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HRHC Spotlights the “Bridgeway” Unit
Bridgeway, a program unlike any in the area, provides much needed mental health services for senior adults struggling in their daily lives. This is accomplished through an intensive program of individual and group therapy sessions designed to help with the many mental health issues that are prevalent in the elderly.
This program has a two part system – individual sessions combined with multiple group therapy sessions. During the group therapy sessions – which are held two separate times in the morning, Monday through Friday – seniors are able to share their grief and start to believe that they are not alone. They are also designed to help show seniors how to begin and continue to make changes in their lives.
Program Director of Bridgeway, Heidi McGill, states however that this program isn’t for everyone, and offers criteria for participation:
- Loss of interesting in what he/she normally enjoys doing
- Isolation
- Lack of participation in social events
- Frequent episodes of sadness, especially increased crying
- Having a difficult time with grief or a loss
- Have a difficult time adjusting to a medical issue
Referrals to Bridgeway can come in many forms. Family members, friends, clergy, neighbors, nurses, physicians, assisted living facility staff, and nursing home staff can all refer someone to the program. The only main criteria are willingness and ability to participate in a group, and the ability to retain and benefit from the information gained.
If you know of someone who you feel could use the services provided by this program there is are a few steps you must do.
- Contact a Bridgeway staff member to discuss your thoughts with them.
- If both parties believe that an individual could benefit from this program, after the initial conversation, an initial consultation meeting will be set up. This meeting can take place in the person’s home, the Bridgeway offices, the nursing home or assisted-living facility they may attend, or anywhere the person will feel comfortable.
- After this consultation, if it is truly determined that an individual can benefit from Bridgeway they will then be scheduled to come and meeting with Dr. Tomas Herrmann, MD, Psychiatrist for a complete medical evaluation because this is a medically based program.
- Finally, if deemed appropriate, the individual will start participating in regular group therapy sessions.
Bridgeway can provide transportation as needed. They have a handicapped accessible vehicle and a minivan, as well as a driver on staff.
The Bridgeway staff is available for questions and one-on-one meetings with individuals. For questions or more information call 217-283-9280. | |
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