ChristianaCare enhances services for senior adults in Sussex

For many older adults in Sussex County, navigating the healthcare system can feel overwhelming, and difficulty accessing care can create gaps in care that ultimately lead to poor health. ChristianaCare has brought a variety of services to Sussex County that are specially designed for older adults.

These include ChristianaCare’s expanding My65+ primary care program, the Swank Center for Memory Care, and ChristianaCare HomeHealth, all services that work collaboratively with seniors to help them achieve their best health based on their individual needs.

Providing specialized primary care services tailored to meet the needs of people 65 and older, ChristianaCare’s My65+ services include medication management, annual Medicare visits, chronic disease management, coordination with specialists and additional consultation time with healthcare providers. 

"I can't express enough how wonderful the My65+ program at ChristianaCare has been for me," said Linda Martin of Rehoboth Beach, a My65+ Program patient. "When they opened the practice in Rehoboth, it made getting the care I need much more convenient. I truly appreciate how the professionals at ChristianaCare take the time to understand my health and offer support for my mother's care. They have a memory specialist on-site who provides expert care for my mother. It feels like I'm part of a caring community."

ChristianaCare My65+ is available at locations in Rehoboth Beach and at a new primary care practice in Milford. 

Sussex County has been designated by the federal government as a Medically Underserved Area, with projections showing that the population will increase from 237,000 in 2022 to over 361,000 by 2050, further intensifying the demand for primary care services.

Providers at ChristianaCare’s new Milford location will play a crucial role in addressing the growing healthcare needs of Sussex County.

“ChristianaCare recognizes the importance of addressing the unique healthcare needs of our senior community. Our focus is on delivering care that prevents diseases, manages chronic conditions and improves overall well-being, especially for older adults,” said Priya Dixit-Patel, MD, physician executive for core and advanced primary care at ChristianaCare.

Recognizing the significant impact that memory-related conditions can have on individuals and their families, ChristianaCare’s Swank Center for Memory Care serves as a source of hope and support for those dealing with these challenges. 

With locations in Rehoboth Beach, Smyrna and Wilmington, the Swank Center for Memory Care serves patients throughout Delaware and the surrounding region.

A dedicated team of geriatricians, nurses, social workers and other professionals collaborates with patients and their families to offer support, education and guidance throughout the diagnosis and treatment process.

"ChristianaCare has consistently been at the forefront of providing excellent patient care, and the Swank Center for Memory Care is another opportunity for us to enhance support for people 65 and older," said Steven Huege, MD, MSEd, Swank Foundation Endowed Chair in Memory Care and Geriatrics at ChristianaCare. "By designing care that meets the specific needs of older adults, we can create a better experience and achieve improved outcomes for everyone involved. This initiative is an important part of our overarching vision to provide every older adult with the best care possible."

The Swank Center was selected by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to participate in the new Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience Model, aimed at enhancing care coordination and access to services for those living with dementia and their caregivers. Key support services will include comprehensive assessments, care coordination, respite care, a 24/7 support line and education.

“My65+ and Swank Center for Memory Care Services are unique programs in Sussex County that are greatly needed because of the growing senior population,” said Anthony Paul Buonanno, MD, MBA, a primary care physician at My65+ at Rehoboth Beach. “The healthcare infrastructure has not been able to keep up with the demand, and it is essential to provide healthcare services close to home for Delawareans. I am proud to be part of a program that is innovative, necessary and useful to my community.”

Throughout the state, ChristianaCare HomeHealth provides a variety of nursing care for all ages in managing chronic conditions, adapting to new diagnoses and improving daily living activities.

“ChristianaCare HomeHealth designs a plan of care that is personalized for those we serve,” said Donna Antenucci, MHA, BSN, RN, ChristianaCare HomeHealth interim president. “Treating older adults in their own home is a privilege, and brings comfort physically and emotionally to those served and their family. It is truly rewarding for us as providers of home health services to enhance people's quality of life and improve their overall well-being. We are truly honored to be a part of their journey to wellness and healing while respecting the dignity of those we serve.”

Comprehensive care is available through skilled nursing, home health aides, rehabilitative services and medical social workers. Specially trained professionals offer home care, including physical and speech therapy, to help individuals live independently and safely.