Resources and Tools for Care Givers Available at New Office and Web Site
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2008-01-22 13:40:06.107943-05:00
Today, 30 million households are providing care for an adult over the age of 50-and that number is expected to double over the next 25 years. If you have not yet begun to discuss a caregiving plan with your family, it's not too late. It doesn't matter who starts the conversation.
What really matters is that every family has the opportunity to talk about and create a caregiving plan for their loved ones based on the needs and wishes of those who will be receiving the care. The Arkansas Department of Aging and Adult Services has a new Choices in Living Resource Center to help link Arkansans to services for seniors and people with disabilities. It is a one-stop center of information and assistance about long term care services. A list of long-term care resources, tools and services available in your area are also available on the Internet at the department's Web site.
Call the Choices in Living Resource Center at 1-866-801-3435, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. or log onto the Web site to find resources in your area at any time of day or night.
AARP Arkansas was instrumental in the adoption of Act 516 by the 2007 Arkansas Legislature, establishing the Options Counseling in Long Term Care Program. Act 516 mandates that state government offer information and services to residents about their long-term care needs, and the resources available in their area.
Each of the following five steps in PDF format includes information on how to get started as a caregiver, questions to ask and where to find basic resources. Don't be discouraged if you can't answer every question or fill in every blank. The important thing is to start the conversation in a way that works for you and your family.
Step 1: Prepare to Talk
Step 2: Form Your Team
Step 3: Gather and Organize Information
Step 4: Make a Plan
Step 5: Take Action
Help your family "Prepare to Care" by downloading the complete guide (1.05 MB). We recognize that we all have different needs as we age. Whether it is help navigating the maze of available government programs, assistance with managing daily finances, or making plans for difficult transitions and decisions you may face - the AARP Foundation is available to help today's seniors live their lives with dignity and independence.
Let us know if this information is helpful. After reading Prepare to Care, please complete this brief survey. Your feedback will assist us in developing new resources that may help prepare you for caregiving responsibilities.
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