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Betsy Packer: Small town support

One of my worst nightmares came true as the ski season ended. I found myself in the hospital with broken bones and no family in town to care for my immediate needs. Where would I go and how would I manage on my own? With a few phone calls and the help of friends, I experienced what a small town is all about.

The Routt County Council on Aging is a nonprofit that serves the needs of seniors in the valley. I found that even though I was not a senior, I could have meals delivered to my home for $6 per meal. Had I been a senior (60 and older), the cost would have been $3 per meal. These meals aren’t of the pre-made variety; they are well balanced, natural and fresh. They ranged from fish, rice, vegetables and dessert, to pork roast, sweet potatoes, green salad and ice cream.

The Council on Aging also referred me to Yampa Valley Companion Care, a division of the Northwest Colorado Visiting Nurse Association that provides in-home care. The services range from bathing, dressing, personal errands and incidental housekeeping. I had an aide come to my house and help me shower safely, bring me over-the-counter medications, and she just listened. There is a fee for the services.



With the support of these two local programs and a handful of friends, I received the physical and emotional support to get me back on my feet again. Thanks again to ski patrol for its efficient service getting me down the hill and to our world-class hospital.

I am so glad to call Steamboat home and happy these services were available to me quickly, easily and at a reasonable price.



Betsy Packer

Steamboat Springs


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