An innovative program to curb loneliness and depression among seniors is now supported with the help of Caesars Windsor.
Caesars Cares, the casino's community service wing, has provided Life After Fifty with a $10,000 donation to continue the latter's Social Prescription Program.
"Social Prescription is a new model of healthcare that uses the familiar, trusted process of having healthcare practitioners write a prescription," read a release from Caesars. "However, in this case, the prescription refers patients to local, non-clinical services that empower them to improve their health and build invaluable connections within their community."
The program provides care to those 50 and older without having to utilize acute care, hospital emergency departments, or community support for non-clinical matters, which currently have long wait times or long waitlists. Those who have been diagnosed by a physician as being socially isolated, or with anxiety or depression, will have membership costs subsidized.
"Active living and being part of a community that offers socialization and support is so important for older adults in being healthy and well," said Life After Fifty President Ron Sheppard. "This donation helps to remove barriers for seniors in starting their journey to living well."
Life After Fifty has partnered with over 30 healthcare professionals, receiving over 270 referrals via the Social Prescription Program. Ninety of those seniors have joined Life After Fifty and can access its programs at no charge.
Life After Fifty has locations at the WFCU Centre, and on McEwan Avenue behind the Shoppers Drug Mart. Complete information about its programs can be accessed on its official website.