By Dali Moncada, volunteer programs manager, Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging
You might remember when your elderly neighbor could always be seen outside trimming their beautiful rose bushes, sweeping the walkway, and taking pride in the yard they loved. Over time, you start to notice small changes. The once-vibrant roses have gone untrimmed, the grass grows taller, and the weeds begin to take over. Before long, that beautiful yard, once a little oasis, begins to look neglected.
What you’re seeing may be more than just an untidy yard. It can be a quiet sign that an older adult is struggling. The physical work has become too much, or declining health has begun to take away the simple joy of seeing their outdoor space thrive. And when the seasons shift, the challenges only grow. If trimming rose bushes in the summer is no longer possible, shoveling snow in the winter is nearly impossible. Suddenly, yardwork isn’t just about curb appeal, it’s about safety.
That’s where the Outdoor Chore Program at the Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging steps in. Our goal is to intervene before outdoor maintenance becomes overwhelming, to make sure older adults aren’t left feeling isolated, unsafe, or embarrassed by what they can no longer do. Volunteers help with the kinds of chores that can quickly pile up: raking leaves, pulling weeds, trimming overgrowth, and in the winter, clearing snow and ice.
These acts of service go far beyond appearances. A cleared sidewalk means confidence leaving the house. A tidy yard means peace of mind and pride restored. And for many older adults without nearby family or neighbors to rely on, it means knowing someone still cares.
As the seasons change, so do the needs. In the warmer months, it’s about helping a yard breathe again, cutting back the overgrowth and preparing for new growth. In the winter, it’s about ensuring safety and warmth, shoveling snow, salting pathways, and checking in after storms.
Let’s not wait until the work becomes too much or until our neighbors fear stepping outside because of ice and snow. Together, we can notice the signs early, lend a hand, and help every older adult feel secure and proud of the home they’ve worked so hard to build. If you’d like to learn more or volunteer with the Outdoor Chore Program, contact our Volunteer Programs at the Pikes Peak Area Agency on Aging by calling (719) 471-2096. Your time can make a lasting difference one yard, one neighbor, and one season at a time.