Aging/Older Adults

Most literature focuses on long-term services and support utilization rather than awareness. This Canadian study used a series of 12 vignettes to describe common situations faced by older adults for which community support services (CSSs) might be appropriate. The findings showed that awareness of CSSs is much lower than previously thought, and that the most important sources of information were information and referral sources, the telephone book, doctors’ offices, and word of mouth.

Looking for information and resources to help families plan for future long-term care? Explore this web site, developed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, geared toward helping individuals review their options before making decisions. It is primarily intended as a planning resource for individuals who don't yet require long-term care, but includes information on services and financing options that can be helpful to all.

A newly enhanced, person-centered call center that will serve as a link to information and services for older adults and caregivers across the United States has been introduced. Callers will speak with an Information Specialist who will help connect them to a local agency in their area for information and assistance. The service also features a newly re-designed website for boomers and older adults.

The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is a consumer advocacy program established by the Older Americans Act that aims to improve the quality of care for residents in LTC settings by investigating and resolving complaints made by, or on behalf of, such residents. This report provides an overview of the program, including its legislative history, administrative function, and FY2008 funding amounts by source.

Care management has been recognized as a valuable service in supporting family members who care for their older adult relatives. TCARE® is a caregiver assessment and referral protocol designed to assist care managers. The major goal of TCARE® is to provide care managers with a set of steps that are needed to move from the assessment to the implementation of a care plan. Find a presentation on Georgia’s experience with their person-centered initiative and use of the protocol

States are developing comprehensive APS systems that include assessments, policies and procedures to assist staff in performing intakes, investigations, and case planning by providing a consistent approach to obtaining and evaluating information. The SDM® system is intended to promote the safety of vulnerable adults, identify and address their needs, decrease the incidence of self-neglect and maltreatment, enhance service delivery, and provide data for program administration.

The ADRC program’s purpose is to help people of all ages, disabilities, and income levels more easily access LTSS through single points of entry, make more efficient use of care options, and maximize the services available. This publication provides background on the evolution of ADRCs, their functions and implementation, grants to states, and state and federal evaluation efforts. It also points to selected issues in continuing ADRC implementation.

By 2032, there will be more people 65 or older than children under 15, according to this report. The shift toward an older population has enormous economic, social and political implications. The authors provide a framework for thinking about each trend, and comparative perspectives on changes over time and across age groups, and the unexpected ways in which these changes may unfold.

A Geriatric Care Manager can maximize independence and autonomy for care recipients while supporting families and caregivers. This resource discusses the various roles that this professional can play. A number of useful technologies are also suggested, including web-conferencing, monitoring and assistive devices. According to the author, despite the costs of these technologies, keeping older adults in their homes is still less expensive than placement in nursing homes.

AoA's website now provides easy access to key resources for Aging Network providers working with HECM borrowers. As of 2011, HECM mortgagees who are delinquent in property cost payments will receive a letter from their lender regarding payment of these costs. Many of these older mortgagees can turn to the Aging Network for assistance. Resources available on the web page include background information, summary information, and an FAQ that may be used with consumers.