Elder Services            

Launched in 1978 as a partnership between mental health and aging systems of care, Elder Services is a  primary access point for services and resources that promote independence and enhanced quality of life for Spokane County home dwelling older adults, especially those who are at-risk and isolated. Elder Services provides seamless, cost effective, and consumer oriented services that include in-home interdisciplinary clinical case management; psychiatric/medication management; telephone information and assistance; caregiver support that includes Respite, Kinship Care; volunteer escort special transportation; and Medicaid Waiver (COPES) case management.

Elder Services is internationally recognized for its "Gatekeeper" model and has received national awards that include the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University and Ford Foundation’s “Innovations in State and Local Government Award” and Hospital and Community Psychiatry’s “Achievement Award." In June 2002, Elder Services was recognized as one of only four nationally recognized suicide prevention model programs at the University of Rochester Medical Center’s “Suicide Prevention” conferences held in Washington D.C. Gatekeeper is also recognized as a "Promising Practice" by the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Through collaborations with local universities, Elder Services offers on-site practicum and advanced training opportunities including Eastern Washington University Masters in Social Work students; University of Washington, Spokane Track Psychiatric Residents; and Washington State University College of Pharmacy Candidates.

Elder Services also provides excellent and rewarding volunteer opportunities. Call (509) 458-7450 for information.