Need Help Accessing Care?

September 2nd, 2022

Category:

Try the Eldercare Locator.
This is a free tool that connects you to support in your community (transportation, housing, legal aid, etc.) and your local Area Agency on Aging. Visit eldercare.acl.gov or call 1-800-677-1116
What’s an Area Agency on Aging?
These agencies offer services like adult day care, caregiver training, respite care, and support groups, they can also help you apply for programs like Medicare & Medicaid.
Pro tip: These programs can also connect you to care resources for people under 65.

These programs can provide *some* support to people who give and receive care. So what’s the difference?

Medicare is for adults 65+ and those with certain disabilities. It covers doctors appointments, prescription medications, and palliative care.
Medicaid is for low-income people and disabled people. Unlike Medicare, it provides long-term care, including home care, but has strict income limits and long waiting lists for some services.
Visit medicare.gov & medicaid.gov for more info.

Health Organizations
- Condition-specific organizations can provide info and connect you with support groups. Try searching the internet for the name of the health condition plus the word “association,” “foundation,” or “organization.”
Support Groups
- Ask medical professionals, friends, family, and caregivers close to you if they know of any online or in-person support groups. You can also search the internet and social media for groups in your local community.