BOZEMAN — The Human Resource Development Council, or the HRDC has a number of senior programs and services for people across southwest Montana, with help from everything from nutrition and groceries, to transportation, to medicare counseling.
One program that’s seen an increase in participation since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic is the HRDC’s Senior Reach Program.
The program helps seniors experiencing depression, anxiety, and addiction with behavioral health services and counseling.
One of the associate directors with the HRDC says the COVID-19 pandemic has left a traumatic effect on many seniors experiencing self-isolation and says there are resources available for those who need help.
“As we know with COVID, families stopped visiting. There was the fear of contracting the virus. Things went electronic so, we really did see an uptick in the number of referrals both from physicians, as well as self-referrals,” said Margaret Mason, associate director at the HRDC.
The HRDC’s Senior Reach Program is taking donations, as demand for their services has increased over the last year.
The organization is also encouraging people to check on their elderly friends and neighbors.