Depression and other mental illnesses can reduce the enjoyment of life of many of our area seniors. Senior Life Solutions has recently opened offices in the newly remodeled atrium of the Dallas County Hospital, and a quartet of its staff stopped by the weekly meeting of the Perry Kiwanis to introduce its services.
Representing the company were Community Education Manager Sydney Freeman, Program Director Karen Hildreth, Program Therapist Meredith Stensland and Office and Patient Coordinator Breanna Gonzalez.
According to the brochure, “Senior Life Solutions is a program dedicated to addressing the emotional and behavioral health of adults over the age of 65.”
Senior Life Solutions currently 40 programs in 15 states, including 13 programs in Iowa. They operate in rural areas and critical access hospitals.
Clients must be 65 or older. They meet Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays with groups and meet with therapists on an individual basis. There is a medical director overseeing the program.
Anyone who feels that they would benefit from this program is encouraged to contact Senior Life Solutions. No referral is needed. The program accepts insurance and will assist patients with this process.
Most stays in the program are six months, but periods may be shorter or longer based on the need of each patient.
Within a 25-mile radius, a van will provided transportation to and from the treatment site. Nursing home and assisted living residents are also eligible for this treatment program.
Once through the treatment process, staff will provide aftercare and follow up with patients.
Welcoming the quartet was Abi Kincade, in her fourth year as a Perry Kiwanian.
