Patient Portal

(804) 210-3103

CONTACT US

Elderly Care Resources

by | May 5, 2023 | Uncategorized

elderly people being cared for at a senior center

Many people are surprised to learn about the vast array of community and online services, tools, and opportunities specifically designed to cater to the unique needs and interests of our elderly population and their families. Resources range from social and recreational activities to healthcare and legal assistance and can be found through senior centers, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and online platforms.

By leveraging these resources, seniors can maintain their independence, stay connected with their loved ones, and continue to learn and grow. Let’s explore the countless possibilities available to enhance the lives of seniors, their families, and caregivers.

Community Resources For the Elderly

Community services aim to improve the quality of life and overall well-being of seniors and their families by providing access to vital information and support while helping them maintain their independence, improve their physical and mental health, and provide social connections.

While each community and state typically offers services unique to that area, the following resources are often available:

  • Senior Centers – Many cities and towns have senior centers that provide a variety of services for seniors, including social activities, health and wellness programs, and educational programs. Find one near you by entering “senior center near (specific city)” in your internet search engine or using this senior center directory. There are also many online virtual senior or community centers enabling older adults to socialize and connect with others through video chats, classes, and activities. See the AARP virtual community center as one example.
  • Meals on Wheels – This program delivers meals to seniors who cannot leave their homes. Every community tailors its Meals on Wheels program to suit its members’ specific needs and resources. Local organizations, such as churches or non-profits, usually run the program. Despite the variations, these programs share a steadfast commitment to delivering nutritious, wholesome meals to seniors in the comfort of their own homes.
  • Senior Transportation Services – Many cities and towns have transportation services specifically for seniors, which provide rides to medical appointments, grocery stores, and other destinations. See the Safewise website for help locating senior transportation and ride-share programs.
  • Senior Legal Services – Some non-profit groups provide free or low-cost legal services to seniors, including help with estate planning, guardianship, and consumer issues. Check out the Graying with Grace website for help finding free legal services for seniors.
  • Support Groups – There are many support groups available in your community or online for seniors and their families, including groups for caregivers, those dealing with chronic illness, and those grieving the loss of a loved one. The MeetCaregivers website provides helpful information on how to find a local support group.
  • Home Care Services – Companies like At Home Harmony specialize in providing home care services to seniors, including assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing and dressing, medication management, and in-home medical services.
  • Memory Care Services – Many communities have specialized memory care services for seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Check with the Alzheimer’s Association for guidance.

These are just a few examples of the many community resources available for seniors and their families. Talk to your doctor, library, or local community center and research online to locate more resources in your community. See the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for help finding senior resources in your state.

Online Services and Programs

Also called virtual services, online services can provide valuable support and resources for seniors, helping them stay connected, informed, and engaged with the world.

Virtual senior centers and online support groups can provide social connections, emotional support for seniors and their families, and access to information, resources, and support that meet their unique needs, regardless of their physical location.

  • BenefitsCheckUp.org – Access information about benefits and programs that may be available to seniors and those with disabilities to help pay for health care, medicine, food, utilities, and more.
  • Area Agencies on Aging – Provides valuable resources and assistance on various programs for seniors and caregivers, including nutrition and meal programs, caregiver support, insurance counseling to maximize benefits, transportation, and help to complete applications for Medicaid, respite care, and certain veterans’ programs. Eldercare Locator can help you find the Area Agency on Aging serving your community.
  • Eldercare Locator – This is a free national service of the U.S. Administration on Aging (AoA), helping seniors connect with local resources such as housing, legal and financial support, caregiving services, home repair and modification, transportation, and more. You can also contact Eldercare Locator by calling 800-677-1116.
  • AARP.org – AARP is a non-profit organization that provides information and advocacy for seniors. Their website offers articles, resources, and tools for issues such as retirement planning, healthy living, senior discounts, caregiving, and news specific to seniors. The AARP Foundation, an affiliate of AARP, focuses on helping low-income seniors secure life’s essentials, including nutritious food, affordable housing, stable income, and social connections. The Foundation strives to develop impactful solutions for older adults in need by joining forces with volunteers, legal advocates, and organizations.
  • National Council on Aging (NCOA) – Find valuable information and resources on a variety of topics for seniors and their families, including financial security, health and wellness, and community engagement.
  • Go4Life – Provided by the National Institute on Aging (NIA), Go4Life is designed to help adults 50+ incorporate exercise and physical activity into their daily lives by providing helpful information, videos, and tips.
  • SeniorNet.org – This website provides online courses and tutorials for seniors to improve their computer and internet skills. Check with your local library and community center to see if they offer free tech classes. You can also find free courses through AARP.
  • Healthfinder – This service under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers health-related links to resources for seniors, including support and self-help groups and groups that provide senior assistance with many issues.

It’s important to understand there is a wealth of information focusing on protecting and improving the lives of seniors. At Home Harmony is an expert in providing the highest level of in-home care for aging adults. Contact us for guidance on ensuring your senior loved one lives an enriched, engaging, and healthy life right at home. Our social work team would be thrilled to connect your loved one with the resources he or she needs.