Support groups and health resources across west central Minnesota are providing essential services for seniors and caregivers, with a variety of programs aimed at enhancing well-being and fostering community connections. These services cater to the diverse needs of the aging population in the region, ensuring that both caregivers and older adults have access to the assistance they require.
Adult Respite and Educational Programs
The Lutheran Social Service offers a group respite care program for adults aged 60 and older every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church located at 310 Medayto Drive in Spicer. Family caregivers are afforded a much-needed break while trained volunteers facilitate safe social interactions and activities such as music and exercise. Those interested must register by calling 866-787-9802.
Additionally, the “Aging Wisely: Finding New Confidence and Purpose” program is designed to support the educational, social, and nutritional needs of older adults. This initiative convenes the first Thursday of each month at the Willmar Community Center, featuring a different guest speaker each time. Inquiries can be directed to the center at 320-262-5288.
The American Red Cross also plays a role in community health by facilitating blood drives. Individuals can schedule appointments by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS or visiting their website at www.redcrossblood.org.
Support Groups for Specific Needs
A range of support groups caters to specific health conditions and challenges. For those affected by breast cancer, a peer support group meets on the first Monday of each month from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the lobby of the CentraCare — Willmar Cancer Center. This free service welcomes anyone diagnosed with breast cancer, regardless of their treatment status. For more information, contact Lisa at 320-231-4483.
Another valuable resource is the Compassionate Friends group, which meets at 7 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month at the Kandiyohi County Historical Society Museum in Willmar. This self-help group provides support and understanding for families who have lost a child at any age. Questions can be directed to Lois at 320-444-4334.
For caregivers of individuals living with dementia, a support and education group meets at 10:30 a.m. on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at the Montevideo Veterans Home. Participants can choose to attend in person or virtually. For further details or to receive the virtual link, contact Gretchen Reeves at 320-435-1291.
Additional resources include the Disability Hub MN, which provides a free statewide network to assist individuals in navigating community resources and government programs. They can be reached at 1-866-333-2466 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays or through their website, www.disabilityhubmn.org.
Health and Wellness Initiatives
Health-focused programs are also available, including the 55+ Driver courses offered by the Minnesota Highway Safety & Research Center. Completing this four-hour course can result in up to a 10 percent discount on auto insurance, with the course needing renewal every three years. More information can be found at www.mnsafetycenter.org or by calling 1-888-234-1294.
The Rev. Dean Johnson leads a grief support group every Monday from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Bethesda Chapel in Willmar, offering a supportive environment for those coping with loss.
For those seeking meal assistance, the Lutheran Social Service Meals on Wheels program delivers hot meals on specific weekdays, with frozen options available for weekends. Interested individuals can call 800-488-4146 for details. Additionally, LSS Meals to Go provides frozen meals shipped directly to homes statewide for approximately $9.75 per meal. To place an order, visit lssmn.org/mealstogo or call 877-287-0768.
For individuals experiencing memory loss, the Voices of Joy Memory Choir meets every Tuesday from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at Scandi Haven of Cura in Benson, welcoming those in the early to mid-stages of memory loss and their care partners.
These initiatives underscore the commitment of west central Minnesota organizations to support the health and well-being of seniors and their caregivers. With a wide range of resources available, community members are encouraged to take advantage of these offerings to improve their quality of life.
