Clients want, like anyone else, to "age in place" - meaning living in the residence of their choice as long as they are able. These services provide wellness monitoring and safety assistance to permit that to happen. The programs also provide much needed socialization for the benefit, as research shows, of both mental and physical health of the clients.
These services provide the opportunity to do this, through the following programs:
TELEPHONE REASSURANCE
Seniors (persons 60 and older) and persons with disabilities are called from 8 am to 9 pm, once or several times a day. Calls are social in nature but also offer medication, food and other reminders. According to need, a client can be called once a day or several times a day.
Should a client not be reached, staff calls the designated first responders, such as children, neighbors or friends. Should this outreach not be successful, staff then calls emergency services for a wellness check. Staff will also call emergency services if the client is exhibiting or articulating illness, pain or other physical or mental problems.
These services provide the opportunity to do this, through the following programs:
TELEPHONE REASSURANCE
Seniors (persons 60 and older) and persons with disabilities are called from 8 am to 9 pm, once or several times a day. Calls are social in nature but also offer medication, food and other reminders. According to need, a client can be called once a day or several times a day.
Should a client not be reached, staff calls the designated first responders, such as children, neighbors or friends. Should this outreach not be successful, staff then calls emergency services for a wellness check. Staff will also call emergency services if the client is exhibiting or articulating illness, pain or other physical or mental problems.
FRIENDLY VISITOR PROGRAM
Volunteers are matched with seniors for in-home social visits. Days, times and lengths of visits, are determined by the client and the volunteer. The match takes into consideration geography, preferences and interests.
VOLUNTEER SHOPPER PROGRAM
Volunteers provide grocery shopping for clients unable to get out to the store or the food pantry themselves.
CHOICES for Seniors Directory
A comprehensive directory across four counties - Hunterdon, Somerset, Mercer and Warren - of resources for seniors, their caregivers and healthcare providers. The directory provides Eldercare service, program and product information of government and nonprofit agencies in the four counties, as well as information and links of for-profit businesses also providing Eldercare services.
Hard copies of this 8" by 11" glossy publication are distributed throughout the four counties at appropriate places for seniors and caregivers. It also can be accessed online at www.choicesforseniorsdirectory.org
Wish to advertise in CHOICES? You must provide a eldercare service, program or product. Email choices@helplinehc.org
With appreciation to all that make these programs possible: Title II Older Americans Act funding through Hunterdon County; The Provident Bank Foundation: J and J Community Foundation and private individuals.