Dear HoG: Services for Elderly and Disabled Adults
Horizons in Hemophilia, January 2013
Dear HoG:
I have two family members whose health is in decline and I am feeling overwhelmed. I need help finding what is available for them. Is there a central place where I can learn more about services for the elderly and disabled in Georgia? -- Searching
Dear Searching:
The Area Agency on Aging is an excellent resource. While the name is a bit of a tongue twister, this agency makes it easier to find:
- transportation
- day programs for elders and the disabled
- meal programs
- counseling about Medicare
- resources for locating in-home care or home modifications.
For resources in metropolitan Atlanta, the agency has an on-line site called the Age Wise Connection. You can either search this online database at https://www.agewiseconnection.com or call 404.463.3333 to speak with a certified referral counselor. Help is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
For statewide services, use this internet link to locate your region and the programs available: https://aging.dhs.georgia.gov/programs-and-services. Statewide services include legal resources, advocacy for elders and programs for all adults who have needs related to disabilities. This link also directs you to free advice about Medicare programs through the Georgia Cares Program: https://aging.dhs.georgia.gov/georgiacares.
The statewide Georgia Division of Aging Services can be reached by telephone at 866-55-AGING or 866-552-4464. Both numbers are toll-free.
These resources are for adults age 18 and over who have need for these services due to disability or health conditions. Your HoG social workers can help you access these and other resources, so please don’t hesitate to call.