Meeting the unique behavioral health needs of our aging community
We understand that mental health needs of older adults are sometimes overlooked. As we age, there can be the tendency to isolate or the inability to resist the idea of being a burden to our loved ones when we should reach out for help. Age dynamics can also make it challenging to start the conversation about an older adult’s mental health needs. While many older adults experience the same stressors as younger adults, they also face stressors like loss of mobility and physical ability, chronic pain, cognitive challenges, and other health concerns that require daily medication. They can experience different social struggles like lower socioeconomic status or bereavement of friends and family. This is why we designed our Center on Aging.
Alvarado Parkway Institute’s Center on Aging provides whole person-centered care oriented towards healthy aging and optimal quality of living that is respectful and inclusive of each individual’s unique values, strengths, and beliefs.
Aging statistics in San Diego
Center on Aging Services
Meeting each individual where they are, and determining their specific treatment needs, is our approach. We begin by conducting a thorough and specialized assessment designed for aging clients to identify the most appropriate level of care needed; from stabilization treatment and improving psychological symptoms of distress to intensive outpatient group therapy. We work with each client to determine their specific treatment needs to optimize their quality of life and health.
The Center on Aging Geriatric Assessment Center is the foundation for determining the best plan of care. A geriatric assessment is different from other behavioral health assessments. API’s geriatric assessment is focused on understanding the whole person. The geriatric assessment evaluates the patient’s functional ability, physical health, cognitive abilities, and psychosocial needs and requires a team approach. The assessment includes a psychiatrist, an occupational therapist, a psychologist, a pharmacist, a community health worker, the patient, and the patient’s loved ones.
The Center on Aging Inpatient program treats patients with a variety of disorders, such as depression, psychotic disorders, anxiety disorders including obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other serious psychiatric conditions. This brief, acute program provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and treatment to stabilize psychiatric symptoms. Medical detox may need to proceed intervening in co-occurring disorders. Crisis intervention and individualized, structured treatment are provided to patients in need of an intensive and safe setting. The goal is to achieve rapid symptom improvement and develop transition plans for continued progress after discharge.
Our Center on Aging Dual Diagnosis Inpatient program is designed for patients with both substance-abuse disorders and psychiatric illness. Our clinical approach addresses the interaction of the substance abuse and the psychiatric illness, recognizing the strengths of each patient and using creative and flexible interventions to achieve safe detox and treatment goals.
Center on Aging’s Transition services were designed in recognition that the first 12 weeks after psychiatric hospitalization are the highest risk period for suicide, and with the community’s limited resources we should commit to following patients until they have safely connected with an outpatient provider.
Center on Aging’s Intensive Outpatient program provides structured treatment in a safe, caring and compassionate environment for older adults struggling illnesses including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, chronic pain, suicidal ideation, disorientation/disorganization, behavioral issues and chemical dependency. Group sessions include Reminiscence Therapy, Healing Through Music, Communication Skills, Health and Wellness, Life Skills, and Creative Expression. At times, clients will engage in intergenerational group activities with younger clients which can contribute to positive relationships and emotional well-being. Transportation and lunch is provided daily.
