Long-term care is commonly associated with age, however younger adults are finding themselves in need of services following accidents, unexpected illnesses or chronic conditions. One-third of residents in long-term care facilities are under age 65 and many more receive these services in their own home.
Services include medical and non-medical care for people with a chronic illness or disability. Most long-term care services assist people with activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing, and using the bathroom at home, in the community, or in a facility.
“Options for the Future: Living Choices for Older Adults & People with Disabilities” is a free, information-only opportunity to learn about the wide variety of services and resources in Pierce County. The presentation will be Tuesday, Sept. 13 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the South Hill Branch Library, 15420 Meridian Ave. E. in Puyallup.
A panel of local experts will address a variety of topics including in-home care, adult day programs, geriatric care management, elder law, adult family homes, assisted living, skilled nursing homes, memory care, Medicare, Medicaid and community resources in Pierce County. Participants have the chance to learn about services, resources, and ask questions of local professionals in the long-term care services network.
“When it comes to long-term care options, we are very lucky to live in Pierce County,” said Aaron Van Valkenburg, Pierce County Aging and Disability Resources manager. “The services available in our county are quite remarkable. Whether because of a sudden accident, illness or a longstanding condition, families and individuals often encounter the need for some form of long-term care. People have many options and those options can seem confusing especially when families have to make choices in a crisis setting. Knowing about community resources in advance and how to tap into them – and pay for them – is crucial.”
The event is jointly sponsored by Pierce County Community Connections Aging & Disability Resources and the Health Care Providers Council of Pierce County. For more information about the workshop, call the Pierce County Aging and Disability Resource Center at (253) 798-4600.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Bob Riler, Community Connections
(253) 798-7384
[email protected]