Resources for a Complicated Topic
Caregiving – I don’t presume to be an expert. But, after working for 28 years in programs
and services with our older generations, I have learned a few things. First and foremost – all of us can expect to feel the impact of this experience called “care
giving”. It is a fact of life that
affects every socio-economic group and all ages. Although most us of do not plan for this
role, or discuss the issue with our family or friends, chances are that
caregiving will in fact touch our lives.
Secondly – and of more importance, Northern Indiana does
have caregiving experts that are knowledgeable, discreet, caring, non-biased,
and accessible.
As I noted – I do not presume to be an expert on the topic
of Caregiving, but I do know experts and know that Northern Indiana is rich
with resources. I do not know all
the solutions to the caregiving puzzle, but I am fortunate to know others that
do have answers and can offer help. The first
place to start:
Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) at REAL
Services. REAL Services was the pilot for the Aged and Disability Resource Center
model for the State of Indiana. The
Aging and Disability Resource Center is available to anyone in Northern
Indiana, regardless of age or income. The professionals who work in the ADRC
are experts who know all of the community resources, costs of services and the
options available to caregivers. Anyone
who contacts the ADRC will speak with an “Options Counselor.” Options
Counselors provide nonbiased information and arm caregivers with what is needed
to make good decisions. Option
Counselors are prepared to discuss Medicare, Medicaid, Home Care providers,
Home Modifications and Repair, Senior Housing Options, Elder Law Attorneys,
Assisted Living Facilities, Nursing Homes, Support Groups, and more. REAL Services is a private non-profit agency
that exists to serve older adults. It is
not tied to any medical organization or business. This allows the ADRC staff to be independent
in their recommendations. It is the ONE
resource for answers and information about all thing “Aging”. To contact the ADRC, call 574-284-2644 or
1-800-552-7928.
In addition to the
ADRC, our community can to turn to Alzheimer’s and Dementia Services of
Northern Indiana – there is not a better trained or a more caring
group than the staff and volunteers of Alzheimer’s and Dementia Services of
Northern Indiana. In their effort to
assist family caregivers, Support Groups are coordinated throughout Northern
Indiana. In addition, regular training and education is offered to individuals
and groups. Families and caregivers
become better equipped to provide care after learning more about the disease,
treatments, and tips. Adult Day Services
are also offered Monday through Friday where specially trained Nursing, Social
Service, and Activity professionals care for individuals with a variety of
disabilities. Caregivers from all over
Northern Indiana have stated that there is no better resource than Alzheimer’s
and Dementia Services. To contact Alzheimer’s and Dementia
Services of Northern Indiana call 574-232-4121 or 1-888-303-0180.
Our regional Alzheimer’s Services agency is affiliated with
the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA).
This national organization offers information and resources in a variety
of effective ways, including its web site.
One particular tool that caregivers may find helpful is the House of
Care found at the AFA website:
Our community has services, education, information, and
support – options as varied as the needs of each unique caregiver. The best
places to learn about these resources are with the experts in the Aging and
Disability Resource Center of Northern Indiana – and Alzheimer’s and Dementia
Services of Northern Indiana.
No comments:
Post a Comment