Exploration into Expanding the Burlington VT Seniors Aging Safely at Home (SASH) Program

Introduction: For many seniors, maintaining independence is of utmost importance, particularly, continuing to live in their own home as they age. In 2009, in an effort to promote the health, safety and satisfaction of residents at Heineberg Senior Housing (New North End, Burlington, VT.), Cathedral Square Corporation worked with several community agencies to create the SASH (Seniors Aging Safely at Home) program. Objective: The goal of this project was to evaluate the current and projected service needs of seniors living in Burlington's New North End (NNE) community that would enable them to remain in their homes. Methods: This study employed both survey-based data acquisition and personal interviews. A 41-question survey addressing demographics, lifestyle, current or projected needs for services, and interest in the SASH program was distributed throughout the NNE for voluntary completion by individuals over age 50. Personal interviews were conducted with community seniors and area health providers. Results: Of the 78 respondents, the majority (53%) reported an interest in SASH independent of their age, health status, or proximity of support. When asked about particular services, respondents were most interested in yard-work (47%), educational workshops (41%), and housework (32%). Fewer people were interested in assistance with transportation (13%), financial management (12%), or help managing their medications (6%). Conclusions: We recommend extending the SASH program to seniors residing in their own homes in Burlington, VT's New North End. Such research methods can be used to establish similar programs in other locations, to meet needs of senior populations in local communities.