One year ago, Senior Life Solutions opened as a department of Glacial Ridge Health System with a clear mission: to support adults 65 and older facing anxiety, depression, grief, and the emotional challenges that can come with aging. As SLS marks this anniversary, the program is deeply grateful for the seniors, families, and community members who have welcomed them.
Senior Life Solutions is an outpatient mental health program designed specifically for older adults. SLS offers group and individual therapy, medication oversight, and close coordination with primary care providers. The team includes a registered nurse, licensed therapist, office coordinator, and psychiatrist; a combination that allows SLS to care for the whole person. Because older adults often face medical conditions, medication changes, and life stressors that intersect with mental health, having RN assessments and medication oversight alongside therapy lets SLS monitor physical and emotional health together, coordinate with primary care, and provide care tailored to each person’s stage of life. Referrals are welcome from anyone, including self-referrals.
SLS is honored to have been part of so many community efforts this past year and to have built meaningful relationships with partners across Pope County. The team had a booth at the Pope County Mental Health Event, co-hosted a Suicide Awareness Panel with the Drop-In Center, and maintains a monthly informational table at the Glenwood Public Library. The program director also hosts a monthly Healthy Aging Series open to all seniors and caregivers in the community. In addition, program staff partnered with Western Prairie Human Services at Medicare education events and Aging Action Committee meetings, supported a Veterans Suicide Awareness Walk, and built relationships with local assisted living and independent living communities. The team has also worked with the Pope County Ministerial Group to strengthen ties between healthcare and faith communities. Looking ahead, program staff are excited to connect with more seniors and community members at the Pope County Senior Expo (Tri-Ad) and the Pope County Community Expo.
For those not yet ready or eligible for intensive outpatient care, the program director leads a monthly support group that connects individuals to resources such as Glacial Ridge’s Behavioral Health, Glacial Ridge Homecare, Meals on Wheels, and more.
Mental health challenges in older adulthood are real, but so is hope. In just one year, Senior Life Solutions has strengthened lives, reduced isolation, and fostered resilience. As SLS looks ahead to its second year, the program is honored to serve the seniors of Pope County and surrounding communities. SLS is excited for continued growth, deeper connection, and the opportunity to support even more individuals and families.
Ready to learn more? Visit our Senior Life Solutions page or call 320.331.2107.