Trail Gatekeeper Program: Need for Gatekeeper Training
Aging programs have typically relied on traditional case finding efforts through the use of public information techniques (i.e. radio, posters, brochures) to reach older people in need of assistance. The expectation is that those in need will call and ask for help. These efforts have proven to be successful in serving higher functioning older adults who are able to seek help on their own and those with a family support system who calls on their behalf. However, such efforts have not been successful in reaching those most isolated in the community. There are a number of reasons why high-risk elderly are reluctant or resistant to seeking assistance. Resistance is often a cover-up for pervasive feelings of shame, suspicion, and fear. Many older people are afraid of losing what control they maintain over their lives. Some may be fearful that if someone finds out how poorly they are functioning, they will be placed in a nursing home. Moreover, it is often the very nature of the problems people suffer from–memory loss, depression–that render them incapable of understanding that problems exist and that they are in danger of not being able to remain home.
Gatekeepers are non-traditional referral sources because, through their regular business activities , they come into contact with isolated elderly who will not or cannot self refer. The training which prepares Gatekeepers to identify and refer at-risk elderly and their natural position for contact with isolated persons makes the Gatekeeper function invaluable.
