Elder Care Services representative Christi Coulter gave an overview of the multitude of free services available to the elderly of DeKalb County during this week’s Rotary meeting. All of the services are available to those age 60 and over with certain services available for those 18 to 59 with a disability. Coulter was introduced to Elder Care Services as a graduate studies intern and got invited to join the organization full-time after graduating with a Master’s degree in social work.
Services to Elder Care clients are funded through government and local grants and donations with a goal of helping seniors live independently as long as possible. Key services offered are:
- Care Coordination – includes case management, Community Care Program, and understanding choices for care.
- Adult Protective Services – intervention for those faced with abuse or self-neglect.
- Money Management – budgeting guidance, credit counseling, bill payment and payee representative services (including notary service).
- Information and Assistance – benefits counseling for clients.
- Senior Health Insurance Program – insurance education, guidance, and assistance for Medicare and Medicaid.
- Cognitive Support Program – a comprehensive program for those experiencing cognitive difficulties.
- Caregiver Services and Supports – groups, supports, and services for caregivers and families.
- Get Me to Monday Pantry – an emergency food pantry providing 2-4 days of shelf-stable food plus a list of all regularly scheduled food pantries in the county.
Coulter said other services include “Medicare Mondays” providing 15-minute professional insurance assistance and “Walk-in Wednesday” for 15-minute walk-in appointments with Information and Assistance professionals to address benefits and get answers to questions. Most frequently requested services involve in-home assistance and help with technology (computers and cell phones) according to Coulter. She also promoted a movie fundraiser on October 6 at the Egyptian Theatre in DeKalb with the film “Willy Wonka.” Full information about Elder Care Services of DeKalb County is available on their website at www.ecsdekalb.org.