Dear Parishioners,
My name is Chris Minnick, and I am the care manager for the Elder Care Program here at Epiphany of Our Lord Parish. The Elder Care Program was created in partnership with Catholic Housing and Community Services and is partially funded by a generous endowment.
The Elder Care Program provides free and confidential care management services to persons over 60 years of age who live within the parish boundaries. It also provides support to the older adult’s caregiver/s as well as community resource information. The overall goal of this program is to provide supportive services to older adults to help maintain and improve their quality of life.
Care management involves meeting with the care manager to complete an assessment of needs and interests. Assessments are holistic and consider the health, safety, and well-being of the whole person. Next, the care manager develops a care plan with the individual with options for meeting their needs and assists in getting those needs met. The care manager provides ongoing support thereafter ensuring that the person has the support and assistance they need whether that is on a short-term or long-term basis.
Examples of Care Management Services:
· Getting help at home for personal care, housekeeping, and meal preparation
· Securing legal assistance and legal documents
· Coordinating home health services: nursing, PI, OT, & speech therapies
· Applying for financial benefits (LIHEAP, SNAP, Property Tax Rebate)
· Connecting to healthcare specialists
· Health screenings: memory, fall risk, depression, anxiety
· Referrals for mental health counseling and support groups
· Securing in-home help through CHC Waiver, Options, and the VA.
· Providing health insurance options information and referrals
· Linking clients to social activities, classes, and health programs
· Referrals for spiritual counseling and communion call for the homebound
· Assistance in obtaining assistive devices such as walkers, medical alert devices, shower benches, and stair glides with training to ensure safety
· Caregiver support services
· Assisting with safety concerns
· Applying for transportation services
· Referrals for hospice care and end-of-life support
· Housing counseling and assistance in applying for alternative housing
· Acting as an advocate to ensure timely delivery of care and services
- Securing home-delivered meals
· Coordination of care with professionals in other organizations
· The transition from a rehab facility or hospital back to home
If you are interested in getting support from the Elder Care Program, please contact Chris Minnick, Care Manager at 267-807-1455.