Hi, it's time to look at some state level programs for older adults. After a lot of searching on the Internet, I came across a link that will help you find what's available in your state.
The site I found is by the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL). The reports start with statistics on older adults in the state vs. the nation, such as over 65 and over 85.
The reports list the different support network programs, such as the "Family Caregiver Support Program" and the "Aged and Disabled Adult Medicaid HCBS Waiver" program. Each program includes what the program offers, who funds it, and basic eligibility requirements. Offers often include things like adult day care, home modification/repairs, homemaker/chore/personal care, support groups, and legal and/or financial consultation. Some state programs may also include information on "family members may be paid to provide any services needed by the care receiver, including personal care and respite services." Be sure to read all the information on each of the programs available in your state and follow up on the ones that you are eligible for.
At the end of the report will be the contact information for the agency that administers the programs. Most states will have local agencies that you should be able to find in your local phone book. In many cases, it will be under your county, such as one in central Florida called: the Osceola County Council on Aging.
So far, I have only found one way to access the information. I have tried going to the NCSL web site but I can't find the right option to get to the information from their home page.
Go to Google. In the Search field type "family caregiver support" (including the quote marks) then the name of your state, such as:
"family caregiver support" Georgia
Near the top of the search results page, you'll see a link for starting with www.ncsl.org, such as www.ncsl.org/programs/health/forum/fcsgeorgia.htm.
I'm sure this will be a good start in finding programs that will help you with some of your caregiving issues.
Take Care,
Kathy
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