What an Area Agency on Aging can do
Texas Area Agencies on Aging serve adults age 60 and older and help their families and caregivers locate community services. Programs can include information and referrals, benefits counseling, care coordination, nutrition, caregiver services and legal assistance. Services are targeted toward people with the greatest economic and social need. Ask for an individual review: age alone does not mean every program is available or appropriate. The statewide AAA line is 800-252-9240.
Connect with the right regional office
For Bandera, Gillespie, Kendall and Kerr counties, begin with the Alamo AAA at 866-231-4922. Bexar has its own AAA at 210-477-3275. Blanco and Llano residents can contact the Capital Area AAA at 888-622-9111. Kimble and Mason belong to the Concho Valley region; its Area Agency on Aging is reached at 325-223-5704. Tell the office the county where the older adult lives, even if a family caregiver is calling from somewhere else.
Describe the actual gaps in the day
Instead of asking only for “senior help,” describe what is becoming difficult. Can the person prepare lunch, answer the door, manage household errands or get to appointments? Who is present at night? What happens if the main caregiver is unavailable? A clear picture makes it easier to ask about a suitable program. Include the older adult in these conversations whenever possible and ask their permission before sharing personal details.
- For living at home: Ask about meal services, transportation, caregiver breaks and help locating in-home assistance. Check whether a referral means an agency will call you or whether you must make the next call.
- For understanding costs: Request benefits counseling and an explanation of which services are public benefits, privately purchased care or subject to a program application.
If someone lives in a nursing or assisted-living facility
The Texas Long-Term Care Ombudsman program advocates for residents of nursing facilities and assisted-living facilities. Its services are free and confidential, and ombudsmen are independent of the facility. They can help address questions about residents’ rights, quality of life and care concerns. Call 800-252-2412 or use the state directory to locate the appropriate advocate. Describe the concern and what the resident wants to happen.
Revisit the plan as needs change
A helpful support plan should answer three questions: what help is arranged, who is responsible, and what happens if it falls through. Keep contacts and appointment information where the person and trusted helpers can find them. Ask to review the plan after a hospitalization, a move, a major change in function or a caregiver’s illness. Accepting more support can be a way of protecting a person’s choices and the relationships that matter to them.
Sources
Read more from the organizations behind this guidance.