Presbyterian Healthcare Services - Presbyterian Senior Connection

Overview

Presbyterian Senior Connection is Presbyterian Healthcare Services' membership program for its mature adult community. The program is designed to provide members with the variety of health promotion, educational, and social opportunities they have requested. Eligible residents are 60 years of age or older. For a one-time $10 fee for individuals and $15 for couples, members receive numerous benefits:

• Senior Services Education Series - Monthly presentations on health-related and general aging topics such as diabetes, long-term care insurance, and arthritis
• Sun Tours - Reserved seats for three to four tours available each year offering a variety in location and transportation and range in price
• Presbyterian Senior Services - Assistance with community resources available to older adults, as well as Advance Healthcare Directive information
• Presbyterian Volunteer Services - For those interested in sharing their time and talents with others
• Volunteer Phone Pal program - For members seeking opportunities to volunteer in their own home or receive an occasional social call

Presbyterian Senior Connection was launched in 1999; multiple focus groups with seniors were held to determine what they were seeking from this type of program.

Impact

Since its inception, Presbyterian Senior Connection has grown from 750 members to today's membership of 5,800. New members are added every month. Evaluations on educational offerings are rated primarily from 4 to 5 out of 5. In addition, the program enhances Presbyterian's community relations.

Challenges/success factors

An open house was held to launch the program and received great response; however, after the initial launch, getting the word out and distributing a program brochure became more challenging. Word of mouth contributes greatly to the ongoing growth of Presbyterian Senior Connection.

Future direction/sustainability

Presbyterian Senior Connection will continue to be offered. Program features evolve based on cost factors and suggestions for educational topics.

Advice to others

Conduct focus groups with your intended audience, making sure to include healthy, active seniors and seniors with limited mobility. Use that feedback to determine business partners and educational offerings.

Contact: Linda McCollister
Coordinator, Presbyterian Senior Services & Presbyterian Senior Connection
Telephone: 505-823-8358
E-mail: lmccolli@phs.org