Do you have family caregivers in your family? Are you looking for resources to help them? Were you aware that Older Americans Month is celebrated in May? Every year during the month of May, the nation is devoted to honoring and supporting Older Americans. Older Americans are an indispensable part of our shared society and the annual May designation formally recognizes their value. In addition, May is also National Elder Law Month, which is dedicated to promoting and providing legal support for a wide range of senior-related issues. Most notably, millions of seniors would be neglected without the aid of family caregivers. In fact, family caregivers are vital to year-round elder care.
In honor of Older Americans Month, National Elder Law Month and family caregivers across the country, we would like to share some much needed resources. These are critical family caregiver resources compiled during National Elder Law Month.
1. Respite care resources. In regard to money and opportunity costs, especially if a senior loved one has a physical or mental health disability, caregiving is often a tremendous sacrifice. Frequently caregivers are at risk of developing their own health problems due to exhaustion and unmet needs. By providing respite care, caregivers can take breaks and care for themselves.
- ARCH National Respite Network and Resource Center — ARCH helps senior caregivers find appropriate respite care programs and services for their elder loved ones. Its National Respite Locator provides a state-by-state list of facilities that can help give family members a break.
- National Adult Day Services Association — This is a professional organization that provides adult day care consumer resources, including an adult day care locator and counseling on choosing the right facility for a senior loved one.
- Senior Corps — Senior Corps’ Senior Companions program provides respite care for by matching older volunteers with seniors who need help with daily tasks.
2. Health care resources. What are all the options available to seniors today? We have a list to share with you.
- Department of Veterans Affairs — The V.A. provides a vast array of support services for qualifying senior veterans and their families, including a paid family caregiver benefit. The program is called Veteran-Directed Home and Community Based Services. Elder law attorneys are strong advocates for senior veterans’ rights and often help secure V.A. benefits if they are denied.
- Medicare — Medicare is a massive federal health program for people aged 65 and older. Senior caregivers might not realize that Medicare covers home health and skilled nursing services in many circumstances.
- Medicaid — Medicaid is a federal-state partnership program that provides health coverage for people with limited income and assets. Medicaid can also pay for long-term care in nursing homes.
- SHIPs — State Health Insurance Assistance Programs, or SHIPs, provide free support to Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers.
Furthermore, the month of May would be a great time to start Florida legal planning for your loved ones. Make it a priority to assist your senior loved ones locate an experienced Florida elder law attorney. Your Florida elder law attorney can help with everything from advance directives to estate planning to long-term care proactive planning.
We know this article may raise more questions than it answers. No matter where you are in life’s journey, we can help. The most important thing is to protect yourself and those you love. Whether you need to update your estate plan, are preparing for future long-term care needs, or have a loved one entering or already in a nursing home, we are ready to assist you. We have three convenient locations and are ready to serve the communities around Highlands and Polk County, Florida. Take your first step by contacting us today.
