Resources for Caregivers
You or a loved one may need care - or need help in providing care - but not know what resources may be available to assist you. There are a variety of programs designed to keep people in their homes and active in their communities despite physical or cognitive limitations that threaten an independent lifestyle. Your county has information on these programs, the eligibility requirements, and whether or not there may be a waiting list for services. Below, we've listed services provided in Door & Kewaunee Counties in Wisconsin.
Door County Department of Human Services
The Department of Human Services provides an array of services and programs that literally cover the lifespan of Door County citizens. More specifically, DCDHS serves children, families, adults, and the elderly who are challenged by alcohol and other drug abuse / mental illness / physical and developmental disabilities / the infirmities of aging / children & adults at risk of abuse or neglect / and financial issues relating to health care, child care, energy assistance, and some limited work programs.
Program Areas
- Adult Protective Services Program
- Aging & Disability Resource Center
- Aging Services
- Behavioral Health Treatment Services
- Child and Family Services Program
- Community Support Program
- Developmental Disabilities Services
- Economic Support Services
- Long Term Care Services
Door County Senior Resource Center
The purpose of the Senior Resource Program is to provide services or resources to older persons (60+) which will assist them to remain active participants in family and community life. These services include, but are not limited to:
- The Senior Center activities
- Transportation
- Congregate and home delivered meals
- Information and assistance
- Benefit counseling
- Service coordination and management
- Guardianship services
- Elder abuse/neglect reporting
- Alzheimer’s family and caregivers support program
Kewaunee County Human Services
The Kewaunee County DHS programs include:
- Aging Services Unit
- Behavioral Health Division
- Long Term Support Programs
- Medical assistance; food stamps; energy assistance
- Public health (prevention and intervention).
Aging & Disability Resources Centers (ADRC)
The ADRC is the first stop for determining available programs and eligibility. An Aging and Disability Resource Center, or ADRC, offers the general public a single source for information and assistance on issues affecting older people (age 60 and older) and people with disabilities (age 18 and older) regardless of their income. The information and assistance is free and completely confidential. The Aging and Disability Resource Centers are a welcoming place for you and your family to get information, advice and access to a wide variety of services.
Door County residents should visit ADRC Door Co and Kewaunee County residents should visit ADRC of the Lakeshore to learn more about the services available in their counties.
Additional Resources
It is difficult to not feel isolated when placed in the caregiver role. Those providing care often need some support and care of their own. The internet is a place to find all kinds of information, however it’s sometimes hard to know where to look. Below are some web sites that may be beneficial for seniors and their caregivers.
Today’s Caregiver is an on-line community of caregivers that offers care tips, a magazine, e-newsletter, conferences and much more. Sign up for a free e-newsletter today.
The National Institutes of Health cover a variety of health issues and resources. These government sites with information on health and aging, and medline plus senior’s health, the world’s largest medical library with information about diseases, conditions and wellness issues offer a valuable resource to caregivers and those in need of care.
Medicare coverage is confusing for just about everyone. In general, Medicare pays for health care for people age 65 and older, and people under 65 with certain disabilities. Medicare covers only medically necessary care and focuses on acute care (doctor visits, medications & hospital stays.) Medicare also focuses on short-term services for conditions that are expected to improve (e.g. physical therapy after a fall.) General Medicare does not pay for long-term care services such as personal care (help with bathing & dressing), housekeeping or supervision (custodial care). However, some Advantage Plans may provide this coverage.
Family Care is a long-term care state program which helps the elderly and disabled adults stay in their own homes. Visit your county ADRC (listed above) to discuss eligibility and options under this program.