Odyssey House's ElderCare program focuses on the special needs of older populations whose numbers are increasing by as much as 20 percent each year. As baby boomers, many of whom experimented with drugs in the 1960s and 1970s, head towards late middle age and their senior years, the number of older Americans with substance use disorders is growing dramatically. The federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration estimates that 1.7 million Americans over the age of 50 are addicted and predict this population will to grow to 4.4 million by 2020.

At any one time, as many as 70 men and women 55 years of age and older take part in Odyssey House's ElderCare residential treatment program. They engage in group sessions, seminars, and other therapeutic activities, and are encouraged to involve family members in the treatment process. These men and women benefit from sharing their experiences with peers who have common backgrounds and experiences, as well as a desire to lead a drug-free life.

What we offer:

• Individualized lengths of stays
• Focus on group treatment with community responsibility and accountability
• On-site licensed primary medical and dental clinics, HIV testing and counseling
• Discharge planning, including: peer support network; individual and group therapy
• Housing support, including: community residence, independent scattered site housing, or community-based skilled nursing facilities
• Vocational assessment, training and job placement
• Adult Basic Education and GED prep

Program highlights:

• Evidence-based services: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and trauma-informed Seeking Safety
• Room together with other mature peers
• Age-appropriate cultural, fitness and recreational activities
• Mature staff with experience in geriatric care
• Medication-assisted treatment