Our Caregiver Support and Dementia Service recently expanded its efforts to improve health outcomes among underserved older adults through twice monthly visits to affordable housing sites in North Minneapolis. These visits, offered by Community Health Workers (CHW), bring vital health education and screenings directly to residents.
During one visit, Jozette, a VOA MN/WI CHW, met a resident we'll call Fred (name changed for privacy). Fred had been diagnosed with hypertension and diabetes and was on medication—but something wasn’t right. Screenings revealed dangerously high blood pressure and blood glucose levels. Fred was urged to go to the emergency room immediately—and he did.
What followed was a journey of transformation.
In the weeks after, Jozette learned that Fred didn’t fully understand his conditions or the importance of taking his medications consistently. Through personalized education and compassionate support, Fred gained critical knowledge about the risks of uncontrolled hypertension and diabetes, why medication adherence matters, and how to make healthier choices around food and exercise.
Inspired and empowered, Fred committed to taking part in a new VOA MN/WI initiative, the Healthy Lifestyle Reset, which guides individuals with chronic health conditions through a three-month journey to improve health through increased social connections, education, exercise, and mindfulness. Now, three months later, Fred has lost 37 pounds, reduced his blood pressure, and brought his diabetes under control.
“Because I worked with Jozette twice a week, I saw changes in my health. My blood pressure has lowered, I lost weight, made changes in how I prepare meals. I am on the journey to continue living a healthy lifestyle.”
Fred’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when education, trust, and consistent support come together. It’s also a testament to the impact our CHWs are making every day—offering our neighbors the tools and support they need to take charge of their health and live more hopeful, healthier lives.
Caregiver Services support older adults and their caregivers through support groups, health monitoring and education, and respite care. Adult caregivers or informal providers of in-home and community care are eligible for support, so long as they are caring for an adult 60+ years of age or an individual (of any age) with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias.