|
|
|
|
1.
|
Who is a Caregiver?
A caregiver is a person providing ongoing care for a loved one. Caregivers consist of the following: spouses, parents, siblings, nieces, nephews, grandparents, friends, or any relatives who provide a wide range of help for older individuals or grandchildren.
back to top
|
|
2.
|
What is the Area Agency on Aging?
The Area Agency on Aging is responsible for planning, coordinating and implementing a full range of services that allow older Texans to live healthy, dignified and independent lives.
back to top
|
|
3.
|
What can you do for me?
Provide a variety of services that include: Information, Referral & Assistance, Benefits Counseling, Care Coordination, Family Caregiver Support, Nursing Home Ombudsmen , and Nutrition Services.
back to top
|
|
4.
|
How do I know which Area Agency on Aging covers my area?
Click on the Texas map in the area where you live. You will be directed to information about your AAA. Or, you may go to
http://www.dads.state.tx.us/contact/aaa_directory.html
to find out what counties are served by the various AAAs.
back to top
|
|
5.
|
What if I am interested in these services but do not see an Area Agency on Aging on the West Texas Cares web site that covers the area I live in?
Go to http://www.dads.state.tx.us/contact/aaa_directory.html
to find out which AAA serves the county you live in.
back to top
|
|
6.
|
How do I qualify for caregiver services?
Please contact your local Caregiver Specialist at the Area Agency on Aging for eligibility requirements.
back to top
|
|
7.
|
What does it cost to receive caregiver services?
There are no charges for services; however, voluntary contributions are welcomed to assist program costs and expand services.
back to top
|
|
8.
|
Why do you need information about me, the caregiver?
Your information helps us to serve you better. We want to support you in the everyday activities that surround the long-term care of your loved one. In addition, you need access to information and other support services.
back to top
|
|
9.
|
What is respite care?
Respite provides a temporary short-term relief for families and caregivers who need a break from the responsibilities of caring for a child or adult. Respite can range from a few hours to a week or more, depending on the needs and resources of the family. Respite can occur in the family's home, the home of a friend or relative, a daycare center or even a church.
Respite can be used for lots of things, like visiting family or friends, running errands, spending an evening at the movies or taking a vacation. Some parents use respite so they can spend time with another child or with their spouse. The benefits of respite are many and include reducing stress on the caregiver, family and improved
caregiving.
back to top
|
|
10.
|
Can I only receive respite if I have to go to the doctor?
There is no need to visit a physician to apply for respite. You need to contact your local Caregiver Specialist to apply for respite service.
back to top
|
|
11.
|
How do I know I can trust the respite
worker?
You are the employer. So you, as a caregiver determine whether or not a prospective respite provider is acceptable for your loved one. Please use the Respite Guide to assist you in interviewing and selecting a respite provider (pgs. 6-8).
back to top
|
|
12.
|
Are home health agencies bonded or insured?
Home health agencies are bonded and insured.
back to top
|
|
13.
|
My mother lives 100 miles away, but I have to drive to her home every weekend so I can run errands for her, am I a caregiver?
Yes. You are a caregiver if you are providing unpaid care to a relative or friend who is aged 60 or older in order to help them take care of themselves. The help caregivers provide covers a broad range of activities - from such everyday things as helping your loved one get to the doctor or the store, helping to pay bills, assisting with personal care like helping them eat, get dressed, or take a bath. In some cases the older relative or friend might live far away, or she or he might live in your home. If you are helping an older relative or friend do something that he or she used to be able to do without help, you are a caregiver.
back to top
|
|
14.
|
I feel like it may be time for my mother to enter a long-term care facility who do I call to find out what my options are?
The local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) Ombudsman program can assist in providing information concerning long-term care facilities in your area.
back to top
|
|
15.
|
I am interested in finding a support group for caregivers, who do I call to find out where one is near me?
Contact the local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) nearest you.
back to top
|
