Chemical and mental health problems of older adults often go unnoticed because of isolation and loneliness. As a result, the older adult continues to suffer in silence.

Senior Helping Hands, a program of St. Cloud Hospital Recovery Plus, provides support and services to stop the suffering. Senior Helping Hands serves individuals age 55 and older across 14 counties in Central Minnesota. Treatment programs and outreach services help those who are experiencing chemical use and/or mental health problems.

Services

• Outreach service and consultation with family or concerned persons
• Evaluation and assessment for chemical dependency and/or mental health issues completed by qualified professionals
• Workshops designed for the general public, caregivers, social services, staff, clergy and
  community members on chemical dependency, mental health and aging concerns
• Volunteer support for older adults who are chemically dependent
• Support from peer volunteer counselors for older adults with mental health issues
• Referrals to recovery resources

Programs

Older Adult Chemical Dependency Primary Treatment Program
A comprehensive program that involves physical/psychosocial/chemical use assessments performed by professionals trained in chemical dependency and mental health, including a full time Medical Director who is an addictionist. The program provides a slow pace, holistic approach to recovery. Transportation and temporary housing are available if needed. Other available services
are continuing care, volunteer help, intervention and family counseling.

Elder Network
A component program for older adults struggling with emotional distress. Peer volunteer counselors work with older adults referred by mental health and health care providers. Peer counselors attend a comprehensive training and attend monthly supervision meetings facilitated by a licensed psychologist.

Reminiscence Program
Provides comprehensive training for professionals, paraprofessionals, volunteers and families who work with or care for older adults. Reminiscence links the past to the present through supportive listening and helps older adults get in touch with past accomplishments to build self-esteem.