Area Agency on Aging - "Extra Help" Programs for your seniors who have low incomes

Area Agency on Aging can help your clients with meals, temporary in-home assistance, transportation, information, caregiver support and more.  Extra Help can also assist with prescriptions, if your client qualifies - income and assets determines eligibility.  Call the Certified Benefits Counselor to see if you might receive this extra help. " There are programs that can help you save money. Certified Benefits Counselors with the Area Agency on Aging of Harris County can help you identify and apply for assistance. If you are 60 years or older and reside in Harris County, the Area Agency on Aging of Harris County can assist you with other resources. For more detailed information contact us at: 832-393-4301 or 800-213-8471."  Benefit counselors are free and can help with other issues like housing, transportation, client representation - appeals/hearings, non-covered items like dental, vision, (you will be placed on a wait list) http://www.houstontx.gov/health/Aging/aging-benefits.html

To find an Area Agency on Aging near you call 1-800-252-9240.

As with all public providers, funding has been limited and some services have wait list.  However, the more you know the more likely you can find some assistance.  All services are income dependent.  If your client already is qualified for Medicaid these services can help. 

Also, there is a  program called "Money follows the Person" which allows Medicaid persons in nursing homes to talk with someone about the possibility of returning to the community.   Option counselors are available at 877-237-2268.  If you are medically and physically able to return home, the option counselor can evaluate if services you would need to help make your transition to the community can be a viable option for your client to return to the community.  There is some funding for adaptive changes to a residence, for food, etc.  These are one time funds to assist in the transition.   Also, you will be placed for quick access to Community Based Alternatives services. (this is a huge benefit!)

The program of "Money follows the Person" can also apply to Non-medicaid persons; however, they do not receive the help of a relocation specialist, there is no special funding attached to assist in transition and they are placed on a wait-list for the community based alternative services (which are very long).

When we are coordinating care for seniors, looking for resources is a constant struggle.  These services and counselors are available for them and especially for the medicaid recipients who will qualify for additional services and might have the option of non-nursing home placement if they can acquire the correct services and has some family support.

Houston Dept. of Health and Human Services

8000 N. Stadium Drive

Houston, TX 77054