SearchBDS Healthy Aging Networks, Inc.
About BDS Healthy Aging Networks
In special recognition of Older Americans Month, MVLS is proud to recognize BDS Healthy Aging Networks, Inc. as our Community Partner of the Month. Since 1969, the organization has connected Baltimore residents, providers, and partners to vital resources that help older adults thrive.
Supporting Older Adults Since 1969
Since 1969, BDS Healthy Aging Networks has evolved through several name changes to meet the changing needs of the community.
Today, the organization works to address social isolation, loneliness, and the vulnerabilities faced by homebound older adults. Guided by the founding principle that “Older Adults are ASSETS, Not Burdens,” BDS Healthy Aging Networks connects thousands of Baltimore residents, providers, and partners to the resources they need to thrive.
Advocating for Older Adults Across Baltimore
BDS Healthy Aging Networks’ advocacy is continuous, proactive, and deeply rooted in the Baltimore community. The organization does not only provide resources; it also challenges systemic inequities.
Currently, BDS Healthy Aging Networks is partnering with MVLS to design a formal Advocacy Model focused on four critical areas:
- Housing Security: Helping develop payment plans to keep legacy homeowners from losing their homes through tax sale.
- Economic Equity: Encouraging fair compensation for study participants and grassroots nonprofits that support community research.
- Dignified Language: Replacing diminishing terms like “senior” or “elderly” with empowering terms like “older adults” and “older Americans.”
- Digital Equity: Working to eliminate technology bias against older people.
Upcoming Memorial Forum
BDS Healthy Aging Networks is turning personal grief into a catalyst for systemic change. On Wednesday, May 27, 2026, from 12:30 PM to 6:00 PM via Zoom, the organization will host its Inaugural Memorial Forum: Aging and Dying with Dignity & Observance of Older Americans’ Month.
The forum is dedicated in remembrance of Deacon Henry Simon, Jr., the late husband of BDS Healthy Aging Networks’ leader and the organization’s Vice President. While the national 2026 theme is “Champion Your Health,” this forum emphasizes that personal health cannot be championed alone.
Instead, healthcare and hospice systems must also fulfill their promises. The forum will convene resource partners and leaders to discuss how communities can ensure every older adult is protected by systems that value their life, dignity, and peace at the end of life.
How the Community Can Support This Work
Partners can support BDS Healthy Aging Networks by joining monthly Zoom networks, collaborating on the organization’s 2026 advocacy agenda, and ensuring community engagement includes equitable funding for grassroots organizations.
BDS Healthy Aging Networks was also named a 2024 Maryland Digital Equity Champion Awardee, recognizing its commitment to increasing access and addressing digital inequities.
The organization invites partners and community members to attend the Memorial Forum on May 27 to help move the conversation from individual effort to systemic obligation.
Supporting Older Adults Through Partnership
MVLS is proud to partner with BDS Healthy Aging Networks to support housing security, digital equity, dignified language, and stronger systems for older adults across Baltimore.
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