Caring for the elderly is a national concern, particularly if long-term care is needed. In Florida, there is a  Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program which is comprised of 17 local councils across Florida, all offering free, localized advocacy services.  An ombudsman is a specially trained and certified volunteer who has been given authority under federal and state law to identify, investigate and resolve complaints made by, or on behalf of, long-term care facility residents. Ombudsmen respond to resident complaints and concerns ranging from issues with medication and care administration to matters of dignity and respect. It is the ombudsman's role to protect the legal rights of residents and assure that they receive appropriate treatment and quality care. To learn more about this program go to  http://ombudsman.myflorida.com/ResidentFam.php.


Currently, there is a bill HR3043 (Medicare Adult Day Care Services Act of 2009) being debated in Congress; which addresses the use of adult day care services for long-term care of the elderly. Click on the link above or contact your legislator for more information.

If you need help selecting the best long-term care option for yourself or you loved one contact your local Area Agency on Aging office at 1-800-963-5337.

Some older adults are able to stay in their own home if they have a few safety measures in place. Click here to view a housing safety checklist for older people.  Some individuals may also be eligible for free cell phones from Safelink Wireless. Safelink is a government supported program that provides a free cell phone and airtime each month for income-eligible customers. To apply for a free cell phone click here.

Remember you can call or go to your local library to learn more.