The Rural Connections for Elders project began with a key insight from Sarajane Melton, Director of the Region A Area Agency on Aging and a WNC Bridge Foundation Board member. More than a decade ago, during a training, she realized, “To best serve our older adults and caregivers, we need to meet them where they are, listen, and provide them with the resources to attain their aspirations. It is not about us; it is about them!” Though changing how agencies work can be slow, Sarajane said, “With the willingness and flexibility of the AAA staff, that mission has been embraced and is a part of any conversation that we have related to the work we do.”

Over the years, Sarajane and her team have worked hard with limited resources to support older adults in safely aging at home across the seven far western counties. Their efforts led to a comprehensive, person-centered program.

When the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services offered a partnership opportunity in mid-2024 to improve the mental health of older adults and family caregivers, Sarajane and her team quickly responded. With support from Partnerships Officer Sara Coplai, they expanded their services in just three weeks. The project aligned so closely with the state’s priorities that it received special mention.

AAA Staff:

Jeanne Mathews – Aging Program Specialist – Lead Monitor for aging funds, Consumer directed case manager, Evidence Based Master Trainer

Anna Rogers – Long Term Care Ombudsman – Advocate and Mediator for residents who reside in our long-term care facilities

Lisa Allen – Community Health Educator – Providing Education to the community related to physical, emotional and brain health

Kellie Dula – Aging Assistant – Administrative staff in support of technology and training 

Nadia Blow – Family Caregiver and Dementia Support Specialist – Assisting Family Caregivers with navigating the journey for their loved ones.

Tori Treadway – Digital Navigator – Providing digital skills to older adults

Pat Baker – Aging Assistant – Administrative staff in support of the Legal program and Finance