Unlike childcare, where one generally has the maternity months to look into various options, elder care responsibilities can arise out of the blue. Having a senior family member who requires your assistance will take time and planning. Below are websites that can assist you in finding services that may be helpful.
You may be looking for just one or two services, such as transportation and meal assistance options, or you may be looking at more complicated issues such as assisting a family member who has Alzheimer’s or dementia. In any event, it is also important to discuss options and make plans along with other family members, health care professionals, and social service individuals.
In addition, this is a time to gather information such as:
- Medical care providers’ names and contact information
- Prescription medication information, insurance and Medicare identification information
- Location of important papers and documents including a copy of the power of attorney and durable medical power of attorney
Some Resources:
New to Reno Senior Services
New to Reno website has a page specifically for seniors living in the Truckee Meadows. This site provides a list of senior services and programs and includes links and information about:
- Volunteering with City of Reno Senior Services
- A link to the Senior Connection Newsletter – a free monthly newsletter with information about community events, programs, classes of interest to community members age 55 and better.
- Washoe Senior Ride (WSR) – a program of discount vouchers (“Taxi Bucks”) that can be used to pay part of taxi fares and tips. WSR is a service of the Regional Transportation Commission (RTC).
- Information on the Senior Center Library
- Links and contact information for the State of Nevada Division for Aging Services and the Social Security Administration
City of Reno Senior Programs
The City of Reno offers opportunities for older adults in aquatics, arts, dance, fitness and social outings. The City of Reno Senior Programs website has a link to the Senior Connection Newsletter which is the best way to stay current on the activities being offered. A typical issue includes descriptions of upcoming classes and events and activity calendars.
Washoe County Senior Services
Washoe County Senior Services Mission is to assist older adults in the community to maintain independence, dignity, and quality in their lives and that of their caregivers, through the provision of an array of direct and indirect social and health services and opportunities they may utilize to achieve their goals. Their webpage holds a wealth of information and useful links including:
- Washoe County Senior Services Monthly Newsletter which lists senior center sites and events
- Monthly Menus for the Washoe County Senior Nutrition Program
- Links to forms for Washoe County Senior Services Social Services Referral
- Links for attorneys and estate planning
- Affordable housing information
- Link to Washoe County Senior Services Benefits Check List
- State and Federal Senior Resources through the Senior Services Nationwide Link
- State Health Insurance Advisory Program (SHIP). The SHIP Volunteers offer free one-on-one assistance and counseling with respect to many problems seniors encounter regarding Medicare and supplemental health insurance.
Nevada elder care resources
Nevada Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRC)
Nevada Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRC) provide information and access to programs and services that benefit Nevada’s seniors, people with disabilities, and caregivers.
National elder care resources
About Assisted Living
Written by a group of medical professionals, AboutAssistedLiving.org is meant to serve as a resource for anyone looking for information on placing themselves or a loved one into an assisted living or elder care facility.
American Association of Retired Persons (AARP)
The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) is a national organization for people age 50 and older. AARP offers support for seniors by providing valuable benefits, information and assistance.
“AARP believes strongly in the principles of collective purpose, collective voice and the collective power of the 50 and over population to change the market based on their needs. These principles guide our efforts.”
Administration for Community Living (ACL)
The Administration for Community Living (ACL) believes “all Americans-including people with disabilities and older adults-should be able to live at home with the supports they need, participating in communities that value their contributions. To help meet these needs, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) created a new organization, the Administration for Community Living (ACL).” The ACL website has information covering resources for: Alzheimer’s and related dementias, locating elder care, looking into consumer benefits programs, and long term care planning information.
National Council on the Aging (NCOA)
The National Council on the Aging (NCOA) is a national voice for older Americans and the community organizations that serve them. They bring together nonprofit organizations, businesses, and government to develop creative solutions that improve the lives of all older adults.
