Elder Refugee Services

What is Elder Services?

The focus of this project is to help refugees, aged sixty and older, gain access to services in the community which meet their needs in a way that is supportive of their overall well-being. The project seeks to assist in developing the cultural competence of existing senior services, and also to partner with local agencies and community groups to fill gaps in services.

Elder Refugee Concerns
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For older refugees, there are several issues which make them particularly vulnerable. Broadly speaking these issues fall into three areas of concern: isolation, aging and illness, and barriers to meeting the requirements for naturalization, which can lead to the loss of basic financial supports.

Isolation

Family loss and separation

Difficulty in advocating for themselves because of cultural, language, or educational barriers.

Aging and Illness

Chronic health and emotional problems stemming from the conditions of refugee flight

Limited access to appropriate health and social service agencies.

Income and Naturalization

Limited incomes due to life and work histories.

Barriers to meeting requirements for naturalization, especially the English proficiency generally required for Citizenship preparation classes.

Benefits

The benefits of this project are many: honoring the wisdom, culture, and personal stories of the elderly; providing facilities and means for social interaction; providing for unmet needs; and creating connections and new community.