Older adults benefit from programs that help them to remain in their homes. As people age, there are a number of factors that contribute to a senior's ability to remain independent and in their own homes: access to transportation, caregiver assistance,, successful hospital discharges, physical activity, volunteering and adequate supportive services to name a few. A UNF survey of older adults, conducted in August 2003, revealed that the biggest gap in health and long term care services is knowledge of available services and how to access them. The Advant Age telephone survey (persons 65+ in the Northeast Florida region, 2001) revealed that forty to sixty percent of respondents indicated they did not know certain community services were available. Examples of the services include respite care, home repair, chore/homemaker and home health care. United Way is focused on investing in those core services that can provide support for seniors, empowering them to live independently. Through our partner agencies this last year, we were able to help in the following ways: Almost 2,000 older adults benefited from hearing screening and hearing aid adjustments. In Baker County, 155 seniors received regular transportation to nutrition sites, critical health-care appointments here in Jacksonville, and community center activities. 1,370 older adults, as well as their families, benefited from an adult day-care program that moves seniors away from isolation and encourages social interaction, mental and physical stimulation. Over 200 seniors received home-making assistance and companionship in Nassau County which encourages greater independence. Additionally, to help address Life: Act 2's goal of reducing the number of hospital stays for seniors due to a lack of available in-home services, a partnership was established with both Baptist Health and Shands Jacksonville. Through this partnership, an Elder Care Advocate helps at-risk seniors access appropriate in-home care and support. United Way's Elder Care Advocate will begin working alongside hospital social workers shortly, helping seniors to connect to vital resources in the community. >> Visit The Life: Act 2 Website