Nonprofit groups offer services that may enable you to age.
Photo: © fstop123/Getty Images
What is offered?
Locally, you’ll be able to often find free or low-cost dental clinics, emotional support groups, meal or grocery delivery services, transportation, in-home health evaluations, exercise classes, health education classes, home evaluations for fall prevention, companion programs, caregiver respite services, or programs to assist manage difficult and chronic health conditions.
At the state or national level, there are nonprofit organizations that provide free or low-cost prescribed drugs, hearing aids, and gently used home medical devices to older adults.
Help make a difference.
Using nonprofit services can enable you to stay healthy and independent or address a chronic illness. For example:
Shepherds Centers of AmericaA nationwide network of nonprofit senior centers offers free rides to homebound older adults. “If you can’t get out of the house, you’re not socializing, making grocery store or doctor appointments, or staying healthy,” says Michelle Scott, of Oakton-Vienna, Va. Associate Director.
Meals on Wheels Provides nutritious food to older adults. In addition, in some communities, reminiscent of La Jolla, California (www.lajollamealsonwheels.org/), the group sends vetted volunteers into the homes of older adults every week (at no cost), providing the social contact that’s so essential to avoid loneliness and maintain health.
NeuroChallenge Foundation for Parkinson’s in Sarasota, Fla.www.parkinsonsneurochallenge.org), helps people know what steps to take after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
“Many people don’t know where to turn. We match them with resources that fit their individual needs, whether it’s exercise, therapy or emotional support, or education,” says Robin Fossey-Washington, the group’s executive director.
Where to seek out services
Sometimes the toughest part about accessing services is finding those which might be best for you. Start by asking your doctor’s office, local senior centers, and your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for referrals—a part of a network of greater than 600 agencies that receive federal funding to coordinate and supply referrals to support services for older adults.
Your county or state government can connect you to your AAA or you’ll be able to check the national website (www.n4a.org). Or use the federal government’s Elder Care Locator (www.eldercare.acl.gov).
Access to Services
Services could also be offered free or at a reduced cost based in your income. Don’t assume you are not eligible. Moskowitz notes that this prevents many individuals from accessing services. “And many people are reluctant to ask for help,” she says. Get the ball rolling with a phone call. Talk to an agency yourself, or call a loved one in your behalf. You may have to go to a nonprofit group for an evaluation, or a representative may come to you. But try. It might be value it when the services improve your health and quality of life.