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Community Assistance

Kansas Department on Aging

The Kansas Department on Aging provides two communication resources as a part of its services to aging Kansans. The Alzheimer's Helpline at (800) 432-3535 provides information, referral services, education, resource materials and access to our book/video library. The website (www.agingkansas.org/kdoa) provides information on programs available to seniors, legislative updates, a list of free publications and additional links to various agencies and sites that are of great assistance to the senior population.

Alzheimer's Association

The Alzheimer's Association, a national network of chapters, is a voluntary health organization committed to finding a cure for Alzheimer's and helping those affected by the disease.

The association ranks as the top private funder of research into the causes, treatments, prevention and cure of Alzheimer's disease. The Association also provides education and support for people diagnosed with the condition, their families and caregivers.

Three offices located in Wichita, Kansas City and Topeka serve Kansas. They are supported through donations, program grants and participation in fund-raising events. As their programs continue to grow and serve a larger population, this financial assistance is increasingly important. Services are provided to all who seek assistance regardless of donation.

In addition to a comprehensive website (www.alz.org) the National Alzheimer's Association has a national 24-hour information and support line at (800) 272-3900. It offers such options as immediate connection to a care consultant and assistance in languages other than English.

Community Services

Your local Area Agency on Aging is a good place to start if you are looking for information about several types of services in your community. Contact information for regional Area Agency on Aging offices is listed on page 54.

Several local, state, and federal services may be available in your community to provide information or support services. Some of these services are available at no charge while other services may have age or income requirements that must be met.

Information and Referral

This service provides people with information about local agencies and services that may provide needed assistance.

Emergencies

Each community has an emergency number to dial in time of crisis. Post this number on each telephone for quick reference.

Rides

A number of communities offer door-to-door transportation with vans or minibuses that accommodate wheelchairs, walkers, and other devices. Rides may be provided to and from the doctor's office, medical center, grocery store, or senior center.

Home Health Care

Some people may need help in the home with health care, such as taking medications, changing dressings, or other intermittent skilled nursing services. Reimbursement for these services depend on many different qualifying factors. Have your health care professional or Area Agency on Aging assist you in finding the correct resources.

Home Improvement and Weatherization

Home improvement grants and/or loans are available to persons who meet income eligibility guidelines under a federal block grant program. Funds can be used for roofing, ramps, and insulation.

Assistive Devices and Technology

Purchasing or renting medical equipment may become a necessity. In some cases, when ordered by a physician, rental or purchase of medical equipment is paid for or reimbursed by Medicare or Medicaid. You can call the Assistive Technology Helpline at (800) 526-3648 for information on equipment, advice on financing, etc.

Meals

Communities have options for participating in group meals or receiving home-delivered meals.

Respite Care

Respite care provides caregiving relief for a short period of time. Some communities offer volunteer or paid respite care services. Some nursing facilities offer overnight respite care.

Adult Day Care Services

This type of program provides a variety of services from health care to recreation and social programs in a community facility for the person who needs some care and supervision. The centers are usually open during working hours.

Assisted Living Facilities

Many communities offer a variety of assisted living options to residents who need some degree of assistance in their daily living activities. There may also be specifically designed facilities for those persons with Alzheimer's disease.

Counseling

Community mental health centers offer guidance and assistance for families coping with physical impairments and problems such as substance abuse, financial crisis, bereavement and elder abuse.

Support Groups

Many communities have formed support groups to provide informational and emotional support. Contact the Alzheimer's Helpline or your local Alzheimer's Association office to locate the nearest group.

Hospice

Hospice programs assist home caregivers by providing support and care for terminally ill persons. These services, which include pain relief, symptom management and supportive services are provided in the home or in a nursing facility.

Senior Centers

Senior Centers are often gathering places for seniors in Kansas communities. They're a good place to receive information about senior adult services and enjoy a variety of activities with friends and neighbors.

Legal Assistance

Legal assistance is available through the Senior Citizens Law Projects in your area or through the Elder Law Hotline at (888) 353-5337.

Homemaker and Chore Services

These services provide people with shopping, meal preparation, light housekeeping and laundry care.

Friendly Visitors and Companion Services

To reassure aging persons living alone, many communities provide daily telephone contact, friendly visiting or emergency assistance programs.

Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services

Social and Rehabilitation offices are maintained in each county and provide a variety of services and programs for low income adults. Examples of these programs include: Low Income Energy Assistance, Food Stamps and medical assistance.

Health Insurance and Prescription Drugs

The Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK) program has trained volunteers available statewide to answer questions related to Medicare, Medicare Supplement Insurance, long-term care and other health insurance. If the cost of your prescription drugs is a financial burden to you, a SHICK volunteer can assist you in applying for low cost prescription drugs. Contact the Senior Health Insurance Counseling office at (800) 860-5260. The Kansas Insurance Department has free shoppers' guides on Long Term Care and Medicare Supplement Insurance. For a free copy, call (800) 432-2484.

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