Hospitals in Action >> Case Examples

PROVIDENCE SEWARD MEDICAL & CARE CENTER - Seward, Alaska
Connecting Seniors to Health and Wellness

What is it?   
The hospital, in cooperation with the Seward Senior Center, is helping Seward seniors improve their health status.  A physical therapist from the medical center’s rehabilitation department conducts an hour-long core strengthening and balance class at the senior center twice a week.

Who is it for? 
The class is designed to help Seward seniors that need to increase their strength, balance and activity level. Some of the class participants are dependent on support to assist them in walking.

Why do they do it?  
In a small town, the hospital is often the resource for community wellness. By holding classes at the senior center the hospital is creating relationships that benefit both the seniors and the medical center staff. Providence donates its physical therapist’s and other staff time, so that the program can be run at a minimal cost to participants.       

Program Impact:
This program has helped to decrease falls, improves the overall health, incorporates education about healthy lifestyles and life balance, and provides opportunities for socialization for this population.  The senior center and the hospital recently received an “Older American’s Program Champions” award from the U.S. Administration on Aging for their Core Strengthening Class. 

Contact:  Natalie Sook
Physical Therapist
Telephone:  907-224-2800
Email:   natalie.sook@provak.org