Critical Focus #3

Support for Older Adults: Senior Engagement & Independence

In Northeast Florida, community services for the fastest-growing segment of our population are not keeping pace with demand. United Way takes a proactive stance to this critical need by funding programs that help frail seniors maintain their independence and delay costly out-of-home care. Also supported are programs that connect retired citizens with volunteer and philanthropic opportunities.

Success Story: Elton

After being released from the hospital, Elton’s family was concerned about his health and rehabilitation once he returned home. Through the help of a United Way-funded program focused on providing seniors with home care services during the critical time following discharge, Elton was able to remain in his home and recuperate successfully. He received referrals for home-delivered meals, personal care and an emergency alert response system thanks to United Way. Maintaining seniors in their homes costs less and provides a higher quality of life and delays costly out-of-home care. United Way works to ensure seniors remain healthy, active and on the path to recovery.