Barbara Gordon (left) accepts an award at the 2009 n4a Annual Conference _____________________

The National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a) announced the recipients of the 2009 n4a Aging Innovations and Achievement Awards at its recent annual conference in Minneapolis, MN.

This awards program recognizes n4a members and showcases innovative and successful aging services programs that assist older adults and caregivers in communities across the country. The need for successful cost–effective aging services programs is especially important in light of our rapidly growing aging population.

The 2009 Aging Achievement Awards were given to 37 programs in 14 categories that included caregiving, community planning, ethnic and cultural diversity, elder abuse, healthy aging, intergenerational programs, nutrition, technology, transportation and volunteerism/civic engagement.  KIPDA was honored with two Aging Achievement Awards.

The first award was granted to the In-Home Emergency Services Program. This program is designed to provide temporary/short term services for people 60 years of age or older for a period of eight weeks. The program's intent is to prevent deterioration of health, interference in continuum of care, and premature nursing home placement.

The second award was granted to the Professional Training Program. The Professional Training initiative is implemented through a contract with Jewish Family and Career Services and offers a comprehensive and effective training environment for in-home services providers and case managers. KIPDA expanded this training initiative in 2009 to include Adult Day Care, Senior Center, Support Brokers, and other KIPDA staff and providers. The training is provided in partnership with the KIPDA Region Mental Health and Aging Coalition, Seven Counties Services, Inc. and other entities.