Connections AAA expands programs to home security

Connections Area Agency on Aging held a ribbon cutting at their Creston office last Wednesday to celebrate the beginning of their new Ring program which will help provide older Iowans with staying safe in their own homes.

The program is a national partnership program which is sponsored by the Amazon-owned company Ring, and is administered by USAging, the national association for Area Agencies on Aging.

“This partnership between Ring and Area Agencies on Aging will ensure that these devices reach the older adults who need them most, allowing them to age safely in their homes and communities,” said CEO of USAging Sandy Markwood.

Applicants to the program will receive one of two Ring items, a video doorbell or a stick up camera. This will allow for a view of the front of the home from a smartphone, giving an added layer of home safety. Both of these items will also come with a subscription for the duration of the device’s life.

The new program will join a variety of services Connections offers, including healthy meal programs and technology education programs. Connections Director of Community Engagement Aubrey Kruger-Kutchara says Connections’ programs will help older Iowans be independent in their homes.

“We provide information to support services to older Iowans and their family caregivers with the goals of keeping folks in their homes as long as it’s safe so they can age on their own terms,” she said.

The cameras will also be helpful for caregivers to help monitor the individuals they care for. Access will be given to caretakers during installation.

There are four requirements to be fulfilled before being accepted into the Ring program. Applicants must be 60 or older and must have Wi-Fi, a smartphone and an email address.

For the area covered by Connections AAA, which includes Sioux City and Council Bluffs alongside Creston, 500 devices are available on a first come first serve basis for accepted and eligible individuals.

“We at Connections are so excited to have this program to offer to our seniors across our 20 counties,” said Krueger-Kutchara. “We’re one of 10 area agencies on aging across the country to get this grant.”

Two main methods to apply are available. There is an online form available at www.connectionsaaa.org/ring/. A printed form can be found online or at the Connections office at 109 North Elm Street.