The Swan Valley is a special place with a large and active population of people who are “Aging Well.” The SVCF is committed to recognizing and supporting this. This year Guest Speaker Angela Miely shares information about “Aging Well physically and mentally.” Last year Smoke Elser shared a community meal with us along with stories, experiences, love, and laughter learned over the years. The year before we developed a directory of services for aging well. Which you can down load below.

To kick off our first annual “Aging Well In the Swan Valley” Event. We hosted a free luncheon at the Swan Valley Community Hall with a Taco Bar, drinks, door prizes and a cake auction. This was attended by about 50 people from the Swan in early April. Smoke Elser, a well known outfitter, conservationist, teacher and author, was the featured speaker. Smoke at 91 years of age is a good example of “Aging Well.” He epitomizes that aging well isn’t about growing older and becoming a senior. It is about growing wiser, cherishing the present, and embracing the journey ahead with grace and gratitude.

Smoke shared stories from his 70 years as a guide, packer and outfitter in the Bob Marshall, and the Bitterroot Selway. One of his stories was about packing a full sized piano into the wilderness for a district ranger. His stories held our rapt attention and the room was absolutely quiet except for Smoke’s voice and the laughter coming from the audience. Everyone had a great time and agreed that we need to do it again as an annual event in 2026.

See 2024 2024 Aging Directory