Department of Aging has resources for older adults who move

I have been reading your column for quite a while but have just recently become a caregiver when my mother moved from the Midwest to live with me. Before the move, I had not really noticed any health issues other than her becoming frail. Now, however, she seems rather withdrawn and wants me to do everything for and with her. I am not even sure what would help either of us. Can you tell me what resources are available in Anne Arundel County for her and for me?

Dear Reader: Moving is often a stressful event for any of us, so it’s no surprise your mother might be having trouble adjusting to her recent move. Many older adults who move from their own home — whether to a family member’s home or to a long-term care facility — show signs of anxiety, anger, depression, loneliness and even dependency. These emotions might manifest into physical signs like difficulty sleeping, weight changes, body aches and falls, to name just a few.

While your mother is adjusting to the transition, allow her to feel whatever she is feeling. Validate her feelings. Let her know you understand how hard it must be to leave the home and friends she left behind. Encourage her to socialize, meet new friends and get involved in community activities.

To give you an idea of the programs and services offered in Anne Arundel County, visit the department’s website (www. aacounty.org/aging). Then give our Information and Assistance (I&A) staff a call at (410) 222-4257. Staff will walk you through options and resources available for your mom and you. Here are some of the programs you might want to discuss with an I&A staff member:

Adult Evaluation and Review Service:

Based on your mother’s eligibility, a social worker or registered nurse can complete an in-home evaluation to determine your mother’s eligibility for needs-based programs and to help develop a care management plan. If she meets financial and medical eligibility requirements, she might be referred to thedepartment’s Long-Term Care Bureau that provides community services and support.

Senior Activity Centers:

There are sevenSenior

Activity Centers in the county with a new center scheduled to open in May. The centers offer a place tto learn, make friends and volunteer. Senior Activity Centers provide an array of educational programs, recreational activities, health screenings, seminars and classes in art, crafts, computer use, dance and other topics. Free memberships are open to county residents 55 and older.

If your mother is experiencing cognitive difficulties, she might be eligible for this program. Participants of Senior Center Plus have an opportunity to socialize with others, enjoy entertainment

Senior Center Plus:

programs and share a meal at one of the county’s Senior Activity Centers.

State Health Insurance Assistance Program:

Staff and volunteers can help you untangle her insurance needs and find options for dealing with any healthcare costs.

Respite Care Referral Program:

Should you at some time require assistance dealing with your mother’s personal needs, this program might be able to help. The program maintains a registry of home care workers who have

been screened and educated by Department of Aging and Disabilities staff to provide a lower-cost alternative to home care. Workers can be hired on a full-time or part-time basis.

National Family Caregiver Support Program:

This program is a federally supported program that provides information, assistance, education and support to family caregivers. Anne Arundel County’s caregiver support programs include free educational workshops, monthly support groups and individual consultation regarding caregiver issues. In addition, when funds are available, the program provides small grants to family caregivers to provide respite care and supplemental services.

Assisted Living Facilities Program:

If you and your mother decide an assisted living home is the way to go, staff from this program can help you navigate the more than 100 facilities in Anne Arundel County.

Grief is a universal experience, but the experience of loss is unique for each person. The department’s certified grief counselor provides individual and group-based counseling for those 55-plus dealing

Grief Counseling:

with any type of loss.

Senior Nutrition Programs:

They offer meals, educational programs and activities at nutrition centers throughout the county and at the Senior Activity Centers. The program also provides delivered meals through Meals on Wheels.

Anne Arundel County Department of Aging and Disabilities Taxi Voucher Program:

offers discounted taxi vouchers to support taxi fares with participating cab companies. To qualify, individuals must be an Anne Arundel County resident, 65 years of age or older or 18 years of age or older with a disability. Each book costs $5 and is worth a value of $10. Limitations might apply.

For any of these programs, just call 410-222-4257 and staff will connect you with the correct resource. wIn addition, if you mother is a veteran or is eligible for veterans’ benefits, you can also speak with staff at the Veterans Services Coordination Center. The Center is a single point of access for Veterans and their families living in Anne Arundel County to connect them with services and resources through specially trained county staff and our contracted partner. For assistance, call 410-222-3500.