Office for the Aging

My sister and I help my mother take care of our 91 year old grandfather. At his age, there are certain things he shouldn’t be doing. Things like climbing a ladder to replace a light bulb, climbing into his attic to put things away, installing window screens, and so on. Although he doesn’t see any reason why he shouldn’t be taking on these tasks, we do worry about his safety. (Which is another thing he doesn’t want to hear about!)

A few years ago, a co-worker in a similar situation told us about the Suffolk County Department of Aging. I recently decided to contact them for information on how my family could find assistance for my grandfather.

The main goal of the program is to assist individuals socially, recreationally and personally. This often gives seniors the ability to have an independent and active role in their community. There are a wealth of services made available to seniors including: transportation, residential improvements, respite and nutrition programs. Each Office of the Aging will have their own specific list of services available to seniors. It is well worth your time to contact your county office for an information packet listing all their services.

To make things easier, I have broken out some of the key services that may be available to you:

Transportation

For seniors that have no form of transportation the Office of Aging provides door-to-door transportation to medical appointments, shopping, senior centers, social services and Town Hall. Suffolk County transports seniors to doctor’s appointments once a week and to local food shopping once a week. For additional transportation reservations can also be made. Suffolk County also provides reduced bus fares for seniors.

Residential Improvements

For seniors that live in a private residence many home improvements are available to them. The office provides a handyman to clear gutters on the first floor, painting of 2 rooms per calendar year, minor plumbing (changing faucets and shower heads), installing grab bars in the bathroom and shower, installing window air conditioners, installing and removing window screens and changing light bulbs.

Respite

Respite is a service that allows a little relief for the caregivers of elderly family members. This can be a much needed mental and physical break from the everyday stress and responsibility that comes with caring for a loved one. This can include respite care (8 hours or longer), brief respite (4 hours) and Adult Respite. Usually a monetary contribution is suggested on the individual’s ability to pay. More information can be obtained when contacting the Office of Aging.

Nutrition Programs

Nutrition for seniors can be provided in many different ways. Congregate programs are located at many different sites throughout the county. Not only do they provide a healthy mid-day meal for seniors, it also gives them the opportunity to socialize. Home-delivered meals can also be provided. Another home-delivered service is provided by Meals-on-Wheels volunteers. This program provides two meals per day (one hot and one cold), five days a week. In addition, nutrition education, nutrition counseling, recreation and other services are available.

The Offices for the Aging provide numerous services and programs to help mature adults, like my grandfather, live independent, social and healthy lives. Again, the best way to access the list of services is to contact your specific County Office. Your county office can usually be contacted via telephone, internet or email.

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