cicoa.org/when-in-doubt-toss-it-out/) - Nothing says summer like an outdoor picnic or enjoying a meal of refreshing, cold foods. But summer or winter, healthy eating involves not only what you eat, but also maintaining proper food temperatures. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 85 percent of all food-borne illness could be prevented if people handled food
- [Stuck at Home? Stay Safe at Home](https://cicoa.org/stuck-at-home-stay-safe-at-home/) - While you are spending more time at home, look around and consider what you can do to prevent debilitating falls for yourself or a loved one.
- [CICOA Receives United Way Grant For Essential Services](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-receives-united-way-grant-for-essential-services/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions has received a Basic Needs Fund grant of $260,000 from United Way of Central Indiana for the 2020-2021 fiscal year. This is unrestricted funding that will support essential elements of CICOA’s work and ensure an adequate safety net exists for our most vulnerable neighbors. CICOA qualified for the Basic Needs
- [CICOA Announces Appointment of New Chief Financial Officer](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-announces-appointment-of-new-chief-financial-officer/) - Michael Johnson, a certified public accountant, joins CICOA with broad experience in accounting and finance in healthcare, nonprofit, construction and IT.
- [Teen Teaches Others About Beating the Odds](https://cicoa.org/teen-teaches-others-about-beating-the-odds/) - Diagnosed with Mitochondrial Disorder Complex, Joel beat the odds and lived life to the fullest. With CICOA care management, his family received continuous support.
- [Introducing a New Tool to Make Donations](https://cicoa.org/introducing-a-new-tool-to-make-donations/) - The recent coronavirus crisis and wild market roller coaster may have caused you to scale back or halt your donation plans for your favorite charities. While this is understandable, there may very well be a fund available for you to continue or even increase your current or future giving that you had forgotten about –
- [CICOA Receives $10,000 from Glick Philanthropies to Support Residents Amid COVID-19](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-receives-10000-from-glick-philanthropies-to-support-residents-amid-covid-19/) - The $10,000 grant from the Glick Community Relief Fund helps local nonprofit organizations continue to respond to the coronavirus pandemic.
- [Quarantine Nutrition Tips](https://cicoa.org/quarantine-nutrition-tips/) - Maintaining a healthy diet and exercising boost the immune system. With COVID-19 as a threat, older adults should follow these tips to stay healthy!
- [Meals You Can Make Without Turning on the Stove](https://cicoa.org/meals-can-make-without-turning-stove/) - These meals don't require the stove or oven. Find healthy meals and snacks to make at home that don't require cooking or a lot of standing.
- [COVID-19 Grant Increases Food Access for Seniors](https://cicoa.org/covid-19-grant-increases-food-access-for-seniors/) - Funding from Indiana University Health supports CICOA’s efforts to provide meals for homebound seniors in Marion County.
- [Oak Street Health collaboration supports at-risk seniors](https://cicoa.org/oak-street-health-collaboration-supports-at-risk-seniors/) - CICOA's healthcare collaboration with Oak Street Health aims to improve health outcomes for at-risk seniors, and it's proven especially essential during the COVID-19 crisis.
- [We Are IN This Together](https://cicoa.org/we-are-in-this-together/) - While CICOA – like organizations across Indiana – is staying apart, we’re also trying to do our part. We’re looking for innovative ways to collaborate.
- [Special Store Hours for Seniors and Vulnerable Populations](https://cicoa.org/special-store-hours-for-seniors-and-vulnerable-populations/) - To help those most at risk stay safe, stores around Indianapolis are now offering special shopping hours for seniors and the vulnerable population.
- [CICOA receives grant from Central Indiana COVID-19 Community Economic Relief Fund](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-receives-grant-c-cerf/) - The Central Indiana COVID-19 Community Economic Relief Fund (C-CERF) has awarded $75,000 to CICOA to support the emerging needs of clients.
- [Coronavirus shuts off lifeline to seniors; Southport police rally community to help](https://cicoa.org/southport-police-deliver-to-seniors-during-coronavirus/) - As the coronavirus shuts off important lifelines for seniors, the Southport Police Department is delivering food and meals to seniors at home.
- [COVID-19 Grant Helps Meet Increased Need for Meals](https://cicoa.org/covid19-grant-helps-meet-increased-need-for-meals/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions has received a Meals on Wheels COVID-19 Response Fund grant in the amount of $25,000. The costs and efforts associated with protecting seniors from COVID-19 require additional emergency funds, and this grant helps CICOA meet the needs of vulnerable seniors during this unprecedented time. The Meals on Wheels COVID-19 Response
- [Desperate Times Call for Creative Measures](https://cicoa.org/desperate-times-call-for-creative-measures/) - Separated due to COVID-19, Donna held up a sign at her husband's window in the rehab facility. It said "Yes, I would marry you again."
- [Call for Help Receives Outpouring of Generosity](https://cicoa.org/call-for-help-receives-outpouring-of-generosity/) - “I’m just thankful for all God’s done for me.” Tom, 62, a Marine Corps veteran with disabilities, sat on the edge of his bed and wiped a tear from his eye, unable to continue speaking. Around him, Tom’s home was filled with the sounds of demolition — hammers, power tools, the hollow noise of wood
- [Ten Vegetables and Herbs to Grow at Home (Even in a Tiny Space)](https://cicoa.org/ten-vegetables-herbs-grow-home/) - Growing and maintaining your own vegetables, herbs and spices can be a rewarding experience. If you think you need a lot of space to garden, think again. You can grow small edibles on a windowsill, porch, or a small patch of land. You can even create a welcoming entryway by planting vegetables in pots along
- [Eat Away Your Stress the Right Way](https://cicoa.org/eat-away-stress-right-way/) - When we’re stressed, we often reach for things we know aren’t good for us – a bag of chips, cookies, ice cream or a candy bar. That stress may come from getting bad news at a doctor’s office, it may be feeling overwhelmed with everything on your to-do list, or worrying about your health or
- [Senior Medicare Patrol Fights Fraud and Abuse](https://cicoa.org/senior-medicare-patrol-fights-fraud-and-abuse/) - You’ve probably heard your friends and neighbors tales of Medicare fraud: scam artists asking for your Medicare card, providers charging for procedures you never had, or charging Medicare patients higher rates. Thankfully, in Indiana, there are senior citizens on patrol. This isn’t your typical neighborhood crime watch. Instead, it’s a statewide network of volunteers charged
- [Music Therapy Offers “Healing” Experience for CICOA Clients](https://cicoa.org/music-therapy-offers-healing-experience-for-cicoa-clients/) - One of CICOA’s goals is to enrich the lives of those it serves. That’s now happening through music therapy. Amy Rohn, a Celtic harpist from Indianapolis, volunteers her time to bring her music into the homes of several CICOA clients each month. While music therapy at CICOA is in its early stages, it’s already garnering
- [CICOA Selects Tauhric Brown as New CEO](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-selects-tauhric-brown-as-new-ceo/) - Tauhric Brown begins the role of president and CEO of CICOA on Jan. 6, 2020, coming from Senior Services, Inc. of Kalamazoo, Mich.
- [Fuel Your Mind](https://cicoa.org/fuel-your-mind/) - The MIND Diet recommends eating foods that are loaded with antioxidants, vitamin C and many other brain healthy nutrients for people of any age.
- [346 Surgeries Later, Sean Still Follows His Passion](https://cicoa.org/346-surgeries-later-sean-still-follows-his-passion/) - For some, just one surgery can change a life forever. For Indianapolis native Sean Toth, surgeries are normal and frequent. The 51-year-old has had 346 surgeries in his life, many resulting from Type IV Hereditary Dysautonomia Neuropathy, a disease that affects his immune and central nervous systems. “Left leg, right foot below the knee, right
- [CICOA Earns United Way Accreditation](https://cicoa.org/united-way-accreditation/) - For the first time, CICOA will be able to apply for United Way grants as part of their network of 84 accredited partners in Central Indiana.
- [IU Health Saxony Hospital Named First Dementia Friends Indiana Hospital](https://cicoa.org/iu-health-saxony-named-first-dementia-friends-indiana-hospital/) - The hospital in Fishers, Indiana partnered with CICOA, state administrator of Dementia Friends Indiana, to train all staff as Dementia Friends.
- [Giving It All for a Daughter With Special Needs](https://cicoa.org/giving-it-all-daughter-with-special-needs/) - Viqtouria started having seizures when she was 4 months old and requires full-time care. There's help for raising a child with a disability in Central Indiana.
- [Couple cherishes the good days to get through tough ones](https://cicoa.org/couple-cherishes-the-good-days/) - Parents of a child born with special needs get connected to community resources through CICOA.
- [CICOA to offer case management services to people with developmental disabilities](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-to-offer-case-management-services-to-people-with-developmental-disabilities/) - CICOA now offers care management for children and adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities, such as autism, Down syndrome and fetal alcohol syndrome.
- [Life Lessons from My Grandmother](https://cicoa.org/life-lessons-from-my-grandmother/) - Spending summers with his Gran in Atlanta, Tauhric Brown learned at a young age to "get up and get something on his mind."
- [LINKS Volunteers Prepare for Jobs and Independence](https://cicoa.org/links-volunteers/) - Adults who face challenges to entering the workforce learn important job skills and life lessons while volunteering at CICOA.
- [A New Focus on Nutrition and Dementia](https://cicoa.org/new-focus-on-nutrition-and-dementia/) - CICOA’s senior nutrition blog focuses on nutrition and dementia research, shares resources for caregivers, and works closely with Dementia Friends Indiana.
- [Independent at 105](https://cicoa.org/independent-at-105/) - At 105 years old, Bernice’s eyes, hands and mind are still as sharp as the needles she uses to sew quilts and crocheted items. And although she uses a walker to move about her tidy home, she still has the strength to stand and cook, which she demonstrated by serving large slices of moist pound
- [CICOA's New CEO Living Out Dreams of Helping Others](https://cicoa.org/cicoas-new-ceo/) - Tauhric Brown is the new CEO of CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions, Indiana's largest nonprofit focused on helping low-income seniors and people with disabilities.
- [Indy woman volunteers, discovers a new friend](https://cicoa.org/indy-woman-volunteers-discovers-a-new-friend/) - When Linda retired, she decided to volunteer and came to CICOA to help seniors in need in Indianapolis and the surrounding areas.
- [The Car Wreck that Changed Everything](https://cicoa.org/the-car-wreck-that-changed-everything/) - When she was only 19 years old, Nancy Mummert lost her child, her ability to walk, and the ability to have children. Giving up, however, was not an option for her. The list of repercussions from the car wreck that changed everything was long and also included overall muscle weakness, poor balance and poor range
- [CICOA Receives $50,000 CISF Key Provider Grant](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-receives-50000-cisf-key-provider-grant/) - The investment from the Central Indiana Senior Fund, a CICF Fund, will be used by CICOA to keep seniors living safely and independently at home.
- [Herman & Kittle Supports CICOA's Holiday Assistance Program](https://cicoa.org/herman-kittle-supports-cicoas-holiday-assistance-program/) - Herman & Kittle Properties has been a valued partner with CICOA at the Nora Commons senior apartment complex for 10 years. While the Herman & Kittle team specializes in real estate development, construction and design, the organization makes a point to get involved in the community through volunteer work, such as this year supporting CICOA’s
- [CICOA Volunteers Give Indy Woman a Safer, Tidier Home](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-volunteers-give-indy-woman-a-safer-tidier-home/) - CICOA had a challenge on its hands. It’s the kind of challenge every nonprofit would love to have: too many volunteers. In 2018, Dan Amonett, certified aging in place specialist, was coordinating the work of more than 150 volunteers to improve safety at 20 homes in the Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood during CICOA’s ninth annual Safe at
- [Looking for Independence](https://cicoa.org/looking-for-independence/) - “We would have a Harley if we could see,” Mike Bowman said with a chuckle. Through 46 years of marriage, Mike and Connie Bowman have shared many ups and downs, but they’ve experienced something that most couples don’t—they lost their vision together. This disability doesn’t stop them from enjoying an independent and active life together,
- [Indy Mom Finds Help Caring for Parents at Home](https://cicoa.org/indy-mom-finds-help-caring-for-parents-at-home/) - Sherry was stuck. She knew there were resources to help her parents – her 75-year-old mom, who has had Alzheimer’s for eight years, and her 77-year-old dad, who is legally blind – but she didn’t know where to turn. Her dad’s doctor recommended CICOA. “CICOA has been a godsend,” Sherry said. “Sometimes you don’t even
- [CICOA Makes Homes Safer for Seniors in Martindale-Brightwood Neighborhood During Ninth Annual Safe at Home](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-makes-homes-safer-for-seniors-in-martindale-brightwood-neighborhood-during-ninth-annual-safe-at-home/) - When Pearl worked at the Martindale-Brightwood Community Development Center, she used to help CICOA identify seniors who needed a helping hand during CICOA’s annual Safe at Home event. This year, she got a little help at her own home. More than 150 volunteers were in her northeast side neighborhood Sept. 29 installing hand rails, banisters,
- [Lavonia Celebrates Kindness of Girl Scout Cadette Troop](https://cicoa.org/lavonia-celebrates-kindness-of-girl-scout-cadette-troop/) - Lavonia felt like America’s Next Top Model with all the fuss around her. She’s not used to so much attention. A photographer was at her apartment to take her photo, as one of 20 CICOA clients to receive a $25 gift card as a special service project of Girl Scout Cadette Troop 447. She wasn’t
- [Pet Therapy Lifts Spirits of Fishers Man](https://cicoa.org/pet-therapy-lifts-spirits/) - Dave has always been active. He played baseball as a kid and all through high school in Greentown. He later played on adult basketball and softball leagues. He and his wife, Julie, often played tennis together. They traveled, went to Indians baseball games, went hiking. Normal stuff, Julie says. Then secondary progressive multiple sclerosis took
- [Indy Mom Finds Strength to Care for Son She Nearly Lost](https://cicoa.org/indy-mom-finds-strength-to-care-for-son-with-disability/) - No mother should have to make the decision Lavenia was faced with last fall: Remove the ventilator that was keeping little Karter alive? Send him to an institution where he could receive 24-hour care? Or, find a way to care for him at home? “I choose to keep him,” Lavenia said. People often ask her
- [CICOA Helps 109-Year-Old Age in Place](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-helps-109-year-old-age-in-place/) - Want to know the secret to aging? Be good. That’s how Bernice Bohannon has tried to live her life. It’s what makes her happy. The mantra has served her well. She’ll celebrate her 109th birthday on March 14. She’s planning to make brownies for relatives who’ll be coming from out of town to help her celebrate.
- [Trash collector becomes lifeline for Indianapolis man](https://cicoa.org/trash-collector-becomes-lifeline-for-indianapolis-man/) - Jerald Bradford has escaped death more times than his mom, Shelia Wright, can count. Over his 38 years, Jerald has had more than 30 brain surgeries, the first when he was just six months old after being born with traumatic brain injury. There were more surgeries in 2002 after he was brutally beaten, run over
- [71-Year-Old Living Comfortably This Summer With CICOA Air Conditioner](https://cicoa.org/71-year-old-living-comfortably-this-summer-with-cicoa-air-conditioner/) - Last year, when 71-year old Eunice’s air conditioner broke, she had to endure the rest of the hot summer with only a fan. She was thankful for the fan, stating that “every little bit helped,” but she is even more thankful that CICOA is able to provide her with a new air conditioner this year.
- [Out of the Chaos Into the Calm](https://cicoa.org/out-of-the-chaos-into-the-calm/) - When she started as a care manager at CICOA, Mr. B was the first client on Lara’s caseload. He had yet to start any services, and Lara was fresh out of grad school, eager but naïve about the difficulties awaiting both of them. Mr. B and his wife, Jennifer, were desperate to begin respite home health
- [CICOA Makes Homes Safer for Seniors in Midtown](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-makes-homes-safer-for-seniors-in-midtown/) - Carleen Carter, 70, has lived in the Crown Hill neighborhood of Indianapolis for 60 years, and she considers her involvement in the community to be one of her biggest joys. Now it’s the community’s turn to help her out. On Sept. 28, 25 volunteers will be doing home modification projects at her house as a
- [Parents Reflect on How CICOA Helped Their "Angel"](https://cicoa.org/parents-reflect-on-how-cicoa-helped-their-angel/) - Scott and Mandy Long describe August and September as “their season.” It’s an emotional time of year for them—their son Crew was born in August 2014, and passed away in September 2017. This year, like last year, they had a birthday party and a cake to celebrate his life. Crew was Scott and Mandy’s third
- [A Musical Match](https://cicoa.org/a-musical-match/) - CICOA client Tori wanted to try music therapy. Claire Riley, a student at Ball State University studying psychology and music, wanted to learn how to use music therapy techniques. A family friend suggested that Claire volunteer with CICOA, and she was matched with Tori, one of our clients who has Spina Bifida. The two young
- [Are You at Risk for Falls?](https://cicoa.org/are-you-at-risk-for-falls/) - It’s the Leading Cause of Death Among Seniors September 23 is the first day of fall and National Fall Prevention Awareness Day. To help bring attention to this growing public health issue, CICOA has compiled an in-home assessment tool to help identify a number of common falling and tripping hazards in your home: Are there
- [A Moving Experience](https://cicoa.org/a-moving-experience/) - “Yeah, I have furniture, but I don’t have no way to get it here.” Lela, 54, was talking to her case manager about her new apartment, spartanly furnished with only a mattress on the floor, a card table and a lawn chair. Lela suffers from pinched nerves in her neck and lower back, spinal stenosis,
- [Making Strides](https://cicoa.org/making-strides/) - Greenwood bus driver named Caregiver of the Year It all started over a heart-shaped pizza on a cold winter afternoon in Garfield Park. Maria Dampier was a single mom trying to make ends meet. She wasn’t interested in dating. But then Bill Dampier asked her out for pizza, and she said, yes. They were both
- [Medical Residents Shadow CICOA Care Managers to Understand Environmental Challenges of Seniors](https://cicoa.org/medical-residents-shadow-cicoa-care-managers-to-understand-environmental-challenges-of-seniors/) - St. Vincent Health medical residents are shadowing CICOA care managers to better understand the environmental challenges that low-income seniors face.
- [Investing in Social Outcomes](https://cicoa.org/investing-in-social-outcomes/) - When David Hoover took a job working for a commercial disability insurance company, he thought he would be helping people. Instead, he found he was spending most of his time arguing contract language, which was no fun. So when presented the opportunity, Hoover accepted the role as president of the Hoover Family Foundation, which was established
- [Meeting People Where They Are](https://cicoa.org/meeting-people-where-they-are/) - We’re all on a journey of some kind. A journey is defined as traveling from one place to another, usually taking a rather long time. Is your journey through life full of adventure and exploration? Is it a pilgrimage with a purpose? Have you set a course, or are you muddling through? At CICOA, we
- [Co-owner of Two Chicks and a Hammer Shares Her Thoughts on Home Accessibility](https://cicoa.org/co-owner-of-two-chicks-and-a-hammer-shares-her-thoughts-on-home-accessibility/) - Almost everyone has a CICOA story, it seems. “I have a personal relationship with CICOA,” confessed Karen E. Laine, who along with her daughter Mina Starsiak, co-hosts HGTV’s Good Bones, a home renovation show based in the Fountain Square neighborhood of Indianapolis. Laine served as emcee at CICOA’s 9th annual Safe at Home event on
- [Donor Finds a Place He Can Make a Difference with CICOA](https://cicoa.org/donor-finds-a-place-he-can-make-a-difference-with-cicoa/) - When a friend suggested Peter Ritz join the CICOA Foundation Board of Trustees about a decade ago, it didn’t take him long to say yes. Ritz was well aware of issues affecting the elderly. His 96-year-old dad was then living in a retirement center, and his wife’s dad had died just two years earlier. “I
- [Carmel Woman Makes Time to Brighten a Senior’s Holiday](https://cicoa.org/carmel-woman-makes-time-to-brighten-a-seniors-holiday/) - Kim Borges juggles a lot of things in life. She has a demanding job that often takes her on the road marketing the good things Regions Bank is doing throughout 15 states. She serves on boards for the CICOA Foundation, Second Helpings and Dress for Success, and she volunteers for the Susan G. Koman Race
- [Two Women Find Friendship Through CICOA](https://cicoa.org/two-women-find-friendship-through-cicoa/) - Diane Kobylinski was flipping through IndyBoomer Magazine when an article caught her eye: “The Rise of the Elder Orphan.” The article was about a CICOA program designed to help stave off depression and feelings of isolation that impact as many as 40 percent of seniors. She learned CICOA was looking for volunteers to visit homebound seniors. “I
- [CICOA Client Brings Unique Voice to Board of Directors](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-client-brings-unique-voice-to-board-of-directors/) - What would life be without CICOA? Case Calvert pauses. It’s a question he’s never considered. He doesn’t really want to think about it. “I’d hate to have to go through that. It would change a lot of aspects of my life.” Then he sums it up with a single word. “Clarity.” That’s what CICOA has
- [Board Member Reflects on Caring for a Grandmother With Dementia](https://cicoa.org/board-member-reflects-on-caring-for-a-grandmother-with-dementia/) - When Brianna Saunders was 24, she took on the role of primary caregiver for her grandmother Evelyn, who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease. Brianna cared for Evelyn for the last 10 years of Evelyn’s life. Although Brianna did not know about CICOA at the time, today she is a passionate member of the CICOA Board of
- [Indy Physician Passionate About Educating Future Doctors About Dementia](https://cicoa.org/indy-physician-passionate-about-educating-future-doctors-about-dementia/) - Dr. Diane Healey has high expectations for primary care residents during their geriatric rotations at St. Vincent Health Care Center for Healthy Aging. She thinks it’s vital that residents not only understand an older adult’s medical and physical condition, but also social conditions. That’s one of the reasons she began asking residents to become Dementia
- [INHP Awards $20,000 Grant to CICOA Safe at Home Program](https://cicoa.org/inhp-awards-20000-grant-to-cicoa-safe-at-home-program/) - CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions has received a $20,000 grant from the Indianapolis Neighborhood Housing Partnership® (INHP). The grant supports CICOA’s Safe at Home program, which provides home safety and accessibility modifications that enhance mobility, promote independence, and prevent falls for older adults and people with disabilities. With funding from INHP, materials and labor can be
- [CICOA Expands Dementia Friends Indiana Statewide](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-expands-dementia-friends-indiana-statewide/) - With new website, statewide initiative asks Hoosiers to become Dementia Friends What does it take to become a Dementia Friend? A few minutes of your time and the willingness to help if you see someone struggling with memory loss. A Dementia Friend is someone who wants to make a positive difference in the lives of
- [What It's All About](https://cicoa.org/what-its-all-about/) - What began nine years ago as a simple team building exercise for staff turned into so much more. William Anderson, vice president of business development at United Home Healthcare, recalled his first experience volunteering at CICOA’s annual Safe at Home event. “One of my first tasks when I got hired at United Home Healthcare was to
- [Scan Card Technology Simplifies CICOA Meal Voucher System](https://cicoa.org/scan-card-technology-simplifies-cicoa-meal-voucher-system/) - Meals & More, a service of CICOA, provides about 8,500 nutritionally balanced meals a month to older adults in central Indiana using an electronic meal accounting system built on QRyde technology. Since its inception two years ago, the technology has allowed CICOA to manage accounting of meals for more than 1,200 clients at 35 neighborhood
- [Moving from Hospital to Home with Care Transitions](https://cicoa.org/moving-from-hospital-to-home-with-care-transitions/) - In July 2010, Johnnie, then 68, was admitted to Wishard Memorial Hospital with chest pain. She had been in and out of the hospital six times over a period of only 10 months. With multiple medical problems, Johnnie required a great deal of care with medication management, bathing, meal preparation, housekeeping, transportation, etc. Although determined
- [Homeowner Considers Consequences of Falling](https://cicoa.org/homeowner-considers-consequences-of-falling/) - Leona Bishop, 74, tripped and fell down the stairs from her bedroom to her living room. Sore and bruised, but not injured, she began to consider the consequences of falling to her health and independence. A short time later, she slipped while stepping into her bathtub—avoiding injury once again, but now beginning to grow fearful.
- [Marie Finds Mission After Neighbor Falls](https://cicoa.org/marie-finds-mission-after-a-neighbors-fall/) - Thirteen years ago, Marie and Charles moved into the home where Charles had grown up on the northeast side of Indianapolis. Many of their neighbors were older, having lived on the street for decades. The day one of them fell, Marie found a mission. "We couldn't get in there to help her, and we had
- [Former Social Worker and Caterer is Grateful for Care](https://cicoa.org/former-social-worker-caterer-grateful-care/) - The room started to spin, and LaVada Clark lost her balance and fell in the kitchen inside her Indianapolis condo. She was falling more often, and she knew she needed help. She called CICOA. LaVada used to refer people to CICOA when she worked with seniors. She realized that asking for help is harder than
- [Indianapolis Man Finds Freedom in His New Apartment](https://cicoa.org/indianapolis-man-finds-freedom-new-apartment/) - Twimon Jones was working in construction in Indianapolis in 2001 when he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. He was just 26. Since then, the disease has robbed him of the ability to walk, to dress, even move his hands freely. Despite it all, Jones is quick to crack a joke with visitors and his home
- [Coloring Steadies Shaking Hands](https://cicoa.org/coloring-steadies-shaking-hands/) - Donald Thrush’s hands don’t stop shaking from the Parkinson’s disease he was diagnosed with in 1997. He’s now in stage 4. But, as he scoots up to a tray table, a crayon in his hand, his shaking slows. Eventually his hands don’t shake at all, as he methodically colors. It all started five or six
- [Mom Finds Strength Through Faith](https://cicoa.org/mom-finds-strength-faith/) - It’s not easy being the mom of seven children, especially when two of them are disabled. Elva Farrell knows. Her youngest, Andrew, was born with a rare condition, diastrophic dysplasia, a form of dwarfism. While Andrew needs 24-hour care along with physical, developmental, respiratory and occupational therapy, Elva knows it’s possible for him to one
- [Stephanie Finds Peace of Mind, Stability After Falls](https://cicoa.org/stephanie-finds-peace-mind-stability-falls/) - “The last fall was the worst of all,” Stephanie said, tracing an imaginary line from her forehead to her lip to indicate the length of the wound she suffered after a fall in May 2016. Stephanie, 58, had gone to dinner that night with her family when she took a spill on the sidewalk outside
- [Eddie Returns to Community Living With Care Management](https://cicoa.org/eddie-returns-community-living-with-care-management/) - “I thought I was 10 feet tall and bullet proof.” Eddie, 57, is a double amputee above the knee. Diagnosed with diabetes in 2001, the former boxer and security guard from Beech Grove, Ind., thought he could beat the disease on his own strength. “I didn’t follow my doctor’s orders, so the diabetes got out
- [Boy Born Without Limbs Grows Up to Live Independently](https://cicoa.org/boy-born-without-limbs-grows-live-independently/) - When Jane had her first child 27 years ago, she wasn’t prepared for what followed. Her son, Brandon, was born without legs or arms. It’s such a rare congenital condition, there is no name for it. At first, she could think only about what Brandon wouldn’t be able to do. But quickly, she and her
- [WWII Survivor Remembers Hardship, Human Kindness as Refugee](https://cicoa.org/wwii-survivor-remembers-hardship-human-kindness-as-refugee/) - Lyudmila was four years old when the war started. On June 22, 1941, Nazi Germany invaded the Soviet Union with a massive army of more than three million soldiers. Lyudmila’s father was conscripted to fight in the Soviet resistance. As the Nazis advanced, little Lyudmila and her Momma were evacuated by train, along with other
- [CICOA Very Merry Days](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-very-merry-days/) - --by Chad Bales, Assistant Director of Flourish Care Management, and Tami Vernon, Care Management Supervisor Having worked a combined 32 years at CICOA, we have seen the amazing impact that holiday assistance can provide. CICOA's Very Merry Days not only impacts our immediate clients and their families, but also the numerous volunteers that give of
- [Practicum Experience as Social Work Interns](https://cicoa.org/practicum-experience-msw-interns/) - By Julia Ollikainen and Trellie Johnson, MSW Interns A question we get asked often is, “Why social work?” For Julia, it felt like something she was called to do. For Trellie, it was having a job that had a purpose. We currently are first-year graduate students at IUPUI working on a Master of Social Work
- [Having Nutritious Meals That Are Easy to Make Takes Away Burden for Indianapolis Woman](https://cicoa.org/nutritious-meals-easy-to-make-for-indianapolis-woman/) - Cooking for one isn’t easy, especially when you’ve spent a lifetime sitting around a big family table passing heaping bowls of green beans, carrots and corn you’ve grown in the garden. Bessie Bell has good memories of those days, growing up the baby of ten siblings. She remembers her dad’s big garden, her mom canning
- [CICOA Partners With Homeland Security, Local Fire Departments to Educate First Responders About Dementia](https://cicoa.org/educate-first-responders-about-dementia/) - Carmel, Noblesville become first fire departments in state to require dementia training First responders around Indiana, including firefighters, emergency medical technicians and police officers, are learning how to identify someone who may have dementia. They’re learning how body language, maintaining eye contact and even the tone of their voice can help calm someone with dementia,
- [CICOA Launches New Website](https://cicoa.org/cicoa-launches-new-website/) - CICOA is pleased to announce the launch of its newly designed website at cicoa.org. The new site is faster, easier to navigate, and more mobile friendly, helping CICOA remain the premier source of information and access to resources for older adults, people with disabilities and family caregivers in Central Indiana. Dana Robinson, director of marketing
- [Creating a Person-Centered Care Plan](https://cicoa.org/creating-person-centered-care-plan/) - By Shannon Harshman, Flourish Care Manager Independence, dignity, and quality of life. The manifestation of these three goals differs with each client, and it is the CICOA Flourish Care Manager’s role to address individual needs for clients in achieving these goals. But, we don’t stop there. We “step it up a notch” to devise a
- [Care Managers Make a Difference, Even When It Seems Impossible](https://cicoa.org/care-manager-impossible/) - The role of care manager is important. It’s also a role with no concrete job description, and that is one of the aspects that I love most. A Client in Need of Compassion I had a client, Jimmy, who was a bit of a salty character with no friends, no family and new to case
- [5 Foods That Age You and Other Tips on Looking and Feeling Younger](https://cicoa.org/5-foods-age-tips-looking-feeling-younger/) - I don’t think any of us want to look our age. That’s why so many of us do what we can to try to look younger. It’s no wonder the anti-aging skincare market has ballooned to a more than $30 billion industry, and it’s expected to continue to grow, according to a recent article in
- [Urban Farming, Farmers Markets Help Alleviate Hunger](https://cicoa.org/urban-farming-farmers-markets/) - Food insecurity affects families in every nook and corner of Indiana. Digging deeper, 2 of 10 families in 38 of the state’s 92 counties say they have no idea when their next meal will be or where it will come from, affecting more than 300,000 children alone. These are some of the findings of a
- [Tips to Help Control the Hangry In You](https://cicoa.org/tips-control-hangry/) - If you’ve ever snapped at someone uncharacteristically, honked your horn angrily because it took a driver a millisecond too long to accelerate through a green light, you may be hangry. Maybe you were hard at work, then suddenly, you couldn’t concentrate or remember what you were getting ready to do. That also can be the
- [Tips to Boost Your Appetite](https://cicoa.org/boost-appetite/) - As summer approaches, warmer temperatures sometimes zap our energy and our appetites. If you or a loved one don’t have much of an appetite, there are healthy ways for you to get the nutrition you need and regain your desire to eat. Add variety to your meals by using different colors, textures and aromas. When
- [The Happiness Diet](https://cicoa.org/the-happiness-diet/) - We’ve all heard about how the foods we eat can affect our weight, our cholesterol and blood pressure, but what we eat also contributes to our overall mood and mental health. Eating for our mental health is the basis for a book, The Happiness Diet. Normally, I don’t like to promote these kinds of books
- [Taking Kitchen Inventory for Safety](https://cicoa.org/taking-kitchen-inventory-for-safety/) - It’s not often we think about whether our microwave is in the optimal place, not to mention what we keep on our counters, where our throw rugs are placed, the lighting or flooring in our kitchens, or expiration dates on food. Yet each of these can cause kitchen safety issues for older adults. Let’s help
- [Quick and Dirty Ways to Ruin a Salad](https://cicoa.org/ways-to-ruin-a-salad/) - Hey, how about a delicious, colorful, satisfying salad on a hot summer day? For sure, it’s a dish overflowing with fruit and vegetable goodness. Sounds healthy, right? But, not so fast! There are many ways to ruin a salad. A first-rate salad can devolve quickly into an unhealthy dish. Before you know it, your good-for-you
- [Positive Attitude Nourishes the Soul](https://cicoa.org/positive-attitude-nourishes-soul/) - Let’s face it, attitude is everything. Yes, this is a nutrition blog, and I’m talking about attitude. But, attitude is beneficial in so many aspects of life, including overall wellness and the food choices that we make every day. These choices are affected by a myriad of factors bombarding us. Our attitude—whether good or bad—is
- [Improve Your Memory by Remembering These Foods](https://cicoa.org/improve-your-memory-by-remembering-these-foods/) - The old adage “you are what you eat” is truer than most people realize. Many of us have varying degrees of awareness as to how certain foods impact our body’s appearance and performance, but have you ever considered how the food on your dinner plate impacts your mental health? Our brains are incredible machines responsible
- [Healthy Eating Begins with Good Planning](https://cicoa.org/healthy-eating-begins-with-good-planning/) - Have you ever felt sluggish after a meal and then scolded yourself for overindulging or choosing the fries over a side salad? Those spur-of-the moment choices often are what get us in trouble. We all know that when you eat healthier, you feel better, have more energy and a lot less regret. We also know
- [Five Foods to Say, 'I Love You and Your Heart'](https://cicoa.org/five-foods-say-love-heart/) - When we think of Valentine’s Day we think of chocolates. But, this year, think about giving your Valentine something that says, "I love you and your heart." Here are five treats to consider: Heart-shaped fruit. Use a heart shaped cookie cutter to make heart-shaped melons. Serve them with strawberries and grapes, or if you are
- [Feeling Down? These Tips can Boost your Mood](https://cicoa.org/boost-mood/) - We all know that what we eat affects our waistline, but did you know that certain foods also can play a role in our mental health? Some foods can boost your mood, while others can make us feel blue. While there’s no scientific diet prescription proven to relieve depression, in recognition of national Depression Awareness
- [Fat Matters if You Want a Healthy Heart: 4 Tips to Help You Get the Fat You Need](https://cicoa.org/fat-matters-if-you-want-a-healthy-heart-4-tips-to-help-you-get-the-fat-you-need/) - Remember the no-fat, fad diets that promised how much weight you’d lose if you’d just cut out all the fat in your life? Like most fad diets, it didn’t work. In fact, we ended up packing on pounds, not shedding them. The only beneficiaries of the no-fat diet were companies who began stocking shelves with
- [Easy, Healthy Meals to Make, Take to Others](https://cicoa.org/easy-healthy-meals-to-make-take-to-others/) - When someone is sick, recovering from surgery or going through a hard time, we often want to do something to help. If you’re like me, you like to bring comfort to others with a good, home-cooked meal. But, what to take? You want it to be easy to bake, reheat or freeze. There are other
- [Drink Up, It’s Good for Your Health](https://cicoa.org/drink-up-its-good-for-your-health/) - Everyone knows water is good for you. We’ve been told to drink eight glasses of water a day for as long as I can remember. What most people don’t understand however, is just how important water is. Nothing we put into our mouths is more important. Water helps to regulate our body temperature, helping us
- [Don't Let Your Kitchen Make You Sick](https://cicoa.org/be-safe-in-the-kitchen/) - There are few places I’d rather be than in my kitchen, whether it’s trying a new recipe or entertaining friends and family. But the kitchen can be a dangerous place. There are sharp knives, hot stoves and boiling water. Of course, we have to worry about spoiled foods and raw meats that can cause food
- [Ditch Dieting](https://cicoa.org/ditch-dieting/) - It’s a new year, and that means you may have made some resolutions. If you’re like most, you plan to lose weight or eat healthier. I’m urging people to forget about the New Year’s resolution to diet. Let’s face it, the majority of people give up on it by February anyway. I’m not saying you
- [7 Reasons Why You Should be Shopping at Farmers Markets](https://cicoa.org/7-reasons-shopping-farmers-markets/) - My favorite way to spend a summer Saturday morning is heading to my local farmers market. I like to stock up on fresh fruits and veggies for the week, maybe select a bunch of fresh flowers or fresh baked goods. I like knowing that everything I buy is made and grown locally. Here are my
- [5 Tips for Healthy Grocery Shopping on a Budget](https://cicoa.org/5-tips-healthy-grocery-shopping-budget/) - It may appear that it costs more to buy healthy food than to buy junk food. It’s also easy to fall into the trap of relying on processed foods because they’re easier than fresh fruits and vegetables. Take a closer look… many times we are really paying a lot for packaging and not getting much
- [5 Tips for Better Grocery Shopping](https://cicoa.org/5-tips-for-better-grocery-shopping/) - Have you ever gone to the grocery store and left with bags full of items you never intended to buy? Or on the way home remembered the one item you really need? Unfortunately, when we shop without a plan, we are more likely to purchase foods we do not need, forget to purchase the items
- [5 Reasons to Buy Fresh, Local](https://cicoa.org/5-reasons-buy-fresh-local/) - Food tastes better in the summertime when you use fresh-from-the-vine produce. Recently, I made tacos that were amazing, because of the fresh peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers and cilantro. It was simply a matter of dicing everything up and putting it together in a warm tortilla. For dessert, we had fresh peaches and blueberries. It was a
- [What’s a Care Manager Floater?](https://cicoa.org/whats-a-care-manager-floater/) - This is a question I’m repeatedly asked. Since January 2013, I’ve been working as a care manager. During my second maternity leave, our family decided to move from the north side to the south side of Indianapolis. My first concern was how I was going to handle my north side caseload? While I was on
- [Care Management: Flourishing Together](https://cicoa.org/care-management-flourishing-together/) - As a CICOA Care Manager who is passionate about each of my clients, I am always looking for new ways to do a better job, to push case management to new heights, and create an experience for my clients that will help them have a better today. The branding of care management with the term
- [The Value of Social Work Practicum Experience](https://cicoa.org/the-value-of-social-work-practicum-experience/) - “What do you want to do when you graduate?” is a question I hear frequently, and my answer is always changing. I currently am a student at IUPUI in the Master’s of Social Work program while holding my job as a care manager at CICOA. My advice for those working while attending school is that
- [The Impact of Home Modifications on Independent Living](https://cicoa.org/impact-of-home-modifications-on-independent-living/) - As a care manager assistant, my job is to complete various tasks for other care managers. Since being hired, I’ve particularly noticed the heartwarming impact home modifications have on our clients and caregivers. At first, home modifications were daunting tasks because of the numerous steps involved. Now that I’ve mastered and seen the positive outcomes
- [Savor the Flavor of Eating Right](https://cicoa.org/savor-the-flavor-of-eating-right/) - Dietitians get excited during March! Not only does it signal the beginning of spring, but March also is National Nutrition Month®. This year’s National Nutrition Month® theme is “Savor the Flavor of Eating Right.” The goal is to remind us to enjoy our food traditions, appreciate the great flavors, tastes and aromas of food, and

## Pages

- [Homepage](https://cicoa.org/) - CICOA is the Area Agency on Aging in Central Indiana, empowering seniors, people with disabilities and caregivers with services and support for living at home.
- [Home Accessibility Modifications](https://cicoa.org/services/home-accessibility-modifications/) - Home Safety & Accessibility Home > Services > Home Accessibility Modifications Most older adults and people with disabilities express a desire to remain living independently at home for the rest of their lives. Called "aging in place," this desire is tied to maintaining autonomy, comfort, and familiarity in your current living environment and community. The
- [CICOA Dine Dollars](https://cicoa.org/services/senior-meals-nutrition/cicoa-dine-dollars/) - CICOA offers a meal program for active older adults at participating hospital cafeterias and restaurants. More options and flexibility in your dining choices.
- [Play Fore CICOA Registration](https://cicoa.org/news-events/events/play-fore-cicoa-registration/) - Let's play Topgolf! Each bay seats six players. Put together a team of six, or purchase individual tickets and we will create a team for you.
- [Monthly Giving](https://cicoa.org/support/monthly-giving/) - Monthly Giving Home > Support > Monthly Giving With a growing population of aging Hoosiers, the need for CICOA's services continues to increase. Your monthly gift sustains the services and programs that help seniors and people with disabilities live with greater independence, dignity and quality of life. Why join the Signature Community? It's easy. Your
- [Innovation Appeal](https://cicoa.org/innovate/) - CICOA is on the forefront of innovative care for older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers. The next generation of aging services starts here.
- [Give Meals](https://cicoa.org/give-meals/) - Seniors are struggling to afford food and eat healthy meals. Please give to CICOA today, because no senior should be hungry.
- [Give to Client Assistance](https://cicoa.org/clientassist/) - When life's emergencies and unexpected problems pop up, CICOA clients can struggle to handle them. Please give to CICOA's Client Assistance Fund to help.
- [Employee Assistance Fund](https://cicoa.org/eaf/) - Employee Assistance Fund Home > Employee Assistance Fund The Employee Assistance Fund will be used to support CICOA employees in dire need during difficult situations. The fund came about in response to the COVID-19 health crisis but remains an ongoing program. Those who are able to help can donate, and those who are in need
- [Dignity](https://cicoa.org/dignity/) - Help someone age with dignity at home Your gift helps people stay safe, independent, and connected to the place they call home. Dignity isn't one thing. It's the support that shows up when it's needed. A meal delivered to the door. A ride to a medical appointment. A safer home. Rest for a caregiver. Expert
- [Donate to Bingocize](https://cicoa.org/give-bingocize/) - Your gift to the Bingocize program helps us continue to provide this health and wellness program for more seniors in our community.
- [Donate to Innovation Fund](https://cicoa.org/innovation-donate/) - Make an impact. Invest in social good by donating to CICOA's Wrinkle Innovation Fund, creating solutions for seniors, people with disabilities and caregivers.
- [Donate to Pet Connect](https://cicoa.org/pet-food/) - Seniors love their pets, but they are struggling to provide food and supplies. Please donate to CICOA today, because no senior or their pet should be hungry.
- [Donate to Safe at Home](https://cicoa.org/safe-at-home-donate/) - Seniors and people with disabilities in Central Indiana need your support. Donate now to the CICOA Foundation, the largest senior-serving organization in Indiana.
- [Dementia Friendly Indianapolis Donation](https://cicoa.org/dementia-friendly-indianapolis-donation/) - Help Indianapolis families affected by dementia today! Your gift supports critical programs and training to make Indianapolis a dementia friendly community!
- [Dementia Friends Indiana Donation](https://cicoa.org/dementia-friends-indiana-donation/) - Home > Dementia Friends Indiana Donation Your donation to the Dementia Friends Indiana fund of the CICOA Foundation is tax-deductible and helps us create dementia friendly communities throughout the Hoosier state. Donors will receive a receipt for tax purposes from the CICOA Foundation, the official fundraising and gift-receiving organization for CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions. CICOA
- [CICOA Reimagined Campaign](https://cicoa.org/reimagined/) - Home > CICOA Reimagined Campaign Five Decades of Hope, A Future Reimagined Since 1974, CICOA has stood as a steadfast partner to the people of Central Indiana, providing essential services and support to navigate the complexities of aging and disability. For thousands in our community, CICOA is the answer to the very real needs of
- [Contact Us](https://cicoa.org/about/contact-us/) - Contact us for aging and in-home services in the greater Indianapolis area. The phone number for CICOA is 317-803-6131.
- [Holiday Gift Catalog](https://cicoa.org/giftcatalog/) - CICOA's Holiday Gift Catalog Home > Holiday Gift Catalog Give More Than a Gift: Share the Warmth and Dignity of Home The holiday season is about giving from the heart. This year, trade in the stress of finding the perfect gift for the joy of making a real, lasting difference in the life of a
- [Donate Now](https://cicoa.org/support/donate-now/) - Seniors and people with disabilities in Central Indiana need your support. Donate now to CICOA, the largest senior-serving organization in Indiana.
- [Nutrition Education](https://cicoa.org/services/senior-meals-nutrition/nutrition-education/) - Nutrition Education Learn how nutrition & exercise play a role in healthy aging Home Services Senior Meals & Nutrition Nutrition Education Nutrition is key at every age. CICOA provides nutrition education to individuals and their families in neighborhood meal sites in Indianapolis and the surrounding counties to promote healthy food choices, improve health behaviors and
- [My Freedom](https://cicoa.org/services/transportation/my-freedom/) - Transportation for people with disabilities and seniors around Central Indiana counties Home Services Transportation My Freedom Transportation around Central Indiana for Seniors and People with Disabilities People experiencing a disability or anyone over the age of 60 in Central Indiana may be eligible for the My Freedom program, offering affordable cross-county transportation for qualifying individuals. Experience
- [Transportation](https://cicoa.org/services/transportation/) - Way2Go Transportation for seniors and people with disabilities helps you get rides to medical appointments, the grocery store and more.
- [Shuttle Service](https://cicoa.org/services/transportation/shuttle-service/) - Scheduled shuttle rides in Marion County from various senior apartment complexes to grocery stores and other locations. Home Services Transportation Shuttle Service CICOA's Way2Go Transportation service will cease operations on May 29, 2026. Unfortunately, we are no longer accepting applications for new riders. Please check our Alternate Transportation Guide or call us at 317-803-6131 for
- [Door2Door](https://cicoa.org/services/transportation/door2door/) - Home Services Transportation Door2Door CICOA's Way2Go Transportation service will cease operations on May 29, 2026. Unfortunately, we are no longer accepting applications for new riders. Please check our Alternate Transportation Guide or call us at 317-803-6131 for other local transportation options. Contact CICOA Way2Go Transportation Service Call: (317) 803-6153 Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. -
- [Transportation Application](https://cicoa.org/services/transportation/application/) - Fill out this form to get started Home Services Transportation Transportation Application CICOA's Way2Go Transportation service will cease operations on May 29, 2026. Unfortunately, we are no longer accepting applications for new riders. Please check our Alternate Transportation Guide or call us at 317-803-6131 for other local transportation options. Contact CICOA Way2Go Transportation Service Call:
- [Community Health Worker Referral](https://cicoa.org/chw-referral/) - Complete this form to refer yourself or someone else to receive up to 90 days of personalized support from a CICOA Community Health Worker.
- [Volunteer](https://cicoa.org/support/volunteer/) - Volunteer opportunities in Indianapolis and nearby counties for people who want to help seniors and people with disabilities.
- [Senior Meals & Nutrition](https://cicoa.org/services/senior-meals-nutrition/) - CICOA Meals and More senior meals program offers healthy, nutritious meals for the elderly through meal delivery and social lunches.
- [Produce for Better Health](https://cicoa.org/services/senior-meals-nutrition/produce-for-better-health/) - Produce for Better Health Fresh fruits & vegetables for seniors Home Services Senior Meals & Nutrition Produce for Better Health The Produce for Better Health program will be ending on June 30, 2026. We are no longer accepting applications for new participants or volunteers. The grant that supported this initiative ends on June 30, and
- [Financials & Accountability](https://cicoa.org/about/financials-accountability/) - Financial transparency and accountability are the foundation of our business. Home About Financials & Accountability It's important to us that you have confidence in CICOA-that you believe in our work, the strength of our partnerships, and the expertise of our staff. That you trust us to do what we promise. In 2018, CICOA first was
- [Annual Report FY2025](https://cicoa.org/about/financials-accountability/annual-report-fy2025/) - CICOA Reimagined CICOA FY2025 Annual Report Mission CICOA's mission is to empower older adults, those of any age with a disability, and their caregivers by providing the innovative answers, services, and support they need to achieve the greatest possible independence, dignity, and quality of life. This is how we advanced our mission in FY2025 (July
- [Annual Report FY2024](https://cicoa.org/about/financials-accountability/annual-report-fy2024/) - Celebrating 50 Years CICOA FY2024 Annual Report Mission CICOA's mission is to empower older adults, those of any age with a disability, and their caregivers by providing the innovative answers, services, and support they need to achieve the greatest possible independence, dignity, and quality of life. This is how we advanced our mission in FY2024
- [Transportation Proxy Form](https://cicoa.org/services/transportation/proxy-form/) - Fill out this form to get started Home Services Transportation Transportation Proxy Form If someone other than the consumer will be scheduling trips or placing an order, a Proxy Form authorizing this representative must be completed. Separate forms must be completed for each authorized representative. If you would prefer to print and mail this form,
- [Aging & Disability Resource Center Overview](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/aging-disability-resource-center-overview/) - CICOA Aging & Disability Resource Center provides information on local services for seniors, people with disabilities and family caregivers in Central Indiana.
- [Boards](https://cicoa.org/about/leadership/boards/) - More than 75 volunteer leaders on CICOA's Board of Directors, Foundation Board of Trustees, Advisory Council and other committees are advocates for our mission.
- [Provider Portal](https://cicoa.org/partners-providers/provider-portal/) - Provider Portal Manage claims, submit invoices, and access essential support for our CHOICE, SSBG and Title III provider partners. Home Partners & Providers Provider Portal Provider Resources & Support Supporting our partners in delivering high-quality care is a priority. This page serves as a central hub for currently contracted CHOICE, SSBG and Title III providers
- [Become a Provider](https://cicoa.org/partners-providers/become-provider/) - Home and community-based care for high quality of life Home Partners & Providers Become a Provider CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions contracts with licensed in-home service providers and home modification providers in the eight county Central Indiana service area. The services available to clients and their families include: respite care adult day services home and
- [Leadership](https://cicoa.org/about/leadership/) - Advancing the CICOA mission on behalf of our clients Home About Leadership The leadership team at CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions is dedicated to advancing our mission and vision in Central Indiana. The volunteer leaders on our Board of Directors, Foundation Board of Trustees, Advisory Council and other committees are advocates for our mission, contributing
- [Flourish at Home](https://cicoa.org/youflourish/) - Flourish at Home Personalized Care Management for Independent Living Now, seniors and people with disabilities can enjoy the comfort of home with expert care coordination that helps them stay safe, supported, and independent. Start Your Personalized Care Journey Care Management, Simplified CICOA Flourish at Home is a private-pay or self-pay care management service designed to
- [Flourish at Home](https://cicoa.org/services/flourish-at-home/) - Flourish at Home: Personalized Care Management for Independent Living Start Your Personalized Care Journey Home Services Flourish at Home About Flourish at Home: Simplified Self-Pay Care Management CICOA Flourish at Home is a private-pay or self-pay care management service designed to take the stress out of coordinating care, so you don't have to do it
- [Events](https://cicoa.org/news-events/events/) - Support CICOA's life-changing work in the Central Indiana community. Join us at one of our upcoming fundraising and community-building events
- [Safe at Home Event Volunteer Application](https://cicoa.org/safe-at-home-volunteer-application/) - Events « Back to Safe at Home Event Safe at Home Event Volunteer Application Coming Soon! We are looking forward to a great Safe at Home Event in 2026! Please save the date for Sept. 19, 2026.Check back to this page in late spring to sign up to volunteer. If you have questions about the
- [Careers](https://cicoa.org/about/careers/) - Find your next job in social work, healthcare, senior care, case management, nonprofit work or customer service at CICOA in Indianapolis. Apply for a job today!
- [CICOA Foundation Contact Form](https://cicoa.org/foundation-contact/) - Contact CICOA Foundation How can we help you make an impact? The CICOA Foundation helps donors, corporate sponsors and grant-making organizations to make a powerful impact in the community. We would love to connect with individuals, companies and foundations who share our commitment to serving older adults, people with disabilities and family caregivers. How can
- [Innovation Contact Form](https://cicoa.org/innovation-contact/) - Contact Wrinkle Innovation We'd love to hear your ideas. Wrinkle Innovation consists of a venture studio, capital fund and consulting on joint community ventures. Contact us today to see how we might help with a project or if you're interested in investing for social impact. If you do not see the form displayed below, please
- [Grant-Funded Organizations](https://cicoa.org/partners-providers/grant-funded-organizations/) - Together, we create a vibrant community. Home Partners & Providers Grant-Funded Organizations Organizations Receiving Older Americans Act Funding Through CICOA in Federal FY2026-2027 Boone County Senior Services Title III-B Funding: Transportation and Information & Assistance Award Amount: $31,910 Title III-E Funding: Caregiver Public Information, Caregiver Information & Assistance, and Caregiver Support Group Award Amount: $8,505.03
- [CICOA Bid Process](https://cicoa.org/partners-providers/cicoa-bid-process/) - To ensure the best service and value for our community, CICOA engages in a competitive bid process every two years for federal Older Americans Act (OAA) grants.
- [Envision Lecture Presentations](https://cicoa.org/news-events/envision-lecture-presentations/) - Envision Lecture Presentations Home News & Events Envision Lecture Presentations Envision Lectures are an opportunity for you to learn about a variety of topics that impact health and quality of life in Central Indiana, especially for seniors and people with disabilities. Watch recordings of past Envision Lectures and download slides from our lineup of expert
- [About](https://cicoa.org/about/) - CICOA is an Indianapolis nonprofit providing senior services and is the largest area agency on aging in Indiana. What does CICOA stand for? It's not an acronym.
- [Give a Ride](https://cicoa.org/give-a-ride/) - The need for affordable, reliable transportation is urgent for older adults on low, fixed incomes. You can help: Give to support CICOA Way2Go transportation.
- [Caregiver Support](https://cicoa.org/services/caregiver-support/) - There's help for caregivers in Central Indiana. If you're caring for aging parents or family, we can help with caregiver support groups and counseling.
- [CICOA Foundation](https://cicoa.org/support/cicoa-foundation/) - Home Support CICOA Foundation The CICOA Foundation is an Indiana-based 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation established in 1992 to fund and support the mission of CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions. Because of the growing population age 60 and older in Central Indiana, CICOA cannot meet all of the needs of elderly and homebound individuals. Donations of money
- [Holiday Baskets Volunteer Signup](https://cicoa.org/holiday-baskets-volunteer/) - The CICOA Foundation Holiday Baskets programs helps us connect with clients in need by delivering a little extra warmth and nourishment during the holidays.
- [Area Plan](https://cicoa.org/area-plan/) - A roadmap for service priorities and community investments Home Area Plan The State of Indiana requires each of its Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) to complete an Area Plan on a biennial basis to ensure that limited public funds allocated by the Older Americans Act and state budget are used to meet priority services. The
- [La Ayuda Comienza Aquí](https://cicoa.org/ayuda/) - ¿Estás cuidando a tu mamá, papá o abuelito en casa… y sientes que necesitas más ayuda? CICOA puede ayudar. Home La Ayuda Comienza Aquí CICOA un grupo sin fines de lucro, ofrece servicios gratis o bajo costo a los adultos mayores y personas con discapacidad en Indiana. Para asistencia en español, llame al (317) 803-6131
- [Independence Has a Support System](https://cicoa.org/independence/) - CICOA is a nonprofit providing resources for older adults, people with disabilities and family caregivers. Get started with long-term care in-home services.
- [Preguntale a CICOA](https://cicoa.org/esp/) - ¿Cuida a un miembro de la familia quien tiene 60 o mas años or una discapacidad? CICOA puede ayudar. Home Preguntale a CICOA CICOA un grupo sin fines de lucro, ofrece servicios gratis o bajo costo a los adultos mayores y personas con discapacidad en Indiana. Para asistencia en español, llame al (317) 803-6131 y
- [Medicaid Waivers](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/medicaid-waivers/) - Helping older adults and people with disabilities to live independently in their communities and out of institutional care Home Resource Center Medicaid Waivers Seniors and people with disabilities on Medicaid may be eligible for waivers that allow them to receive vital services in a home or community-based setting. In the early 1980s a growing national
- [Online Request/Referral Form](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/online-request-referral-form/) - Need help for seniors living at home? Fill out the ADRC referral form to talk about services and home care for the elderly or people with disabilities.
- [Dementia Friendly Communities Start With You](https://cicoa.org/dementia/) - Dementia is not a normal part of aging. It is a challenge, but people living with dementia can still have a rich, fulfilling life. With support from their loved ones and community, families and caregivers don't have to navigate this journey alone. You can be an important advocate for people living with dementia and their
- [Sponsor](https://cicoa.org/support/sponsor/) - Sponsor Home Support Sponsor Philanthropic support from some of the leading organizations and individuals in Central Indiana enable us to continue our mission. To strengthen and expand our relationships with other organizations serving our Central Indiana community, CICOA offers a variety of ways to partner, with options to meet every corporate focus and budget. Your
- [Annual Report FY2023-CICOA](https://cicoa.org/about/financials-accountability/annual-report-fy2023-cicoa/) - Focus on Alignment CICOA FY2023 Annual Report President's Letter Jump to this section. Mission Jump to this section. Community Impact Jump to this section. Annual Campaign Jump to this section. Top Stories Jump to this section. Leadership Jump to this section. Client Success Stories Jump to this section. Grant-Funded Organizations Jump to this section. Envision
- [Safe at Home Sponsorship](https://cicoa.org/news-events/events/safe-at-home-sponsorship/) - Events « Back to Safe at Home Event Title Important Update After careful consideration, we have made the difficult decision to cancel this year's Safe at Home Event, scheduled for September 20, 2025. We're incredibly grateful to our dedicated volunteers, generous sponsors, and supportive partners who have helped make this event a success in previous
- [Senior & Disability Resource Finder](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/senior-disability-resource-finder/) - Search CICOA's database for senior care, disability services, transportation, meals and more in Central Indiana. Find help to stay independent at home.
- [Caregiver Resources](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/caregiver-resources/) - Caregiver Resources Home Resource Center Caregiver Resources Caregiving can feel overwhelming, and it's hard to know where to turn for help. The resources below are trustworthy, reliable sources of information and education to help you on your caregiving journey. Caregiver Resources Senior & Disability Resource Finder Search for local services focused on seniors, people with
- [News & Stories](https://cicoa.org/news-events/news-stories/) - See how the people of Central Indiana are impacted by CICOA’s support and services.
- [IU Health Geriatrics](https://cicoa.org/services/healthcare-collaborations/iu-health-geriatrics/) - IU Health Geriatrics Referral Form Home Services Healthcare Collaborations IU Health Geriatrics Fill out this form to refer a patient to a CICOA Community Health Worker. As of July 1, 2025, IU Health is now supported by a CICOA Community Health Worker (CHW), rather than an Options Counselor, who will meet with clients weekly for
- [Eskenazi Senior Services](https://cicoa.org/services/healthcare-collaborations/eskenazi/) - Eskenazi Senior Services Referral Form Home Services Healthcare Collaborations Eskenazi Senior Services The Eskenazi Referral Form is no longer in service. You may submit an online referral for CICOA services using this link at any time, and an options counselor will contact the patient.
- [Sponsor of the Month](https://cicoa.org/support/sponsor-of-the-month/) - Sponsor of the Month Home Support Sponsor of the Month July Sponsor of the Month: American Senior Communities Who is American Senior Communities? American Senior Communities (ASC) is one of the largest senior care providers in Indiana, offering a wide range of lifestyle and care options for seniors. They provide services like independent living, assisted
- [Case Management Referral Form](https://cicoa.org/services/private-pay-referral/) - Need help for seniors living at home? Fill out the case management referral form to talk about in-home care and other services. Now accepting private pay
- [18 Holes for Hope Tickets](https://cicoa.org/news-events/events/18-holes-for-hope-tickets/) - Events « Back to 18 Holes for Hope Event Title Gather a group of four and come play golf while supporting CICOA's services! If you have questions, please contact us at (317) 803-6062.
- [18 Holes for Hope Sponsorship](https://cicoa.org/news-events/events/18-holes-for-hope-sponsor/) - Events « Back to 18 Holes for Hope Event Title Thank you for your generous support for seniors, people with disabilities and family caregivers of Central Indiana!
- [Neighborhood Meals](https://cicoa.org/services/senior-meals-nutrition/neighborhood-meals/) - Nutritious, delicious meals with friends Home Services Senior Meals & Nutrition Neighborhood Meals Enjoy lunch with friends at one of several neighborhood meal sites throughout Central Indiana. Lunch is served Monday through Friday at neighborhood locations in Boone, Hamilton, Hendricks, Johnson, Marion, Morgan, and Shelby counties. Voluntary contributions toward the cost of the meal service
- [Research](https://cicoa.org/news-events/research/) - Statistics on older adults and current clinical research studies Home News & Events Research When we know more about the needs of older adults, we can better serve those in our community. CICOA has participated in a number of national, state and local surveys designed to give statistically relevant information about the needs of older
- [Legal Resources](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/legal-resources/) - Providing and enhancing important protections for older adults Home Resource Center Legal Resources Legal Assistance The Senior Law Project through Indiana Legal Services, Inc. is funded in part by CICOA to assist low-income seniors with legal services at no charge and to provide referrals to attorneys who specialize in senior law. They may be able
- [CEO Contact Form](https://cicoa.org/share-your-ideas/) - Share your ideas on working with CICOA to address the needs of the community.
- [Commodity Supplemental Food Program](https://cicoa.org/services/senior-meals-nutrition/commodity-supplemental-food-program/) - Commodity Supplemental Food Program Free boxes of nonperishable food Home Services Senior Meals & Nutrition Commodity Supplemental Food Program Nutrition is key at every age. CICOA and the Indiana State Department of Health have teamed up to provide free USDA food to help meet the nutritional needs of low-income older adults in Marion, Johnson, Morgan,
- [Media Center](https://cicoa.org/news-events/media-center/) - A resource for media representatives to obtain information about CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions. Home News & Events Media Center CICOA Fact Sheet See CICOA's community impact and services to help people live at home in better health. News & Stories Press releases, features, client success stories, difference makers, blogs. Social Media Connect with us
- [CASOA Reports and Statistics](https://cicoa.org/news-events/research/casoa/) - Statistics from the Community Assessment Survey for Older Adults (CASOA) identify the strengths and challenges of seniors and plan services for Central Indiana.
- [Annual Report FY2022-CICOA](https://cicoa.org/about/financials-accountability/annual-report-fy2022-cicoa/) - The Power of Belonging CICOA FY2022 Annual Report Mission Jump to this section. Community Impact Jump to this section. Annual Campaign Jump to this section. Top Stories Jump to this section. Leadership Jump to this section. Client Success Stories Jump to this section. Grant-Funded Organizations Jump to this section. Envision Lecture: CASOA Survey Jump to
- [Accessibility](https://cicoa.org/accessibility/) - CICOA is dedicated to providing website accessibility features for people with disabilities and impairments.
- [Looking for Great People Like You!](https://cicoa.org/greatpeople/) - Thank You for providing an exceptional experience! Exceptional people thrive at CICOA. CICOA is a local nonprofit that brings compassionate people together to provide essential care services for older adults and people with disabilities. Find your calling at CICOA while improving quality of life for others. Whether that's a new career, volunteer work, giving to
- [Innovation](https://cicoa.org/partners-providers/innovation/) - Wrinkle Innovation Designing and building the future of home- and community-based care Home Partners & Providers Innovation CICOA is bringing innovative solutions to market that improve quality of life for older adults, people with disabilities and family caregivers and that build capacity and efficiency for the organizations that serve them. Wrinkle Innovation, our venture studio,
- [Send a Valentine's Day E-Card](https://cicoa.org/valentines-day/) - Let your love flow with our Valentine's Day E-Cards! Perfect for anyone in your life, these e-cards support CICOA’s mission to care for our beloved seniors.
- [Leadership Training Discovery Form](https://cicoa.org/partners-providers/training/leadership-training-discovery-form/) - Leadership Training Request Let's elevate your leadership team together. Home Leadership Training Discovery Form Tell us a little bit about your company and your leadership team. We'll schedule a discovery call to introduce you to our Leadership Training workshops and see how we can help you meet your goals within your schedule and budget. Name(Required)
- [Dementia Friendly Indianapolis Spring Festival Attendee Registration](https://cicoa.org/news-events/events/spring-festival-attendee/) - Events « Back to Spring Festival Event Title Come join us at this free community event! You will have the opportunity to visit with vendor, discover resources, and enjoy food and activities for all!
- [Dementia Friendly Indianapolis Spring Festival Sponsor Registration](https://cicoa.org/news-events/events/spring-festival-sponsor/) - Events « Back to Spring Festival Event Title Join us as a sponsor and enjoy elevated recognition of your partnership with Dementia Friendly Indianapolis! Sponsor Benefits
- [Dementia Friendly Indianapolis Spring Festival Vendor Registration](https://cicoa.org/news-events/events/spring-festival-vendor/) - Events « Back to Spring Festival Event Title We invite organizations and companies to share information about your services and opportunities with attendees. We're glad you can join us!
- [History](https://cicoa.org/about/history/) - Leading the way in senior services in Central Indiana since 1974 Home About History Throughout our history, we've remained committed to creating a community where older adults and those of any age with a disability flourish. The Beginning: Building a Network of Care for Aging Hoosiers In 1971, then Mayor Richard Lugar appointed a task
- [Coalitions](https://cicoa.org/partners-providers/coalitions/) - Common ground for better quality of life in the Indianapolis metropolitan area. Home Partners & Providers Coalitions Central Indiana has a rich history of collaboration between research, healthcare and community organizations. Excellent healthcare facilities, world-class research institutions, and high-quality educational programs in medicine, nursing, pharmacy and social work find common ground in the Indianapolis area.
- [Social Media](https://cicoa.org/news-events/social-media/) - Connect with us to keep up with the latest news, blogs, special events, program impact and more. Home News & Events Social Media CICOA's Social Media Channels Facebook @CICOAIndiana Instagram @CICOAIndiana LinkedIn CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions YouTube CICOAmedia Connect with Dementia Friends Indiana Dementia Friends is a global movement that is changing the way
- [Indiana Pathways for Aging](https://cicoa.org/services/indiana-pathways-for-aging/) - Home Services Indiana Pathways for Aging With PathWays, you get support your way - to live life your way. Indiana's PathWays for Aging Program is a new, managed long-term services and supports initiative for Medicaid enrollees (or those dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid) who are 60 years or older and meet age, blindness or disability Indiana’s PathWays for Aging Program is a new, managed long-term services and supports initiative for Indiana’s Medicaid enrollees (or those dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid.)
- [Care Management](https://cicoa.org/services/care-management/) - Flourish Care Management Home Services Care Management Determining long-term care needs and coordinating those services in alignment with your independent living goals can be confusing. Flourish Care Management is a comprehensive service designed to meet the long-term care needs of older adults and people of any age with disabilities in a home or community-based setting
- [Faith Community Resources](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/faith-community-resources/) - Faith communities play an integral role in serving seniors, people with disabilities and family caregivers. CICOA can help you assist members of your community.
- [Solutions Guide](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/solutions-guide/) - The Solutions Guide is a community resources directory for seniors, adults and children with disabilities, and family caregivers in Central Indiana.
- [Healthcare Collaborations](https://cicoa.org/services/healthcare-collaborations/) - Lower healthcare costs, improve care, and reduce unnecessary hospital readmissions and emergency department visits.
- [Secrets E-book Thank You](https://cicoa.org/ebook-secrets-thank-you/) - Thank you for downloading our free e-book, Secrets to Making Mealtimes Easier for People with Dementia and Family Caregivers!
- [Faith Summit Presentations](https://cicoa.org/news-events/events/summit-presentations/) - Events « Back to Events Title Thank you for joining us for an inspiring day of education! Presentations are available to download below. CICOA's Dementia Programs Preventing Cognitive Decline - Dr. Russell Taking Care of the Care Partner - Dr. Polsinelli Call to Action
- [Pet Connect](https://cicoa.org/services/senior-meals-nutrition/pet-connect/) - This program provides pet food and supplies for low-income, homebound seniors in Central Indiana.
- [Holiday Recipes](https://cicoa.org/holiday-recipes/) - Holiday Recipes Home Holiday Recipes Meals & More Holiday Recipe Ideas Enjoy the holidays with these fun dishes! Get creative & try something new this year! You can substitute fresh, frozen, or canned options for most recipes. Heart-Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes Appetizer Pumpkin Deviled Eggs Sides Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese Entrée
- [Employer Caregiver Support Contact Form](https://cicoa.org/employer-caregiver-contact/) - Contact Us We'd love to work with you. Do you want to learn more about the benefits of supporting the caregivers in your workforce? Contact us today to learn more about caregiver support for your employees! If you do not see the form displayed below, please try to refresh the page (Ctrl+F5 on PC, Shift+Cmd+R
- [Caregiving at Home](https://cicoa.org/caregiving-at-home/) - Your essential resource guide to becoming an effective family caregiver Home Caregiving at Home Effective caregivers need support, training, resources Download a resource guide for seniors, people with disabilities and family caregivers Caregiving for a loved one with a physical or cognitive disability at home is not easy. You may be new to the role
- [Produce for Better Health Volunteer Interest](https://cicoa.org/support/volunteer/pbh/) - Produce for Better Health Volunteer Interest Form Help seniors get fresh fruits and vegetables! Home Support Volunteer Produce for Better Health Volunteer Interest Thank you for your interest in volunteering! Produce for Better Health, a program of CICOA Meals & More, provides two boxes of fresh fruits and vegetables per month to seniors at neighborhood
- [My Freedom Application Upload Form](https://cicoa.org/services/transportation/my-freedom/upload/) - Home Services Transportation My Freedom My Freedom Application Upload Form Please use this form to upload files related to a My Freedom application, such as: Medical Verification Form that has been completed and signed by a physician A scanned document or photos of the front and back of the client's IndyGo Access Card A scanned
- [Medicaid Transportation](https://cicoa.org/services/transportation/medicaid-transportation/) - Medicaid members 59 and younger can request CICOA Way2Go as your preferred transportation provider with Verida. Home Services Transportation Medicaid Transportation How Medicaid Transportation Works Medicaid Members 59 and Younger Medicaid members who are 59 years and younger and need a ride to a doctor's appointment, pharmacy, or other medical office can request transportation through
- [Ways to Give](https://cicoa.org/support/ways-to-give/) - Home Support Ways to Give Older adults and people with disabilities often face difficult challenges to living independently, because they don't know if their health will hold up, if their money will hold out, or maybe their family has moved away and they lack social supports. Just as many lifesaving services are needed-meals, transportation, home
- [Legacy Gift Form](https://cicoa.org/support/legacy-gift-form/) - Legacy Gift Form Home Support Legacy Gift Form A legacy gift in your will or estate plan serves the rising needs of people who need our services - now and in the future. Please fill out the form below if you have already included CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions in your estate plan, or if
- [Volunteer Time and Visit Summary](https://cicoa.org/support/volunteer/volunteer-hours-visit-summary/) - Volunteer Time and Visit Summary Home Support Volunteer Volunteer Time and Visit Summary Thank you for committing your volunteer time to CICOA. Please complete all fields below. If you are experiencing issues please email volunteer@cicoa.org. Volunteer Time and Visit Summary "*" indicates required fields Volunteer Name* First Last Client Name* Date of Call* MM slash
- [Send a Holiday Card Thank You](https://cicoa.org/holiday-card-thank-you/) - Seniors are struggling to get food, and the holidays can feel especially difficult and lonely. Please give to CICOA today, because no senior should be hungry.
- [Public Policy](https://cicoa.org/news-events/public-policy/) - Public Policy Home News & Events Public Policy CICOA advocates for seniors, persons with disabilities and family caregivers by addressing issues that impact our population's quality of life, with an emphasis on social determinants of health, housing, nutrition, transportation, accessibility and long-term care services. CICOA educates public officials at the Indiana State House and,
- [Cabin Fever Cures](https://cicoa.org/news-events/cabin-fever-cures/) - Home News & Events Cabin Fever Cures Break the cabin fever while supporting services for isolated seniors and people with disabilities in Central Indiana. If you enjoy this series, please share with family and friends, and donate to help those we serve. Bring light and hope to others! Donate Container Gardening Featuring Ryan Denhart, Country
- [Faith Summit Sponsorship](https://cicoa.org/news-events/events/summit-sponsors/) - Events « Back to Faith Summit Event Title We invite organizations, companies and faith communities to join us as a sponsor and enjoy year-round benefits of a partnership with CICOA!
- [Faith Summit Exhibitors](https://cicoa.org/news-events/events/summit-exhibitors/) - Events « Back to Faith Summit Event Title We invite organizations and companies to reserve a display space, which includes a table and two chairs for exhibitors. Share information about your services and opportunities with attendees. We're glad you can join us!
- [Faith Summit Registration](https://cicoa.org/news-events/events/summit-registration/) - Events « Back to Faith Summit Event Title Registration is free! Come join us to discuss how to keep older members engaged in your faith community.
- [Safe at Home Yard Clean-Up Sponsorship](https://cicoa.org/news-events/events/yard-clean-up-sponsorship/) - Events « Back to Yard Clean-Up Event Title Join us as a sponsor and bring a team of volunteers! Your support makes an impact in this community and comes with benefits for your company. April 27, 2024 @ 8:30 am - 11:30 am Location: Northeast Corridor NeighborhoodIndianapolis
- [Send a Holiday Card to a Senior](https://cicoa.org/send-a-holiday-card-to-a-senior/) - Make the season merry & bright for Central Indiana seniors! Choose a holiday message, and the CICOA elves will deliver your holiday card to a senior in need.
- [Medical Nutrition Therapy](https://cicoa.org/services/senior-meals-nutrition/medical-nutrition-therapy/) - Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) is a therapeutic, nutrition-based treatment and counseling service provided by CICOA’s Registered Dietitians.
- [Safe at Home Volunteer Releases](https://cicoa.org/sahreleases/) - Home Safe at Home Volunteer Releases Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure Agreement I understand the sensitive nature of information I may receive as a result of my Volunteer experience and agree to follow CICOA's policy on the confidential nature of certain client information. I agree to sign a Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure Agreement. Liability Release In consideration of
- [Energy E-book Thank You](https://cicoa.org/ebook-energy-thank-you/) - Download your free e-book, Work Smarter Not Harder: Daily Habits to Save Energy.
- [Work Smarter Not Harder: Daily Habits to Save Your Energy](https://cicoa.org/ebook-energy/) - Everyday tasks have a toll on your body. The energy conservation strategies in this e-book can help protect yourself from injury and fatigue while caregiving.
- [Secrets E-book DFI Thank You](https://cicoa.org/ebook-secrets-dfi-thank-you/) - Thank you for downloading the e-book, Secrets to Making Mealtimes Easier for People with Dementia and Family Caregivers.
- [Secrets to Making Mealtimes Easier for People with Dementia and Family Caregivers](https://cicoa.org/ebook-secrets/) - We know how hard it can be to get a person with dementia to eat. Get this e-book for tips for organized mealtimes, adaptive utensils and improved nutrition.
- [Your Guide to Aging Resources](https://cicoa.org/care/) - Your Guide to Aging Resources Getting older or managing a disability can be challenging. You may have questions: Will my health hold up? Will my money hold out? Do I have support from family and friends? More than 90 percent of older adults want to remain in their homes as they age, but many worry
- [CareAware Journey](https://cicoa.org/careaware-journey/) - Insights and practical advice on caregiving from subject matter experts Home CareAware Journey Getting Started The Journey of Caregiving Video | 3:07 minutes Marina Keers No matter where a caregiving journey starts, it's important to have a plan. We make plans before we go on vacation, we make plans before we retire. And caregiving
- [Home-Delivered Meals](https://cicoa.org/services/senior-meals-nutrition/home-delivered-meals/) - Nutritious, delicious meals for seniors Home Services Senior Meals & Nutrition Home-Delivered Meals CICOA delivers freshly prepared, frozen, wholesome meals every two weeks to residents of Marion and the surrounding counties, Monday-Friday. Daily hot meal deliveries are available in Hamilton, Hancock and Hendricks counties. Voluntary contributions toward the cost of the meal service are accepted,
- [Wrinkle Innovation Challenge](https://cicoa.org/challenge/) - Maximize your impact and support innovation for a brighter future for Indiana's older adults, people with disabilities and family caregivers.
- [Workshops and Presentations](https://cicoa.org/news-events/workshops-presentations/) - CICOA offers educational workshops and presentations for businesses, civic organizations, government and faith communities.
- [Farmers Market Program](https://cicoa.org/services/senior-meals-nutrition/farmers-market-program/) - Farmers Market Program Fresh produce & more food options for seniors Home Services Senior Meals & Nutrition Farmers Market Program Important Notice about 2024 Farmers Market Program We understand many of you look forward to the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program each year. Unfortunately, we will not be offering the program in 2024. We know
- [Fall Prevention & Home Safety Tips](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/faqs/fall-prevention-home-safety-tips/) - Falls are costly and can cause serious injury or death. Home Resource Center FAQs & How To’s Fall Prevention & Home Safety Tips Falling, slipping or tripping around the house is a serious concern for seniors. Each year, more than one out of four adults age 65 and older falls. These falls cause moderate to
- [FAQs & How To's](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/faqs/) - Find answers for long-term care planning Home Resource Center FAQs & How To’s Brain Injury Fact Sheet Consumer's Guide to Longterm Care Glossary of Terms How to Select a Home Healthcare Agency How to Select a Residential Facility Fall Prevention & Home Safety Tips Steady Steps: A Comprehensive Guide to Preventing Falls Medicare Pharmacy Benefits
- [CSFP Site Interest Form](https://cicoa.org/services/senior-meals-nutrition/commodity-supplemental-food-program/csfp-site-form/) - CSFP Site Interest Form Home Services Senior Meals & Nutrition Commodity Supplemental Food Program CSFP Site Interest Form Fill out this form to find out more about becoming a distribution site for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program. Interested in becoming a site in your community where seniors in need can pick up their free box
- [Pet Connect Volunteer Interest](https://cicoa.org/support/volunteer/pet-connect/) - Fill out this form if you are interested in learning more about volunteering with CICOA's Pet Connect program for seniors and their pets
- [Safe at Home Yard Clean-Up Volunteer Application](https://cicoa.org/yard-clean-up-volunteer-application/) - Events « Back to Yard Clean-Up Event Safe at Home Yard Clean-Up Day Volunteer Application Volunteer for Safe at Home Yard Clean-Up Day, a high-impact, half-day of service to low-income seniors who live in Indianapolis. Saturday, April 27, 2024 Thank you for your interest in volunteering for this year's Safe at Home Yard Clean-Up Day,
- [Contact CareAware](https://cicoa.org/services/caregiver-support/contact/) - Contact CareAware Home Services Caregiver Support Contact CareAware How can we help? A caregiver options counselor can provide emotional support, resources and self-care tips for your caregiving journey. Who is eligible for Title III-E funded caregiver support services? Caregivers who are younger than 60 years old but caring for someone 60 years old or older
- [Donate Now | 50th Anniversary](https://cicoa.org/donate-50th/) - Seniors and people with disabilities in Central Indiana need your support. Donate now to the CICOA Foundation, the largest senior-serving organization in Indiana.
- [Oak Street Health](https://cicoa.org/services/healthcare-collaborations/oak-street-health/) - Oak Street Health Referral Form Home Services Healthcare Collaborations Oak Street Health Fill out this form to refer a patient for CICOA options counseling and services. As a Healthcare Collaborations partner, our embedded Options Counselor at your site will be notified of referrals submitted through this form and can begin the process immediately. After successfully
- [Healthcare Contact Form](https://cicoa.org/healthcare-contact/) - Do you have an idea for integrating healthcare and social services, or do you want to explore Healthcare Collaborations in your health system?
- [CSFP Form](https://cicoa.org/services/senior-meals-nutrition/commodity-supplemental-food-program/csfp-form/) - CSFP Request Form Home Services Senior Meals & Nutrition Commodity Supplemental Food Program CSFP Form Fill out this form to see if you are eligible for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program. Eligibility for the CSFP food boxes is based on age, income, and residency. Our CSFP coordinator will contact you to verify eligibility and determine
- [Mission Vision Values](https://cicoa.org/about/mission-vision-values/) - Mission, Vision & Values CICOA is a nonprofit making a difference in Central Indiana. Home About Mission Vision Values Mission CICOA empowers older adults, those of any age with a disability, and their caregivers by providing the innovative answers, services, and support they need to achieve the greatest possible independence, dignity, and quality of life.
- [In-Home Fall Prevention Checklist](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/faqs/in-home-checklist/) - See if your home has these common fall hazards. Home Resource Center FAQs & How To’s In-Home Fall Prevention Checklist The first step to make a home safer is to assess the number of common falling and tripping hazards within the home. CICOA's Safe at Home program helps seniors and people with disabilities continue living
- [Volunteer Application - Meals & More](https://cicoa.org/support/volunteer/meals-application/) - Volunteer Application Simple acts of kindness go a long way. Home Support Volunteer Volunteer Application – Meals & More Thank you for your interest in volunteering! Application Process Complete the online application. You will be contacted by the Volunteer Coordinator within 3 business days with a link to initiate your background check. A background check
- [Twain Health Launch Party](https://cicoa.org/twainrsvp/) - Twain Health Launch Party Let's make a WRINKLE together! Join us to celebrate the launch of the third enterprise from CICOA's Wrinkle Innovation studio - Twain Health. Wednesday, Oct. 25, 2023 5:30-7:00 p.m. CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions 8440 Woodfield Crossing Blvd. Suite 175 Indianapolis, IN 46240 Innovation is all about connecting and collaborating, so
- [My Freedom Transportation Application](https://cicoa.org/services/transportation/my-freedom/application/) - Fill out this form to get started Home Services Transportation My Freedom Transportation Application People experiencing a disability or anyone over the age of 60 in Central Indiana may be eligible for the My Freedom program, offering affordable cross-county transportation for qualifying individuals. My Freedom Transportation Application "*" indicates required fields Name* First Middle Initial Last
- [LifeCourse Affiliate Kickoff Event RSVP](https://cicoa.org/lifecourse/) - LifeCourse Affiliate Kickoff Event You're invited to join us and learn more about the Charting the LifeCourse Framework! Sept. 12, 2023 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions - Conference Rooms 8440 Woodfield Crossing Blvd. Ste. 175 Indianapolis, IN 46240 Breakfast and lunch will be provided. The Charting the LifeCourse is a framework and
- [Planned Giving](https://cicoa.org/support/planned-giving/) - A gift for generations. Home Support Planned Giving Charitable planned gifts offer a tremendous opportunity for you to provide valuable financial support to the CICOA Foundation, and therefore CICOA, while receiving a benefit in return. The greatest benefit may be your peace of mind, knowing that the Foundation supports the work of CICOA and ensures that
- [Dementia Caregiver Resources](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/dementia-caregiver-resources/) - Discover educational dementia caregiver resources with occupational therapy strategies for dementia care. Find valuable tips for daily living and activities.
- [Options Counseling and Medicaid Services](https://cicoa.org/services/options-counseling-medicaid-services/) - Options Counseling and Medicaid Services Home Services Options Counseling and Medicaid Services Options Counseling: A Person-Centered Approach What is Options Counseling? Options counseling is a person-centered service for seniors, individuals with disabilities, or their caregivers. When you call our Aging and Disability Resource Center or make a referral online, our friendly and knowledgeable staff will
- [Schedule an Appointment](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/schedule-an-appointment/) - Meet with an Options Counselor in our office. Home Resource Center Schedule an Appointment Sign up for an in-person options counseling appointment below. Options counselors are also available by phone at 317-803-6131.
- [Dementia Friendly Indianapolis Kick-off Registration](https://cicoa.org/news-events/events/dementia-friendly-registration/) - Join us on April 22, 2023 to learn about creating a community in Indianapolis that is informed, safe and respectful of those living with dementia.
- [Volunteer Application](https://cicoa.org/support/volunteer/volunteer-application/) - Volunteer Application Simple acts of kindness go a long way. Home Support Volunteer Volunteer Application Thank you for your interest in volunteering! A note about Senior Buddies: In order to best serve our local clients, we are currently only accepting volunteer applications from Indiana residents ages 18 and over. Application Process Complete the online application
- [Research Partnerships](https://cicoa.org/news-events/research/partnerships/) - Research Partnerships Collaborating to understand community needs and address health outcomes. Home News & Events Research Research Partnerships CICOA recognizes that engaging with research partners offers a mutually beneficial partnership bridging research initiatives that target CICOA's population, including older adults, those of any age with a disability, their caregivers and the organizations that serve them.
- [Internship Application](https://cicoa.org/internship-application/) - Internship Application Home Internship Application "*" indicates required fields Applicant's Information Name* Please include full First, Middle and Last name. First Middle Last Address Street Address Address Line 2 City State / Province / Region ZIP / Postal Code PhoneEmail* Social Security Number(For background check purposes) Date of Birth* Month123456789101112Day12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031Year202420232022202120202019201820172016201520142013201220112010200920082007200620052004200320022001200019991998199719961995199419931992199119901989198819871986198519841983198219811980197919781977197619751974197319721971197019691968196719661965196419631962196119601959195819571956195519541953195219511950194919481947194619451944194319421941194019391938193719361935193419331932193119301929192819271926192519241923192219211920 GenderSelectWomanManNon-binaryPrefer not to answer Emergency
- [Email Signup](https://cicoa.org/email/) - Want to learn more about helping seniors and people with disabilities in Central Indiana?
- [Volunteer Group Interest Form](https://cicoa.org/support/volunteer/group/) - Volunteer Group Interest Form Simple acts of kindness go a long way. Home Support Volunteer Volunteer Group Interest Form Thank you for your interest in volunteering! We welcome groups, such as companies, schools, faith communities and social groups, to volunteer for special projects. Together, you can make a difference for seniors and people with disabilities
- [Meals for Seniors](https://cicoa.org/meals-for-seniors/) - If you’re a senior in need of meals, or you can give to help feed seniors, please call or donate today.
- [Alternate Transportation](https://cicoa.org/services/transportation/alternate-transportation/) - Links to other resources you can access for your transportation needs. Home Services Transportation Alternate Transportation County Senior Service Transportation The following County Senior Service Organizations provide transportation services within their respective counties. For more information, contact: Boone County: Boone County Senior Services, (765) 482-5220 or (317) 873-8939 Hamilton County: PrimeLife Enrichment Inc., (317) 815-7000 Hancock County: Hancock
- [Giving Tuesday](https://cicoa.org/givingtuesday/) - Seniors are struggling to get food, and the holidays can feel especially difficult and lonely. Please give to CICOA today, because no senior should be hungry.
- [State Health Insurance Assistance Programs](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/state-health-insurance-assistance-programs/) - Get the most from your Medicare or Medicaid Coverage. Call CICOA to speak with a SHIP certified counselor!
- [Wheelchair Transportation](https://cicoa.org/services/transportation/wheelchair-transportation/) - Home Services Transportation Wheelchair Transportation Taxi Discount Coupons and Wheelchair Vouchers are no longer offered by CICOA and Ztrip. For transportation needs, please see info about one of our other Way2Go services: Door2Door Transportation Shuttle Service Medicaid Transportation My Freedom Alternate Transportation Options Contact CICOA Way2Go Transportation Service Call: (317) 803-6153 Monday - Friday, 8:00
- [Discount Taxi Fare](https://cicoa.org/services/transportation/discount-taxi-fare/) - Home Services Transportation Discount Taxi Fare Taxi Discount Coupons and Wheelchair Vouchers are no longer offered by CICOA and Ztrip. For transportation needs, please see info about one of our other Way2Go services: Door2Door Transportation Shuttle Service Medicaid Transportation My Freedom Alternate Transportation Options Contact CICOA Way2Go Transportation Service Call: (317) 803-6153 Monday - Friday,
- [Privacy Policy](https://cicoa.org/privacy-policy/) - Home Privacy Policy CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions is committed to your privacy and to the protection of your personal information. Note: This policy relates specifically to our website. Click here for our HIPAA Notice of Privacy Practices. ATTENTION: PLEASE READ THESE TERMS CAREFULLY BEFORE USING THIS WEB SITE. USING THIS WEB SITE INDICATES THAT
- [News & Events](https://cicoa.org/news-events/) - We are the unbiased experts connecting older adults, people with disabilities and family caregivers in Central Indiana with home and community-based services. Home News & Events News & Stories Press Releases CICOA Selected to Present at National Geriatrics Conference May 26, 2022 The work CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions is doing with Alzheimer's and dementia
- [Request a Workshop/Presentation](https://cicoa.org/news-events/request-a-workshop-presentation/) - Request a Workshop or Presentation Spreading awareness of services for seniors, people with disabilities, and caregivers Home News & Events Request a Workshop/Presentation CICOA staff are available for presentations and workshops in the community - at health fairs, senior fairs, churches, businesses, and more. We can present or provide information on services for older adults
- [IU Health West Expedited Eligibility](https://cicoa.org/iu-health-west-expedited/) - IU Health West Expedited Eligibility Referral Form Home IU Health West Expedited Eligibility Fill out this form to refer a patient for CICOA options counseling and services. CICOA's Options Counseling team can begin the process immediately after receiving this referral.
- [Services](https://cicoa.org/services/) - Looking for senior in home care services? CICOA's social services for the elderly and people with disabilities can help with aging and long term care needs.
- [Incident Reporting](https://cicoa.org/partners-providers/incident-reporting/) - Home Partners & Providers Incident Reporting Procedures Providers are required to submit an incident report for "reportable unusual occurrences" within forty-eight (48) hours of the time of the incident or becoming aware of the incident. Reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation should be made within twenty-four (24) hours of knowledge of the incident. Incident reports
- [Area Agencies on Aging](https://cicoa.org/about/area-agencies-on-aging/) - Find services throughout Indiana or nationwide. CICOA is one of 16 Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) in Indiana and a member of the INconnect Alliance. AAA's are not-for-profit agencies that receive funds from the state and federal government to plan, develop, coordinate and arrange for supportive in-home and community-based services for older adults and people
- [In-Home Support Services (CHOICE Program)](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/in-home-support-services-choice-program/) - In-Home Support Services (CHOICE) Indiana's Community and Home Options to Institutional Care for the Elderly and Disabled (CHOICE) Program Home Resource Center In-Home Support Services (CHOICE Program) Indiana's Community and Home Options to Institutional Care for the Elderly and Disabled (CHOICE) Program is a resource that eligible individuals are using to receive support services in
- [How to Select a Residential Facility](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/faqs/how-to-select-residential-facility/) - Questions to ask when choosing a facility for long-term care Home Resource Center FAQs & How To’s How to Select a Residential Facility When selecting a healthcare facility, assisted living facility or continuing care retirement community, consider the following questions: What do you see? Does the landscaping look neat and clean? Is the parking lot
- [How to Select a Home Healthcare Agency](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/faqs/how-to-select-home-healthcare-agency/) - Questions to ask when choosing in-home health services Home Resource Center FAQs & How To’s How to Select a Home Healthcare Agency Home healthcare services include: Home Health Aide-provides bathing (including bed bath) and personal care Attendant care-provides bathing and personal care Nurse-provides set up or administration of medication, monitoring of health and vital signs,
- [Consumer's Guide to Longterm Care](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/faqs/consumers-guide-longterm-care/) - What to do when you or your loved one needs more care Home Resource Center FAQs & How To’s Consumer’s Guide to Longterm Care What is Long-Term Care? Long-term care (LTC) is medical and nonmedical assistance for people who have an illness or disability and can no longer care for themselves. LTC helps people remain
- [Brain Injury Fact Sheet](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/faqs/brain-injury-fact-sheet/) - Over 100,000 Hoosiers live with long-term disability due to TBI Home Resource Center FAQs & How To’s Brain Injury Fact Sheet Brain injuries can cause severe disabilities, affecting a person's to perform activities of daily living. Because of greatly improved medical, pharmaceutical and nutritional expertise and practices, many Americans are living longer lives with better
- [Email List](https://cicoa.org/emaillist/) - Email List Home > Email List Fill out this form to update your email preferences.
- [Site Map](https://cicoa.org/site-map/) - Home > Site Map Look through the list below to find information on CICOA's services, resources, programs and fundraising. If you can't find what you're looking for, try Search. About Financials & Accountability Careers Contact Us About CICOA Mission Vision Values Leadership History County Councils on Aging Area Agencies on Aging Services Transportation Senior Meals
- [Support](https://cicoa.org/support/) - The need for home and community-based services for older adults and people with disabilities has never been greater. Home > Support Declining health, limited income, lack of transportation and home accessibility all present challenges to an individual living independently in their community. We can tackle these challenges together, with your support. Let’s make Central Indiana
- [EMS](https://cicoa.org/partners-providers/ems/) - Less Falls=Less Calls Home EMS Having multiple calls to the same senior or person with disabilities? As EMS workers, you are uniquely positioned to identify vulnerable older adults or people with disabilities who may benefit from community-based services that improve quality of life. CICOA is a local nonprofit that may be able to help your
- [Partners & Providers](https://cicoa.org/partners-providers/) - Working together for better health outcomes. Home > Partners & Providers Referral Form Refer a patient or client for CICOA Options Counseling services. Incident Reporting Report unusual occurrences impacting the health and safety of a client. Become a Provider Learn about the application process. Healthcare Collaborations Care coordination service for health management business partners. Grant-Funded
- [Public Transportation Policy Statement](https://cicoa.org/news-events/public-policy/public-transportation-policy-statement/) - Seniors need public transportation to maintain healthy and active lifestyles. Home > News & Events > Public Policy > Public Transportation Policy Statement Central Indiana's aging population is predicted to swell over the next 20 years as the baby boomers reach their 60s, and 70s and beyond, yet we are not preparing to handle the
- [Medication Management Policy Statement](https://cicoa.org/news-events/public-policy/medication-management-policy-statement/) - Recommendations to maximize medication benefits and minimize medication-related risks Home > News & Events > Public Policy > Medication Management Policy Statement Medication management is a daily activity for many individuals. Although medication effects include many positive health-related benefits, medication use is not risk free. The following are recommendations to maximize medication benefits and minimize
- [Impaired Driving Policy Statement](https://cicoa.org/news-events/public-policy/impaired-driving-policy-statement/) - Initiate a conversation about driving abilities Home > News & Events > Public Policy > Impaired Driving Policy Statement The natural aging process brings about physical and emotional changes in all people. While these changes are usually gradual and vary from individual to individual, some may be intensified due to illnesses or accidents. The aging
- [Housing Policy Statement](https://cicoa.org/news-events/public-policy/housing-policy-statement/) - CICOA promotes the creation of “aging-in-place” communities and affordable housing options for older adults Home > News & Events > Public Policy > Housing Policy Statement The natural aging process brings about physical and emotional changes in all people. While these changes are usually gradual and vary from person to person, some may come on
- [Healthy Living Policy Statement](https://cicoa.org/news-events/public-policy/healthy-living-policy-statement/) - Healthy living requires an overall approach to mental and physical stimulation Home > News & Events > Public Policy > Healthy Living Policy Statement A National Institute on Aging report states that creating a positive, healthy lifestyle can help seniors better manage chronic pain and illness, lower depression, improve sleep, enhance memory and achieve greater
- [Senior Health & Wellness Program (PACE)](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/senior-health-wellness-program-pace/) - Keeping you healthy, safe and comfortable in the place you call home Home > Resource Center > Senior Health & Wellness Program (PACE) Franciscan Senior Health & Wellness is a member of the National PACE Association (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly. The PACE® model of care is centered around the belief that the
- [Pharmacy Benefits](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/faqs/pharmacy-benefits/) - The cost of medications is a top challenge for older adults trying to access healthcare. Home > Resource Center > FAQs & How To’s > Pharmacy Benefits Five million people with Medicare say they can’t afford their medications. In Indiana, the vast majority of Medicare beneficiaries do not take full advantage of their pharmacy benefits,
- [Medicare](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/faqs/medicare/) - Learn about the different plans and benefits for you. Home > Resource Center > FAQs & How To’s > Medicare Medicare covers many of your healthcare needs. Medicare works with approved private companies that provide healthcare and prescription drug coverage. The Medicare plan that you choose affects many things like cost, benefits, doctor choice, convenience,
- [Glossary of Terms](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/faqs/glossary-of-terms/) - Senior Care Service Definitions Home > Resource Center > FAQs & How To’s > Glossary of Terms Adult Day Service (ADS): Site-based service which can provide supervision, meals, social activities, and personal care assist. Some providers offer transportation to and from the site. Adult Family Care (AFC): Supervised living with 24-hour care provided in
- [Care Coordination Process](https://cicoa.org/services/healthcare-collaborations/care-coordination-process/) - Helping older adults and people with disabilities to live independently in their communities and out of institutional care Home Services Healthcare Collaborations Care Coordination Process 1. The client is referred for care management from a caregiver, hospital, nursing facility or physician's office and transferred to the appropriate CICOA department or care manager. Professionals, caregivers and
- [What is a CICOA Care Plan?](https://cicoa.org/services/care-management/what-is-a-cicoa-care-plan/) - CICOA works with each of its clients to provide a care plan outlining a client’s needs and goals, plus the identified services for reaching those goals.
- [Rehab Hospital of Indianapolis](https://cicoa.org/services/healthcare-collaborations/rhi/) - RHI Referral Form Home > Services > Healthcare Collaborations > Rehab Hospital of Indianapolis The RHI Referral Form is no longer in service. You may submit an online referral for CICOA services using this link at any time, and a phone options counselor will contact the patient. Fill out this form to refer a patient
- [Blackbaud SSO](https://cicoa.org/bb-login/) - [bb-sso-url]
- [Sign In](https://cicoa.org/login/) - [custom-login-form]
- [Resource Center](https://cicoa.org/resource-center/)
- [User Profile](https://cicoa.org/user-profile/) - [account-info]
- [Register](https://cicoa.org/user-register/) - [custom-register-form]
- [Reset Your Password](https://cicoa.org/user-password-reset/) - [custom-password-reset-form]
- [Forgot Your Password?](https://cicoa.org/user-password-lost/) - [custom-password-lost-form]

## Events

- [Safe at Home Event](https://cicoa.org/event/safe-at-home-event/) - This annual community service event serves senior homeowners in an Indianapolis neighborhood on a Saturday morning in September.
- [18 Holes for Hope](https://cicoa.org/event/18-holes-for-hope/) - Enjoy a day at the links while supporting important social services for seniors, people with disabilities and family caregivers!
- [Envision Lecture Series: Proximity Builds Better](https://cicoa.org/event/proximity/) - In this Envision Lecture, we’ll explore why proximity matters. The strongest ideas often come not from a distance, but from deep understanding of the people a product or service is meant to help. Grounded in the principles of human-centered design, Proximity Builds Better will look at how lived experience, empathy, and close connection to an audience can lead to smarter innovation and better outcomes in social care.
- [Play Fore CICOA](https://cicoa.org/event/play-fore-cicoa/) - Join us for CICOA’s annual Topgolf tournament! This fundraiser benefits dementia friendly programs throughout Indiana.
- [Galentine's Celebration](https://cicoa.org/event/galentines-celebration/) - Join us for an empowering evening! The Galentine's Celebration supports our Meals & More service as we celebrate the meaningful impact of women in our community.
- [Envision Lecture Series: Social Care Innovation](https://cicoa.org/event/envision-lecture-social-care-innovation/) - Why are community-based organizations leading social care innovation? Join this webinar to explore new models for aging, disability, and caregiving support.
- [Dementia Friendly Indianapolis Fall Festival](https://cicoa.org/event/dementia-friendly-indianapolis-fall-festival/) - Join us for the Fall Festival! All are welcome to come out for exciting fall activities, dementia resources and food!
- [Flourish at Home Open House](https://cicoa.org/event/flourish-at-home-open-house/) - Join us for an Open House to officially launch Flourish at Home, a new membership-based care management service from CICOA.
- [Envision Lecture Series: Family Caregivers in the Workforce](https://cicoa.org/event/envision-lecture-family-caregivers-in-the-workforce/) - Join CICOA's Envision Lecture Series to gain data-driven insights on supporting family caregivers in your workforce and see the launch of the new CareAware Journey platform.
- [Holiday Baskets](https://cicoa.org/event/holiday-baskets/) - Help us make spirits brighter for more of those we serve this holiday season! Sign up to volunteer for our annual Holiday Baskets distribution!
- [Area Plan Public Hearing](https://cicoa.org/event/area-plan-public-hearing/) - CICOA will hold a public hearing to gather feedback on the Area Plan for Fiscal Years 2026-2027, outlining services for older adults in the eight-county Central Indiana region.
- [Dementia Friendly Indianapolis Spring Festival](https://cicoa.org/event/dfindy-spring-festival/) - Join us for the Dementia Friendly Indianapolis Spring Festival! Come out for exciting spring activities, dementia resources, and food!
- [CICOA's Community Champions Awards](https://cicoa.org/event/community-champions/) - Annual awards to recognize and celebrate those who make a difference in Central Indiana.
- [CASOA Report: Older Adults and Their Communities](https://cicoa.org/event/casoa-report/) - Join us to explore the key findings of the 2024 CASOA Survey of older adults in Central Indiana.
- [Indiana Senior Day](https://cicoa.org/event/indiana-senior-day/) - Sponsor Indiana Senior Day at the statehouse as we honor our seniors and connect them to key services.
- [Harvest Hope: 50th Anniversary Celebration](https://cicoa.org/event/50th-anniversary/) - Let’s celebrate CICOA's 50th anniversary! Join us for "Harvest Hope," a 12-day online fundraising campaign and auction.