Accessing Community Resources

Supporting Your Loved One with Local Programs and Services

Caring for elderly loved ones involve more than just providing day-to-day care. Accessing local community resources and support programs can be a crucial part of maintaining a high quality of life for both you and your loved one. Here’s how you can find and take advantage of the resources available in Indiana.

Area Agencies on Aging (AAA)

Indiana’s Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) provide a wide range of services and support to seniors and their caregivers. These agencies offer information on local resources, assistance with accessing services, and direct support programs, including:

  • Home-Delivered Meals: For seniors who are homebound, AAA can arrange for nutritious meals to be delivered directly to their door.

  • In-Home Care Services: Access to personal care, homemaker services, and respite care to support both seniors and their caregivers.

  • Care Management: AAA provides care management services to help assess the needs of your loved one and develop a personalized care plan.

To find your local AAA, visit: www.in.gov/fssa/da/area-agencies-on-aging/

Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA)

The FSSA offers a variety of programs to support elderly residents, including:

  • Medicaid Waivers: These waivers provide funding for home and community-based services that allow seniors to remain in their homes rather than moving to a nursing facility.

  • Adult Protective Services: Ensuring the safety and well-being of seniors by investigating reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.

  • Long-Term Care Ombudsman: Advocates for the rights of residents in long-term care facilities and assists with resolving concerns related to their care.

For more information, visit: www.in.gov/fssa/

Indiana Legal Services – Senior Law Project

Legal support is vital for seniors dealing with issues related to elder law, including estate planning, guardianship, and healthcare directives. Indiana Legal Services provides free legal assistance to low-income seniors through its Senior Law Project. This program can help with:

  • Drafting Wills and Powers of Attorney

  • Assistance with Medicaid and Medicare Appeals

  • Guardianship and Conservatorship Matters

To learn more, visit: Senior Law Guide - Indiana Legal Services

HoosierRx

HoosierRx is Indiana’s prescription drug assistance program, which helps low-income seniors with the cost of their medications. This program is especially beneficial for seniors who are enrolled in a Medicare Part D plan but need additional financial support to afford their prescriptions.

For eligibility requirements and application information, visit: Indiana Medicaid: Members: HoosierRx

State Health Insurance Program (SHIP)

Navigating Medicare and other health insurance options can be confusing. Indiana’s State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) provides free, unbiased counseling to help seniors make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage. SHIP counselors can assist with:

  • Understanding Medicare Benefits

  • Choosing a Medicare Part D Plan

  • Medicare Advantage Plans

To schedule an appointment or find more information, visit: IDOI: Medicare And SHIP: Indiana State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)

Local Senior Centers

Senior centers across Indiana offer a variety of programs and activities designed to keep seniors active, engaged, and connected to their communities. These centers often provide:

  • Social Activities and Events

  • Exercise and Wellness Programs

  • Educational Workshops and Classes

To find a senior center near you, contact your local AAA or visit: Indiana State List: Senior Centers (careindiana.org)