Dallas ranks as the 9th fastest-growing community of people 65 and older (AARP). As the national trend mirrors this growth, the need for comprehensive support services that enable seniors to age independently in their communities is more critical than ever. Recent surveys reveal that over 90% of people over 65 prioritize remaining in their homes, 30% live alone, and 31% live on an income of $20,000 or less (AARP and Consumer Affairs, Elderly Poverty Statistics 2024). To adequately address the needs of the seniors in our community, Metrocrest has reimagined our Senior Services Program and how we provide client-centered services like never before.

Metrocrest Services’ Senior Services Program empowers low-income seniors to live independently in their chosen communities by providing a comprehensive range of wraparound services that address their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our services include Mobility Options, Home Delivered Meals, Food Pantry, Financial Assistance with Housing and Utilities, and intensive Case Management to walk alongside seniors to find solutions to live independently.

For services, seniors will need to complete a short application process. Jay Villasana, Senior Services Manager then meets with each senior to discuss their needs. “It is fairly thorough,” he explained. “We cover what their needs are, their employment history, income and expenses, mental and physical health, transportation needs, access to food, and whether they have social support networks.” These meetings allow seniors to learn about the many options available to them to create stability in their lives.

One of the more significant needs for seniors is nutrition. Metrocrest Services has several programs that can meet the nutritional needs of seniors. Our client-choice Food Pantry has a wide variety of food items available to seniors, just like those you will find in a traditional grocery store. From meat, dairy, and canned goods, to fresh fruits and vegetables, seniors can select the right items for them. For seniors who are homebound, Metrocrest Services partners with two churches, The Branch and Aldersgate, to deliver food to the senior’s doorstep.

Some of our senior neighbors are unable to cook due to various physical limitations. That is where our Home Delivered Meals programs come into play. “We deliver hot meals provided by Pete’s Cafe to homebound seniors,” stated Andrea Hewison, Senior Services Navigator. The meals are delivered daily by community volunteers. This program is especially important as it provides meals, but also a “safety check” during delivery to make sure our seniors are well and receive a friendly smile and chat.

If you are a senior, 60 and over, and need a helping hand, contact Jay Villasana at 972-446-2100. “We are here to help people,” Jay said. “We have so many different resources here that it’s amazing.”

About the Author

Wolf Isaly is currently interning with Metrocrest Services as an assistant with communications work. Isaly is a University of Texas at Arlington alum, with a BA in journalism and experience as a news reporter at UTA’s student run publication, The Shorthorn.