Site of the senior day care program in the Seinan neighborhood.
Many seniors want to live independently for as long as possible. A decision to enter a senior facility or to sign up for a senior day care program is most often postponed until it is brought up by a family member, a friend or a doctor.
It is difficult to accept that one is growing older and needing help to get around, to prepare a meal, to bathe or to simply take care of daily tasks. The expectation that your children will take care of you disappears quickly when you realize that they are busy with their own lives or that they live too far away to be of any help.
The Japanese American population is an aging population with a higher percentage of seniors over 65 years old than that of the rest of the nation. Among our JA seniors, many are not proficient in the English language to feel comfortable with programs that are offered at local community centers. Bilingual (English/Japanese) and bicultural senior facilities or day care programs are severely lacking in this country.
Koreisha Senior Care & Advocacy (KSCA) has recently formed a partnership with the Seinan Senior Seinan Koreisha Citizens’ Club in Los Angeles to start a bilingual and culturally sensitive senior day care center. The Seinan area is located in southwest Los Angeles and has long been a home to the Japanese American community. The Kashu Realty sign that still stands on its property is a testament to the history of the community, whichpredates World War II.
The anticipated kickoff date of the Day Program is late spring of 2025. The program is for seniors who are isolated and need socialization, who want to stay active physically and mentally by taking part in various activities, and who need care while their family members work during the day.
Elders will be provided with bilingual services in a safe environment. The professional staff will consist of physicians, health and mental health providers, student interns and volunteers. Seniors with dementia, disabilities, and long-term illnesses are welcome. Referral from a primary care doctor and an initial evaluation at the center will determine if the program is suited for the applicant.
Types of classes offered will be determined by the needs of the participating members. The Seinan Koreisha Adult Day Care will meet on weekdays, and will provide lunch and various services.
Starting the Senior Day Program in the Seinan district is exciting to say the least. This is where it all began and where we hope to continue the JA legacy by providing health/mental health/social services for our seniors.
For any inquiries, please contact KSCA by email: info@koreishasca. org or through its website: www.koreishasca.org.