Healthy Aging Resources

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Home Safety

Fall prevention is an integral factor to healthy aging. There are local, in-person learning opportunities available. The Wauwatosa Health Department is committed to fall prevention. Learn more.

Additionally, we participate in the Milwaukee County Falls Prevention Coalition which addresses the adult community's risk of falling by providing access to comprehensive programs and targeted interventions. See their website for more information and fall prevention tips.

Reducing Social Isolation & Loneliness

25% of adults aged 65 and older are considered socially isolated, meaning the number of contacts they have with others is small. 43% report feeling lonely, meaning they have a thirst for connection. Those who lack social connection are more likely to experience cardiovascular disease, develop dementia, have an increased risk for falls and are more at risk for severe depression and earlier morbidity.

Practical Tips for Reducing Isolation:

Social Activities: Clubs, book clubs, card groups, pen pal programs, meals, support groups
Physical Activities: Home or fitness center exercise program, walks, gardening, yoga
Learning Activities & Brain Health: Trivia, brain teasers, health promotion program
Entertainment Resources: Coloring books, music/theater performances, online museums, writing group
Nurturing positivity: Gratitude journaling, mindfulness, spirituality
Wellness Calls
Volunteer opportunities

Electronic Resources for Social Engagement

Telephone Reassurance Program- Daily wellness checks for older adults. Supported by volunteers and staff of Vital Voices in partnership with Milwaukee County Aging and Disability Services.
AARP Friendly Voice - Friendly calls from AARP volunteers.
Friendship Line - Institute on Aging; crisis intervention and non-emergency hotline for emotional support phone calls.
Well Connected - Virtual classes, conversations and activities by phone. Available in English and Spanish.

Transportation Options for Older Adults

Preparedness

File of Life
Disaster Planning
Lock Box Program
- Lock boxes provide an alternative to forced entry of your home for emergency responders. The boxes are only accessible by authorized personnel in the event of an emergency. In Wauwatosa, only the Wauwatosa Fire Department has a key that can open the lock box. For further information on purchasing a lock box contact the Fire Department non-emergency number (414) 471-8490.

Health

Energy Assistance Program

The Energy Assistance Program provides assistance for heating costs, electric costs, and energy crisis situations for qualified Milwaukee County residents. Call (414) 270-4653 for eligibility.

Home Renovation Assistance

Revitalize Milwaukee is a nonprofit organization in which skilled and unskilled volunteers repair homes for low-income elderly and/or disabled homeowners who are unable to repair or afford the work themselves. The goal of the program is to address the safety, security, and independence of the homeowner. Guidelines apply. Chosen recipients receive all repairs free of charge. Repairs are completed safely and in compliance with current building code guidelines. For income guidelines and to apply for the program visit the website or call 414-312-7531.

City of Wauwatosa Home Rehabilitation Program offers critical home repair for low to moderate income residents.

Milwaukee County Home Repair Program offers no-interest loans to income-qualified homeowners in the suburban communities of Milwaukee County. Visit their website at county.milwaukee.gov/housing or call (414) 278-4917.