Life Transitions Program Opens to Saratoga Seniors

SARATOGA SPRINGS — A new program to assist older residents with serious illness to navigate health and community services and continue aging in place has been introduced by the Saratoga Senior Center.

The program, called Senior Life Transitions, is designed for seniors aged 50 and older who have a new advanced illness diagnosis or a set of worsening health conditions. The program is open to residents of Saratoga County. Membership in the Saratoga Senior Center is not required.

The need for this program is in large part due to the isolation, worsening health conditions, new diagnoses, and aversion to nursing home placement, much of it exacerbated by the COVID epidemic.

The transitions dealt with are emotional adjustments to a changed life, practical needs for in-home care, support services such as transportation and grocery shopping, advocacy in navigating the health system, and coaching around wellness and growth potential in the midst of serious illness. The program features the development of an Aging-in-Place plan that takes possible future scenarios into consideration, including resources to support those plans. Referrals to appropriate health, mental health, and social service agencies are made. Collaborative relationships exist with other Saratoga County agencies serving the elderly, including Saratoga Hospital Medical Group, the County Office of Aging, the Alzheimer’s Association, and various care coordination services.

For more information, call the Saratoga Senior Center, 518-584-1621 ext. 206. Other services offered by the Saratoga Senior Center aimed at fostering independence include weekly food programs, wellness programs, caregiver support groups, information and referral, advocacy, and direct assistance through Community Connection volunteer matches.