Older Adults

C.A.T.S. (Companion Animals Touching Seniors) offers older adults the opportunity to foster a cat. The program lasts two months, during which the Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center provides all the necessary supplies to care for the cat. When the foster period ends, the older adult has the chance to adopt the cat. The only fee they are asked to cover is for the license. For more information, contact Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center at 248-858-1070 or email PetAdoption@OaklandCountyMI.gov.

The Healthy Aging Oakland County Ad Hoc Committee was formed in 2021 to create a strategic blueprint for an aging-friendly county that meets the needs of the rapidly growing 65+ population and those who care for them.

In honor of Older Americans Month in June 2022, 12 community members were recognized by the Oakland County Board of Commissioners with the 2022 Oakland County Outstanding Older Adult Awards. The program, spearheaded by Commissioner Kristen Nelson (District 5), was designed to highlight Oakland County residents 60 years and older who demonstrate a passion for volunteerism and community service. Commissioners were invited to nominate a resident from their district for this special award program.

To ensure access to healthy foods for all, the Oakland County Farmers Market accepts food assistance benefits, including the Senior Project Fresh/Market Fresh. The program gives coupon vouchers to eligible older adults to get Michigan-grown fruit, vegetables, herbs, spices and honey from farmers’ markets. The program runs from May 1 to Oct. 31 each year. Learn more on the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services website.

On Senior Market Day, residents age 60 and older can visit the Oakland County Farmers Market, complete a short, one-page survey and receive a coupon voucher for $5 to use toward the purchase of fresh fruits and vegetables. The coupon must be used on this day only. For questions about Senior Market Day, contact Kelsey Merz at 248-365-8954 or MerzK@OaklandCountyMI.gov

Nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining health and wellness in older years. The Health Division has helpful tips and resources for proper nutrition, food assistance and more. If you need nutrition support or food assistance, call Oakland Connects at 800-848-5533 Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.

The county’s Neighborhood Housing & Development Division offers reverse mortgages for those aged 62 or older. Housing Counselors can explain the program to you so you can make an informed decision on whether it is the right product for your household. They can also provide the necessary certificate to apply for a reverse mortgage. Call to speak with a counselor at 248-858-5402 or email NHD@OaklandCountyMI.gov.

Oakland County Parks offers a variety of programming for active adults. Explore their parks, try a new activity, learn about Oakland County history and enjoy socializing in a welcoming, friendly environment. Call 248-858-0916 or email Info@OaklandCountyParks.com for more information.

Oakland County Sheriff’s 911 Emergency Senior Cell Phone Program is designed to equip older adults with a mobile means of contacting help during an emergency. Phones are free for older adults in Oakland County.

Cell phone distribution hours are every Friday from 9 a.m. to noon at the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office, 1200 North Telegraph Road, Building 38E, Pontiac, 48341.

Learn about domestic safety for older adults by visiting the Sheriff’s Office website.

As a U.S. veteran, part of your life’s journey was serving our country, and the Oakland County Veterans Services team is dedicated to honoring your service and helping you map out all the veteran benefits you have earned. Learn more about all the resources available to veterans.

For more information, call the Veterans Services Pontiac Office at 248-858-0785 or the Troy/South Oakland Office at 248-655-1250.

Meals on Wheels

Meals on Wheels is a food pantry that caters to older adults in Oakland County. It offers older adults meals and daily human contact from friendly, courteous volunteers. Agencies participating in Oakland County:

For more information on support services for caregivers and older adults, visit the U.S. Administration on Aging’s Eldercare Locator or AgeWays Nonprofit Senior Services (formerly Area Agency on Aging 1-B), serving Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair and Washtenaw counties.