On Lok Model Sets The Standard For Elderly Care

On Lok was founded in 1972 as an alternative to nursing homes, to keep elderly citizens in their homes and communities while getting the care and support they need.  Since then it has received national attention.  On Lok is Cantonese for "peaceful, happy abode.  On Lok provides all -inclusive care while allowing seniors to stay in their own homes.

On Lok's model has been so successful that it has been replicated by 87 organizations in 30 states and is funded in part by the federal government.  (the model has evolved into a program called PACE).  Several studies have shown that On Lok saves money over putting people in a nursing home.  Each senior has a complete team of professionals-doctors, social workers, physical therapists, dietitians and more.  The added benefit, according to studies, is that seniors in the program live longer, happier and healthier lives.  Their visits to doctors and hospitals is far less than seniors in nursing homes.

Most importantly, it keeps seniors in their homes and communities as long as possible.  On Lok has been responsible for other innovations.  The nonprofit developed an electronic medical records system for use in long-term care facilities nationwide.  It offers a diabetes self-management course for seniors, and it created an entertaining physical therapy program for participants using the Nintendo Wii.

Almost all of the seniors served by On Lok are very low  income, with a median income of $812 per month.  Most are on Medicare or Medii-Cal.  On Lok began in San Francisco.  Part of their original mission was to allow Chinese Americans to continue to enjoy their language and culture.  These seniors felt isolated in traditional nursing homes.  Today, 66% of their seniors are Asian, but they now serve Caucasian, Latino, and African American. 

I recently saw a documentary on KPBS about On Lok, and thought to myself that this was such a wonderful way to keep seniors happy, healthy, involved, and in their own homes.  The added benefit is that it saves us all money.  The cost of this program is far less than the cost of a nursing home.  Keeping seniors at home as long as possible seems best for everyone.