Homage’s Mental Health Program: A Lifeline for Older Adults

62-year-old Snohomish County resident Jackie McCoy has spent her life caring for loved ones. However, the pandemic brought unexpected challenges.

“I am a giver by nature and a relatively happy-go-lucky person, but during the pandemic, I suffered greatly and fell into deep despair,” Jackie shared. “Raising my grandchild, I felt anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed by everything happening in our world. It took a huge toll on me, making me feel lonely and isolated. Then, I met Nancy.”

Nancy Brosemer, Homage’s Mental Health Programs Manager, and her team provide free mental health services to people like Jackie throughout Snohomish County.

“As we age, we often face difficult struggles and transitions—loss of loved ones, health problems, retirement, and many other changes can lead to sadness, loneliness, and anxiety. Older adults have been disproportionately impacted by the isolation of a years-long pandemic, but many do not seek mental health care due to stigma,” said Nancy Brosemer. “Additionally, older adults often face barriers such as finding providers who accept Medicare or co-pays that are unaffordable for low-income individuals. In more rural areas, geographic isolation and limited services make accessing mental health care even more challenging.”

“Homage is the only resource for free mental health services in Snohomish County and often the only option available for older adults experiencing depression, anxiety, and grief,” Nancy continued. “In 2023, Homage Senior Services provided 752 various services through our mental health programs, and the demand for our services continues to grow daily.”

Homage provides mental health services to older adults aged 60+ at ten senior and community centers across Snohomish County, including mental health presentations at six Snohomish County YMCAs. These services are in addition to our in-person and phone mental health support services.