Resources for older adults in the Heights and beyond

Older adults who choose to stay in their homes rather than move to a group community can sometimes become isolated from their neighborhoods, and experience feelings of loneliness. At its annual meeting in February, the Cuyahoga County Division of Senior and Adult Services discussed the topic.

The theme of the meeting was "Reducing Social Isolation and Loneliness Among Older Adults." Emily Campbell, president and chief executive officer for The Center for Community Solutions said, “There are currently more residents over the age of 60 in Cuyahoga County than there are residents aged 18 and younger. By 2023, it's expected that 30% of the county’s population will be age 60 or older.”

While Cleveland Heights and University Heights offer support and resources for seniors, additional resources are available to Cuyahoga County residents:

The Cuyahoga County Division of Senior and Adult Services (DSAS) has several programs and initiatives available: Options for Independent Living, Adult Protective Services, Age-Friendly Livable Cuyahoga and the Scam Squad. Contact: 216-881-5554 | hhs.cuyahogacounty.gov/divisions/detail/senior-and-adult-services.

Greater Cleveland Food Bank Community Resource Center helps community members “find food assistance and a variety of resources such as housing, employment and healthcare.” Contact: 216-738-2067 | www.greaterclevelandfoodbank.org/get-help/community-resource-center.

Murtis Taylor Human Services System provides nutrition programs, adult development activities and transportation. Contact: 216-283-4400 | www.murtistaylor.org.

Benjamin Rose’s Senior Companion connects older adults living at home with a peer volunteer who can engage in conversation, offer companionship and minimize isolation. Other programs include Meals on Wheels, Behavioral Health, Social Work, homeownership assistance, and financial wellness. Contact: 216-791-8000| www.benrose.org.

May Dugan Center offers many helpful programs including Seniors on the Move which helps older adults stay active, healthy, and connected. Contact: 216-631-5800 | www.maydugancenter.org.

In Cleveland Heights and University Heights:

The Cleveland Heights Senior Activity Center (SAC) offers arts and crafts, line dancing, book discussions, card games, Zumba, accessible yoga, strength training, lectures and wellness programs. Membership is free to Cleveland Heights and University Heights residents aged 60 and older. Free transportation to and from the SAC is available for Cleveland Heights residents. Contact: www.chparks.com/202/Senior-Activity-Center.

University Heights hired Karen Malone Wright as the city’s services for older adults coordinator in September 2024. Contact her at 216-932-7800, ext. 206 or kmwright@universityheights.com. For more information on programs and services, visit www.universityheights.com/departments/services-for-older-adults/.

Village in the Heights helps older adults in the Heights successfully age in place. Free services include home visits, transportation, grocery shopping, minor household repairs, social events and fitness activities. Contact: 216-297-3179 | www.villageintheheights.org.