SAGE ELDERCARE INC

SAGE Eldercare will be the leading provider of innovative services and programs that meet the changing needs of older adults and families. As the older adult population grows in numbers and lives longer, the need for the types of services provided by SAGE will continue to grow.

SAGE provides a wide array of programs to help older adults over 60 years remain independent, safe and active and it also supports, active caregivers, concerned friends and family members of all ages, and older adults needing direct care or assistance. Our continuum of programs and services improve the health, well-being and independence of older adults and allows them to remain living in their own homes, without the threat of institutionalization, for as long as possible. SAGE employs highly-qualified professionals whose experience and specializations best serve the varying, specific challenges that confront older adults and caregivers. Meals on Wheels with its supportive services reaches the most vulnerable and isolated older adults in our region in their own homes and ensures that they are receiving the support they need to remain living well and independently.

HomeCare provides further in-home support when an older adult is experiencing complex challenges like physical or mental disabilities, chronic illnesses and dementia, or has recently experienced a health emergency or hospital visit that has made it more difficult for him or her to manage activities of daily living.

SAGE's InfoCare program is in the community, connecting older adults to the services available to them, and supporting their caregivers and family members as well.

When interventions are more intensive and require the assistance of a registered nurse, GPS: Guidance, Planning and Support Services steps in to coordinate an older adult's care. GPS serves adult children and caregivers by helping to evaluate an older adult's changing needs in times such as progression of illness, loss of a loved one, re-location, or after a hospitalization or rehabilitation. In four weeks, a registered nurse Care Navigator completes a thorough assessment and makes referrals and long-term recommendations. GPS connects clients with any additional services they need, such as SAGE's other programs and hourly nursing or social work support.

The Adult Medical Day Health Center continues to provide a safe and welcoming second home for older adults with support for their families and caregivers.

Our Public Education programs aim to share the lessons our professionals are learning about the latest advances in elder health, caregiving and wellness/prevention. Through all of these activities, SAGE remains a dependable resource for the older adults, caregivers and family members throughout our four-county service area.

With the support of 23 full time and 19 part time staff members, 61 certified home health aides and over 100 volunteers, SAGE provides a wide array of programs for independent, healthy people over 60 years, active caregivers, concerned friends and family members of all ages, and older adults needing direct care or assistance. Our continuum of programs and services improve the health, well-being and independence of older adults and allow them to remain living in their own homes, without the threat of institutionalization, for as long as possible. SAGE employs highly qualified professionals whose experience and specializations best serve the varying, specific challenges that confront our region's older adults and caregivers – our programs are designed and improved in collaboration with those who need services and care.

SAGE Eldercare exchanges referrals with countless eldercare community representatives. Among many valuable partnerships, Atlantic Health's Overlook Hospital, and the Union County Division on Aging have been major longstanding collaborators, along with the public officials, physicians, social workers, intake coordinators and emergency responders who refer to our services.

SAGE has a long term strategic plan for the organization which presents a roadmap toward achieving our mission, goals and future objectives which will assist us in meeting the current and future needs of our community.

Highlights of the plan include:
1. Maintaining and ensuring the highest ethics and standards by providing oversight and accountability.
2. Managing financial resources and the budget for organizational sustainability.
3. Providing a continuum of diverse, high quality programs and services for older adults and caregivers.
4. Increasing visibility and engagement through the promotion of SAGE Eldercare.

During 2022 SAGE achieved the following outcomes towards our long term mission:
• Meals on Wheels (100 volunteers delivered 28,875 meals to 250 people),
• HomeCare (33,600 hours of care to 65 individuals by 61 Certified Home Health Aides),
• Adult Medical Day Health Center (Provided 5,655 days of care for 69 participants during, plus respite and support for their caregivers),
• InfoCare Referral Service (provided free information and social work support to 500 individuals),
• SHIP: State Health Insurance Assistance Program (helped 717 people gain access to insurance and benefits in),
• Support groups,
• Supportive services such as Grocery Shopping and Errands (140 shopping trips for 32 older adults , and the Emergency Food Pantry),
• Your Decisions Matter (educated 351 family members, friends and healthcare professionals to have conversations about end of life choices before a medical crisis occurs), and
• A full range of volunteer opportunities.

In the face of the largest growing older adult population and changing environment of public support SAGE is incited to ensure it's long term sustainability. Our vision is to continue to be a lifeline to seniors, families and caregivers for many years to come. Our programs will continue to evolve in response to changing and emerging needs.