EMPOWERING WELLNESS FOR OLDER ADULTS

HEALTHY AGING PROGRAM

The West Cook YMCA has embarked on an innovative journey, to empower wellness for the older adults in Cook County. Rooted in extensive research and community needs assessments conducted in collaboration with esteemed institutions such as Loyola Medicine, Rush, the West Cook Coalition-a group of 19 local institutions, and the Village of Oak Park.

There is a significant disparity in healthcare access, with 12% of suburban Cook County residents lacking insurance, exceeding the state average of 9%. Moreover, within Loyola Medicine's service area, the uninsured rate soars above 17%, highlighting a glaring need for intervention in Cook County. Chronic conditions such as diabetes, cancer, heart disease, and stroke loom large, accounting for a staggering 65% of all deaths in suburban Cook County. Recognizing the existence of profound health disparities, particularly among marginalized groups, we are committed to addressing these inequities head-on. Through strategic collaborations with community leaders and partners, together, we are playing a pivotal role in tackling these systemic challenges.

We have curated a tailored suite of programs and services designed to empower older adults (62+) in mitigating their risk factors and enhancing their overall health and well-being by fostering equitable access to resources and support. The West Cook YMCA has established an onboarding process for older adults into chronic disease programs at the YMCA ensure a smooth transition, provide necessary support, and empower participants to actively manage their health conditions. It aims to address their unique needs, concerns, and capabilities at no cost to the participant. As part their onboarding, we determine how to best meet their needs and ensure they have access to YMCA360, a digital platform which includes digital content on a broad range of resources and community building opportunities through onsite programming and community building opportunities.

OUR PARTNERS

The West Cook YMCA has cultivated strategic partnerships to deliver chronic disease interventions and expand services for individuals aged 62 and above. These partnerships aim to provide tailored support and enhance health outcomes for the community. Key partnerships include:

Rush University Medical Center: Collaboration includes participation in the Pointer Study, focusing on diet and physical activity interventions for cognitive health in older adults. The Brain Saver program addresses Alzheimer's risk through cognitive skill development.
ARCH Program: A research project emphasizing recreation as medicine for treating depression, conducted in partnership with Rush University Medical Center, the University of Chicago, and the Chicago Chronic Condition Equity Network.
Fit and Strong Program: Partnership with IDPH and UIC's Center for Research on Health and Aging targets osteoarthritis and sedentary behavior in adults.
West Cook Coalition: Collaboration with 19 local institutions to address health inequities, establish referral systems, and reach hard-to-reach populations.
Village of Oak Park: Initiatives include chronic disease cohorts and programming, funded by ARPA, both in person and online, expanding access for underserved populations.
Renew Active (UnitedHealthcare program): Leveraging existing chronic disease programming to tailor support for individuals aged 62 and above, including participants enrolled in Renew Active.
Digital Platforms: Utilizing digital platforms like WELLD and establishing a new virtual portal, Y360, enhances accessibility to evidence-based programs and provides on-demand videos and live stream programming.

These partnerships, combined with evidence-based programs, aim to empower older adults to manage their health effectively, reduce health disparities, and promote long-term well-being. Leveraging funding to expand chronic disease programming and provide tailored support underscores our commitment to community health and well-being.