Monday-Thursday: 8:00AM-4:00PM

Friday: 8:00AM-12:30PM

June 1, 2023-August 31, 2023

We have some new faces at Agelinc. Please welcome our NEWEST Team Members:

Lori Wallace (Program Specialist):

Previously, Lori worked in the field of public health and the school district. She loves serving the community in ways to make it a better place. She is excited and looking forward to working with the clients at AgeLinc. 

Elise John (Program Specialist):

Happily married, Has 2 four-legged beasts, born in Germany, raised an Air Force Brat.., favorite seasons are Spring and Fall, and love of “COMFORT FOOD.”

Diane Wheelock (Administrative Assistant):

She has two grown daughters named Erica & Katie and a beautiful granddaughter named Layla. She is expecting her second grand child in November, for which she is very thankful.

She loves being outside, any chance she gets, thus avoiding “house work.” Diane would rather pick up sticks in the yard and mow than do dishes or dust. Loves to lay in the sun and ride bikes or go for long walks as well.

Next to her big family, (one of seven) and her children, helping others is very important to her. As a child, Diane's family were helped many times thanks to the kindness and generosity of others.

How to Choose the Best Dog for an Older Person:

You can enjoy the many advantages of dog ownership at any age, but it's important to find the right animal. Here are some factors to weigh when selecting a dog:

• Energy level: Some breeds require more exercise than others. If you're fairly active, you may be able to handle a dog that needs lots of play time and opportunities to run. But if you have mobility or stamina issues, you might want to choose a dog that is content with a few short walks. Some very small dogs may even be able to get all the exercise they need just by running around inside your home.
• Size: Smaller dogs are easier to keep under control and are more suitable for seniors living in condos, apartments, or care facilities. Small dogs can fit in your lap, are more portable than larger breeds, won't physically overwhelm you, and can be easily washed in a sink. However, some small dogs have lots of nervous energy and try to make up for their diminutive stature with plenty of barking. (This doesn't always hold true, though: Among dogs that bark the least are smaller breeds like the pug and the Boston terrier). Alternatively, docile larger dogs that don't require a lot of maintenance may be a good choice.
• Age: Older dogs are better dogs for seniors to adopt than puppies that are super active and tend to chew and nip. (Most dogs are considered to be "seniors" when they reach about age seven.) Adult dogs are typically already housetrained and well-socialized with people. Mature dogs also tend to be the calmest dogs, with more predictable behavior patterns. In addition, it's wise to think about the life expectancy of different dogs and how likely it is that your pet will outlive you. Who will take care of your dog if you aren't around to do so?
• Temperament: Dogs' temperaments are influenced by the genes they are born with as well as the way they are brought up. While any dog can be raised to be friendly, some breeds are more naturally conditioned to be gentle and welcoming. Beagles, retrievers, poodles, and bulldogs are among the dogs that have the best temperament. But keep in mind that every animal has a unique personality. Try to interact with any potential pet you are considering in order to get a feel for how well-suited you are to each other.
• Grooming requirements: Some breeds need to be bathed, trimmed, and clipped regularly, while others just need a quick brush every so often. Be sure to choose a dog whose needs you can manage, either by yourself or with the help of a family member or professional groomer.

8 of the Overall Best Companion Dogs for Seniors

What are some of the best companion dog breeds? Elderly people have a wide range of needs and preferences, so the perfect pet for one senior may be entirely unsuitable for another. That said, some breeds have certain combinations of traits that make them popular choices for retirees. Here are eight of the top companion dogs for older adults:

Poodle

1. Thanks to their extraordinary intelligence and highly trainable nature, poodles are good companion dogs. They form a strong bond with more than one member of their human families and are one of the best dogs for couples. They are sweet, gentle, and loving animals. Poodles need a daily walk but are otherwise content to play or just lie on the couch. They don't shed, but they do need to be groomed every month or so. You can choose from three sizes of poodle: toy, miniature, or standard.

Cavalier King Charles spaniel

1. These quiet, small dogs make some of the best lap dogs for seniors. They love nothing better than snuggling up with their owners, and they get along extremely well with adults, children, and other pets. Active and playful, they are also intelligent and easy to train. Their long, soft, beautiful coat requires regular grooming and an occasional bath. Keep in mind that this dog breed loves to chase things; you'll need a long leash or a fenced yard.

Boston terrier

1. Looking for a smaller-sized companion dog who will be utterly devoted to you? Boston terriers are adaptable, friendly, mild-tempered dogs whose favorite activity is sitting peacefully with their owners. They are easy to train and don't bark much, which makes them well-suited to apartment or condo life. Their grooming needs are minimal, since their short, smooth coat (which resembles a black-and-white tuxedo) is easy to care for. They don't do well in hot weather, though.

Maltese

1. Weighing in at just four to seven pounds, the tiny Maltese is widely regarded as the quintessential lap dog. Bright, gentle, and playful, these dogs get along well with other pets and are extremely attentive to their owners' moods. (In fact, they are frequently used as therapy dogs.) While they don't need a lot of outdoor exercise, they do like going for short walks and dashing around the house. Their silky white coat doesn't shed but does require daily brushing and weekly bathing.

Pembroke Welsh corgi

1. Intelligent and lively, Pembroke Welsh corgis are high-energy dogs that live for human attention and are big on pleasing their owners. They are famous for being the favorite pets of Queen Elizabeth II. They have squat bodies and short legs, and they typically weigh between 25 and 30 pounds. Originally bred as herding dogs, corgis love hiking and being outside, and they need frequent daily walks. They have a protective nature and make good watchdogs. However, they can be prone to barking.

Beagle

1. Are you an active outdoorsy type who enjoys long walks? You might get along well with a beagle. These dogs are energetic, sociable animals who love to play. They are friendly, fun, easygoing characters who consider every person they meet to be their new best buddy. Bred as hunting hounds, beagles are a scent-driven breed and will take off in pursuit of an interesting smell. It's important to have a securely fenced yard and supervise these dogs closely.

Pomeranian

1. Pomeranians are small companion dogs that are smart, lively, and affectionate. They are very curious and love attention, making them a good option for older adults who can give them lots of time and energy. They should be brushed at least a couple times a week to keep their fluffy coats healthy and shiny. Poms are proud and aren't naturally inclined to take direction from others, but firm, gentle leadership can train them not to be unruly. They do tend to be loud, however.

Chihuahua

1. Chihuahuas are tiny dogs that are full of personality. Few other breeds are as quirky and entertaining. Lively and spunky, chihuahuas are loyal companions who love to sit in their owners' laps and be petted. They are good apartment animals but need to be trained to deal with strangers and children. Chihuahuas enjoy going for walks and basking in the sun, but they cannot handle cold weather. Fortunately, because they are so small, they can often fill their exercise needs indoors.