Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida HELPLINE: 866-413-5337
Skip to content

Newsroom

Looking for the latest news about the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida?  The archive below includes recent news and press releases from AAASWFL.

Media Contact

Are you looking for a source regarding elder issues in Southwest Florida?  Call AAASWFL for information about Medicare, elder abuse prevention, senior health and wellness, elder care, or disability issues.

Contact 877-261-6222 to request an interview, be connected with an expert source, or be added to our media contact list to be sent news releases.

News Feed:

AREA AGENCY ON AGING FOR SWFL BOARD OF DIRECTORS ANNOUNCES FOUR APPOINTMENTS AND WELCOMES THREE NEW MEMBERS

The board of directors of the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) announced four appointments and welcomed three new board members. Dr. Lesley Clack will serve as chair, Daniel I. Katz as vice chair, Garrett Anderson as treasurer and Pamela D. Keller as secretary. The new board members are Jaha Cummings, Dr. Denise McNulty, and Victoria Staryk.

March 12, 2024

AREA AGENCY ON AGING FOR SWFL HOSTS FREE BINGO EVENTS – In Collaboration with Center for Independent Living Gulf Coast and Florida Alliance for Assistive Services & Technology Southwest

Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) will be partnering with the Center for Independent Living Gulf Coast and Florida Alliance for Assistive Services & Technology Southwest to host three BINGO events in March. These events are open to older adults (60+) and adults with disabilities (18+).

February 15, 2024

AREA AGENCY ON AGING BOARD OF DIRECTOR OPPORTUNITIES – Help Make a Difference in the Lives of Older Adults and Adults with Disabilities

We’re seeking volunteers to serve as members for our Board of Directors. Potential board members must be 60-years or older, residents of Glades, DeSoto, Sarasota, Collier and Hendry counties, and a representative working in or retired from banking, faith-based organizations, mental health, or physical therapy.

February 6, 2024

AREA AGENCY ON AGING HOSTS FREE COVID-19 AND FLU VACCINE CLINIC – In Collaboration with Disability Rights Florida

AAASWFL will be partnering with Disability Rights Florida to organize a no-cost clinic for COVID-19 and flu vaccines. This clinic is scheduled for the morning of Friday, February 16th, and will offer both Moderna COVID-19 and flu vaccines to older adults (60+), and adults with disabilities.

February 1, 2024

STATEWIDE PROGRAM PROVIDES FREE, UNBIASED INSURANCE COUNSELING FOR MEDICARE BENEFICIARIES – Older Floridians are Encouraged to Review Plan Options During Open Enrollment 

The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) is reminding residents that their Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders (SHINE) program has specifically-trained counselors to help educate and empower Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers to understand their health care options so they can make the best decisions for their individual needs during the Open Enrollment period. During open enrollment, beneficiaries can change their Medicare Prescription Drug or Medicare Advantage plan to effect things like cost, coverage, drug formularies, in-network providers, and pharmacies.

November 1, 2023

STILL RECOVERING FROM HURRICANE IAN? AAASWFL CAN PROVIDE ASSISTANCE

It’s been more than a year since Hurricane Ian made landfall in Southwest Florida, and things are getting better for most people. However, many residents still have unmet needs. Volunteer Florida and Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) have not forgotten about those still needing assistance. The Volunteer Florida Foundation has granted funds, which are still available through the Area Agency on Aging, for Hurricane Ian response efforts.

October 30, 2023

AREA AGENCY ON AGING TO HOST ITS FIRST COMMUNITY HEALTH & RESOURCE FAIR ON SEPTEMBER 15

The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) will host its first Community Health & Resource Fair on Friday, September 15, 2023 as part of its 45-year anniversary serving older adults, adults with disabilities and caregivers in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hendry, Lee and Sarasota counties. The fair runs from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 2830 Winkler Avenue, Suite 112, Fort Myers, Florida 33196. Everyone is invited to come and get to know us! Free health screenings, community resources, education, giveaways and more will be available to those 60 and older, adults with disabilities, and their families and caregivers.

August 29, 2023

IDALIA STORM UPDATES from the Area Agency on Aging for SWFL

The Area Agency on Aging for SWFL’s offices will be closed for in-person visits on Tuesday and Wednesday, August 29 and 30, 2023, in preparation for Tropical Storm/Hurricane Idalia. Our team will continue to be available to assist you on the phone and over email. Valuable resources to help you prepare…

August 28, 2023

YOU COULD CHANGE SOMEONE’S LIFE! Free Training to Become a Certified Coach to Lead A Matter of Balance Classes 

Chances are you know someone who has fallen or who is afraid of falling. A Matter of Balance is a proven program designed to help people manage concerns about falls and increase physical activity. Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida is looking for volunteers to help provide this program. Free training classes scheduled for August.

July 25, 2023

COMMIT TO LIVING HEALTHY! Join a FREE Workshop to Manage Your Chronic Condition

The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida is offering a FREE workshop for older adults and adults with disabilities who are living with one or more ongoing health conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis, pain, cancer, high cholesterol, depression, asthma, heart disease, or high blood pressure.

July 17, 2023

BEWARE OF HOME REPAIR SCAMS AFTER A HURRICANE

As we head into Hurricane Season, Southwest Floridians need to be on their toes as door-to-door scammers may attempt to take advantage of unsuspecting homeowners. Scammers have been known to specifically target older adults who might be dependent on hired workers to clear debris or perform repairs on their home. Some scammers may pose as home repair specialists or licensed contractors but are simply con artists looking for easy access and easy money. Florida seniors can protect themselves from becoming victims of home repair fraud by following these important tips…

July 14, 2023

BECOME A CERTIFIED TAI CHI FOR ARTHRITIS INSTRUCTOR! Free Certification with the Area Agency on Aging for SWFL

The Area Agency on Aging for SWFL (AAASWFL) is seeking dedicated individuals to become certified Tai Chi for Arthritis Instructors and volunteer to lead workshops in their local community. Certification courses are led by Tai Chi for Health Institute Master Trainers and are offered virtually throughout the year.

July 12, 2023

AREA AGENCY ON AGING HOSTS COMMUNITY HEALTH & RESOURCE FAIR ON SEPTEMBER 15 AS PART OF 45-YEAR ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) is thrilled to announce that it will host its first Community Health & Resource Fair on Friday, September 15, 2023 as part of its celebration of 45 years of dedicated service to the community’s older adults, individuals with disabilities and caregivers.

 July 12, 2023

ELDER ABUSE: IT’S MORE THAN SCAMS – FREE Workshop on World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

June 15th is National World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. ElderSource and four other Florida Area Agencies on Aging are presenting a free virtual workshop on Thursday, June 15, from 10:00 am to 11:30 am. Experts will be providing information and tips on how to report elder abuse, how to protect yourself against financial scams and how to uncover the unsuspecting traps of romance scams.

June 1, 2023

AREA AGENCY ON AGING CELEBRATES SERVING SWFL FOR 45 YEARS WITH COMMUNITY LEADERS AND PARTNERS

The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) recently honored community partners and local leaders from across the seven counties they serve as part of its 45-year anniversary celebration. The private event was held at their offices in Fort Myers in gratitude of those who have supported their efforts serving older adults and adults with disabilities in the counties of Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hendry, Lee, and Sarasota counties.

May 22, 2023

JOIN US FOR A CONVERSATION ABOUT AGING SERVICES IN COLLIER COUNTY

The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) is inviting local residents and service providers in Collier County to share public comment about Aging Services in Southwest Florida. Comments shared will serve to inform AAASWFL’s strategic plan and service goals for the next four years.

April 25, 2023

UPDATED VENUE: JOIN THE AREA AGENCY ON AGING FOR SWFL FOR A CONVERSATION ABOUT AGING SERVICES IN HENDRY COUNTY

The Area Agency on Aging for SWFL (AAASWFL) is inviting local residents and service providers to join an On the Table conversation about Aging Services in Hendry County. PLEASE NOTE that the venue has changed.

Clewiston
Friday, April 7, 2023 (10:00am – 11:00am)
Hope Connections (Located beside the John Boy Auditorium)
1200 S. WC Owens
Clewiston, FL 33440

April 4, 2023

JOIN THE AREA AGENCY ON AGING FOR SWFL FOR A CONVERSATION ON AGING SERVICES IN CHARLOTTE COUNTY

The Area Agency on Aging for SWFL (AAASWFL) is inviting local residents and service providers in Charlotte County to share public comment on Aging Services in SWFL. Comments shared will serve to inform AAASWFL’s strategic plan and service goals for the next four years.

March 29, 2023

AREA AGENCY ON AGING FOR SWFL INVITES IMMOKALEE RESIDENTS TO A CONVERSATION ON AGING SERVICES

The Area Agency on Aging for SWFL (AAASWFL) is inviting local residents and service providers in Immokalee to share public comment about Aging Services in SWFL. Comments shared will serve to inform AAASWFL’s strategic plan and service goals for the next four years.

March 29, 2023

AAASWFL IS HOSTING A TOWN HALL MEETING TO DISCUSS AGING SERVICES SARASOTA COUNTY

The Area Agency on Aging for SWFL (AAASWFL) is inviting local residents and service providers in Sarasota County to share public comment about Aging Services in SWFL. Comments shared will serve to inform AAASWFL’s strategic plan and service goals for the next four years.

March 27, 2023

TOWN HALL MEETING COMING TO MOORE HAVEN TO DISCUSS AGING SERVICES IN GLADES COUNTY

The Area Agency on Aging for SWFL (AAASWFL) is inviting local residents and service providers in Glades County to share public comment about Aging Services in SWFL. Comments shared will serve to inform AAASWFL’s strategic plan and service goals for the next four years.

March 22, 2023

JOIN THE AREA AGENCY ON AGING FOR SWFL FOR A CONVERSATION ABOUT AGING SERVICES IN DESOTO COUNTY

The Area Agency on Aging for SWFL (AAASWFL) is inviting local residents and service providers in DeSoto County to share public comments about Aging Services in SWFL. Comments shared will serve to inform AAASWFL’s strategic plan and service goals for the next four years. Town Hall is scheduled for March 31 in Arcadia.

March 21, 2023

JOIN THE AREA AGENCY ON AGING FOR SWFL FOR A CONVERSATION ABOUT AGING SERVICES IN HENDRY COUNTY

The Area Agency on Aging for SWFL (AAASWFL) is inviting local residents and service providers to join an On the Table conversation about Aging Services in Hendry County. Comments shared will serve to inform AAASWFL’s strategic plan and service goals for the next four years.

March 20, 2023

JOIN THE AREA AGENCY ON AGING FOR SWFL FOR A CONVERSATION ABOUT AGING SERVICES IN LEE COUNTY

The Area Agency on Aging for SWFL (AAASWFL) is inviting local residents and service providers to join an On the Table conversation about Aging Services in Lee County. Comments shared will serve to inform AAASWFL’s strategic plan and service goals for the next four years.

March 20, 2023

AREA AGENCY ON AGING FOR SOUTHWEST FLORIDA’S BOARD APPOINTS NEW CEO

The board of directors of the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) has named Maricela Morado as President and CEO. Morado has been with AAASWFL since 2020 and served as the organization’s Director of Programs and Planning and Interim Director of Client Services. She took on the role of interim CEO in June 2022.

January 31, 2023

BECOME A CERTIFIED COACH TO LEAD “A MATTER OF BALANCE” CLASSES

A Matter of Balance is a proven program designed to help people manage concerns about falls and increase physical activity. Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida is looking for volunteers to help provide this program.

January 4, 2023

NEW CAREGIVER SUPPORT PROGRAM OFFERED TO BY AREA AGENCY ON AGING FOR SOUTHWEST FLORIDA OVER ZOOM

Powerful Tools for Caregivers, a six-week, evidence-based program, is designed to assist caregivers in improving: self-care behaviors, self-confidence, and community connections. Over the course of six weeks, participants are coached in proactive ways to deal with the difficult emotions that can often accompany caregiving and are connected to a network of individuals to share support and best practices.

December 20, 2022

FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF AREA AGENCIES ON AGING ANNOUNCES COLLABORATION WITH RING TO HELP SENIOR RESIDENTS AGE IN PLACE AND ENHANCE SAFETY

The Florida Association of Area Agencies on Aging announced a new community initiative in collaboration with Ring to help older adults maintain their independence and quality of life as they age. Ring, whose mission is to make neighborhoods safer, is making a monetary contribution and donating over 1,000 Ring and Amazon devices, including 50 Ring Video Doorbells and 50 Echo Show 8’s, to each of the 11 Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) throughout Florida.

December 14, 2022

FREE CAREGIVER SUPPORT PROGRAM OFFERED BY THE AREA AGENCY ON AGING FOR SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

Savvy Caregiver, an evidence-based program developed by curriculum authors at Emory University, is a six-week workshop designed to provide caregivers of people with dementia-related illness with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to manage stress and to execute the caregiving role effectively.

December 9, 2022

IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH AND WELLNESS WITH FREE TAI CHI CLASSES

Starting in January, the Area Agency on Aging for SWFL (AAASWFL), will offer free Tai Chi classes in Lee County. The program was designed to relieve pain, improve balance, and significantly reduce falls and is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as an exercise to prevent falls and is supported by arthritis foundations worldwide.

December 8, 2022

EVALUATING YOUR MEDICARE BENEFITS – Free Local Service Helps in Reviewing Your Medicare Plan Options for 2023

Did you know that those with Medicare health and drug plans can make changes each year—things like cost, coverage, drug formularies and which providers and pharmacies are in their networks? If you have been waiting to make changes to your Medicare Prescription Drug or Medicare Advantage plan, wait no more! The Open Enrollment Period (OEP) is the time to review and make necessary changes for the upcoming year and from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, 2022. Lean on SHINE experts for advice.

November 17, 2022

FREE ONLINE CAREGIVER SUPPORT PROGRAM

Increase caregiver knowledge and skills with this virtual evidence-based workshop offered by the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida. Savvy Caregiver, an evidence-based program developed by curriculum authors at Emory University, is a six-week workshop designed to provide caregivers of people with dementia-related illness with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to manage stress and to execute the caregiving role effectively.

October 27, 2022

AREA AGENCY ON AGING FOR SOUTHWEST FLORIDA NAMES INTERIM CEO

The board of directors of the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) has named Maricela Morado president and Interim CEO. Morado has been with AAASWFL since 2020. Prior to her new appointment, she served as Director of Programs and Planning and Interim Director of Client Services.

October 10, 2022

HOW TO HELP OLDER ADULTS IN NEED AFTER HURRICANE IAN AND AREA AGENCY ON AGING UPDATES

AAASWFL is now open with limited staff. Assistance is also available over the phone, call the Elder Helpline staff at 866-413-5337(ELDER), Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Additionally, AAASWFL can be found at the Disaster Resource Center in Lee County at Lakes Regional Public Library located at 15290 Bass Road, Fort Myers, FL 33919. The Disaster Recovery Center is open from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., seven days a week. The Department of Elder Affairs, in conjunction with First Lady DeSantis’ Hope Florida initiative, is doing an “all call” for Hope Hero volunteers that can provide either remote telephone assistance or physical assistance to our most vulnerable seniors in the State’s most affected areas from Hurricane Ian. Currently, this includes Lee County, Charlotte County and Hardee County.

October 6, 2022

STATE OF FLORIDA REMINDS SENIORS TO BE AWARE OF POTENTIAL SCAMS FOLLOWING HURRICANE IAN (From the Department of Elder Affairs)

As Hurricane Ian recovery efforts continue, there are many services offered by the state and our private sector to keep Floridians resilient. During the rebuild process ahead, Florida Department of Elder Affairs Secretary Michelle Branham is reminding the public about common scams that oftentimes target older Floridians following disasters. The Department has published a digital Disaster Resource Guide with detailed tips and resources specifically geared toward older Floridians, which can be found at https://elderaffairs.org/programs-services/disaster-preparedness.

October 3, 2022

AAASWFL UDATES, EMERGENCY RESOURCES, AND HOW TO HELP

The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL), the state’s designated Aging and Disability Resource Center for Southwest Florida, remains closed in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian. Our Elder Helpline, 866-413-5337 or 866-41-ELDER, is being operated by a neighboring Area Agency on Aging during regular hours of operation, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Our clients are important to us, especially during this time of need. Voicemail messages will be returned in the order they are received.

To request well-being checks for family members and friends in Lee County, please call 239-477-1000.

The American Red Cross can assist in helping you connect with loved ones at 1-800-733-2767.

You can also visit https://missing.fl.gov/es to report missing individuals.

If you wish to help financially, visit https://aaaswfl.org/how-to-help/donate/. Your donations will go to AAASWFL’s Agnes Laitinen Unmet Needs Fund. This fund assists older adults and adults with disabilities in crisis when no other resources are available.

October 2, 2022

AREA AGENCY ON AGING FOR SOUTHWEST FLORIDA REMAINS CLOSED

The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida’s offices will remain closed on Thursday and Friday, September 29 and 30. Our Elder Helpline will continue to be available during regular office hours Monday – Friday, from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. at 866-413-5337 or 866-41-ELDER.

September 29, 2022

HURRICANE IAN EMERGENCY RESOURCES AND AREA AGENGY ON AGING FOR SOUTHWEST FLORIDA UPDATE

As Florida’s west coast prepares for the impact of Hurricane Ian, Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) wants to ensure that older adults and adults with disabilities in Southwest Florida are connected to needed resources. Our Elder Helpline will continue to be available during regular office hours Monday – Friday, from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. at 866-413-5337 or 866-41-ELDER. Our office space will be closed on Tuesday and Wednesday, September 27 and 28, in anticipation of the upcoming storm…

September 27, 2022

BECOME A CERTIFIED ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION EXERCISE PROGRAM INSTRUCTOR

The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) is seeking dedicated individuals to become certified Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program instructors and volunteers to lead workshops. Certification courses are led by the Aquatic Exercise Association (AEA) and take place online. The cost of certification is covered by AAASWFL with a volunteer commitment to lead Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program workshops on behalf of AAASWFL.

August 12, 2022

TAI CHI FOR ARTHRITIS VOLUNTEER INSTRUCTORS NEEDED TO HELP OLDER ADULTS IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA

The Area Agency on Aging for SWFL (AAASWFL) is seeking dedicated individuals to become certified Tai Chi for Arthritis Instructors and volunteer to lead workshops in their local community. Certification courses are led by Tai Chi for Health Institute master trainers and are offered virtually throughout the year. The cost of certification is entirely covered by AAASWFL with a volunteer commitment to lead Tai Chi for Arthritis workshops on behalf of the Area Agency on Aging for SWFL.

June 14, 2022

ELDER ABUSE: IT’S MORE THAN SCAMS – FREE WORKSHOP ON JUNE 15

June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Elder abuse effects one in 10 adults over the age of 60, yet only one in 24 cases are reported to authorities. It’s estimated that up to five million older Americans are abused every year totaling a loss of at least $36.6 billion. AAASWFL will be co-hosting a free virtual workshop on Wednesday, June 15, sharing tips on how to report elder abuse and how to protect you and your loved ones.

May 17, 2022

PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT: RAISE AWARENESS, GET THE FACTS ON ELDER ABUSE!

Elder abuse is the abuse of adults age 60 and older, and approximately one in ten Americans have experienced some form of abuse. Elder abuse includes physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse, neglect and financial abuse.  Join the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida for a free Virtual Seminar to raise awareness about Elder Abuse. The World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) virtual event is scheduled for Wednesday, June 15.

May 16, 2022

LEARN TO MANAGE YOUR CHRONIC CONDITION – LIVING HEALTHY WORKSHOPS TO BEGIN IN VENICE

The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida is offering a FREE workshop for older adults and adults with disabilities who are living with one or more ongoing health conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis, pain, cancer, high cholesterol, depression, asthma, heart disease, or high blood pressure. New workshops dates are available to residents in Venice, Florida.

April 7, 2022

BECOME A CERTIFIED COACH TO HELP EMPOWER CAREGIVERS IN CHARLOTTE COUNTY

You could change someone’s life! The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida is seeking individuals who have an interest in empowering and supporting their community. The agency is recruiting new class leaders in Charlotte County for our “Powerful Tools for Caregivers” workshops – a free program designed to help caregivers take better care of themselves while caring for a friend or relative.

April 5, 2022

FITNESS PROGRAM FOR PEOPLE WITH ARTHRITIS PAIN

The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) is offering a free fitness program to older adults living with arthritis pain or joint stiffness. The Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program is designed to reduce pain and stiffness, restore or maintain joint range of motion, improve balance and coordination, decrease fatigue, increase endurance, and improve overall perceived health status.

March 14, 2022

LIVING HEALTHY WORKSHOPS FOR SENIORS BEGIN IN APRIL

The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida is offering FREE virtual workshops for older adults and adults with disabilities who are living with one or more ongoing health conditions, like diabetes, arthritis, pain, cancer, high cholesterol, depression, asthma, heart disease, or high blood pressure.

March 8, 2022

BETTER HEALTH WORKSHOPS AVAILABLE OVER THE PHONE – LEARN TO MANAGE YOUR CHRONIC CONDITION TODAY

According to the National Council on Aging, 80% of adults 65 and older have at least one chronic condition. A chronic condition does not have to define you, take control of your life with the Better Health with Chronic Conditions program.

February 24, 2022

CAREGIVER SUPPORT PROGRAM OFFERED IN MARCH

Increase caregiver knowledge and skills with this six-week virtual evidence-based workshop offered by the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida.

February 21, 2022

STAY ACTIVE THIS NEW YEAR WITH A FREE EXERCISE PROGRAM

Register to attend the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program
with the Area Agency on Aging for SWFL. The Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program is an evidence-based program designed for adults age 60 and over to reduce arthritis pain and stiffness, build muscle around joints, increase energy, and prevent other health problems.

January 14, 2022

COMMIT TO LIVING HEALTHY THIS NEW YEAR! JOIN A FREE WORKSHOP TO MANAGE YOUR CHRONIC CONDITION

Learning how to self-manage your chronic condition allows you to live life to the fullest, to improve quality of life, and to reduce symptoms. The Chronic Disease Self- Management Program is an evidence-based program designed to help older adults and adults with disabilities to make a step-by-step plan for improving their health and their lives.

January 5, 2022

AAASWFL IS OFFERING FREE TRAINING AND CERTIFICATION TO LEAD “LIVING HEALTHY” WORKSHOPS

The Area Agency on Aging for SWFL is seeking individuals who are interested in leading “Living Healthy” workshops – a program to help people manage their chronic conditions. Training and certification are provided at no cost with a commitment to lead Living Healthy workshops for the AAASWFL.

December 6, 2022

FREE LOCAL SERVICE HELPS SENIORS REVIEW MEDICARE PLAN OPTIONS FOR 2022

Specially-trained SHINE counselors help educate and empower Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers to understand their health care options so they can make the best decisions for their individual needs.

November 11, 2021

LEARN TO TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR HEALTH – VIRTUAL WORKSHOP TO MANAGE CHRONIC CONDITIONS BEGINS IN OCTOBER

Four out of every five adults over the age of 60 have at least one chronic disease. Fortunately, free programs are available locally for people with chronic illnesses to take charge of their health.

September 22, 2021

PROCLAMATION FROM THE OFFICE OF GOVERNOR RON DESANTIS: FALLS PREVENTION AWARENESS WEEK IN FLORIDA

Governor Ron DeSantis extends his support to all observing September 20-24, 2021, as Falls Prevention Awareness Week in Florida.

September 20, 2021

LEARN TO MANAGE YOUR CONCERNS ABOUT FALLS – NINE-WEEK WORKSHOP BEGINS IN OCTOBER

A Matter of Balance is a program designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels among older adults.

September 15, 2021

INCREASE HEALTH AND WELLNESS WITH A FREE TAI CHI WORKSHOP FOR OLDER ADULTS IN LEE COUNTY

Recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention program was designed to relieve pain, improve balance, and significantly reduce falls.

September 15, 2021

VIRTUAL INJURY PREVENTION LIVE WEBINAR ON SEPTEMBER 22 AT 11AM

The coronavirus pandemic has changed a lot of things. One thing that’s still the same? Falling is NOT a normal part of aging.

September 1, 2021

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO LEAD SENIOR HEALTH & WELLNESS WORKSHOPS

Area Agency on Aging seeks volunteer instructors to lead Low Impact Exercise and Self-Management Program classes in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hendry, Lee, and Sarasota counties.

August 12, 2021

LEARN TO MANAGE YOUR CHRONIC CONDITION

A FREE six-week online workshop is available for those living in Charlotte, Collier, Hendry, Glades, Desoto, and Sarasota counties. If you are a senior with a chronic condition, you are not alone.

August 12, 2021

ELDER ABUSE: IT’S MORE THAN SCAMS – FREE WORKSHOP FOR WEAAD

June 15 is recognized nationally as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Elder abuse is a silent problem that often robs older adults of their dignity and security. It is projected that by 2050, there will be roughly 320 million victims of elder abuse.

June 8, 2021

AREA AGENCY ON AGING FOR SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PROVIDING ONLINE SOCIAL EVENTS FOR OLDER ADULTS IN JUNE

Summer Magic – Join AAASWFL as we invite older adults and their families to keep it cool this summer as we take the party inside with celebrity magician and mentalist Paul Draper and special guests Broadway star Eryn LeCroy and comedian Gabe Abelson.

June 7, 2021

OLDER AMERICANS MONTH – COMMUNITIES OF STRENGTH

This year, the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida will celebrate Older Americans Month by encouraging community members to share their experiences. Together, we can find strength—and create a stronger future. Here are some ways to share and connect.

May 1, 2021

AREA AGENCY ON AGING FOR SOUTHWEST FLORIDA PROVIDING ONLINE SOCIAL EVENTS FOR OLDER ADULTS

Egg-cited for Some Magic? with Celebrity Magician and Mentalist Paul Draper

April 7, 2021

AREA AGENCY ON AGING FOR SOUTHWEST FLORIDA OFFERS ONLINE SOCIAL EVENTS FOR OLDER ADULTS AND THEIR FAMILIES

The Magic of New Beginnings with Celebrity Magician Paul Draper

January 7, 2021

AREA AGENCY ON AGING FOR SOUTHWEST FLORIDA, INC. OFFERS
RESOURCES TO SUPPORT SENIORS’ MENTAL HEALTH THIS HOLIDAY SEASON In Partnership with Department of Elder Affairs, Together Apart: Holidays at Heart Aims to Limit Loneliness for Seniors
While many older adults choose to stay safer at home and isolate themselves to prevent exposure to the coronavirus, Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida, Inc. (AAASWFL), in partnership with the Florida Department of Elder Affairs (DOEA), are ensuring that no senior feels alone during the holiday season.

November 19, 2020

Is Your Medicare Plan Changing? Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period Ends December 7 – SHINE counselors are available to help review and compare plans
Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period will end on December 7 – The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida’s SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) counselors are here to help!

November 17, 2020

Area Agency on Aging for SW Florida Celebrates Grand Opening of New Headquarters in Fort Myers
AAASWFL recently celebrated the grand opening of its new headquarters in Fort Myers located at 2830 Winkler Avenue.

November 5, 2020

Area Agency on Aging for SW Florida Offers Free Training for Health and Wellness Volunteers
Area Agency on Aging for SW Florida seeks volunteer instructors to lead Chronic Disease Self-Management Program.

October 15, 2020

Public Service Announcement: Beware of Home Repair Scams After Hurricanes
This busy hurricane season, Florida seniors can protect themselves from becoming victims of home repair fraud by following these important tips.

September 14, 2020

AREA AGENCY ON AGING FOR SOUTHWEST FLORIDA MOVES TO A NEW LOCATION IN SEPTEMBER
AAASWFL, a nonprofit serving older adults and adults with disabilities, is pleased to announce that beginning September 1, 2020, it will be operating from its new location at 2830 Winkler Avenue, Suite 112, Fort Myers, FL 33916.

September 14, 2020

Document Center:

Looking for more? The AAASWFL Document Center includes important documents for service providers.