Older adults and their caregivers are frequently unaware of available resources in Tarrant County. Using federal money, which is dispersed through the Texas Department of Aging & Disabilities Services, the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) funds many direct services, including Meals on Wheels, congregate meals at senior citizen’s centers, guardianship services, legal and financial counseling, homemaker services, and family caregiver support and education.
Almost everyone knows to dial 911 in an emergency, but few people know to call 211 if they require basic information about social services and community resources. Several benefits counselors at the Tarrant County AAA are available at 817-258-8125.
TCU’s Center for Healthy Aging
Another source for information is the Center for Healthy Aging in the Harris College of Nursing and Health Sciences at TCU. The Center is located in room 337A of the Annie Richardson Bass building at the corner of Lubbock and West Bowie streets. Journals devoted to gerontology and brochures about community resources for older adults are available. Center personnel and professional volunteers can answer your questions:
If an older family member cannot live alone safely, what options are available in addition to independent retirement communities?
Of the 60 nursing homes and 95 assisted living facilities in Tarrant County, which would be the best choice in terms of location, cost, and quality of care?
TCU’s Center for Healthy Aging provides a resource group for employed caregivers of older adults, which is partially funded by the AAA. The group meets monthly (usually the first Thursday) from 5:30 till 7:00 PM in Bass 107 (located on the corner of W. Bowie St. and Lubbock Ave.). The group offers several advantages for participants. These include:
Mutual emotional support and encouragement from professional facilitators and other group members
Practical information for caregivers, including sources of respite, plans for long-term care, end-of-life issues, etc.
Structured opportunities to explore caregiver difficulties, successes, intense personal problems, work-related concerns, observations and useful insights
A safe, nonthreatening place to share ideas and “try out” new behaviors or caregiver strategies which one might incorporate into everyday life – in the workplace or at home
