Celebrating Senior Independence Month at Brio Living Services
February is National Senior Independence Month, which celebrates the many ways older adults can continue to be self-reliant, as well as the community services and adaptations that make independence more accessible for so many. At Brio Living Services, we believe that respecting and preserving the autonomy of the older adults we serve is a crucial part of our calling. “Wellness” is one of our guiding beliefs, which is detailed as, “In partnership with our team members, we attend to mind, body, and spiritual wellness, as well as the independence, engagement, and joy for all we serve.” Some of the opportunities we provide that encourage independence are independent living locations, Avenues, and PACE programs.
Brio Living Services offers a range of options for independent living on both the east and west sides of the state. Independent living residents can live in a beautiful, freestanding home or private apartment, with yard work and maintenance included. Our communities are rich in amenities and opportunities for socialization. We also offer a continuum of care for those who may need more support in the future.
One of our independent living residents, Evie Bowers, lives in Dancey House on our Chelsea Retirement Community campus. She says she appreciates that, while independent living residents who drive are free to do so, for those who choose not to or are unable to do so, the WAVE bus partnership provides free transportation to residents who need it. She also enjoys the many activities for residents at CRC. Evie shares that “There are many games to stimulate our brain activity like group crosswords, spelling bees, bridge, euchre, trivia, dominoes, Rummikub, and bingo. There are many varied exercise options and groups like balance, yoga, stretching, equipment, aqua strength, drumming, seated volleyball, corn hole, and hiking.” She also enjoys socializing at the new resident and birthday celebrations. “All these activities help with keeping our bodies, minds, and emotions in balance, while we meet new people and develop friendships,” says Evie. “This helps us retain our independence.”
For older adults who want to make sure their support needs are met while retaining the independence of living at home, Brio is re-launching Avenues, a life plan community at home program for older adults, focusing on health and wellness and providing navigation services for its members to remain living independently in their own home. To become a member of Avenues, adults must be aged 55 or over, live independently, and medically qualify for the program. Covered services are based on assessed needs and include home health aide services, medical transportation, personal emergency response technology, home safety evaluations and, should it become necessary, assisted living and skilled nursing—either in a Brio community or through other local care partners.
At Brio Living Services, a core part of what we do is provide care for older adults of any socioeconomic group. In fact, our first residential community, founded in 1906 in Chelsea, MI, was created to provide an alternative to the county “poor house” for older adults of limited means. Though much has changed since 1906, Brio’s commitment to serving low-income older adults has not. We continue to provide care and promote independence through affordable housing independent living options and our PACE programs.
Our Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE®) are designed to help low-income older adults remain independent in their own homes and communities rather than move to a nursing home. PACE participants receive medical and supportive services in our state-of-the-art Day Health Centers. PACE also offers a variety of services that can be provided in the comfort of the participant’s home. Most participants have both Medicare and Medicaid and pay no additional fees for PACE services.
Nancy Kosola, a participant at Huron Valley PACE in Ypsilanti, says of her experience, “When I first enrolled in the PACE program, I was bedbound. I received physical and occupational therapy in my home. Both Rati (physical therapist) and Janet (certified occupational therapy assistant) came out to my home and provided therapy. They never gave up on me. They helped me gain confidence and got me to where I am now today. I am using a walker independently, and I have my life back.” She adds, “I can’t thank PACE enough for all that they have done for me.”
Because of the immense mental and physical health benefits for older adults who maintain independence, it will always be key in all we do at Brio Living Services. One independent living resident, Ann Kraft, put it this way: “I value being able to make my own decisions regarding my finances, health care/fitness, volunteerism, travel, and daily activities, along with whatever physical, mental, and emotional abilities they require.” To learn how to access our many resources and services for yourself or a loved one, visit our website.