Senior Life Solutions program outlines services, reports improved outcomes and plans Portola expansion

Erica Thompson, program director for Senior Life Solutions at Plumas District Hospital, gave a 25‑minute presentation June 11 describing the county’s outpatient program for older adults, the program’s outcomes, how to refer clients and plans for expansion.

Thompson said Senior Life Solutions opened in January 2021 and expanded capacity in September 2024. “My goal for this presentation is to give you the tools and knowledge you need to play an active role in improving the older adult population’s well‑being,” she told the commission, and outlined program services: group and individual therapy, evidence‑based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), vital signs monitoring, case management, medication management assistance and limited transportation to program appointments.

Program outcomes and impact: Thompson cited program metrics collected during participation: “a 36 percent overall improvement at time of discharge,” plus a 56 percent improvement on a geriatric depression scale and other clinical measures, which staff use to track progress. She also cited national program research showing reductions in hospital readmissions and emergency department visits for programs like this.

Referral process: Thompson said any community member, clinician, family member or the person themselves can refer into the program using a three‑step process: observe signs, collect contact information and submit a referral by phone, email or fax. “You can submit the referral directly to us,” Thompson said, and staff will verify insurance and eligibility before intake.

Expansion: Commissioners asked whether neighboring Portola plans to open a similar service. County and hospital speakers said Portola is under contract to open a Senior Life Solutions site and is “slated to start seeing patients in the fall,” with recruitment underway for a program director and therapist; referrals for the Portola site will be handled separately from Quincy’s program.

Why it matters: The program targets adults (generally 65+) with depression, anxiety, grief and other age‑related changes that affect daily functioning; Thompson emphasized early identification and coordination with primary care and community supports.

Ending: Thompson offered business cards, rack cards and a one‑page referral guide to commission members and volunteered to present to local agencies to increase awareness and referrals.

Note on attribution: Direct quotes and outcome figures in this article are taken from Erica Thompson’s presentation to the commission.