The Leadership Behind Northeast Florida's Premier Senior Services
In a region where the senior population is rapidly expanding, the stability and vision of community-based support systems are more critical than ever. At the helm of one of Northeast Florida's most established and comprehensive nonprofit organizations, Aging True, is President and CEO Teresa K. Barton. She has been in a leadership role with the organization for nearly three decades, taking the title of CEO in 2007. Her tenure is marked by a deep commitment to enabling home-based independence and providing innovative care for a growing elderly population.
Who is Teresa K. Barton?
Teresa K. Barton is a seasoned leader in the field of senior and community care. Her journey into this sector was driven by a passion for helping disadvantaged and frail individuals, a calling she discovered early in her career. Before her nearly 30 years with Aging True, she worked with an organization providing therapeutic foster care and helping to de-institutionalize developmentally disabled older adults. This experience solidified her belief in the power of community and home-based care options.
Barton's qualifications are as robust as her experience. She holds an MBA from Jacksonville University and is a nationally certified registered guardian. Her influence extends beyond her own organization; she is a past president of the Florida Association of Service Providers and the Florida State Guardianship Association, and she serves as a board member for the Florida Council on Aging. This extensive involvement demonstrates a system-wide dedication to shaping policy and best practices for senior care across the state.
The Mission and History of Aging True
To understand Barton's role is to understand the organization she leads. Aging True has a long and storied history in the Jacksonville community, beginning in 1962. It was originally founded as the Cathedral Foundation of Jacksonville by concerned parishioners of St. John's Episcopal Cathedral who wanted to address the health and welfare of local elders. In 1974, it expanded its community service division through a partnership with Urban Jacksonville, Inc.
In 2011, the organization officially rebranded as Aging True. This change was made to more clearly communicate its core purpose: to support and celebrate independent, graceful aging. Today, it stands as the largest and oldest nonprofit dedicated to serving seniors in the region, reaching thousands of individuals and their families each year.
The mission is clear: to provide essential and innovative services that allow individuals to age with dignity in their own homes and communities for as long as possible. This mission directly combats the challenges many seniors face, from nutritional deficits and social isolation to the need for daily medical and personal care assistance.
A Spectrum of Compassionate Services
Under Barton's leadership, Aging True has cultivated a comprehensive suite of programs designed to meet the diverse needs of the senior population. These services can be broadly categorized into in-home and community-based support.
In-Home Services
Recognizing that the vast majority of seniors prefer to age in place, Aging True offers a robust selection of in-home services:
- Skilled Home Health Care: This includes nursing care, physical and occupational therapy, and speech therapy provided by certified professionals under a physician's direction.
- Personal Care: Aides assist with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and meal preparation, enabling seniors to maintain their independence safely.
- Meals on Wheels: Perhaps its most well-known program, this service delivers nutritious meals to homebound seniors, providing not only essential nutrition but also a vital safety check and friendly visit.
- Caregiver Support: The organization provides respite care and resources for family members who are often the primary caregivers for their loved ones.
Community-Based Programs
To combat isolation and promote active aging, Aging True operates Community Senior Centers. These centers are vibrant hubs of activity, offering:
- Nutritious Lunches: Congregate dining provides healthy meals and encourages social interaction.
- Health and Wellness Activities: Programs include exercise classes, health screenings, and educational workshops.
- Social and Recreational Events: These activities foster a sense of community and purpose, from arts and crafts to group outings.
Comparing Models of Senior Care
Seniors and their families often weigh different types of care. The model championed by Aging True presents a distinct alternative to more institutionalized settings.
| Feature | Aging True (Community & In-Home) | Assisted Living Facility | Skilled Nursing Facility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Location | Client's own home / Local senior center | Residential community | Clinical, hospital-like setting |
| Independence Level | High; promotes autonomy | Moderate; structured environment | Low; for those needing 24/7 care |
| Cost Structure | Often lower cost; services are à la carte | Monthly fee covering room, board, some care | Highest cost; daily rate for intensive care |
| Socialization | At senior centers or during home visits | Planned community activities | Limited, often with fellow residents |
| Medical Care | Skilled nursing visits as needed | On-site staff, not typically 24/7 skilled | 24/7 skilled nursing care available |
Conclusion: A Legacy of Leadership and Compassion
Teresa K. Barton's leadership has been instrumental in steering Aging True through decades of growth and adaptation. By focusing on innovative, person-centered care, she has ensured that the organization not only meets the current needs of Northeast Florida's seniors but is also prepared for the demographic shifts to come. From delivering a single hot meal to providing complex in-home skilled nursing, Aging True, under Barton's guidance, continues to be a pillar of the community, championing the right of every individual to age with dignity, independence, and grace. For more information on their programs, you can visit the official Aging True website.
