Building BRIDGES
for Older Adults
Behavioral Health Resources for Integrated Development, Growth, Engagement, and Support (BRIDGES) for Older Adults empowers community-based organizations and aging and disability network members to effectively Recognize, Respond to, and Refer older adults with behavioral health concerns in community-based, evidence-based chronic disease self-management programming. This approach supports early intervention, better chronic disease management, and improved overall well-being for older adults.
Helping the Aging and Disability Network Members and Facilitators of Chronic Disease Classes for Older Adults
Recognize, Respond, Refer Older Adults to Behavioral Health Supports
Research and Remove Barriers
BRIDGES for Older Adults is conducting annual research relating to the needs of older adults and the people who care for them as well as the barriers and facilitators for facilitators of chronic disease self management education programs. We also are working to reduce stigma around help seeking for behavioral health concerns in the older adult population.
Recognize Behavioral Health Concerns
We provide education, trainings, toolkits and other resources so chronic disease class facilitators for older adults can spot signs of behavioral health concerns like depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder and substance use disorder.
Respond to Concerns
Learn how to best Respond to Behavioral Health Concerns in Older Adults, including during group situations where you must maintain fidelity of the program.
Refer to Supports & Resources
Learn how to refer older adults with behavioral health concerns to supports and resources in your community. Better understand the levels of care and what might be a good fit for the older adult and the concern.
Sign Up for Our E-Newsletter
Stay informed about the latest happenings in the BRIDGES for Older Adults initiative by signing up for our newsletter. This will ensure you receive important updates, resources, and event notifications directly to your email inbox.
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This website is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $3,260,699 with 100 percent funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.