Sinai Senior Services

Older adults need to see doctors more often. But as they get older, it gets harder to get to and from appointments, keep track of visits, deal with a busy clinic or hospital, or figure out Medicare and other benefit programs. At first, these may not seem like "medical" issues. But when they become barriers to care, they directly affect the health of the elderly. That's why Sinai's senior-services program was created - to offer the extra attention and help that encourage seniors to get the care they need. And it adds a personal touch that makes them feel welcome.

Someone from senior services greets patients when they get to Sinai, double-checks their appointments, and escorts them there. If they're making more than one stop - for tests or follow-ups - someone will help them get from place to place.

Most senior appointments at Kling clinic are on the 4th Floor. So Sinai created a special seniors waiting room there, with comfortable seating, television, magazines and health information, plus fresh-brewed coffee, tea and snacks. While seniors are waiting, staff members check how they are doing and fill out any forms needed for the visit. With the extra attention, seniors get to know the staff, and the staff gets to know them. That's helpful for finding out whether a patient needs special services, like help paying for medicine, Meals on Wheels visits, or homemaker assistance.

For more specialized needs, Sinai has a geriatric social worker who identifies and resolves problems that affect a patient's state-of-mind and well-being. These can include emotional issues, suspected neglect or abuse, or the need for social services ranging from housing assistance to home care. By acting as an advocate with public or community agencies, or locating needed resources, or providing psychological support, the social worker creates a healthier, more healing environment.

If a seniors mental or physical conditions keeps them from seeking care, Sinai will go out to them. The Senior At Risk program responds to calls from concerned neighbors or community agencies. A registered nurse visits the senior's home and evaluates medical, psychological or social-service needs. The nurse and staff then make recommendations, arrange needed medical assistance, and link the senior to other community services and resources.

One of the biggest barriers to getting seniors the medical attention they need is cost. Far too often, they don't see a doctor or take medicine because they think they can't afford it. Tragically, they put their health at risk, even though Medicare, Medicaid, the Illinois Circuit Breaker prescription-assistance program and other plans will cover most or all of the expense. To reverse that trend, Sinai's senior-services staff works aggressively to make certain money issues don't become health issues. Outreach workers are in the community daily to conduct health screenings and spread the word about financial-assistance programs. In our clinics and at Mount Sinai Hospital, senior-service workers discuss the options and help seniors fill out the forms

For more information on Sinai Senior Services please contact Lasharon Williams.

Phone: (773) 257-5292
E-mail: willas@sinai.org

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Sinai Senior Services