Hospital offering senior program

A new Medicare-based program at Dan C. Trigg Memorial Hospital will focus on improving the quality of life for senior citizens in Quay County.

Senior Solutions is a program designed to help senior citizens cope with loss, life and suddenly finding themselves living alone, said Rhonda Gutierrez, program director.

Gutierrez said the program is open to those who qualify, ages 55 and over. She said seniors can be referred to the program by a doctor, friend or even themselves.

Gutierrez said the program began Sept. 19 and consists of three-hour social meetings, three days a week on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. She said there are a variety of topics discussed at these meetings.

Gutierrez said one of the major topics is coping with aging and loss. She this includes discussing the loss of independence, mobility and loved ones.

"Some seniors have such a shock trying to adjust to the loss of a loved one and their kids living so far away," Gutierrez said.

Gutierrez said they can come and talk with others in the group who have made that transition. She said who better to learn how to deal with a situation, than someone who has or going through it themselves.

One of the great parts of this program is it allows the seniors to interact with other seniors and not feel intimidated, said Patty Stull, program therapist.

Stull said the group can give them a sense of security, they have a chance to be around seniors like themselves and not worry about being talked into a certain train of thought. She said they get a chance to take in the information and form their own perception.

"This program can be a means of change for each individual," Stull said.

Gutierrez said if anyone is interested in learning more about the program they can call them at 461-7143 or attend their open house 4:30 p.m.- 6:30 p.m., on Nov. 15.

"We just want to help out the senior residents of our area," Gutierrez said.