The good news is we can, and must, create better options for prevention, healthy behaviors and health care for our population. We must invest in a quality of life for everyone but particularly our seniors in Florida, where 20.5% of the population is 65 years and older. Florida ranks second in the nation only to Maine at 20.6%.

 

Holy Cross Health will soon establish a comprehensive, collaborative center focused on healthcare, well-being and social interaction, all of which are extremely important to everyone’s mental health, regardless of your age.

 

Our new model of care for the AgeWell Center serves those who are Medicare eligible and will provide what is needed to age successfully:

• Access to quality healthcare. Dedicated physicians and staff will help navigate the system, assisting with making appointments, case management, social work and if needed home services can be coordinated. Our model allows easier access to physicians and social workers, when needed. It’s one stop for healthcare needs with imaging, exercise, cafeteria and labs on site. For those in need, the center can arrange for free transportation to and from the center as well.

• Education. As our population ages, our needs change. Yet nutrition, diet and exercise are just as important as they are when we are younger. To that end, we will host cooking demonstrations, coach wellness behavior and introduce classes on how we can all live, eat and exercise to live longer and stronger.

• Social interaction. No matter how old you are, you need social interaction. Unfortunately, during COVID people were isolated in their homes many without physical interaction with their loved ones for months. That takes a toll on your mental and physical well-being. With the classes, demonstrations and social amenities we have planned, our center will be where patients can come to participate in activities that help us age well.

• Communication. Although medical care is one aspect of the AgeWell Center, navigating the health care system is a family affair. The staff at the AgeWell Center work to improve the patient and family experience of health and health care, always moving toward improved options for staying healthy.

• Technology. The barriers to technology can fall into a few categories: access, affordability and understanding. While COVID forced us to live our lives online more than ever before, technology can be a challenge. Adding to that, many feel embarrassed to admit they don’t know how to navigate the internet well enough to make appointments or access their medical records. Then there are those who cannot afford the expense. At the AgeWell Center, learn how to navigate these barriers and feel more in control of your health!

 

As we come out of National Older Americans Month, let’s look to the future as we improve the options for healthy living in Ft Lauderdale. This summer and fall we will invite you to attend a tour of the new Holy Cross Health AgeWell Center. For more information, visit www.holy-cross.com/agewell.