Serving Our Seniors Magazine: July - September 2026

Many of the challenges that can arise later in life are easier to overcome when people work together in partnership. Consider health care, for example. A person may have access to the best surgeon in the world, but healing often depends on more than the surgery itself. It also depends on understanding the patient’s unique circumstances and supporting them in ways that match their abilities and needs. Recovery is most successful when everyone works together. In the same way, Serving Our Seniors is more than a provider of services. We are a partner for older adults in Erie County. Our role is to help “cut through the red tape,” connect older adults to trusted and carefully vetted businesses and volunteers, provide support that helps people remain in their home, living independently and provide financial assistance to those who lack the money to meet their own needs. Services such as housekeeping, small home repairs, wheelchair ramps, basic dental care, disposable undergarments and medications are made affordable through Serving Our Seniors cost-sharing program. This means that Serving Our Seniors pays the portion of the cost that is unaffordable for the older adult’s household. Below is a cost-sharing guideline for a one and two person household: To illustrate how cost-sharing works, let’s say an older adult, who lives alone, has a monthly income of $985. S/he would pay 5% toward the cost of housekeeping services. If housekeeping costs $30.00/ hour, that individual would pay $1.50/hour. Serving Our Seniors would pay $28.50/hour. However, if this amount the individual is to pay creates a hardship, Serving Our Seniors will work in partnership with the individual to better understand their circumstances and agree on a realistically, manageable amount. Someone with a monthly income of $1,631.00 - $1,995 would pay $6/hour. Cost-sharing support may be available for individuals with incomes greater than what is stated above. Those who wish to apply for cost-sharing are encouraged to call Serving Our Seniors at 419-624-1856. Ask for a Senior Advocate Assistant or Senior Advocate. We are here to provide practical help and support, while empowering the individual to do only what is realistic and fair. Together, we can explore what is possible. Cost-sharing is available for Housekeeping, Small Home Repairs, Ramps, Affordable Dental Care, and affordable disposable underwear. 7 How Serving Our Seniors Can Help YOU Afford What You Need Income limits and client percentage of Maximum Program Costs 5% 5% 1 person up to $985 2 person $1321 10% 10% 1 person $986 to $1321 2 people $1322- $1762 15% 15% 1 person $1322 to $1630 2 people $1763 - $2203 20%* 20% 1 person $1631 to $1995 2 people $2204- $2705 Amy Wendy Dianna Pam Anthony