TRAIL GATEKEEPER PROGRAM

How does Gatekeepers Work?

The majority of people over the age of 65 lead relatively active, happy lives. They have a good support system around them if they do encounter problems. We are not needed to get these people help. The ones we are concerned with are those without support systems. It has been proven that the people whom most need help, are unlikely to self-refer. If they do get help, it is because someone else got it for them. If 10% of our seniors have no support systems to help them, who will get help for them?

This is the foundation of the Gatekeeper Program. People looking out for those, who may be unable to do it themselves. All it takes is one phone call from a concerned citizen, and the door is opened to programs and services, that the senior may access. Often the progression of disease is gradual, and the elderly person may not even realize there is a problem. The program is not a "spy on your neighbor" program. It is concerned citizens who are willing to watch out for those who are unable to. The program is voluntary, and the individual referred can refuse the help. If they are willing, an assessment would be conducted and programs or services could be implemented to help the at-risk senior.

The initial training session takes approximately one hour. This will train Gatekeepers to look for signs & symptoms that an elderly person may be at risk. After this session you go about your regular routines, with a heightened awareness. Training sessions include: signs & symptoms, protocol for referral, dementia, abuses (including financial abuse.). Training is conducted yearly to refresh those who have already taken the training, and to train new staff.

For further information contact George Braithwaite at: george.braithwaite@rcmp-grc.gc.ca