Planning Council Supports Latino Older Adults

Did you know that…

· The prevalence of depression among elderly Latinos is higher than for the general population of older adults?
· Studies show that Latinos underutilize mental health services in general and often do not receive treatment for depression?
· Centro de la Communidad Unida / United Community Center (UCC) has established the Un Nuevo Amanecer / A New Dawn program, funded by SAMHSA’s Center for Mental Health Services, to provide services to elderly Latinos who are experiencing symptoms of depression?

The Planning Council is currently working in partnership with UCC to evaluate the Un Nuevo Amanecer program. The program uses an evidence-based model to assist participants who have symptoms of serious depression. Midway through the three year grant, 108 elderly Latinos have been served by the program. Preliminary findings comparing program participants’ emotional and physical status when they entered the program to their status six month later indicate that:
· Participants’ level of depression has decreased substantially,
· Participants’ level of physical functioning has increased, and
· Participants have felt more socially connected.

To learn more about Un Nuevo Amanecer program or other services provided by Centro de la Communidad Unida / United Community Center, visit their website at http://www.unitedcc.org.