Elder Support Programs

Information & Assistance

Information and Assistance (I&A) connects older adults and their families with the services and information they need. Information is provided over the telephone and in-person, by trained and certified specialists who maintain a current, comprehensive data base of local, state and federal resources for elders and their families. Assistance in contacting and accessing services is also provided for clients who are unable to do so themselves. AIRS certified I&A specialists screen clients to determine their need for more extensive services, which are provided by the case management staff.

I&A staff also provide outreach with information, outreach and education via newspaper and radio media, conduct I&A fairs and seminars, e.g., legal wills clinics, Medicare Part D presentations, and other activities designed to reach out to older persons who need services and link them with the most appropriate resources.

Case Management

Case management provides in-depth assistance to frail, multiple persons who have significant health and social needs. O3As case managers conduct in-home assessments with the client, consult with the family, health care professionals, and any other support systems that the client has in place in order to develop and implement a service plan that addresses the individual’s needs.

Case managers have regular follow-up contact with clients and service providers to ensure that clients obtain and can effectively use necessary support services. Short-term counseling is provided if needed. Case management services also include client advocacy, assistance, consultation, networking, family support, crisis intervention, and follow-up after termination from services.

Screening and referral for case management services are provided through the O3A Information and Assistance Program, and the state DSHS Home and Community Services.

COPES, Medicaid Personal Care and Chore Personal Care support eligible individuals who are unable to care for themselves and who are at risk of institutional placement. Personal care services include assistance with dressing, bathing, eating, toileting, and transferring. Limited household services (shopping, splitting wood, laundry, housecleaning and cooking) are also available to maintain an individual’s independence in a safe and healthy environment. Personal care services do not include assistance with tasks performed by a licensed health professional.

Elder Abuse Prevention

The Residential Long Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP) is designed to improve the quality of life for residents of nursing homes, congregate care facilities, boarding homes and adult family homes. With the assistance of trained volunteers the Ombudsman investigates and resolves complaints made by or on behalf of residents, and identifies problems that affect a substantial number of residents. Changes in federal, state and local legislation are also recommended by the LTCOP program.

Minor Home Repair and Maintenance

This service provides repair or modification of eligible, client-occupied structures that are essential for health and safety of the client (e.g., installation of wheel chair ramps and grab bars). Limited housing counseling and moving assistance may be provided when repairs will not attain reasonable standards for safety and health.

Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA)

Through trained volunteers, individuals receive one-on-one consultation on health insurance plans, advocacy on their behalf with health insurance providers, explanations of billing received, and referral to other appropriate services. SHIBA staff and volunteers conduct numerous trainings throughout O3A’s service region on health insurance benefits with a particular focus on Medicare Plans.

Transportation

Contracted volunteer services is designed to provide transportation for older persons who do not drive, and who cannot access or use public transportation to and from social services, medical and health care services, meal programs, senior centers, shopping and recreational activities.