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DAYVILLE --- United Services, Inc., a non-profit behavioral health center serving Eastern Connecticut, is offering Gatekeeper Trainings to civic organizations, business associations and members of the community who regularly come into contact with seniors. A “Gatekeeper” is a community member who helps identify seniors who are potentially at risk or in need of assistance to maintain their safety and independence.
The Gatekeeper Program is funded by the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. Varied and diverse groups including store clerks, hair dressers, civic organizations, banks, bartenders, contractors, utility workers and others are encouraged to seek training to help them better understand signs of seniors in need of support.
To request a Gatekeeper Training for your business or organization, please contact: John J. Goodman, Director of Communications at 860-774-2020 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
The goal of this program is to educate community members to keep their eyes and ears alert for seniors at risk, particularly those who are isolated, living alone and potentially in need of some type of assistance to maintain their independence.
Upon noticing such a sign, community members can make a completely confidential referral to United Services where a trained social worker will follow up with the senior to help secure available resources which may help them to remain safely in their own home.
Early identification of at-risk elders can prevent premature institutionalization, abuse and neglect. However many seniors typically will not self-refer for services or support. Should a Gatekeeper identify someone they consider in need of services, they can make a confidential referral to United Services Senior Advocates, who will then reach out to the senior to offer assistance and support. After contacting the senior and discussing their situation, the Advocate refers the client to the appropriate community services, including case management, mental health services, personal care, chore services and transportation.