2011 CST-Sponsored Innovations in Service Coordination Award
Overview
The Innovation in Service Coordination Award, sponsored by CST, recognizes programs that demonstrate innovative thinking in the creation of programming that benefits all residents and clients at a property and the outside community while supporting the aging-in-place movement. The programs honored below could be adapted for adoption at your location or facility.
Recipients
First place - Senior LIFE, Community Life Concepts
Atlanta, Ga.
The staff at Community Life Concepts took an out-of-the-box approach when it came to addressing the needs of their residents. In order to assist the approximately 60 percent who suffered from diabetes and hypertension, a program focusing on resident engagement and friendly competition was born. Senior LIFE (living inspired and fully empowered) focused on movement, interaction, healthy cooking and goal-setting to stimulate the mind, strengthen the body and invigorate the spirit.
Through the formation of a Wii bowling league, “Dancing with the Seniors” program, pole-walking activity club and diabetes/hypertension education, the program creatively engaged residents in unique activities and frequent socialization that improved their quality of life. Resident learned how to dance, create healthier versions of their favorite dishes and manage their own personal health goals throughout the ongoing program.
The Senior LIFE programs emphasized activities that promoted diversity among residents; the program was recognized as innovative because it combines creative movement with health education in a setting that is serious, yet fun. Senior LIFE resulted in measurable positive outcomes for the residents and community and supports aging-in-place by impacting resident health. 715 residents took part in the program; initial health screenings and increased resident engagement identified one resident with elevated hypertension and five were diagnosed with diabetes. They are now self-managing their previously unknown diseases and are being monitored by licensed nutritionists.
As of press time, the program has been successfully replicated at four other communities.
Second place - ECares, Episcopal Place
Birmingham, Ala.
The ECares program addresses the physical, emotional, intellectual, social and spiritual needs of the residents at Episcopal Place. The services are available to all, especially to the 80% of residents who might qualify for assisted living based on their frailty and need for daily living assistance but are prohibited by cost.
The program provides the following services:
• Transportation for residents to area appointments and activities via a handicap-accessible van.
• A subsidized noon meals program, available five days a week.
• Subsidized housekeeping services which helps at-risk residents afford light house cleaning.
• Resident activities, which includes monthly parties, cultural events, book clubs, crafts, etc.
• The Resident Relief Fund that provides financial assistance for residents with emergency needs and no other means.
• Pastoral counseling that encompasses grief and end-of-life counseling for residents and their families.
Episcopal Place raises approximately $200,000 each year from area foundations, the Episcopal Diocese and businesses and individuals in the community. They also hold two fundraising events each year, which include a gumbo cookoff and a fundraising dinner that targets community business leaders and key influencers.
The idea for creating not just affordable, but caring, housing came from the location’s founders. Residents call Episcopal Place more than just an apartment building – and a better quality of life is being provided to those who need it most.
Third place - Creative Wellness Model, AHEPA Management Company
Fisher, Ind.
Based on research conducted by Dr. Gene Cohen from George Washington University, participation in arts programming has indicated positive health outcomes. Older arts participating in cultural programs reported better general health after one year, were less lonely and used fewer medications. Due to this information, arts education and programming at AHEPA properties was moved from the category of ‘activities’ to that of ‘health and wellness.’
AHEPA used visual arts, music and theater to honor the talents and interests of the residents and increase their quality of life. Since Dec., 2009, more than 120 creative wellness programs have been conducted. Some of the programs include music as therapy, chalk drawing with symphony music, theater groups, art classes and piano lessons. Service coordinators submit program approval forms to AHEPA to establish new programs and to maintain the integrity of the educational wellness model.
Residents commented that the programs are fun and enjoyable, and many of them are trying new things as a result. They enjoy doing things for the benefit of themselves; as one resident commented, “You’re never too old to learn!”
This model has been replicated in 70 AHEPA communities. Several properties have also developed intergenerational relationships with local schools and organizations as a result of program outreach. Some properties have held resident art shows and invited friends, families and the local public. These collaborations have made the program possible, through material and monetary donations, as well as sponsorships and grants.
About CST
Critical Signal Technologies is dedicated to helping individuals stay safe and healthy in their homes. As the nation’s largest independent provider of Personal Emergency Response Systems, CST’s products and services are intended to help people overcome the challenges that can come from disabilities, chronic health conditions, infirmity or simply from living alone.
CST is the choice of state health agencies, health insurers, Agencies on Aging, physician groups, hospitals and other health and safety experts who have done the research and selected CST’s proven ability to provide quality, cost-effective services that improve their clients’ lives. For more information on CST, visit their website here.
