Elder Services: Finding Local Resources Text Size:

On the local level, Area Agencies on Aging exist in nearly every community and are both created and primarily funded by the Older American's Act. They are often the clearinghouses for all local non-profit organizations that provide services to elders, including information and referral, nutrition sites and visiting nurses. They also fund transportation and legal services, as well as senior centers and many health screening programs. The Area Agencies on Aging may also be known as Area Agencies or Councils on Aging and other such names. They may or may not be part of your local government. In addition, city government listings and telephone information services will provide location and telephone contact information for these agencies.

National Association of State Units on Aging

On the state level, offices on aging or units on aging participate in oversight of local programs and serve as a clearing house of information available to elders and those caring for elders.

Senior Centers

Many communities have senior centers, which serve as focal points for elder activities. Senior centers also often provide counseling on elder issues and may be able to refer you to other service providers, including estate planners and elder law attorneys.

Programs for Public Benefits

Federal and state governments provide benefits for elders and those benefits are usually administered on the county level. Typical programs include in home services and Medicaid. You should be able to find more information at the nearest senior center or in the county government section of your phone book.

Social Security Administration

While you or your elderly relative may already be receiving Social Security, remember that the Social Security Administration also operates Medicare and Supplemental Security Income. Look in the Federal Government portion of your phone book for the Social Security Administration.

Veteran's Administration

If you or your elderly relative is a veteran, then the Veteran's Administration will likely be a valuable resource. The VA provides a diverse variety of services and may also operate as a resource for veterans's family members.

Family and Medical Leave Act

The Family and Medical Leave Act requires employers with 50 or more workers to provide their employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave in each 12-month period to care for a spouse or a parent with a serious health condition. The Act may be of use to a family member coordinating services for an elder and requires that the employer allow an eligible employee to return to his or her job or an equivalent position if time from work is missed while caring for the spouse or parent

How a Lawyer Can Help

Caring for an elderly person is a daunting responsibility. In addition, with Social Security law, estate planning and nursing home care, there are a lot of twists and turns that may require the helping hand of a trained professional. Remember, a good estate planning attorney is also a good local resource for you. An attorney that practices elder law or estate planning should be able to assist you and put your mind at ease.

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