Resources & Links

This is just a sampling of the wealth of resources available to seniors in Sonoma County.

Northern California Center for Well-Being — Classes offered by dietitians and diabetes educators cover meal-planning as well as instruction in all aspects of managing diabetes. Their Age Well program also offers classes in fitness, balance, movement and dealing with pain from chronic conditions such as arthritis.
Meals on Wheels — Operated by The Council on Aging in Sonoma County, this is more than just a hot meal delivered to your loved one. Other benefits are the daily human contact with caring drivers who are trained to notice potential safety problems in the home. Special meals are availble to meet needs of diabetics.

Earle Baum Center of the Blind — A great resource for visually-impaired people, especially seniors. They provide services, support, social and recreational opportunities through a variety of classes and programs. Demonstration and training in adaptive products and equipment.
Hearing Solutions for Sonoma County — Three clinics located in the county offer hearing assessment by audiologists and a range of services providing hearing aids and other listening devices. Offers loaners and a risk-free evaluation period.

Mobility Masters — A local source of aids such as canes and walkers, wheelchairs and products to help with safety in the home. Friendly and professional staff offers services such as in-home evaluations and training in use of equipment. Contractors on staff to help with home modifications to enable independent living.
Sonoma Surgical Supply— Located in Santa Rosa and offers canes, walkers, bathroom safety products and products for foot care, skin care, etc. Wheelchairs are available for purchase or rental.
Jonathan’s Son — Owned by a husband/wife team; Paul Harlin is a licensed general contractor and Rhonda Harlin is a registered nurse. Offer custom remodels to allow seniors to remain in their home.

Visiting Angels — Offers qualified home care services for up to 24-hour care, including weekends and holidays. Meal preparation, light housekeeping, companionship, bathing assistance are among services offered on long term or temporary basis.

Senior Centers— These popular centers are located throughout Sonoma County and offer a variety of activities, including art, crafts, writing classes, social activities, lunches, special trips and events, and exercise. Programs vary with the Senior Center. The Sebastopol Senior Center is an example of a welcoming place for seniors to get together, now offering a volunteer driver program.
Jewish Community Center Sonoma County — Offers a Friendship Circle for seniors.
Finley Aquatic Center — Offers a beautiful outdoor pool with heated water and special equipment to accommodate people in wheelchairs. Gentle water exercise classes are popular with seniors.

Sonoma County Area Agency on Aging — This is a program of the Sonoma County Human Services Department. Their Senior Resource Guide, published once a year, offers a wealth of information on area agencies, programs and services.
Council on Aging of Sonoma County — They run programs such as Meals on Wheels, Senior Dining Rooms, Senior Day Activities and a Friendly Visitor Program. A great resource for legal, financial and care management professionals.

California Reverse Mortgage Consultants — A local real estate brokerage that offers information on the benefits and potential pitfalls of reverse mortgages, with a focus on the senior community.
ASK Realty — Senior real estate specializts offering concierge services operated from virtual offices.

Alzheimer’s Association, northern California chapter — Authoritative source of informatiion, including tips and strategies for caregivers.
American Cancer Society — Find the latest research on cancer treatment as well as local resources and services for treatment, caregiving and support groups.
American Diabetes Association — Up-to-date information on managing Type 2 diabetes, including treatment and care, as well as meal planning tips, recipes and ideas for exercise.
American Heart Association — An important gateway into information and resources for people living with cardiovascular disease. Lists warning signs for cardiac arrest, heart attack and stroke, including a link to the American Stroke Association.
Asbestos exposure — Information about exposure, diagnosis and benefits for veterans and civilian defense employees who were exposed to asbestos fibers. Learn about eligibility for veterans’ benefits for treating diseases and cancers such as asbestosis and mesothelioma.