Silver CARE Program Director and Lead Therapist Brett Engle, Ph.D., LCSW, speaks about the program and why it’s so important to our community.   

Tell us about Silver CARE.

Silver CARE at Goodman JFS of Broward serves adults 60+ and their caregivers. Our mission is to improve health outcomes by addressing the effects of trauma and other life stressors through a person-centered, whole-health approach.

We developed an individualized plan to increase social connection, physical and mental health and vibrancy. We offer multiple services such as individual and group counseling, social events, financial assistance for food and transportation and more.

How did this program come to be?

JFS was awarded a Health and Human Services and Jewish Federation of North America grant to create Silver CARE. We were awarded this grant due to our well-established infrastructure for providing social services through the Behavioral Health Associates of Broward, Counseling Centers of Goodman JFS.

How can someone participate? Are there any requirements?

Anyone 60+ with a history of any kind of trauma can participate. Almost 90% of older adults have experienced trauma but many do not think of themselves as having done so. Participants meet with our Case Manager and Program Director for an initial intake and health engagement assessment. Any family caregiver of an older adult with trauma can also participate in Silver CARE, regardless of whether their older adult relative does. We recognize the unique and invaluable role of family caregivers, as well as their risk for burnout and frequent lack of support in meeting their own health and wellness needs.    

What do you think participants will take away from the program?

I expect every participant to feel heard, understood and supported in their pursuit of improved health. What the participant gets out of the program will largely depend on what they need and what they are looking for. We often make referrals both within JFS, such as the Holocaust Survivors Assistance Program and BHAB, as well as our numerous community partners. Some of our participants may only be looking for a bit more socialization or to address a particular mental or physical health concern or stressor, while others benefit from receiving multiple services and referrals to make major life changes. 

What are you looking forward to most?

I’m excited about our first Wellness Fair on August 28. We have a full program of outstanding mindfulness-based presenters and instructors in integrative medicine. Our special guests include Dr. Khadil Hosein, MD, and Melissa Elie PA-C, Co-founders of Vybrant Medical Wellness; Knellee M Bisram, Founder of the Academy of the Heart and Mind; and Sharon Veingrad, Brain Health Fitness Instructor at the David Posnack JCC. 

If you’re interested in learning more about Silver CARE or attending our first social event on August 28, please click here.