Elder Care

This project will address the increasing needs of the growing elder population, their families and caregivers, and will, initially, focus on Maryland's MidShore. Our current system of eldercare needs to be improved and maximized to meet this population shift. In addition to the economic impacts of an aging population, the system of care must address the relational issues affecting our elder citizens, their families and eldercare providers. There is a growing communications gap between the generations. Today's families live busy lives, and are often geographically dispersed. Interaction between younger and elder family members is frequently limited, creating a lack of understanding of one another's needs. Identification of, and access to services can be overwhelming, placing stress on family relationships. These factors exacerbate the physical and emotional aspects of growing old, and result in elders feeling isolated, often facing the challenges of aging on their own, within a fragmented system of care. The prospect of aging can be frightening and confusing because it is new territory for everyone who enters. Strengthening relationships among caregivers, families, and elder family members will make the journey more positive for everyone involved, improve the quality of life for elders, and facilitate access to appropriate and cost-effective services.

To learn more about the Elder Care Program, contact Lynn Sanchez at 410-822-0444 or email at lsanchez@mhamdes.org.