Understanding the Growing Need Among Colorado Seniors

Colorado is home to one of the fastest‑growing senior populations in the nation, and the needs of older adults are expanding faster than the systems designed to support them. As more Coloradans age into fixed incomes, disability, and caregiving roles, the gap between available resources and real‑world needs continues to widen.

Seniors Living in Poverty

According to statewide data and national rankings:

• 9.2% of Colorado seniors live below the federal poverty line

• Many more live just above it, struggling with housing, food, transportation, and medical costs

• 7.7% of older adults experience food insecurity, placing them at higher risk of health decline and housing instability

These numbers represent tens of thousands of older adults who are one unexpected expense away from losing their homes.

The Rise of Grandfamilies

Colorado has an estimated 36,000 seniors raising their grandchildren. These caregivers often take on parenting a second time under the same financial limitations they faced before—fixed incomes, disability, or limited mobility.

Research consistently shows that:

• Children with stable parental or caregiver involvement have higher graduation rates, better emotional outcomes, and greater long‑term stability

• But caregivers need support to provide that stability—especially when they are older adults with limited income

Bright Leaf Seniors’ GrandCare Alliance initiative is designed to help fill this gap.

Disability & Fixed‑Income Households

A significant portion of Colorado seniors qualify for assistance programs:

• Over 30% of adults 55+ in Colorado live with a disability

• Many rely on Medicare, Medicaid, or SNAP benefits to meet basic needs

• These individuals are the most likely to struggle with home maintenance, safety repairs, and mobility‑related modifications

This population represents tens of thousands of Coloradans who would qualify for free support services like those provided by Bright Leaf Seniors.

Why Home Repairs Matter

The Multi‑Sector Plan on Aging highlights a critical truth: Helping seniors remain safely in their homes reduces strain on Medicaid, emergency services, and long‑term care systems.

Preventing a fall, repairing a broken step, or fixing a heating system can:

• Prevent costly hospitalizations

• Delay or eliminate the need for nursing home placement

• Reduce state spending

• Improve quality of life and independence

Bright Leaf Seniors’ free home repair program directly supports these goals.

What Bright Leaf Seniors Hopes to Accomplish

Our mission is to:

• Help seniors and veterans remain safely in their homes

• Reduce preventable medical emergencies

• Support grandfamilies facing financial and emotional strain

• Strengthen communities through volunteer engagement

• Fill the gaps left by limited state funding and regional service barriers

By mobilizing volunteers, community partners, and local businesses, Bright Leaf Seniors aims to build a statewide support network that ensures no senior is left behind.