Senior Community Centers

Health Advocacy

By 2030, the number of Americans aged 65 and older will more than double to 71 million, or nearly 20 percent of the U.S. population. An enhanced focus on promoting and preserving the health of older adults is essential if we are to effectively address the health and economic challenges of an aging society.

The cost of providing health care for an older American is three to five times greater than the cost for someone younger than 65. By 2030, the nation’s health care spending is projected to increase by 25% due to demographic shifts unless improving and preserving the health of older adults is more actively addressed.

Senior Community Centers has taken an active role in ensuring its clients have access to the health care services they need to stay healthy for as long as possible. We provide advocacy on an individual basis depending on each senior’s needs. Some of our activities include:

• Acting as a liaison between the senior and their doctors to ensure they get the services they need and to encourage compliance with medical treatment plans
• Coordinating transportation to and from medical appointments
• Arranging for in-home nursing care if needed
• Counseling seniors on long-term care choices when the need arises
• Educating seniors on the benefits of preventative health care and early diagnosis and treatment of illness
• Educating seniors on the need for diligent maintenance of chronic conditions as a way to optimize wellbeing and avoid premature institutionalization
• Educating caregivers at all levels about the unique needs of the senior population as a means of more effective doctor/patient communication