Welcome to Senior Spotlight — the program where we shine a light on the resources, stories, and conversations that help older adults stay informed, connected, and empowered. Each week, we bring you practical information, community updates, and voices that make a difference in the lives of seniors across Central Texas. Whether you’re listening at home, on the road, or tuning in from your morning routine, we’re glad you’re with us.
Feature Story: Connecting Older Adults to the Support They Deserve
For many older adults and people living with disabilities, the rising cost of everyday essentials can make it difficult to stay healthy, independent, and financially secure. But a powerful resource is helping millions bridge that gap.
BenefitsCheckUp, a free, confidential tool from the National Council on Aging designed to connect individuals with programs that can ease the strain of daily expenses.
BenefitsCheckUp makes it simple to discover support that may already be available in your community. By entering a ZIP code, users can quickly see programs that help pay for nutritious food, health care, prescriptions, utilities, transportation, and other essentials. The tool guides you step‑by‑step, showing how to learn more about each program and how to apply online.
The process is straightforward: answer a few brief questions, and BenefitsCheckUp identifies potential programs you may qualify for — all without sharing personal information. For older adults on fixed incomes, caregivers supporting loved ones, or individuals navigating disability‑related expenses, this can be a lifeline.
Beyond benefits screening, the site also offers ways to stay informed. Visitors can choose to receive resources tailored to their needs, whether they’re seeking help for themselves, supporting a family member, or working in aging services.
In communities across the country, BenefitsCheckUp is helping people stretch their budgets, maintain their health, and continue living with dignity and independence. To explore what’s available in your area, visit BenefitsCheckUp.org and enter your ZIP code. A brighter, more secure future may be just a few clicks away.
A Morning of Gratitude at the Heroes Resource Center
On Sunday, May 31st, the Heroes Resource Center in Cedar Park will open its doors early—not for a meeting or a ceremony, but for something far more personal: a warm, free breakfast served with appreciation for those who’ve served our nation.
From 8 to 10 a.m., service members, veterans, and their families are invited to gather for a morning of good food and good company. The menu is simple but comforting—breakfast tacos, donuts, orange juice, coffee, and more—the kind of spread that brings people together around a table and reminds them they’re part of a community that cares.
The Heroes Resource Center, located at 1150 S. Bell Blvd., Building #5 in Cedar Park, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to serving Veterans, Service Members, and their families in a safe, welcoming, and family‑friendly environment. Their mission goes far beyond events; they provide year‑round support, resources, and a place where military families can connect, recharge, and find the help they need.
Events like this breakfast reinforce that mission. Sponsored by Summit Worship Center, the gathering is designed to be relaxed and welcoming. Families can drop in anytime during the two‑hour window, enjoy a plate, share a conversation, and start their Sunday with a sense of belonging.
In a world that often moves too fast, this simple act of sharing breakfast becomes something meaningful—a reminder that service is honored, families are valued, and community is still built one small gesture at a time.
Gilmer Street Railroad Crossing to Close for Safety Upgrades
Drivers in central Killeen should plan for a brief detour next week as the City of Killeen Engineering Department prepares to close a section of Gilmer Street for railroad safety improvements.
From May 15 through May 17, weather permitting, Gilmer Street will be closed at the railroad crossing between Veterans Memorial Boulevard and 761th Tank Battalion Avenue. The temporary closure will allow BNSF crews to install new cantilever arms at the crossing — an upgrade designed to enhance safety for motorists traveling through the busy corridor.
A contractor will manage a full traffic control plan throughout the project, guiding drivers safely around the work zone. City officials are asking motorists to slow down, use caution, and follow all posted traffic control devices while crews are on site.
Austin-Travis County Urges Residents to “Fight the Bite” as Mosquito Season Ramps Up
Mosquito season has arrived in Austin and Travis County, fueled by recent rains and warming temperatures. Local health officials are urging residents to take simple, proactive steps now to protect themselves and their families from mosquito‑borne illnesses such as West Nile virus and Zika.
From spring through fall, mosquitoes thrive in Central Texas’ warm, wet climate. While their bites are irritating, the greater danger comes from the diseases they can carry — including dengue fever, encephalitis, and canine heartworm. In 2025 alone, 41 mosquito pools tested positive for West Nile virus, and preliminary data shows five human cases were reported in Austin‑Travis County.
“While we’re all getting ready to enjoy the summer, let’s be sure to bring mosquito repellent and appropriate clothing anytime we plan on spending time outdoors,” said Environmental Health Services Division Chief Marcel Elizondo. “We’ve consistently seen West Nile virus for years, and this year shouldn’t be any different. Taking time to protect yourself can keep you from getting sick or even needing to go to the hospital.”
Fight the Bite Day and Night: The Four Ds
Health officials recommend following the Four Ds — a simple, effective way to reduce your risk:
- Dusk and Dawn: Mosquitoes that spread West Nile virus are most active during these hours. Limit outdoor activity or take extra precautions.
- Dress: Wear long sleeves and pants when outdoors. Light‑colored, loose‑fitting clothing offers better protection.
- DEET: Use insect repellent containing DEET and follow label instructions. Apply to both skin and clothing.
- Drain: Remove standing water around your home. Even small amounts — in flowerpots, gutters, birdbaths, tires, or kiddie pools — can become breeding sites.
A Community Effort to Stay Healthy
Mosquito prevention is a shared responsibility. By eliminating standing water, using repellent, and staying aware of peak mosquito activity, residents can significantly reduce the spread of disease.
Officials encourage everyone to take these steps seriously — especially as summer activities increase and mosquito populations grow.
More information on mosquito safety, prevention tips, and local resources is available at austintexas.gov/mosquito.
That brings us to the close of this week’s Senior Spotlight. Thank you for spending part of your day with us as we continue sharing the stories, resources, and conversations that support older adults and the communities around them.
