Web page: http://www.ohioseniors.com
e-mail: hispsrctr@mail.cle-dioc.org
e-mail for Teodosio Feliciano: teodos@excite.com
BACKGROUND
The Hispanic population is growing at a rapid pace in greater Cleveland and throughout the United States. Approximately 2000 Hispanics in Greater Cleveland were 60 years or older according to the 1990 Census. Estimates are that the Hispanic older adult population will double by 2000.
The poverty rate among Hispanic seniors is an astronomical 74.6 percent according to a 1989 study by the Hispanic Community Forum and the Federation for Community Planning. More than 30 percent of these seniors face the culturally unexpected experience of social isolation; living alone and out of contact with family, friends or peers.
Language and cultural barriers make healthcare, housing, and general socialization systems even more difficult to access is normal. A high percentage of the Hispanic senior population suffers from chronic illness: diabetes, arthritis, and hypertension.
HISPANIC SENIOR CENTER MISSION
To serve the senior community of greater Cleveland with emphasis on the cultural and linguistic needs of the Hispanic elderly.
PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
Access Program
The Hispanic Senior Center helps limited English-speaking elderly access a variety of
basic human services and programs:
Case Management
Information and Referral
Outreach
Escort to Appointments
Interpretation/Translation
Transportation
Congregate Nutrition Program
The provides the only culturally specific hot meal program in Cuyahog county. The lunch is
served Monday through Friday at 11:30 a.m.
Socialization Program
Seniors may visit the center from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Monday through Friday to share
the language and to socialize. Activities include dominos, bingo, arts and crafts,
education, cultural events and field trips.
Home Visit Program
Staff members and senior volunteers make friendly visits to homebound clients and nursing
home residents.
Health and Wellness Programs
Health promotion and wellness programs are provided which specifially address the cultural
and linguistic needs of Hispanic elderly -- a population at high risk for chronic illness.
The center provides culturally sensitive diet and nutrition, education and physical
fitness activities. Health screenings, including blood pressure, glucose, and cholesterol
tests are also provided.
HISTORY
In April 1984, the Hispanic community convened "Convencion 84", a public forum
where Hispanics from greater Cleveland came together to discuss issues affecting the
community. A resolution was passed calling for the establishment of a center to provide
services to the vulnerable and growing Hispanic elderly population of greater Cleveland.
In August 1984, the Hispanic Senior Center was opened.
Organizing support was provided by the Hispanic program of the Commision on Catholic
Community Action. In 1991 the Center merged with the Catholic Charities system.
HOME BACK
Catholic Charities Services Cuyahoga County
Community Responsiveness Supported by an Integrated System of Services
Older Adult Services for 60 and over