Center for Better Aging: Whole-Person Care for Chicago's South Side

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Written By Nicholas Gatorano
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"A whole-person, collaborative approach will be vital to closing the life expectancy gap in the greater South Side community," said Center for Better Aging Executive Director Estrelitta Harmon.

The Center for Better Aging (CBA) is transforming healthcare for older adults on Chicago’s South Side through a holistic approach that addresses medical, mental, and social well-being. This innovative model is designed to ensure that aging adults receive comprehensive support to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.

Located at St. Bernard Hospital, the CBA aims to provide extensive care for individuals over 50. This initiative is backed by a $122.5 million grant from the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services. The primary goal is to close the healthcare gap in one of Chicago’s most underserved areas by offering holistic care that encompasses various aspects of a patient's life, including medical treatment, mental health, and social services.

The CBA provides a wide range of services to meet the diverse needs of the elderly population. These include geriatric primary care, access to specialists such as cardiologists and neurologists, comprehensive mental and behavioral health services, chronic disease management programs, memory care assessments, and emergency and urgent care services. By offering these services under one roof, the CBA makes it easier for older adults to receive the care they need.

A critical aspect of the CBA’s approach is its focus on whole-person care. This means addressing all aspects of a person's health, recognizing that well-being is influenced by various factors beyond medical issues. For instance, the CBA provides telehealth services for home-bound patients, allowing them to receive care without traveling, ensuring continuous access to healthcare.

This comprehensive approach offers numerous benefits. Improved access to care means that more people can receive necessary services, which can enhance their quality of life. The inclusion of mental and social health services helps improve overall well-being, leading to better health outcomes. Effective management of chronic diseases and preventive care can also reduce healthcare costs by minimizing the need for emergency services and hospital admissions.

The CBA's impact on the community is significant. Chicago’s South Side has historically faced challenges such as limited access to healthcare and higher rates of chronic diseases. By providing comprehensive, accessible care, the CBA aims to improve health outcomes for the elderly population in this community. The center's commitment to health equity ensures that all patients, regardless of their background, receive the support they need.

The success of the CBA is supported by collaborations with various healthcare providers and community organizations. These partnerships enhance the range of services offered and ensure that the center can address the multifaceted needs of its patients. The goal is to create a supportive network that promotes health equity and empowers older adults to lead healthy, independent lives.

Looking to the future, the CBA is committed to continuous improvement and expansion of its services. Plans are in place to integrate new technologies and innovative practices to further enhance patient care. By staying at the forefront of geriatric healthcare, the CBA aims to set a new standard for how older adults are cared for, not just in Chicago but as a model for other communities facing similar challenges.

The Center for Better Aging at St. Bernard Hospital is revolutionizing care for older adults on Chicago’s South Side through its comprehensive, whole-person approach. By addressing medical, mental, and social needs, the CBA ensures that aging individuals receive the support necessary for a healthy and fulfilling life. This model represents a significant advancement in geriatric care, offering a blueprint for improving health equity and outcomes in underserved communities.

Sources:

Nicholas Gatorano
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