Other sources of help

An array of programs currently exists to help caregivers:

• Agewell Pittsburgh Information and Referral: agewellpgh.org or 412422-0400. Ask for Maxine Horn.

• Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging Senior Line operates 24/7: 412-350-5460.

• PA 211 South West Powered by United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania: Call 211 or 412-255-1155. United Way is one of the funders for AgeWell.

• Senior resources and services for healthy aging: seniorresourceguide.com. The website is based in Littleton, Colo., but it has a link for Pittsburgh and local services.

• JCC Checkmates: Older adults come to the Squirrel Hill and Scott centers to make weekly calls to Allegheny County residents who are age 60 and older. The volunteer callers provide a brief respite for the usual caregivers, said Amy Gold, a social worker who trains volunteers and steps in if callers believe medical or other aid may be needed. About 40 volunteers make over 200 calls each week. Checkmates is free. To sign up: agold@jccpgh.org or 412-6973528.

• Care Share: A new program will start this fall in which students at Community College of Allegheny County will be matched with older residents who live near the college’s South campus in West Mifflin and its campus on the North Side. Students will visit older residents in their homes for up to four hours each week. Funded by United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania and Jefferson Regional Foundation, the program is free and provides a work/study opportunity for students. Contact Laura Hahn at laura.hahn@uwac.org or 412-4566716.