Karen Kaslow Keystone Elder Law
Information and resources are essential for making decisions and locating the goods/services that we need and desire to live best. The internet has exponentially advanced the availability of information, however, it is easy to get lost in the search results pages. Below are a variety of resources that may be helpful to caregivers, seniors and families.
general informations
www.nextavenue.org: Next Avenue is a nonprofit media organization affiliated with PBS. The goal of this organization is to “meet the needs and unlock the potential of older Americans.” Articles that share the individual perspectives and personal experiences of people over 50 and their families are available on a variety of topics, including work, finances, relationships and aging.
www.nia.nih.gov: Part of the federal government’s Department of Health and Human Services, the National Institutes of Health’s National Institute on Aging website provides evidence-based information on health and disease, research in course and participation in ongoing clinical trials.
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Caregiver Information
www.caregiver.org: The Family Caregiver Alliance is a California-based nonprofit that supports caregivers nationwide through opportunities to connect with other caregivers, participate in research studies and understand/implement best practices in care delivery.
Local caregiver support groups are also available. For more information, call Karen at Keystone Elder Law at 717-697-3223.
www.learningcenter.pahomecare.org: The Pennsylvania Homecare Association is a state trade association representing organizations that provide home care services. Available to the general public on their website is an extensive list of how-to videos for caregivers on topics such as pain management, hands-on care, safety and more.
grief and loss
www.hospiceandcommunitycare.org: Located in Mount Joy, the Pathways Center for Grief and Loss provides online and in-person grief support and education for all ages through group and individual counseling sessions, online videos, a newsletter and commemorative events.
Bereavement support groups are also available at a number of local palliative care organizations. Contact your local palliative care agency for more information.
Visiting healthcare professionals
www.yourvisitinghygienist.com: Oral care can easily be overlooked for those who have difficulty getting to a dentist’s office. Cheryl Grier, a local dental hygienist, has been providing services to seniors living in care communities for several years. Its services are chargeable and are provided to residents of their community of care. Pennsylvania Dental Association regulations prevent him from providing care in private homes. Call 717-580-0467 or email [email protected]
Visits to a doctor’s office can be difficult for some seniors. Medstaffers is a medical staffing and home care agency that also offers a home doctor program for people considered homebound under Medicare guidelines. Call 717-243-3485 for more information regarding physician home visits.
www.foxrehab.org: If you prefer to receive therapy services in your home but would not be considered “homebound” under Medicare regulations, then Fox Rehabilitation may be able to help. This is a therapy practice that provides “outpatient” home therapy services. A doctor’s prescription for therapy is required.
Various
Nutrition: Giant Grocery Stores and Weis Markets have dietitians on staff who offer nutrition courses. Many offers are free.
Medical equipement: Changing hands—The cost of medical equipment such as walkers, shower chairs, and raised toilet seats is often covered (at least in part) by insurance/Medicare if the equipment was prescribed by a physician. If insurance coverage for life-enhancing equipment is delayed or denied, see UCP Central PA’s Changing Hands program. This program accepts donations of used medical equipment and assistive technology. After restoration/refurbishment, this equipment is made available to individuals free of charge. UCP has offices in Camp Hill and York. To donate or request equipment, call 800-998-4827.
Telephone: Hamilton Relay is a company that helps people with hearing or speech difficulties to communicate by telephone. Several types of services are available.
Do you have a question about care or legal services for the elderly? Enjoy a free first phone call (717-697-3223) with Keystone Elder Law PC (authors of this column). Additional free resources include a host of short videos that answer common questions, our Later in Life Planning and Resources Facebook group, and periodic free seminars.
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