The Iredell County Board of Commissioners meeting on June 17, 2025, focused on the pressing needs of older adults in the community, highlighting a significant increase in demand for services and the challenges posed by budget uncertainties.

During the meeting, representatives from the Council on Aging presented their funding plan for the upcoming fiscal year, emphasizing the critical role of their services in supporting older adults and their families. They reported a 35% increase in service requests, indicating a growing need for assistance with meals, transportation, and in-home support. This surge in demand coincides with a demographic shift, as Iredell County now ranks eleventh in North Carolina for residents aged 60 and older, with nearly 35,000 individuals in this age group.

The Council noted that this year marks the first without additional temporary funding from federal programs like ARPA and CARES, which had previously helped cushion the impact of rising costs. They are currently operating under last year’s budget while preparing for potential cuts, as the North Carolina Division of Aging has not yet finalized its budget for older Americans' funds.

Despite these challenges, the Council on Aging has successfully served over 30,000 meals and provided nearly 16,000 transportation trips in the past year. They have also launched several new initiatives aimed at addressing mental health and social isolation among older adults, including the Connect Care Companionship Program and the Age Well, Mind Well initiative.

Commissioners expressed their gratitude for the Council's efforts and acknowledged the importance of supporting the aging population. They emphasized the need for continued funding to ensure that essential services remain available to those in need.

The meeting concluded with a call for community support to approve the proposed budget, which is vital for maintaining and expanding services for older adults in Iredell County. The Council urged residents to reach out for assistance or to learn more about available programs through their website or by contacting their office directly.