Arkansas Specific Resources~check back soon for the national level resources

Arkansas Area Agencies on Aging (AAA): AAAs offer aging services, including:
• Information and assistance
• Care management
• Nutrition services (i.e., Meals on Wheels)
• Legal assistance
• Services for family caregivers through the Family Caregiver Support Program (FCSP)
Anyone age 60 or older (866) 801-3435
http://www.arkansas.gov/dhs/aging/aaamap.html

Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs: Provides aged or disabled veterans with rehabilitative, residential and medical care and services. The VA also helps veterans and their families to present claims for veterans’ benefits to the federal government and offers veterans low-cost loans to acquire farms and homes. (501) 370-3820
http://www.veterans.arkansas.gov

Arkansas Legal Services Partnership:Non-profit organization advocates for the legal rights of low income residents of Arkansas. offers the following services:
•Legal representation
•Legal hotlines by county
•Education (elder, family, consumer law)
Low income residents of Arkansas
http://www.arlegalservices.org

Medicaid: Medicaid is a health insurance for people with limited income and resources. It pays for a variety of medical services, including in-home care or nursing home care, depending on eligibility. Must be low-income – based on specific government criteria (800) 482-8988
https://www.medicaid.state.ar.us

Senior Health Insurance and Information Program (SHIIP): Assists individuals and families with eligibility questions and problems related to Medicare, including prescription drug coverage under Medicare Part D, managed care, long-term care planning, health insurance and other health care issues. (800) 224-6330
http://insurance.arkansas.gov/seniors/homepage.htm

As promised, here are the national listings for resources associated with living arrangements, particularly as they relate to elder care.

Access to Health Insurance/Resources for Care: Online resource that provides information on low-cost and affordable health insurance, health care, and hospice. It is a free service from the Actors’ Fund of America’s Health Insurance Resource Center.
(800) 798-8447
http://www.ahirc.org

Benefits Checkup: An online service of the National Council on Aging to help older adults and their families determine their eligibility for and enroll in federal, state, local and private benefit programs including Medicare and Medicaid.
http://www.benefitscheckup.org

ClinicalTrials.gov: An online service of the National Institutes of Health with current information about federally and privately supported clinical trials in human volunteers to answer specific health questions. The website offers information about a trial’s purpose, who may participate, locations, and phone numbers for more details.
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov

DisabilityInfo.gov: Government site links to information and resources on a wide range of disability related topics, such as: benefits, civil rights, community services, health services and more. The site includes a state and local resources map which allows the user to locate disability related information/services in their area.
www.disabilityinfo.gov

Family and Medical Leave: The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal law that allows employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year to care for themselves, or for a seriously ill family member, or for a new child without losing their jobs or health care insurance. Some states have additional benefits, such as paid family leave.
Eligible workers must:
• Work at companies with 50 or more employees at or within 75 miles of the work site
• Have worked at least 1,250 hours during the 12-months prior to taking leave
Workers can take leave to care for:
• An ill spouse, child, or parent (some states include additional family members)
• A new baby or adopted child
• Themselves when they have a serious illness Department of Labor:
(866) 487-9243
http://www.dol.gov/esa/whd/fmla

National Partnership for Women and Families:
http://www.nationalpartnership.org

Healthfinder.gov: Government web site for consumers that links to over 1,500 health-related organizations and provides consumer guides on issues including long-term care, Medicare, and nursing homes.
http://www.healthfinder.gov

LawHelp.org: Provides online directory of nonprofit legal services providers throughout the country. Anyone, with special attention on people living on low or moderate income.
http://www.lawhelp.org

Medicare: Medicare is a government health insurance program for adults age 65 and older, some people under age 65 with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal disease:
• Part A covers hospital costs as well as limited skilled nursing, home health and hospice care, without a monthly premium.
• Part B covers medical costs, such as doctor’s visits and outpatient care, to those who pay a monthly premium.
• Part D includes limited prescription drug coverage through private insurance companies for those who choose to pay a monthly premium.
Multiple requirements:
• U.S. citizen or legal resident
• Any adult age 65 or older OR any adult receiving Social Security Disability Insurance OR any adult with End-Stage Renal Disease or ALS
(800) 633-4227

Medicare Rights: Nonprofit organization that provides direct assistance to people with questions or concerns about Medicare. Information is provided about Medicare drug coverage, health plan options, and rights and benefits. Assistance is available online or by a telephone hotline.
(800) 333-4114
http://www.medicarerights.org

MedlinePlus – Go Local: An online resource from the National Institute on Health that helps consumers find health services by location and service type. Services include:
• In-home care
• Nursing homes
• Hospitals
• Support groups
• Hospice and palliative care
• Physicians
• Pharmacies
Also provides health and drug information for patients and family members.
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/golocal/index.html

National Association of County Veteran Service Officers (NACVSO): Provides assistance in obtaining veterans’ benefits and answers questions regarding rules and regulations concerning veterans. Wesbite provides directory of Veteran Service Officers across the country.
http://www.nacvso.org

National Clearinghouse for Long-Term Care Information: Government website offers practical information and options on planning for future long-term care needs.
http://www.longtermcare.gov/

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI): A monthly cash benefit from the federal government for people who are unable to work for a year or more because of a disability.
Multiple requirements:
• Have worked in jobs covered by Social Security
• Be disabled, according to Social Security’s definition of disability
(800) 772-1213
www.socialsecurity.gov

Supplemental Security Income (SSI):A monthly cash benefit from the federal government to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter for low-income older adults and people with disabilities.
Multiple requirements:
• Age 65 or older OR Blind or disabled, according to Social Security’s definition of disability (any age)
• Resources (real estate, bank accounts, cash, stocks and bonds) cannot exceed $2,000 per person ($3,000 per couple)
(800) 772-1213
www.socialsecurity.gov

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA): Provides primary care, specialized care, and related minor medical and social support services to U.S. veterans, service members and their families. VA benefits and services include:
• Compensation
• Pension
• Health Care
• Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment
• Education & Training
• Home Loans
• Life Insurance
• Dependents & Survivors
• Burial
• A veteran OR
• An active duty military service member OR
• A member of the Reserve or National Guard
(800) 827-1000
http://www.va.gov

As promised, here are the national resources for those who live and receive care in the home.

ABLEDATA: Provides information on assistive technology and rehabilitation equipment, including how to find and purchase it.  Also offers an online forum for consumers, caregivers and others to submit and read reviews of products and classified ads of equipment for sale. (800) 227-0216

http:/ / www.abledata.com

Able Project.org: A nonprofit organization with an online directory that allows people to research, compare, locate and obtain mobility and assistive products, such as wheelchairs, canes, walkers, bars and rails. (408) 263-8000

http:/ / www.ableproject.org

Alzheimer’s Association: Provides reliable information, care consultation and supportive services for dementia caregivers through state and local chapters. The website also includes an interactive tool, CareFinder, which helps families to:
• Recognize dementia care
• Plan and pay for care
• Communicate with care providers
• Find local support and resources

(800) 272-3900
http:/ / www.alz.org

AssistiveTech.net: Government-sponsored website with a directory of assistive devices and other products, which includes information about cost and vendors. (800) 726-9119

http:/ / www.assistivetech.net

Association of Jewish Family & Children’s Services (AJFCS): An online directory of AJFCS  member agencies throughout the country. Services include:
• Care management
• Chore services
• Adult day services
• Kosher meals on wheels
• Respite care

(800) 634-7346

http:/ / www.ajfca.org

CancerCare: Provides support services for anyone affected by cancer including limited financial assistance grants for:
• Transportation
• Child care
• Home care

Patient must currently be receiving treatment for cancer (800) 813-4673

http:/ / www.cancercare.org

Catholic Charities: Provides social services to individuals in need, including family support, respite care and home care services.

Eligibility varies by program (see website)

http:/ / www.catholiccharitiesinfo.org

Easter Seals: Assists children and adults with disabilities and their families by providing adult day services, including medical and social services. Children and adults with disabilities. (800) 221-6827

http:/ / www.easterseals.com

Faith in Action: Network of interfaith volunteer caregiving programs across the country. Volunteers shop, cook, drive or just check in on those with long-term health needs.

Eligibility varies by program (see website) (866) 839-8865

http:/ / www.fianationalnetwork.org/

Hospice Foundation of America: Provides information about end-of-life care. Its website includes a “Locate a Hospice” search which allows the user to search for hospice and palliative care programs, and a “Caregiver‘s Corner” that offers publications and tips on caregiving for persons near the end-of-life. See website for local contact information.

http:/ / www.hospicefoundation.org

Lutheran Services: Provides services ranging from health care to disaster response, as well as services for children and families and care for older adults. Eligibility varies by program (see website)

http:/ / www.lutheranservices.org

Meals on Wheels Association of America (MOWAA): Offers online directory of local meal programs across the country for adults who are elderly, homebound, disabled, frail, or at risk.

http:/ / www.mowaa.org

National Adult Day Services Association (NADSA): Online directory of NADSA member agencies throughout the country (including adult day services and adult day health programs).

(800) 558-5301

http:/ / www.nadsa.org

National Association for Home Care and Hospice (NAHC): Online “Agency Locator”  helps consumers to find and choose a home care provider in their state and local area to match their specific needs. Database consists of NAHC members, more than 20,000 home care and hospice agencies.

http:/ / www.nahc.org

National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers: Online directory of its members, who provide services throughout the country at varying fees. These professionals (nurses, social workers, etc.)  specialize in aging and elder care and can help families assess needs and plan suitable care.

http:/ / www.caremanager.org

National Center on Senior Transportation: Provides online directory of transit agencies and community transportation providers for older adults. A toll-free line is available to answer questions regarding transportation services for older adults. (866) 528-6278
http:/ / www.seniortransportation.net

National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization: Provides information about end-of-life care. Its online “Find a Provider” search allows the user to search for member hospice and palliative care programs for individuals who have advanced illness or have been considered terminally ill by a physician. (800) 658-8898
http:/ / www.nhpco.org

National Private Duty Association (NPDA): Online directory of home care agencies, both medical and non-medical, in 44 states.  Database consists of NPDA members.

http:/ / www.privatedutyhomecare.org

National Resource Center on Supportive Housing and Home Modification: Sponsored by the University of Southern California, the website features a section entitled “Home Modification for Caregivers” and an online national directory of home modification resources geared to help older persons remain independent.

http:/ / www.homemods.org

Senior Corps- Senior Companion Program: Provides assistance to frail older persons and adults with disabilities so they can live independently in their own homes or communities. Volunteers offer:
• Respite for caregivers
• Companionship to care recipients
• Help with various tasks and chores

Frail older adults and adults with disabilities

http:/ / www.seniorcorps.org

Shepard’s Centers of America: Some centers hold monthly meetings of education and support for those who care for older adults. Centers also provide:
• Respite care
• In-home visitors
• Home health aides
• Support groups
• Adult day care
• Information and referral

(800) 547-7073

http:/ / www.shepherdcenters.org/ memberCenters.aspx

United Way: Over 1,350 programs operating throughout the country to promote increased access to health care for disease prevention and treatment, and medical rehabilitations for people with disabilities. Services focus on under- and uninsured populations.

http:/ / national.unitedway.org

Visiting Nurse Associations of America (VNAA): Online resource helps consumers locate a VNA in their area. VNAs offer comprehensive home health care or personal care to individuals in their respective communities for a fee. The website includes tips on choosing a home health agency and information about insurance coverage. Services vary by agency but may include:
• Skilled nursing
• Home health aide services
• Rehabilitation therapies: physical, occupational and speech-language
• Medical social services
• Hospice and palliative care services

• Anyone requiring care – medical orders from a physician are usually required for care
* Individuals must pay privately. Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance may pay for the service if the care is medically necessary, depending on each payer’s eligibility requirements http:/ / www.vnaa.org

AARP (Online Resources): A consumer organization for people 50 years and older. Provides online information about issues related to aging, including:
• Long-term care and retirement
• Financial and legal information
• Resources on family caregiving
• Internet resources on aging

(888) 687-2277
http:/ / www.aarp.org

Access to Health Insurance / Resources for Care: Online resource that provides information on low-cost and affordable health insurance, health care, and hospice.  It is a free service from the Actors’ Fund of America’s Health Insurance Resource Center. (800) 798-8447

http:/ / www.ahirc.org/

AgingPro: Online directory of aging and caregiver support services. Offers access to professionals in aging, resources, educational articles, virtual classroom, ask the expert, and support groups.

http:/ / www.agingpro.com

AGIS: Provides information and planning tips about long-term care and caregiving. Its website includes a “Find Facilities and Services” search tool to help consumers find long-term care housing, caregiver support,  hospice and palliative care programs and other aging services. Offers a “Caregiver Kit” to help caregivers.

http:/ / www.agis.com/

Alzheimer’s Association: Provides reliable information, care consultation and supportive services for dementia caregivers through state and local chapters. The website also includes an interactive tool, CareFinder, which helps families to:
• Recognize dementia care
• Plan and pay for care
• Communicate with care providers
• Find local support and resources

(800) 272-3900
http:/ / www.alz.org

American Red Cross – Family Caregiver Training Program: Local Red Cross chapters offer in-person educational sessions, for a nominal fee, on topics such as:
• Home safety
• Healthy eating
• Bathing
• Legal and financial issues
• Self-care for the caregiver

http:/ / www.redcross.org

ARCH National Respite Network: Online “Respite Locator” is a service to help families and professionals locate respite services in their community from a database of nearly 3,000 members.

http:/ / www.respitelocator.org

Brain Talk Communities: An online forum for caregivers and neurology patients to provide support for each other and to learn about community resources and services.

Anyone caring for someone who meets care recipient eligibility. Anyone with a neurological disorder.

http:/ / brain.hastypastry.net/ forums

CancerCare: Provides support services for anyone affected by cancer including limited financial assistance grants for:
• Transportation
• Child care
• Home care

Patient must currently be receiving treatment for cancer. (800) 813-4673

http:/ / www.cancercare.org

Caregiver.com: Provides online information and support to family caregivers, including a resource that helps to identify and locate caregiver support groups and other caregiver resources in specific counties, including non-profit organizations, rural caregiver resources and products and services. (800) 829-2734

http:/ / www.caregiver.com

Caregivers Marketplace: A program that offers cash back on goods and products that are not typically covered by insurance or Medicare. Products eligible for cash back include nutrition, incontinence supplies, bathing and skin care, and aids for daily living. (800) 888-0889

http:/ / caregiversmarketplace.com

CAREgivinghelp.org: Provides information about a variety of caregiving topics. Also provides access to geriatric care specialists. (773) 576-1602

http:/ / www.caregivinghelp.org

Caring Connections: A program of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization that offers free resources and information (online and over the phone) about end-of-life care and services. Includes information about:
• Advance care planning
• Financial assistance
• Hospice care and grief

(800) 658-8898 HelpLine in Spanish: (877) 658-8896

http:/ / www.caringinfo.org

Children of Aging Parents: An online support group for adults caring for their parents or other relatives. Also provides a list of in-person support groups in different states. Anyone caring for a family member or friend. (800) 227-7294

http:/ / www.caps4caregivers.org

Daily Strength: Offers over 500 online support communities and information exchange on a variety of health and wellness issues, including caregiving.

http:/ / www.dailystrength.org

Easter Seals: Assists children and adults with disabilities and their families by providing adult day services, including medical and social services. Children and adults with disabilities. (800) 221-6827

http:/ / www.easterseals.com

Faith in Action: Network of interfaith volunteer caregiving programs across the country. Volunteers shop, cook, drive or just check in on those with long-term health needs. Eligibility varies by program. (866) 839-8865

http:/ / www.fianationalnetwork.org/

Family Caregiver Alliance (FCA): FCA is a nonprofit caregiver support organization that offers online resources, fact sheets and electronic newsletters which serve as a central source of information and assistance to family caregivers in every state. FCA’s National Center on Caregiving offers a national telephone hotline.  The website also hosts three online support groups open to the public for caregivers and their loved ones:
• Caregiver Online Group
•  Huntington’s Disease & Movement Disorders Online Group
•  LGBT Caring Community Online Support Group

Caregiver Online Group: Family and friends caring for adults with cognitive disorders and other chronic health conditions. Huntington’s Disease & Movement Disorders Online Group: Families, friends and professionals affected by HD, Parkinson’s or other movement disorder.
LGBT Caring Community Online Support Group: Lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender caregivers of adults with chronic health problems. Care recipients looking for information may find it on FCA’s website or by calling the hotline.  The online groups are not designed for care recipients. (800) 445-8106

http:/ / www.caregiver.org

Family Caregiving 101: A joint project of the National Family Caregivers Association and the National Alliance for Caregiving that provides online information, resources and advice on topics related to family caregiving, including personal stories from family caregivers and encouragement for caregivers to protect their own physical and mental health.

http:/ / www.familycaregiving101.org

Lotsa Helping Hands: An online volunteer coordination service for friends, family, colleagues, and neighbors to assist older adults in need. Offers a private group calendar to organize meals delivery, rides, and other caregiving tasks for a loved one.

http:/ / nfca.lotsahelpinghands.com

National Center on Caregiving (NCC) at Family Caregiver Alliance (FCA): Offers a national telephone hotline, online resources and printed publications which serve as a central source of information and assistance to family caregivers in every state. (800) 445-8106
http:/ / www.caregiver.org

Share the Care: Offers a handbook for family caregivers, friends and neighbors that contains guidelines for developing a support network and coordinating care for older or disabled individuals. (646) 467-8097

http:/ / www.sharethecare.org

Strength for Caring: Sponsored by The Caregiver Initiative, Johnson & Johnson, this online resource and community for family caregivers offers articles and advice, including an extensive caregiver manual. Other sections of the site focus on community, health conditions, daily care, housing and money, and insurance.

http:/ / www.strengthforcaring.com

Well Spouse Association: A national, non-profit membership organization  that provides support to wives, husbands, and partners of the chronically ill and/or disabled through established support groups in communities all over the country. Any spouse or partner caring for someone who is chronically ill or disabled. (800) 838-0879

http:/ / www.wellspouse.org

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I have previously provided information here and here regarding some of the technology that is available to assist your elderly loved one to live more independantly.  Some of the items listed included appliances, automobiles, electronics and many sensory type devices.  Another product that is seen advertized regularlly on television is the walk-in bath tubs.  Shelly Webb, founder of The Elder Care Support Group, recently provided a review of this tub.  Be sure to check out her comments after personal use with the unit with her aging father who also has dementia.

Shelly, aka @ElderCareRN, provides insight that is oftentimes overlooked.  Just because a product is wonderful for some, it may not be the right fit for others.  When selecting products such as the walk-in tub, consider a test run before purchasing.  Ask for contact information from other purchasers and gather firsthand reviews of the product.  You should also look into the company’s return policy prior to purchase.  Always do your research before spending unnecessary money on products that later go unused.  Just because it is the latest and greatest in technology does not make it the best product for your situation.