The Elizabethton/Carter County Seniors and Law Enforcement Together (SALT) Council has a project in place called Elder Check, which is a combined effort between the sheriff’s department, city police and the community who as the name implies check on seniors who live alone or in unsafe conditions.

The council itself is a long-standing union between seniors and law enforcement with the stated purpose of developing solutions to problems faced by an aging population in Carter County. SALT has other councils in neighboring counties and in other states.

Elder Check is one of several free services offered by the council. The project ensures that law enforcement will make phone calls and even conduct police welfare checks for those that sign up for it.

“Elder Check is a program for individuals whom someone determined could benefit from a reassurance call or a visit from a Carter County Sheriff [or Elizabethton Police Department] to check on their well-being.  Or you may want to request this service for yourself,” says Elizabethton Senior Center Director Kathy Dula in an emailed statement. “A visit or telephone call to those living alone or in an unsafe situation will reassure all is well and give many peace of mind. 

“How to become a participant? An application form is available at the Elizabethton Senior Center or Carter County Sheriff’s Department. This includes such questions as name, telephone number, address, and any health conditions. Also, the time of day you would prefer to be contacted.”

Dula said that the SALT Council is interested in assisting and meeting the needs of the seniors in our community. Their motto is “LIVE SAFE – LIVE WELL.”

Despite the availability of the no cost program, it may be one that is under utilized in the city.

Police Chief Jason Shaw said that currently no one in the city has signed up for the program, despite his department’s commitment to participate in it.

“I believe it is a good thing, but so far no one in the city has signed up for it,” said Shaw regarding Elder Check. Shaw said the reason could be that people just do not know about it.

“The sheriff’s office started to implement it. They called me about it, and I said we would be glad to help,” added Shaw.

Dula encourages seniors or persons that know of elders that need the services offered by the Elder Check program to sign up. Persons interested in the program with further questions or are unable to pick up a form can call 423-543-4362.