Board Member Spotlight – Abby Badolato
Stay Connected, Stay Independent: Abby Badolato on Aging Well in Our Community
For more than two decades, Abby Badolato has dedicated her career to serving some of the most vulnerable members of our community.
With more than 22 years of public service with Washoe County, Abby has worked on behalf of both children and older adults, holding leadership roles across Child Protective Services and Senior Services. Throughout her career, she has focused on strengthening community partnerships, leading complex programs, developing strong teams, and finding innovative ways to improve services.
Abby is also continuing her own journey of lifelong learning. She is currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration at the University of Nevada, Reno, expanding her knowledge of leadership and public administration while continuing her work in the community.
As a ACCESS board member, Abby brings that experience and a deep commitment to servant leadership to conversations about how we can better support older adults and their families.
We recently sat down with Abby to talk about the challenges facing older adults, the resources available in our community, and why connection is such an important part of healthy aging.
From your perspective working at the county level, what are some of the biggest challenges older adults face today when it comes to accessing healthcare and essential services?
One of the biggest challenges older adults face is navigating increasingly complicated systems. Many seniors are trying to manage healthcare, transportation, housing, food access, and in-home support all at once, often while also dealing with mobility issues, chronic health conditions, or isolation. We also continue to see workforce shortages and waitlists for services that help seniors remain safely at home. Technology can create another barrier, especially as more services move online. And one of the biggest issues impacting overall health is social isolation and a lack of connection.
How does your work with the county, and your role with ACCESS help improve the quality of life for older Americans in our community?
My work focuses on helping older adults maintain their independence, dignity, and connection to the community. Through senior centers, nutrition programs, case management, and in-home support services, we help connect seniors with resources that support healthy aging. It has also been a privilege to serve on the board. That experience has provided opportunities to collaborate with healthcare and community partners to improve access to care and strengthen support systems for older adults throughout our region.
Can you tell us more about the PEARLS program?
PEARLS, or Program to Encourage Active, Rewarding Lives, is an evidence-based program that supports older adults experiencing depression, isolation, or major life changes. The program helps participants build problem-solving skills, increase social connection, and improve emotional well-being through practical support and goal setting. We are fortunate to be able to offer PEARLS to seniors through Washoe County Human Services Agency.
What are some resources or services that older adults may not know about but that could make a big difference in their health and well-being?
Many older adults do not realize how many resources are available through local senior centers and community programs. Services such as home-delivered meals, case management, transportation support, caregiver resources, technology classes, and wellness programs can make a significant difference in helping people remain independent and connected. Senior centers today offer much more than meals. They provide opportunities for social engagement, education, fitness, and connections to important community resources.
What message would you like to share with older adults and their families about staying healthy, connected, and supported?
My biggest message is to stay connected and reach out early for support. Healthy aging is not just about medical care. It is also about relationships, purpose, activity, and community. There are many programs and people ready to help, and asking for support early can make a significant difference for both older adults and their caregivers.
Are there any local programs or “hidden gems” in our community that older adults should definitely know about?
One of the biggest hidden gems is the senior center network itself. Many people are surprised by the variety of programs available, including fitness classes, arts, technology support, wellness programs, veterans services, and social activities. Programs like PEARLS, transportation assistance, and community health partnerships are also valuable resources that can greatly improve quality of life for older adults in our community.
Service, Leadership, and Lifelong Learning
For Abby, a commitment to service extends beyond her professional life.
She is the proud mother of two children, one attending the University of Nevada, Reno and another in high school and shares her home with two pups, Milo and Gizmo, and her cat, Vinny. When she isn’t working or studying, she enjoys camping with Milo, traveling, and spending time with her family.
These experiences have helped shape a philosophy that has guided Abby throughout her career: strong communities are built through service, connection, integrity, and a willingness to keep learning.
Her message to older adults and their families is equally simple and important: You don’t have to navigate aging alone. Staying connected and reaching out for support can make all the difference.
