Durham Center For Senior Life

Geographic areas served: Durham County

Programs: Senior centers [svc] - exercise classes, special events, nutrition classes, and educational workshops are available. The centers' exercise classes are well attended, with 973 seniors participating annually. Seniors participating in the exercise classes reported an increased level of physical activity, improved their ability to manage their weight, had increased stamina and balance, had an enhanced mood, and had made progress in control of their blood pressure. Chronic disease self management classes were offered to 24 participants. 294 seniors participated in classes designed for those with arthritis and 105 seniors participate monthly in the stay fit for life program. Congregate nutrition satellite community sites near senior residential environments provide a nourishing meal four days a week to approximately 125 seniors annually. In 2013 594 grocery bags were distributed to senior centers and senior housing and 18,151 congregate meals were served. The congregate meal program provides an atmosphere of socialization and fellowship that many community seniors would not otherwise enjoy. Transportation is provided for seniors who are no longer able to drive to our congregate meal sites or attend the adult day health center. Over 55 participants received transportation support for a total of 5,071 trips. Travel training is provided to help seniors navigate public transportation. 90 older adults are actively participating in this program.

adult day health center [adh] - a therapeutic service where participants enjoy a safe and comfortable surrounding and are provided stimulating activities designed to meet the physical, social, emotional, and mental needs of the adults. The activities include arts and crafts, discussion groups, and light exercises designed for functionally impaired individuals. The program provided services to 82 unduplicated adults.

referral and assistance [ra] - specialists help empower seniors to solve complex problems. All assistance is confidential. Services are accessed by phone, in-person and via e-mail. The agency received 4184 contacts for services related to health issues, food insecurity, housing, utilities, insurance, and other areas. These services are designed to reduce barriers to access, increase the knowledge of the senior and assist with implementation of services.

in-home support and education [ih] - in-home support and education provides family caregivers with help making decisions and solving problems related to caregiving. Caregivers eligible for this program are spouses, children, relatives or friends of persons over 60 who have significant memory loss or confusion. Services provided include support groups with 8 caregivers participating monthly, education through powerful tools for caregivers with 12 caregivers receiving training and provided 2,287 hours of in-home respite.