Americans have recognized the month of May as "Older Americans Month" since 1963 when President John F. Kennedy declared the month to increase awareness and support for individuals living beyond the age of 65. " Today, one in six Americans is age 60 years or older.While most older Americans are active members of their families and communities, others are at risk of losing their independence. These include four million Americans age 85 years and older, those who are living alone without a caregiver, those living in nursing homes or other institutional settings, members of minority groups, older persons with physical or mental impairments, older persons residing in rural areas, low income older persons, and those who are abused, neglected or exploited" (Administration on Aging).

211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast understands the changing needs of seniors and with the given economy situation, expects more needs to arise with our aging population. Therefore, it's important to educate individuals of all ages about valuable services available in the community should someone be concerned about them self, friend or loved one. 211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast is a local, non-profit agency providing information, referral, crisis intervention and suicide prevention to Palm Beach, Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee County residents 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, free of charge.

Simply by dialing 2-1-1 from a home or cell phone, teens, adults, seniors, caregivers, professionals, and concerned family or friends can have access to over 4,000 health or human service programs within the 5 county area served. Therefore, 211 is essentially a starting point for individuals who don't know where to turn to receive information and support for problems they might be facing.

211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast also produces specific resources for Treasure Coast seniors. Biannually, seniors can find the "Senior Guide" resource publication at local libraries and community centers, which gives them access to a comprehensive list of senior related agencies as well as contact information. Seniors can also access the "Quick Reference Guide," which came out in January 2008. This resource guide is a one page, front and back publication of the most requested senior related agencies on the Treasure Coast.

Most recently, 211 implemented the "Sunshine Program" for Hobe Sound residents. "Sunshine" is a free telephone reassurance program designed to check on the well being of seniors, the homebound or the disabled, 7 days a week from 7:30am to 5:00pm. Whether it's reminding clients to take their medication, to simply say hello, or to offer the comfort of knowing someone cares, Sunshine is now available in Hobe Sound to brighten a person's day!

Daily demands or times of crisis can be devastating for any age group, but knowing who to call is half the battle. For more information on the services offered or how to obtain copies of the publications produced, dial 2-1-1 today or visit the website at www.211treasurecoast.org.