As your loved one ages, how do you find simple answers to questions regarding their health? This question can be more pressing if you are also their primary caregiver. Luckily, there are organizations and programs designed to provide you and your loved one with support.

These resources are designed to keep your elderly loved one active and healthy. However, knowing where to find these resources can be a challenge. Here, we’ve collected some of the best resources we’ve found that can aid you in keeping your aging parent happy and cared for.

Medicare Extra Help

Most seniors are well aware of the benefits they’re entitled to through Medicare. However, many don’t take advantage of more than just Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). Part D is prescription drug coverage and, according to Medicare, “helps cover the cost of prescription drugs, may lower your costs and protect against higher costs.”

Part D is subsidized by Medicare through payments to private insurance companies that in turn fund part of the cost of prescription drugs. Unfortunately, costs can still be a burden for some, which is why it may be wise to contact Extra Help. This is another Medicare program that can  provide substantial cost savings towards Part D prescription drug plans.

Connecticut Statewide Respite Care Program

If you’re the primary caregiver for an elderly loved one living with Alzheimer’s or related dementias, the burden can be great. Respite care can provide a much-needed break, but these programs can be expensive. Luckily, the State of Connecticut runs a useful resource called the Connecticut Statewide Respite Care Program.

This program provides assistance to caregivers of dementia patients and is a wealth of information and support. The program can help you develop an appropriate plan of care for your loved one. Also, if your parent qualifies and there’s enough funding, the program can subsidize the cost of home respite care services (up to $7,500 per year).

Supplemental Security Income

In the U.S., one of the main factors that prohibits access to quality health care is cost. If your loved one’s Social Security benefits are their only source of income and they earned them through lower-paying jobs, your older parent likely qualifies for a larger monthly payment called Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

SSI was developed by the federal government to provide the elderly and disabled with supplemental income on top of the set amount they already receive through Social Security. Although not specifically a health care program, qualifying for SSI is a key indicator that individuals in the program will qualify for other needs-based programs, such as Medicare.

Compass Senior Resources

The complexities of the health and senior services system can create additional stress for patients, residents and their families. From understanding financial commitments, insurance coverage and transitions of care, to knowing where your loved one belongs in the array of wellness options, Hoffman SummerWood’s Compass Senior Resources program can help.

The Compass Senior Resources program is a complimentary personal resource dedicated to helping older adults navigate the complex world of health and senior care services. Their mission is to help ease the stress of care transitions and assist in accessing the care and/or services seniors need when they need them.

For more information about Hoffman SummerWood’s Compass Senior Resources program, please contact mycompass@hoffmansummerwood.org.

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