Aging and Human Services

Area Agency on Aging hosts countywide listening sessions to support older adults

Brandy.Hodge@jocogov.org — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 16:07:41 +0000

Area Agency on Aging hosts countywide listening sessions to support older adults Brandy.Hodge@j… Fri, 04/24/2026 - 11:07 April 24, 2026

The Area Agency on Aging, a division of Johnson County's Aging and Human Services, is hosting a series of community listening sessions across the county. These sessions are part of an ongoing effort to support older adults and ensure services align with the goals outlined in the agency’s Four‑Year Area Plan on Aging.

The conversations will help evaluate current progress and identify emerging needs within the community. Older adults, caregivers, and all community members are encouraged to attend and share their perspectives. Resident feedback plays a key role in shaping the programs and support systems that many rely on.

Community Listening Sessions

Date	Location	District	Time
Wednesday, April 29	Blue Valley Library (Mtg. Room), 9000 W 151st St., Overland Park, KS 66221	3	3:30-5 p.m.
Friday, May 8	Northeast Office Building (Room 500), 6000 Lamar Ave., Mission, KS 66202	1	10-11:30 a.m.
Friday, May 8	Sunset Office Building (Room 1070/1075) 11811 S Sunset Dr., Olathe, KS 66061	5	2-3:30 p.m.
Thursday, May 14	North Central Office Building (Rms 100A/100B) 12425 W 87th St., Lenexa, KS 66215	5	1-2:30 p.m.
Tuesday, May 19	De Soto Community Center 32905 W 84th St., De Soto, KS 66018	6	1-2:30 p.m.
Thursday, May 21	Monticello Library (Community Mtg. Room) 22435 W 66th St., Shawnee, KS 66226	2	3:30-5 p.m.
Friday, May 22	Gardner Library (Lg. Mtg Room) 137 E Shawnee St., Gardner, KS 66030	6	10-11:30 a.m.
Friday, May 22	Spring Hill Civic Center (Event Space) 401 N Madison, Spring Hill, KS 66083	3	1-2:30 p.m.

Unable to attend a community listening session? You can complete our 29-question online survey to provide your feedback. The survey is available in English and Spanish. Please share your feedback by May 31, 2026.

If you need an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter or any other ADA accommodation for the community listening sessions or the survey translated into a different language, please contact Jill Zink by phone or email at least two business days in advance of the scheduled listening session.

Department:

Aging and Human Services

Category:

Events

News

Protecting dignity and supporting independence in Johnson County

tim.phenicie@jocogov.org — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:11:20 +0000

Protecting dignity and supporting independence in Johnson County tim.phenicie@j… Tue, 04/21/2026 - 09:11

Tim Wholf

Each year, communities across the country recognize June as Elder Abuse Awareness Month, with World Elder Abuse Awareness Day observed on June 15. It’s a time to shed light on an issue that often goes unseen, and to remind older adults and their families that help is available right here in Johnson County.

Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional or financial harm, as well as neglect or exploitation.

The U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs estimates that 5 million Americans aged 60 and older are victims of elder abuse, neglect or exploitation each year.

This means approximately 1 in 10 older adults in the United States experiences some form of abuse annually. Elder abuse is heavily underreported, with studies suggesting only 1 in 24 cases of abuse are reported to authorities.

Many individuals may not know where to turn, may feel isolated or may depend on the very person causing harm.

Locally, the Johnson County Area Agency on Aging is a key resource for older adults and caregivers — offering support, connection and protection through programs funded by the Older Americans Act.

First passed in 1965, the OAA is the foundation of our nation’s aging services network. It provides funding to communities to deliver essential services that help older adults remain safe, healthy, and independent. These services are not only critical for quality of life but can also serve as an important safeguard for individuals who may be at risk of or experiencing abuse.

In Johnson County, OAA-funded services include:

Information and referral services to connect residents with trusted local resources
Skilled assessors to help individuals navigate complex health and social needs
Nutrition programs, including home-delivered meals, which also provide regular check-ins
Caregiver support, helping families manage stress and avoid burnout
Legal assistance, including support for issues related to financial exploitation
Evidence-based programs to assist with health and social connectedness

Often, these services do more than meet basic needs; they build relationships. A care manager, meal delivery driver or program volunteer may be the first to notice when something isn’t right and help connect someone to additional support, including Adult Protective Services when needed.

The Johnson County Area Agency on Aging also works closely with community partners to raise awareness about elder abuse, provide education, and ensure that older adults know their rights and options.

However, these vital services depend on continued federal support.

The Older Americans Act must be periodically reauthorized by Congress to maintain funding and ensure programs can adapt to the needs of a growing older population.

As more residents age into eligibility, the demand for these services continues to rise making reauthorization essential to sustaining the support system so many rely on.

If you or someone you know may be experiencing abuse, help is available. To learn more about available resources contact the Johnson County Area Agency on Aging at jocogov.org/agingservices or by calling 913-715-8861; or contact Adult Protective Services at 1-800-922-5330. Reaching out can make a life-changing difference.

This June, take a moment to learn more, check in on a neighbor or loved one, and recognize the importance of programs that help older adults live safely and with dignity. Because in Johnson County, no one should have to age alone — or in silence.

Tim Wholf is Director of the Johnson County Department of Aging and Human Services.

Leadership attends aging policy briefing

tim.phenicie@jocogov.org — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 20:02:40 +0000

Leadership attends aging policy briefing tim.phenicie@j… Mon, 04/20/2026 - 15:02

AHS Director Tim Wholf poses with U.S. Representative Sharice Davids, center, in her office along with Deputy Director of Johnson County AAA Carol Colnar.

Johnson County Area Agency on Aging Director Tim Wholf and Deputy Director Carol Colnar recently attended USAging’s 32nd Annual Aging Policy Briefing & Capitol Hill Day on March 16-17. The annual two-day event in Washington, DC. is designed to prepare aging services professionals and advocates to influence federal policy.

The event is divided into two primary components:

Aging Policy Briefing: Attendees receive in-depth analysis from federal officials, congressional staff and policy experts around areas regarding the legislative landscape, including the Older Americans Act reauthorization, funding for senior programs and health care policy. These sessions cover the “insider” view of the current political landscape and provide the messaging and tools needed for effective advocacy.

Capitol Hill Day: Advocates take these tools directly to the halls of government, meeting with their respective representatives and senators to inform them on how federal policies specifically impact older adults and caregivers in their home districts.

USAging’s 2026 Policy Priorities highlight the needs of older adults and how Congress can support them in aging well at home and in their communities.

These priorities include:

Pushing for the reauthorization and support of OAA programs that support aging well at home. This includes securing FY 2027 funding for critical aging programs.
Bolster family and professional caregivers to meet growing demand.
Protect cost-effective Medicaid home and community-based services.
Connect health care and aging sectors to lower costs and improve outcomes.

Next COA meeting

The Commission on Aging will meet at 9 a.m. Wednesday, May 13, in the Sunset Drive Office Building, 11811 South Sunset Drive, Suite 1070/1075.

There is no meeting in June.

For more information, call 913-715-8860 or 800-766-3777 TDD or visit jocogov.org/coa.

Tips to avoid being scammed this spring

tim.phenicie@jocogov.org — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 19:54:54 +0000

Tips to avoid being scammed this spring tim.phenicie@j… Mon, 04/20/2026 - 14:54

By Rachel Winter

There’s a knock at the door and behind it, a timely offer of tree trimming, yard cleanup or roof repair after a typical Kansas storm. While storm season is an opportunity to lend a neighborly hand, it also brings an increase in scams targeting the vulnerable.

But how do we know the Good Samaritan from the wolf in sheep’s clothing?

Preparation is key

One way to protect yourself from scammers is to first be prepared. Review your emergency preparedness plan and keep this information handy. You might store it in a file, online for remote access and also in your storm kit.

After a storm but before cleanup begins, document property damage with photos, videos and a written inventory. This will help in addressing repairs and filing claims. It also protects you from individuals who exaggerate or fabricate damage.

Contact your insurance company directly to verify your benefits and next steps. Never give out personal or insurance policy information to anyone that contacts you unsolicited.

Ask for referrals from those you trust. Get multiple estimates, verify their credentials and check with resources like the Better Business Bureau.

Contractor or con artist?

Legitimate contractors should be transparent about their company and be easily verifiable. Expect comprehensive estimates in writing that are easily explained.

Scammers rely on high pressure tactics based on urgency or fear. They show up unsolicited, catching you off guard. If their business information is vague, they require a large upfront payment, only accept cash, or make offers that seem too good to be true, end the conversation and file a report.

If a government agency like FEMA is dispatched, ask for official identification. Agency officials won’t ask for money and shouldn’t ask for personal information unless you have applied for relief.

Giving safely

If you choose to donate to relief efforts, give directly to verified and well-known charities.

What to do if you’ve been scammed

If you’ve been approached by or are a victim of a scammer, contact the Johnson County District Attorney’s Consumer Fraud Unit Hotline at 913-715-3003. The report you file may save another from falling victim.

Other resources:

Better Business Bureau of the Midwest Plains: 816-421-7800
Kansas Attorney General’s Office Consumer Protection Hotline: 1-800-432-2310
Federal Trade Commission to report fraud: 1-877-FTC-HELP
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: 1-855-411-2372

Rachel Winter is SHICK Program Coordinator at the Johnson County Department of Aging and Human Services.

Celebrating Older American Month in May with 2026 theme of ‘Champion Your Health’

tim.phenicie@jocogov.org — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 19:50:02 +0000

Celebrating Older American Month in May with 2026 theme of ‘Champion Your Health’ tim.phenicie@j… Mon, 04/20/2026 - 14:50

Celebrated every May, Older Americans Month is led by the Administration for Community Living. Established in 1963, the annual observance is a time to recognize older Americans’ contributions, highlight aging trends and reaffirm commitments to serving older adults in our communities.

This year’s theme, “Champion Your Health,” focuses on prevention, wellness and personal responsibility as cornerstones of healthy aging. Championing personal health is about making daily choices that support your body and mind. It encourages older adults to take an active role in their health — advocating for themselves, accessing preventive care and making informed decisions that support independence.

During the 2026 observance, communities and individuals alike are urged to take steps to champion health and advance healthy aging for all ages, including:

Stay up to date on preventative care and screenings.
Build and maintain social connections that support emotional well-being.
Choose nutritious, minimally processed foods.
Incorporate regular physical activity to maintain strength and mobility.
Practice daily habits that support health and resilience.

Older Americans Month encourages each of us to celebrate the older adults in our lives, support programs that serve them and look for ways to stay engaged as we age. Whether it’s sharing a meal, volunteering, or checking in on a neighbor, small acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference.

Please join the Johnson County Area Agency on Aging in celebration of Older Americans Month this May. To register for one of our upcoming events visit: connect.jocogov.org, select Aging Activities, then AAA events.

If you need an American Sign Language interpreter or another ADA accommodation, please contact Jill Zink at 913-715-8860 or jill.zink@jocogov.org at least two business days before the scheduled event or class.

Together, we can support healthier aging and celebrate the strength and vitality of older adults.

Documentary Screening

Soniak.Khosla@jocogov.org — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 17:09:19 +0000

Documentary Screening Soniak.Khosla@… Mon, 04/20/2026 - 12:09

Join us for a screening of the documentary "Stella & Co." which celebrates the extraordinary life of her nearly 104-year-old mother, Stella, alongside a vibrant group of older adults ages 75 to 105 who are truly living life to the fullest.

Through humor, music, and powerful storytelling, this film offers a refreshing and thought-provoking look at what it means to age in today’s world. It highlights resilience, joy, and the wisdom that comes with a life well lived.

This special screening is part of our celebration of "Older Americans Month", honoring the experiences, stories and contributions of older adults in our community.

If you need an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter or another ADA accommodation, please contact Jill Zink at 913-715-8860 or jill.zink@jocogov.org at least two business days prior to the event.

May 27, 2026 - 01:00pm May 27, 2026 - 03:00pm

Oak Park Library

Lrg Meeting Rm

Training and Classes

Aging and Human Services

Caregiver Appreciation Party: Spring Bloom and Breathe

Soniak.Khosla@jocogov.org — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 20:00:04 +0000

Caregiver Appreciation Party: Spring Bloom and Breathe Soniak.Khosla@… Mon, 03/23/2026 - 15:00

Caregivers spend so much time caring for others. This special caregiver appreciation event is designed to give you a moment to refresh, reflect and be among others who understand the caregiving journey.

Join Johnson County's Area Agency on Aging as we celebrate you with light refreshments, meaningful activities and moments of reflection that honor the growth, resilience and compassion caregivers bring to the world every day. Enjoy a relaxing, garden-inspired atmosphere with opportunities to share, create and refill your cup.

If you need an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter or another ADA accommodation, please contact Jill Zink at 913-715-8860 or jill.zink@jocogov.org at least two business days prior to the event.

May 18, 2026 - 11:00am May 18, 2026 - 01:00pm

Sunset Building

Room 1055

Training and Classes

Aging and Human Services

Talk with a Doc: What You Need to Know About Vitamins, Minerals and Supplements

Soniak.Khosla@jocogov.org — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 19:53:44 +0000

Talk with a Doc: What You Need to Know About Vitamins, Minerals and Supplements Soniak.Khosla@… Mon, 03/23/2026 - 14:53

This educational class from Johnson County's Area Agency on Aging will cover valuable information on vitamins, minerals and supplements, including what they do, when they may be helpful and how to use them safely. The session is taught by retired physician Dr. Karl Jantz, who will share practical guidance based on medical experience.

If you need an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter or another ADA accommodation, please contact Jill Zink at 913-715-8860 or jill.zink@jocogov.org at least two business days prior to the event.

May 15, 2026 - 01:00pm May 15, 2026 - 02:30pm

North Central Multi-Service Center

Rooms 100A/100B

Training and Classes

Aging and Human Services

Create with the Director

Soniak.Khosla@jocogov.org — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 20:29:47 +0000

Create with the Director Soniak.Khosla@… Mon, 03/09/2026 - 15:29

Join the Director of the Area Agency on Aging for Woven Art. Woven Art is formed through the process of weaving, or interlacing, two paintings together to produce a new piece. Participants will paint their own canvases, which will then be woven together to create their Woven Art. No experience needed, just curiosity and a willingness to have fun.

If you need an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter or another ADA accommodation, please contact Jill Zink at 913-715-8860 or jill.zink@jocogov.org at least two business days prior to the event.

May 6, 2026 - 01:00pm May 6, 2026 - 03:00pm

Sunset Building

Room: 1070/1075

Training and Classes

Aging and Human Services

Coffee, Books & Conversation (A Free Book Club for Older Adults)

Soniak.Khosla@jocogov.org — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 20:25:21 +0000

Coffee, Books & Conversation (A Free Book Club for Older Adults) Soniak.Khosla@… Mon, 03/09/2026 - 15:25

Join us for a special conversation with Kansas City author Edmonds Prufrock Mackey as we explore his memoir "The Honorable Way." The book follows Bud Mackey’s 1963 journey aboard the USS Chevalier (DD 805), where he reflects on life at sea, writes poetry and records his experiences across the Pacific on the way to the Gulf of Tonkin.

If you need an American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter or another ADA accommodation, please contact Jill Zink at 913-715-8860 or jill.zink@jocogov.org at least two business days prior to the event.

May 1, 2026 - 01:00pm May 1, 2026 - 02:30pm

North Central Multi-Service Center

Room: 100A,100B

Training and Classes

Aging and Human Services