Senior reach outcomes in comparison with the Spokane Gatekeeper program.

Senior Reach program outcomes for older adults referred for care management and mental health services through a Gatekeeper model were examined in this study and compared with the Spokane Gatekeeper model. The two programs were compared for seniors served on service variables and outcome ratings for isolation, depression, and functioning. Approximately 41% of seniors served by both programs were referred by nontraditional sources: community gatekeepers. Findings indicate that individuals served by the Senior Reach program demonstrated significant improvement in reduction of isolators (such as social isolation), improved functioning, increased optimism about the future, increased positive activities with others, decreased emotional disturbance, and improvements on the Geriatric Depression Scale. Additional program comparisons and findings are discussed. Findings for the Senior Reach program demonstrate that the gatekeeper approach to training community partners is effective in finding at-risk seniors and meeting their needs, resulting in positive impacts on their lives.