On a mission to help create the healthiest community in the United States for all ages, the Winter Park Health Foundation (WPHF) researched the needs of older adults and found situational depression—accompanied by feelings of loneliness, isolation, boredom, purposelessness—was something that affects most of us as we age and move into the next chapter of life.

The Foundation began looking at ways to provide tools for those wrestling with these feelings and for ways to provide a smooth transition for those approaching this stage.

Through further research, WPHF found that there was much that could be done by promoting healthy behaviors and encouraging lifelong learning and meaningful service and employment.

Over time it became apparent that transportation alternatives were an essential ingredient for a community of a lifetime. And it found it was important to raise the level of awareness of aging in the community.

To further refine priorities, the Winter Park Health Foundation provided financial support for, and collaborated with the Orange County Commission on Aging, the Senior Resource Alliance, the Dr, P. Phillips Foundation, the University of Central Florida, Heart of Florida United Way and Seniors First, to sponsor Orange County’s participation in the national AdvantAge Initiative.

Conducted in 10 communities across the country, the AdvantAge Initiative involved surveying seniors about how they felt about local services and where help was needed. The Orange County survey included 610 randomly selected adults, age 65 and older.

Survey results validated the direction taken by the Foundation and it helped identify specific project areas for investment.

Grant Spotlight

Older Adults Work Group members approved an additional grant of $26,000 for the renovation of the Plymouth Apartment complex in Winter Park. The complex serves elderly Winter Park residents living on very low fixed incomes. The apartments are owned by the Winter Park Housing Authority.

Earlier this year, the Work Group approved a grant of $50,000 to be used for the hard costs associated with renovation of the apartments. The money was used to purchase items such as new appliances, carpeting, fan coils, blinds, faucets and paint.

The newly approved additional funds will be used to pay for automatic door openers for the front entrance doors, curb cuts for accessibility and to refinish bathtubs.

Matthew Davies