Connections to Community and Quality Life Experiences
With a wealth of social and recreational opportunities in our community, a variety of resources connect people of all ages and abilities to our community and those who live in it.
Augustana’s FriendsLink provides social/recreational and educational activities for adults with disabilities. Last year, 96 small group, large group, or one-on-one activities were held. The program benefitted 79 individuals with disabilities. Stable and rewarding interpersonal relationships are arguably the single most important factor influencing a person’s quality of life.
DakotAbilities’ Meaningful Day services provides social and recreational opportunities to people as an alternative to traditional programming. Last year, 17,674 hours of service were provided to 136 individuals. 90% reported an increase in their quality of life.
Helpline Center’s Outreach Support program is designed to support isolated or homebound older adults. This program is an innovative approach utilizing telephone assurance as a mode of connection to reduce loneliness. It also provides the clients with information about additional community services they may be able to access. Last year, 82 individuals utilized the program. 92% of participants scored at a healthy level when assessed on a depression screening.
Lutheran Social Services of South Dakota’s Better Together matches adult volunteers with older adults for recreational and social opportunities. Matches go on outings, talk, pursue hobbies, and may also assist with the older adult’s needs such as grocery shopping and occasional transportation. Last year, 69 older adults were matched with a volunteer. Researchers have found that feelings of loneliness can contribute to reduced physical health, increased alcohol abuse, and obesity. Older adults who leave the house more often live longer than those who rarely go out.
Stabilize Health and Lengthen Independent Living
Services that allow older adults to stay in their homes longer and supporting their loved ones providing care.
Active Generations’ Caregiver Case Management provides local supportive services to family caregivers to lift and empower them to make necessary changes, in order to regain some balance and control over their lives, allowing them to continue their caregiving role in a healthier way. Last year, 313 caregivers were provided with 52 support groups and 2,682 contacts/calls. 89% of caregivers reported a decrease in daily physical and/or emotional stress.
Active Generations Céilí Cottage Adult Day Services meets the needs of individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia who are unable to stay home alone during the day. The program is offered in a home-setting with direct-care staff. Services offered include: medication administration, bathing, monitor health conditions, daily exercise, socialization activities, and caregiver support. Last year, 17 individuals were provided with 10,887 hours of service. 88% of clients delayed entering into a long-term care facility or assisted living community.
Active Generations’ Day Break Adult Day Services provides healthcare serves and social engagement opportunities for adults living in the community that are in need of daily assistance as the result of a chronic condition. The program provides nursing services, meaningful activities, and caregiver support. Last year, 109 individuals were served. 76% of participants delay the need to enter a long-term care facility.
Active Generations’ Nutrition Services/Meals on Wheels provides people ages 60 and over a hot and nutritious noon meal in a congregate or home delivered setting for a donation. Last year, 262,344 meals were served to 4,987 people through congregate dining and 37 delivery routes in Sioux Falls, Brandon, Garretson, Harrisburg, and Tea. 88% of delivered meal recipients report the service improves their health.
Active Generations’ Workers on Wheels helps seniors remain independent in their homes by providing minor home repair, lawn and outside home repair, as well as transportation to and from medical appointments. Last year, 503 grocery rides, 912 medical appointment rides, 500 yard work jobs, and 301 household jobs were provided to 249 clients. Research shows that most older adults prefer to stay in their own homes and WOW allows clients to do so, while giving peace of mind to their loved ones.
Project Car's Health Care Rides provides no-cost rides to various medical appointments for seniors and financially limited people. The program assisted 234 individuals last year.