Golden Senior Living Guide

The Senior's Resource Guide to Thriving in Golden, Colorado
Welcome to the Golden, Colorado Senior Guide!

Nestled amidst the Rockies, a hop away from Denver, Golden is a haven for seniors. With diverse housing, top-notch healthcare, and a never-ending array of activities, life here is anything but mundane. In this guide, discover all that Golden unveils for its senior populace.

Seeking comfy living spaces? We've listed the crème de la crème. Need healthcare options? From routine check-ups at Lutheran Medical Center to emergency care, we've got you covered. Transportation hassles? RTD’s Call-n-Ride is at your service.

Dive deeper, and you'll find a community waiting to embrace you. Engage with fellow seniors at the Golden Community Center, explore legal and financial advisory services, and find ample support if you're a caregiver.

Yearning for more? Immerse yourself in local culture by volunteering at the Colorado Railroad Museum or attending events at the Golden History Museum & Park.

Scroll through, and let's uncover together the enriching experiences Golden lays forth for its senior residents!

Let's embark on an enlightening journey through all that Golden generously offers to its senior denizens!

Health

Discover a variety of health services in Golden aimed at supporting senior well-being. From healthcare providers and specialized medical facilities to wellness programs, Golden offers a tailored approach to health for older adults.

Mental Health

Front Porch: Golden Community Center

The Front Porch at Golden Community Center, accessible from 8th Street, serves as a social hub for Active Adults, offering a range of activities including outdoor adventures, health programs, special events, and sports, available on a drop-in basis without registration, alongside SilverSneakers® and Renew Active programs, with additional details and registration for classes available online or at (303) 384-8130, open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Website

STRIDE Community Health Center

Partners with the community to offer culturally-sensitive health services, focusing on person-centered, comprehensive care for individuals aged 65 and over, aiding in managing acute and chronic issues, preventative care, and ensuring functional independence. As a part of the Age-Friendly Health Systems movement, STRIDE implements the 4Ms framework (What Matters, Medication, Mentation, Mobility) to align care with older adults' goals and preferences, providing a well-rounded, compassionate healthcare experience for seniors, accepting various insurance plans including Medicare and Medicaid, and also catering to uninsured patients.

The Golden location is at Golden High 701 24th St.Golden, Co 80401

Website

Rocky Mountain Crisis Partners

RMCP is a non-profit organization offering crisis management services to individuals facing mental health or substance abuse challenges. Available 24/7, RMCP's mental health professionals assess, stabilize, and connect individuals to appropriate follow-up care and services via phone or text.

Website

SCL West Pines: Behavioral Health Care for Seniors

Senior Behavioral Health at Lutheran Medical Center assists older adults (65+) with complex mental health issues. They provide thorough exams and personalized treatments for symptoms like sadness, insomnia, or memory problems. Under a psychiatrist's lead, a healthcare team cares for patients typically over a 12-14 day stay. Referrals come from various places including emergency departments, private doctors, and nursing homes.

Website

Heartland Mental Health: Peer Support Community

Heartland Mental Health, Denver, aids individuals with mental health conditions. Their Capitol Hill Drop-In Center offers a safe space for peer interaction and resource access.

The Heartland Clinic provides psychiatric services like counseling, medication management, and group activities for adults facing serious mental health issues.

Website

Institute on Aging’s 24-hour toll-free Friendship Line

The Institute on Aging's Friendship Line (800.971.0016) is a unique 24/7 helpline for individuals 60+ and adults with disabilities, offering friendly chats and emotional support through trained volunteers. As the only accredited helpline in the U.S., it provides follow-up calls for loneliness or isolation, aiming to aid seniors facing depression or suicidal thoughts, and connecting them to vital resources.

Website

Colorado Hoarding

The Colorado Hoarding Task Force is a collaborative effort among agencies, businesses, and advocates working to help individuals and families affected by hoarding.

Recognizing the safety, health, and dignity risks hoarding poses for seniors, the task force provides resources and assistance to improve their overall well-being and ensure access to necessary home care services and medication.

Website


Physical Health

Hospitals

1) Centura St. Anthony Hospital at 11600 W 2nd Pl, Lakewood, CO 80228
2) Emergency & Urgent Care Golden at 760 Warner Dr, Golden, CO 80401
3) VA Medical Center - Golden at 1020 Johnson Rd, Golden, CO 80401
4) Lutheran Medical Center at 8300 W 38th Ave, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 (New Location I-70 and 40th Avenue.)

Diagnosis Specific
Rocky Mountain Stroke Center | Website
Dementia Friendly Denver | Website
Parkinson Association of the Rockies | Website
Alzheimer’s Association of Colorado | Website
The ALS Association Rocky Mountain Chapter | Website
Brain Injury Alliance of Colorado | Website

End of Life / Hospice

Denver Hospice Grief Center | Website

Respite / Caregiver Support

AARP Colorado Caregiver Resources | Website
Colorado Respite Coalition (CRC) | Website

Transportation Services

Enjoy independence and social connections in Golden with efficient transportation options. Discover convenient public transport and specialized services designed for seniors.

DRMAC (Denver Regional Mobility and Access Council) is dedicated to offering transportation services and resources for those with mobility challenges, aiming to provide transportation access to everyone in the community, irrespective of their ability.

DRMAC Getting There Guide (PDF)

Getting There APP

Omnibus / VIA, a private non-profit, enhances independence by offering transportation services Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 4:30pm, with no weekend services.

IntelliRide manages non-emergency medical and non-medical transportation for Health First Colorado members statewide.

Access-a-Ride by the Regional Transportation District (RTD), is a shared-ride service complementing regular bus and light rail services, designed for individuals with disabilities unable to utilize standard transit options.

RTD Senior Ride offers transportation for groups of ten or more seniors to recreational, educational, and cultural activities, available year-round.

SeniorShopper provides group rides for seniors facing challenges with fixed route services or driving, operating on weekdays (excluding holidays) from senior housing complexes and community centers, and is open to all ages.

The RTD W Line seamlessly connects Golden to downtown Denver and beyond.

Here are the bus routes at your service:

17: Golden - Arvada - Federal Center
33: Golden - Foothills Hospital - Denver
9: Foothills Hospital - Lakewood - Denver
FL: Flatiron Flyer: Golden - Boulder
FF5: Flatiron Flyer: Golden - Anschutz Medical Campus
WX: Tungsten Route: Jefferson County Campus RTD W Line Station - Downtown Golden - CSM Campus

For seniors and individuals with disabilities, RTD provides paratransit services like SeniorRide, Access-a-Ride, and FlexRide.

Fare Information:
Travel on the W Line entails a Local fare ($3.00), Regional fare ($5.25), or Airport fare ($10.50) based on your destination. Discounted fares are available for eligible individuals.

Learn more about RTD services in Golden by visiting the RTD website or calling 303-299-6000.

RTD W Line
DMARC Resource
GoGo Grandparent

Senior Activities & Social

Golden provides a mix of spiritual, cultural, and recreational experiences to enrich your life.

Engage in religious events, join clubs, or volunteer to celebrate life and build connections.

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Workout and Swimming

Golden Rec Center

The Golden Community Center, nestled in Lions Park, is a 71,483 square foot recreation haven with two indoor pools, a large climbing wall, and expansive fitness areas offering a myriad of activities, classes, and fitness opportunities for all ages, from tots to seniors, including a leisurely Front Porch area for active adults and a water slide popular with children.
Learning

Golden Library Events

Indulge in your craft at Golden Library's drop-in fiber arts program! Unwind for a few hours, learn new techniques, tackle challenging patterns with the help of fellow enthusiasts, or explore new methods. Welcoming all skill levels. -- 1019 10th St
Golden, CO 80401
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Religious

Calvary Church
Website | 1320 Arapahoe St, Golden, CO 80401
First United Methodist Church
of Golden
Website | 1500 Ford St, Golden, CO 80401
Hillside Community Church
Website | 103 N Ford St, Golden, CO 80403
Rockland Community Church
Website | 7 S Mt Vernon Country Club Rd, Golden, CO 80401
St. Joseph Catholic Church-Golden
Website | 969 Ulysses St, Golden, CO 80401
Jefferson Unitarian Church
Website | 14350 W 32nd Ave, Golden, CO 80401
Islamic Center of Golden
Website | 1940 Ford St, Golden, CO 80401

Education and Volunteering

The Golden Lions Club and Golden Senior Center in Golden, CO, provide a rich array of volunteer activities for seniors. The Senior Center hosts Meals on Wheels assistance, nursing home visits, and teaching opportunities. Simultaneously, the Lions Club invites seniors to contribute in vision and hearing screenings, as well as blood drives, fostering a community of active, engaged seniors dedicated to making a tangible impact in their local community.

Golden Lions Club

Spark the Change Colorado, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, ignites community engagement through volunteerism. Formerly Metro Volunteers, this organization champions civic participation by connecting individuals, nonprofits, and corporations to volunteer opportunities. With a mission to spark change and foster a movement of good, they provide resources, training, and direct service programs to mobilize volunteers, serving a broad audience across Colorado, including youth, seniors, and corporate groups. They embody values of community, collaboration, and courage, making a significant impact in creating a stronger and more connected society.

Website

Discover the joy of giving back by volunteering with the City of Golden. With a plethora of volunteer roles in firefighting, youth programs, police department events, museum assistance, and more, your contribution supports Golden's mission to be an unparalleled place to live, work, and play. Whether it's a one-time event or an ongoing engagement, there's a spot for everyone to make a difference. Explore more about the city and current volunteer opportunities at www.cityofgolden.net or reach out to Human Resources for additional information on unlisted volunteer roles.

Current Opportunities

Metro State Center for Individualized Learning | Website

The University of Colorado Boulder's CU Lifelong Learners Class Auditing program gives adults who are 50 years and older the chance to sit in and attend undergraduate courses, when seats are available. This program is intended for older adults who wish to continue their education without the need to be graded or complete assignments, the goal of the program is to foster lifelong learning and enable older adults to be part of the academic community.

Volunteer options
- Jeffco List (PDF)

Housing Options

Explore Golden, CO's dynamic senior living landscape, offering a plethora of top-notch housing solutions tailored to meet the varied needs of older adults. Whether it's independent living, assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing facilities, you're assured of comfort and safety.

This guide navigates through Golden's senior housing arena, aiding you and your loved ones in pinpointing the ideal living setup aligned with your distinct needs and preferences.

Aging in Place

Access medical care from the comfort of your own home with services available to Golden residents.

Colorado Visiting Nurse Logo Large

Colorado Visiting Nurse

6750 W 52nd Ave
Arvada, CO 80002-3928
  • 303-698-2121
  • Skilled Nursing &Rehabilitation at Home
A Little Help
A Little Help

A Little Help, a non-profit organization, arranges for volunteers to assist older adults with transportation, yard work, handyman tasks, and home organization.

Details
Brothers Redevelopment
Brothers’ Senior Services Coordination

Helps seniors with general counseling and resources to stay at home.

Details
Gold Leaf Home Health
Gold Leaf Home Care

Short-term nursing care, rehabilitation, therapy, and assistance with daily tasks

Details
Homemaker and Chore Services Programs

Help seniors to remain independent and self-sufficient in their own homes by providing free light housekeeping and assistance with heavier household chores

Details

InnovAge PACE (Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly) | Website
Volunteers of America Handyman Program | Website

Independent / Assisted / Memory Care

Full-service facilities offering everything from meals to activities and transportation services.

These facilities can range from Independent Living to secure Memory Care facilities with specialized care for Dementia patients and everything in between.

Golden Pond

1270 N FORD STREET GOLDEN, CO 80403
  • 720-734-5532
  • Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent
MorningStar Senior Living of Arvada

17351 W 64th Ave, Arvada, CO 80007
+17205472385
Independent | Assisted | Memory Care

Golden Lodge

1111 Newstar Way Golden, CO 80403
720 605 2111
Assisted Living | Memory Care

Low Income

Foothills Regional Housing (FRH) offers 22 affordable housing communities with more in development, alongside administering a Housing Choice Voucher program with 1,800 vouchers, catering also to foster youth, veterans, and other groups. They run an Emergency Home Repair Program for homeowners in need, and are part of HUD's Moving to Work Demonstration since January 2022, enhancing housing voucher program administration.

Flats at Ford Street, located at 612 24th St, Golden CO, 80401, opened in February 2022, offering housing for individuals and families earning between 30% - 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI).

Website

Temporary Living

Clear Creek RV Park Website

Skilled Nursing / Rehabilitation

LifeCare

1500 W. Mineral Ave., Littleton, CO 80120
  •  (303) 795-7300
  • Skilled Nursing | Rehabilitation
Littleton Care and Rehabilitation Center,

5822 South Lowell Way
Littleton, CO 80123
(303) 798-2497
Skilled Nursing | Rehab

Details

Hospice

Elevation Hospice

Elevation Hospice

7850 Vance Dr, Arvada, CO 80003
  • (720) 713-7478
  • Hospice / Palliative Care / Mobile Care
Colorado Visiting Nurse
Colorado Visiting Nurse Association

6750 W 52nd Ave
Arvada, CO 80002-3928
303-329-0870
Home Health & Hospice

Details
Gracia Hospice Logo
Gracia Hospice

7985 N Vance Drive
Suite 308 Arvada, CO
+1 720 531 3172
Hospice

Details
Senior Placement Providers
Senior housing placement services industry sees surge in demand as baby boomers reach retirement age, companies like those listed below aim to help families navigate the complex process of finding the right assisted living facility.

Colorado Chapter:  The National Placement & Referral Alliance
All About Seniors
Next Steps
Aging at 5280
Senior Living Navigation
Stacy's Helping Hand
Care Matters
Assisted Living Advisors of Colorado
Maintain Me
Heart 2 Heart 4 Seniors
Care Patrol

Senior Property Tax Exceptions

A partial property tax exemption is available for Older Adults who have owned their home and occupied the property as their primary residence for the past 10 consecutive years or more, 65+, veterans with disabilities, Have total income of less than $12,953 (or $17,460 for a couple) income level. Follow link for specifics.

Property Tax Exception Form

Medicare

State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
- SHIP provides Medicare beneficiaries with objective information, counseling, and enrollment assistance.

Outdoor Recreation

Golden, cradled amidst the majestic Rocky Mountains and Table Mountains, unveils an array of recreational avenues for those with a zest for the outdoors and an active lifestyle.

Here, you can traverse the picturesque trails along Clear Creek Trail, hike for views of the city on the Table Mountain trails, or soak in the natural beauty at one of our many parks.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the rich tapestry of outdoor pursuits and recreational events that Golden generously offers, aiding you in finding that perfect venture aligned with your enthusiasms.

Parks and Open Space

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Downtown Fun

1) Clear Creek Trail & Lions Park

Dive into outdoor fun at Lions Park, featuring sand volleyball, a horseshoe pit, and a playground amidst landscaped greenery. It's a local favorite for casual recreation and tubing drop-off during the summer.
City Center

2) Parfet Park

Step back in time at Golden's oldest park, Parfet Park, established in the early 1900s. Adorned with brass markers highlighting historic points of interest, this park is the heart of community celebrations like Buffalo Bill Days every July, among other civic events.

Its large shade trees and the soothing ambiance of Clear Creek attract many from the nearby downtown area seeking a tranquil retreat. Conveniently located just off the main downtown street, it's an ideal spot for a picnic with treats from local shops, blending historical charm with the vibrant community spirit of Golden.
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Trail

3) Lookout Mountain Park

Explore Lookout Mountain Park's wooded foothills, scenic roads, and picnic shelters. Home to the Buffalo Bill burial site & museum, it's highly rated for its natural beauty and historic significance.
Downtown Park

4) North & South Table Mountains

Discover the rugged charm of Golden by exploring the twin wonders of North and South Table Mountain Parks. These mesas offer a canvas of trails for hikers, bikers, and horse riders, each trail carving through geological marvels and opening to panoramic vistas.

North Table Mountain invites you with trails suitable for all, unveiling expansive views of the Denver metro. The plateau’s unique rock formations are a nature enthusiast’s delight.

South Table Mountain is a haven for birdwatchers with cliff-nesting raptors soaring above. Stick to the marked trails to preserve its ecology, and gaze upon Golden's iconic landmark, Castle Rock, from a distance.

Dive into a realm where every trail narrates a tale of Golden's natural heritage, making the Table Mountain Parks a must-visit outdoor escape.
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Local Golden Golf Courses

Immerse in a golfing experience that transcends the ordinary in Golden, CO. Nestled against the breathtaking backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, Golden's golf courses offer a blend of challenging play, stunning vistas, and a touch of history. Whether a seasoned golfer or a novice, the city's lush greens promise a captivating retreat from the urban hustle. Swing amidst nature's grandeur and let every hole unveil a new horizon of golfing delight.

Fossil Trace Golf Course | Website
Discover a golfing adventure entwined with a journey back in time at Fossil Trace Golf Club (17750 W 6th Ave, Golden, CO 80401).

Unveiled in July 2003, Fossil Trace takes you to a realm where dinosaurs once roamed, especially around Holes 11-15. As you navigate the rolling terrain, be ready for challenging fairways and bunkers that add a modern twist to your golf experience under the gaze of the majestic Table Mountain.

A highlight awaits by the 12th green—triceratops footprints and other ancient fossils, letting you touch a slice of Earth's fascinating past. The club's logo even features a prehistoric palm leaf fossil found right here.

#2) Applewood Golf Course | Website 303.279.3003
- (14001 W 32nd Ave, Golden, CO 80401): Catering to golfers across the skill spectrum, Applewood is a welcoming retreat for golf aficionados. Its public 18-hole course, extending over 6,000 yards from the back tees, offers a blend of challenge and enjoyment. Beyond the greens, enjoy a range of amenities including a driving range, putting green, and a well-stocked pro shop, ensuring a well-rounded golfing experience.

Attractions & Event Calendar

Through a myriad of attractions and a lively event calendar, all showcased in this section.

Delve into the brewing secrets at Coors Brewery, traverse the historic lanes at Golden History Museum.

As seasons ebb and flow, Golden's event calendar keeps the city's spirit buoyant. Whether it's the fresh bounty at Golden Farmers Market, rhythmic beats at the Golden Music Festival, or cinematic narratives at Golden Film Festival, there's a vibrant blend of experiences awaiting.

Unveil the essence of Golden as you explore its iconic attractions and partake in seasonal festivities that celebrate community and culture.

Summer Festivals

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Buffalo Bill Days

This cherished event, stretching back to the 1940s, is a tribute to the indomitable spirit of Buffalo Bill Cody. What began as a trail ride up Lookout Mountain has blossomed into Golden's largest community festival, boasting a medley of activities from adrenaline-pumping rodeo shows to live musical acts.
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Movies & Music in the Park

Movies & Music in the Park is a free series hosted in Parfet Park and the Lions Park Ballfields With live music and fireworks display during some events.
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Fine Arts Festival

Now in its 33rd year, this prestigious juried art show draws artists and spectators from near and far. Over two full days, explore a myriad of artistic displays, with free admission, the festival is a welcoming canvas of creativity, set against the picturesque backdrop of Golden's charming locale.
Golden Farmers Market
Golden’s Candlelight Walk Friday
Visitor Center Calendar
City of Golden Calendar
GoldenToday Calendar

Golden Destinations

The city’s quaint yet vibrant streets are home to a diverse array of attractions that offer glimpses into its colorful past, the thrill of adventure, and the serene beauty of nature. Whether it's the historic charm of Downtown Golden, the scientific allure at the Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum, or the melodious evenings at Miners Alley Playhouse, each destination in Golden holds a unique story.

Discover the heritage of brewing at Coors Brewery, or delve into mountaineering history at the Bradford Washburn American Mountaineering Museum. Every corner of Golden invites you to immerse in experiences that are as enriching as they are enjoyable.

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Features

1) Coors Brewery

Discover the world of brewing at Coors Brewery, the globe's largest brewery site in Golden. Uncover the secrets behind Coors beer's iconic taste on a guided tour, culminating in a fresh brew tasting session.
Museum

2)Golden History Museum

Dive into Golden's rich past at the Golden History Museum. From gold mining roots to a thriving community, explore engaging indoor and outdoor exhibits that celebrate the town's journey through time.
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Vista

3) Buffalo Bill Museum and Grave

Venture into the life of William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody at Buffalo Bill Museum. Situated atop Lookout Mountain, explore Buffalo Bill's adventures, Wild West shows, and enjoy panoramic vistas from his final resting place.
Museum

4) Colorado School of Mines - Museum of Earth Science

Uncover Earth's geological wonders at this museum. From dazzling gemstones to ancient fossils, delve into Colorado's mining heritage and the intriguing world of geology.
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5) Historic Downtown Golden

Rich with historical charm, downtown Golden boasts a blend of quaint boutiques, delightful eateries, and scenic beauty alongside Clear Creek. Stroll through the tree-lined streets, enjoy outdoor dining, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere of this welcoming community hub.
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6) Bradford Washburn American Mountaineering Museum

Named after a legendary mountaineer, it's a joint venture between the Colorado Mountain Club and the American Alpine Club. Explore captivating exhibits on mountaineering history, including photographs, equipment, and riveting narratives, encapsulating the adventurous spirit of mountain exploration.
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7) Miners Alley Playhouse

This intimate venue located in the heart of downtown Golden offers a rich lineup of plays, musicals, and children's theater.
Golden History Walking Tour
Rocky Mountain Quilt Museum
Colorado Railroad Museum

Cost of Living & Low Income Resources

Living in Golden is a premium experience, reflecting in costs higher than the national average.

The city's thriving economy, outstanding healthcare, and varied housing, dining, and shopping options make it a coveted living destination. Golden, nested in one of Colorado's healthiest counties according to the County Health Rankings and Jefferson County, also boasts a low crime rate, marking it as a safe abode.

Key cost factors include:

Housing: A significant factor, with the median home price in Golden standing at $650,000, about 130% above the national median.

Healthcare: Although healthcare costs lean higher, Golden hosts numerous top-tier hospitals and medical centers, ensuring access to quality healthcare for its residents.

DRCOG’s Boomer Bond This initiative aids regional local governments in shaping age-friendly spaces, both physically and socially, enabling older adults to stay in their homes and communities as long as they wish.

Low-Income Senior Resources


Health Care
Colorado Indigent Care Program (CICP) | Website

Taxes & Finances
Old Age Pension Health and Medical Care Program (OAP) | Website
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide | Website

Housing
South Metro Housing Options | Website
Senior Support Services | Website
Colorado Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) | Website
Weatherization Assistance | Website

Food
Golden houses several resources for fresh and nutritious food.

GoFarm, a local nonprofit, offers seasonal access to local produce at fair prices, with pickup spots around Golden.

BGoldN runs a food pantry at New Hope Community Church providing a three-day food supply, open on weekdays.

Calvary Food Shelf, located at 1320 Arapahoe Street, offers shelf-stable and fresh food items Monday to Thursday.

Christian Action Guild provides a variety of food and household items.

The Action Center offers weekly pre-packed grocery boxes with a drive-thru or walk-up option, open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 10 am to 3 pm, also providing vouchers for Colorado IDs and other documents upon request.

Project Angel Heart | Website
Meals on Wheels| Website

Additional Resources

Golden Region Focused

City of Golden
Chamber of Commerce
Golden Transcript

Senior Focused Resources

AARP Colorado
Jeffco Human Services Aging
Seniors’ Resource Center
A Little Help
City of Denver: Older Adult Resource Directory
Denver Commission on Aging
Colorado Gerontological Society
Agewise Colorado
Arapahoe County Council On Aging
VOA - Snow Buddies
Get help with snow shoveling during the cold Colorado winter - Website

Emergency Help Lines

Adult Protective Services