The Council’s beginnings occurred in 1991, when a group of concerned citizens, service providers, older adults and elected officials came together and began talking about the needs of the growing older population in Delaware County. At the time, while a variety of services were available within the county, the capacity of local service providers was very limited, and large waiting lists were the norm. The “system” could not respond quickly or efficiently to individual needs for service. As a result, when experiencing difficulties living at home, many local older adults found that nursing home placement was their most viable option. As the community examined these issues and began to understand how quickly our local older population was increasing in size, it became clear that action was needed to increase both the amount and quality of community-based care. A local coordinated system was needed to improve the accessibility to services in a timely manner for those who were most in need. A task force was formed which incorporated these community concerns into a blueprint for an organization designed to meet current and evolving needs. The Council for Older Adults emerged in 1992 to fill this void.

The Council’s first levy passed in 1994 and funding became available in 1995. For the next several years, services were developed or expanded and a system was created to simplify access to the system for frail and vulnerable seniors. In 1999, a levy replacement and an additional tax were approved by 67.4% of local voters to maintain and expand this new system of services for larger numbers of local seniors. Beginning in 2000, the Council was able to expand local service grants, expand outreach efforts, create a new prescription assistance program, expand the elder and caregiver resource center, and develop training and education opportunities. In 2008, the senior services levy passed by over 75%, ensuring that funding will continue over the next five years.

Just as the Council’s beginnings were the direct result of clear and immediate needs in the community, the Council is uniquely organized to ensure that it remains both responsive and accountable to the citizens of Delaware County. Our board of directors is responsible for policy development and the overall direction of the Council for Older Adults. Board meetings are open to the public and are held at noon on the fourth Tuesday of each month at the Council’s offices. The Council’s board is focused on maintaining the tradition of excellent service which it has always provided in the community and extending that tradition for years to come.