Our Goals & Vision

The Path We Are Traveling
Our plan includes multiple components, which together will provide an entry point for information, guidance, representation and improved quality of life for seniors. The model leverages community collaboration to bring together existing services and resources for better utilization. 

  • Navigation Program – SCIRC is creating an online, interactive, automated database of all services and providers, specific to Indian River County, with detailed information on each. SCIRC has entered into an agreement with Jones & Jones Advertising to construct a website. We have also entered into an agreement with GrowthZone to acquire association software to provide listings of providers and services and allow for searches utilizing keywords. These components will serve as the backbone for providing information. Information will be available both through our website as well as by phone. The telephone counseling will be conducted by both SCIRC staff and trained volunteers.
  • Senior Connection Center– Although a longer-term goal, there are several existing models for this type of Center, including One Senior Place in Viera, FL, which has an information library and caseworker on staff. Mental Health Collaborative has created the McCabe Center, to connect their clients to existing providers. This proposed center is envisioned as an entry point that connects seniors to community services, in an elder-friendly and engaging manner. On hand will be a specialized counselor(s) to help individuals and families assess needs and access solutions by providing information through touch screens to our database as well as a library of provider information. In addition, we envision space to conduct seminars, training, and programs specialized to seniors.
  • Livable Community – As the U.S. population ages and people stay healthy and active longer, communities must adapt. Well-designed, livable communities promote health and sustain economic growth which produces happier, healthier residents of all ages. The age-friendly community program deals with:
    • Housing – Affordability and access.
    • Neighborhood – Access to life, work, and play.
    • Transportation – Safe and convenient options.
    • Environment – Clean air and water.
    • Health – Prevention, access, and quality.
    • Engagement – Civic and social involvement.
    • Opportunity – Inclusion, and possibilities.

Efforts to make communities more Livable can promote social inclusion among older adults. Making existing communities more Livable involves physical and social infrastructure changes that enable older adults to pursue lifelong activities, meet their basic needs, maintain significant relationships, participate in the community in personally and socially meaningful ways, and develop new interests and sources of fulfillment.

A needs assessment survey by the Department of Elder Affairs found that when asked what makes a community ‘elder-friendly‘ many seniors cited factors such as:

  • Easy-to-read street signs
  • Presence of many other elders
  • Programs, services, and events for elders
  • Transportation
  • Affordable housing
  • Sense of safety