About
The Office on Aging and Independence provides emotional wellness outreach through SeniorsTogether peer groups and behavioral health programs such as educational sessions, resource sharing, and other community engagement. Programs are offered in 50+ Centers and other community locations.
The SeniorsTogether peer outreach program encourages interaction among older adult peers with the goal of promoting a positive outlook, creating social networks, and supporting a thriving aging process.
Please find more information below and the current SeniorsTogether group schedule here.
For information, please contact Karen Hull at 410-313-7466 (voice/relay) or email khull@howardcountymd.gov.
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Resources
SeniorsTogether
The SeniorsTogether peer outreach program encourages interaction among older adult peers with the goal of promoting a positive outlook, creating social networks, and supporting a thriving aging process.
SeniorsTogether discussion groups are a safe, confidential place for sharing ideas and issues, finding resources, and staying stimulated. All groups are led by a peer facilitator who guides the discussion. Other activities include luncheons, speaker engagements, and workshops. All SeniorsTogether activities are developed with sensitivity to sensory and mobility issues.
Bereavement Support
As we age, losses can accumulate including loss of a loved one or other life transitions such as unexpected moves or changes in mobility. It can be difficult to navigate grief and these transitions. Grief and mourning are uniquely individual; each person seeks their best way to express feelings. On the journey through bereavement, there are ways to cope with the many issues and feelings we experience.
Howard County Office on Aging & Independence offers information on local bereavement/grief resources and offers programs, such as Greif Chat. Grief Chat is a three-part series: Loosing the Ones We Love; Grief: How Can We Help Ourselves; and Bereavement and Coping: Making the Best on My Own. Guest speakers, film, and other activities may also be offered. Watch this area for upcoming events and programs.
A bereavement resource list is available, which includes faith-based programs throughout the County, mental health providers offering fee-for-service counseling or therapy, as well as other resources for individuals who are grieving.
If you would like assistance in finding a resource or have questions about the programs or information shared, please contact Karen Hull, Mental Health Coordinator, Howard County Office on Aging & Independence, 410-313-7466 (voice/relay) or email at khull@howardcountymd.gov.
Trainings and Events
Training is available for the professional or community audience on an array of mental health topics such as depression, suicide, stress management, and resiliency. Trainings can be tailored to a group's specific needs.
Periodic emotional wellness screenings, information, and resources are offered at 50+ Centers and other locations. Screenings, information, and resources can be tailored to a group's specific needs.
To request a training or screening event, please contact Karen Hull at 410-313-7466 (voice/relay) or email khull@howardcountymd.gov.
Support Groups
SeniorsTogether Low Vision support group meets every Tuesday from 10:15 - 11:45 a.m. at the Bain 50+ Center. Individuals with varying levels of vision loss are welcome. For information, please contact Elaine Widom at 410-313-7353 (voice/relay) or email ewidom@howardcountymd.gov
SeniorsTogether Caregiver support group meets every 3rd Monday of the month via WebEx from 7 - 8:30 p.m. This group is designed for adult caregivers caring for another adult.
Behavioral Health Resources
Howard County has a wealth of behavioral health resources including:
Howard County Health Department Bureau of Behavioral Health
National Alliance of Mental Illness of Howard County
Grassroots Crisis Intervention
988: The New Way to Connect to Behavioral Health Crisis Services
Maryland has a new way to connect to local behavioral health crisis services.
Calling 988 will connect callers directly to the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline which encompasses all behavioral crisis services, to include all mental health and substance use (problems with drug and alcohol use).
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline replaces the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline AND expands services to cover all behavioral health crisis services.
Learn more about 988 in Maryland.
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