Joslyn Center Certified Autism Center for Seniors

Certification Demonstrates Commitment of Joslyn Center to Serve Older Adults in the Community of all Abilities

PALM DESERT — The Joslyn Center has been Certified as the first Autism Center for Seniors in the nation.

The Joslyn Center has been an essential part of the local senior community since 1981.

The Certification by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards demonstrates that The Joslyn Center “front facing” staff and volunteers have undergone autism-specific training to better understand and accommodate the needs of autistic and sensory-sensitive people. The staff’s training with the IBCCES ensures that they are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to offer supportive and accommodating services.

“The Joslyn Center is so excited to announce that we have recently been certified as the first Autism Center for seniors in the nation,” Jack Newby, executive director, said in a statement. “This is reflective of our desire to be a center for all in our community regardless of real or perceived disability.  Research shows that social and recreational activities have resulted in positive physical and mental health outcomes for Autistic adults. What better place to offer these services to Autistic older adults than a center that has been providing social and recreational activities for older adults for over 40 years.”

Melanie Lyons, Joslyn Center Program Director explains her commitment to achieving this milestone, “Creating inclusive programming for older adults on the autism spectrum is not just a professional endeavor for me; it’s deeply personal. As a parent of two teenage sons with autism, I know firsthand the importance of ensuring continued support beyond childhood. Autism doesn’t end at 18; it’s a lifelong journey. It’s about building a community that embraces and sustains individuals with ASD, providing them with the necessary resources and engagement opportunities as they navigate through different stages of life. This mission is not just a commitment; it’s a profound investment in the future, both for my children and for countless others like them.”

The Joslyn Center is working with Inland Regional Center in finalizing a collaborative working relationship with them based upon our approved Program Plan for social recreational programming for Autistic older adults. The Joslyn Center would be the first such program in our area.

The Joslyn Center Board of Directors has been very supportive of this initiative.  Beverly Fitzgerald said in a statement. “As the Board President of the Joslyn Center, I am incredibly proud to announce our commitment to creating a more inclusive environment for autistic individuals. Socialization plays a vital role in all older adults’ lives, but it is needed especially for those with autism. It provides not just companionship but also opportunities for growth, continued learning, and a sense of belonging. Through specialized training and programming, we will combat loneliness and isolation, providing a welcoming space where everyone can thrive. This initiative marks a significant step towards a more compassionate community, and I’m proud to be part of it.”

For more than two decades, IBCCES has served as the industry leader in cognitive disorder training and certification for education, health care, and corporate professionals worldwide. IBCCES offers training and certification programs developed in collaboration with clinical experts and autistic self-advocates. The organization equips professionals with a deeper understanding of effective communication and interaction strategies for individuals with cognitive differences or sensory needs, as well as insights into industry best practices and the latest research in these fields.

“IBCCES is excited to work with The Joslyn Center to build upon their team’s expertise. Our specialized programs will help their team do what they do best – support the well-being of adults 50+ through innovative programs and services,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman.

The Joslyn Center has been building collaborative working relationships in order to provide inclusive programming and support for others in the disability community.  We work with the Braille Institute in providing services and programming for blind and low vision clients and are establishing an exercise program for older adults with Parkinson’s.

For The Joslyn Center, pursuing this Certification was a means to solidify for our organization and for the community our commitment to inclusive programming for all older adults, regardless of ability.