SDSU Extension provides education and resources for older adults and their families. Our programming focuses on helping individuals and families improve their quality of life as they age by providing:
- A variety of in-person and virtual workshops
- Collaborative partnerships with resource providers in South Dakota
- Clear and easy-to-understand planning resources
Our Experts
Topics
Older South Dakotans report that it is very important to stay in the home for as long as possible. Unfortunately, most housing in South Dakota is not designed to meet the changing needs of a lifetime. Most homes are missing one or more of the basic accessibility (lever-style door handles and faucets; extra-wide hallways and doors; accessible electrical controls; no-step entry; and single-level living option). Even when these features are present, it does not mean that a home is aging-in-place ready.
Aging is an important process that we all experience. While achieving older age may include some challenges, aging well is an obtainable goal. This is not to suggest that a person will not experience chronic disease or disability. However, tips and tricks are available to reduce the risk of developing disease or disability and improve overall quality of life, even when faced with significant challenges or loss.
When an older loved one needs our help, we want to ensure our loved one has the services and support they need to continue to enjoy life. SDSU Extension strives to help you find the resources needed to help you accomplish your goal. These resources summarize different options available to support the older loved ones in your life.
While important for every adult, planning for later stages of life is critical for older adults. Later life planning includes estate, funeral, advanced care, long-term care, and more depending on your family (e.g., a grandparent raising a grandchild). Unfortunately, many people often neglect these planning activities until a crisis occurs. The consequences of delaying these decisions cannot be overstated. For example, long-term care is complicated and costly. Without proper planning it may be difficult to get the care you prefer in the location of your choice (e.g., house, apartment, assisted living, nursing home, etc.).
Featured Resources
Home Modification Planning Guides
The guides on this page are about housing for people who have disabilities.
Purposeful Retirement Book Club Facilitation Guide
A curriculum that can be used to facilitate a purposeful retirement book club in a community.
Adaptable Home Overview
The Adaptable Home Series is a tool to help consumers who are looking to find a home that can be modified to meet the needs of people with disabilities and older adults without the need for costly structural renovations.
Upcoming Events
Heirlooms: Wisdom Writing Workshop
SDSU Extension will host an online wisdom writing workshop over Zoom on September 6, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. CDT.
Related Content
SDSU Extension to host financial training webinars
December 23, 2025
South Dakota State University Extension will host a series of Financial Fireside Chats webinars to help individuals strengthen their financial and personal well-being.
Organize this! Legal and Financial Must-Haves for the Deaf Community
SDSU Extension will host four interactive sessions from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. CT on January 15, April 16, July 16 and October 15, 2026, at the SDSU Extension Sioux Falls Regional Center (4101 W. 38th St., Suite 103., Sioux Falls, SD, 57103). Interpreters will be available for participants.
SDSU Extension offers many resources in finance, personal wellness
December 18, 2025
As we enter the holiday season, SDSU Extension wants to remind South Dakotans of the many resources available to help people in personal finance, health and wellness.