VPAS Cafes in Bath County

Hello, this is Harmony Leonard, with Valley Program for Aging Services.

As the percentage of adults 60 and over increases rapidly in Bath and Highland Counties, Valley Program for Aging Services (VPAS) is reaching out to neighbors to help foster good health, active living and engagement with the community.

According to the University of Virginia’s Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service, nearly half of Bath and Highland County residents will be 60 or over by 2030. For staff and volunteers at VPAS, it’s an opportunity to create a community where everyone can age well.

VPAS, the local area agency on aging, provides Meals on Wheels and case management services for adults 60 years and older, as well as limited transportation to medical appointments, Medicare consultation, senior recreation, congregate meals, information and assistance, and caregiver support.

We are here to help our neighbors navigate the challenges that come with aging, so they can focus on the joys. There is this stereotype that as we age, we’re out of touch and a drain on valuable resources. The truth is that older adults greatly enrich our community. Their wisdom, experience, perspective, time and talent can change lives. VPAS is here to help facilitate that.

In Bath County, VPAS hosts VPAS cafes, where adults 60 and over can enjoy a hot lunch, visiting with one another, playing games, listening to guest speakers and learning about new topics. Participation in cafes also gives attendees the opportunity to learn more about the services VPAS offers. Cafes meet in Warm Springs at Bath Community Senior Services on Thursdays from 11 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and in Hot Springs at Mountain Crest Retirement Community on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. There is no cost to attend, but registration is required.

To register for a cafe or learn more about VPAS in Bath or Highland Counties, call Harmony Leonard at 540-468-2178.

Stay tuned to Allegheny Mountain Radio for interviews with café participants in the future.