MAY 2014 SUNRAYS | 7
ONLINE:
SCTXCA.ORG
Let’s Communicate!
Jim Romine, Executive Director
A
s an age-restricted community with an average age of 71,
it is only natural that from time to time we are confronted
with the difficult task of dealing with dementia-related
issues. While I am not an expert on this subject, nor are we an
assisted living facility, it is important for us as a community
to understand this sensitive subject and be able to help those
it affects in a proper manner. As such, the intent of this article
is to remind the community that dementia exists in Sun City
Texas, and, while it surfaces in a variety ways, we should not
turn our backs on this matter, but approach it in a way that is
supportive, informed and caring.
As withmost municipalities, social services are available within
the city and county structure to assist families who are dealing
with dementia-related issues. The same is true withWilliamson
County and the City of Georgetown. While the private sector
has a multitude of services available, here are a few services
and nonprofit organizations that provide aging resources within
Williamson County.
Age of Central Texas
512-451-4611 or
AGE of Central Texas provides education and support to people
all along the spectrum of growing older, no matter where they
are on that journey. Programs include: licensed adult day health
care programs in Round Rock and Austin, caregiver education
and resources, early memory loss support, health equipment
lending, and peer-based computer classes for seniors.
Family Eldercare
512-450-0844 or
Family Eldercare provides in-home care and caregiver support
so that loved ones can live at home safely and comfortably. Ad-
ditional support services include: geriatric consultation, service
coordination and money management. Rates are on a sliding fee
scale based on the client’s income. Licensed, insured and bonded.
The Caring Place
512-943-0700 or
The Caring Place provides emergency assistance to families in
crisis in the following ways: financial assistance through rent,
utilities, medical expenses, temporary shelter and transporta-
tion; and non-financial assistance by providing food, clothing
and household items. The Caring Place also has meal assistance
programs like Fresh Food for Families and Hope, and annual
programs such as Coats for Kids and Thanksgiving and Christ-
mas food distribution.
Faith in Action Caregivers
512-868-9544 or
Volunteers provide transportation services free of charge to
area seniors (65 and older) for medical appointments, grocery
shopping and other important errands.
WBC Opportunities & Meals on Wheels
512-763-1400,
WBC Opportunities’ Senior Nutrition includes the Meals on
Wheels Program that provides hot, home-delivered meals, five
days a week to those who, due to illness, age, or disability, are
unable to provide proper nutrition for themselves. The Congregate
Meals Program provides hot, nutritious meals and companion-
ship to seniors at senior centers, Monday through Friday at noon.
While this article barely reaches the tip of the iceberg on this
subject, I hope that it helps to provide some starting points if
you find yourself in need of assistance when dealing with this
sensitive matter and a loved one. Let’s all help our friends and
family age with grace, support and love.
Take care,
Jim
Other Resources
Learn more about the available resources listed below by
visiting the accompanied websites:
•
2-1-1 Texas:
Helping Texas citizens connect with the
services they need. Dial 211 from your telephone, in-
dicate the city you live in and the type of assistance
you are looking for, or search their database online
at
For more information, visit
the United Way of Greater Austin website at www.
unitedwayaustin.org/navigation-center/.
•
Texas Department of Aging&Disability Services
(DADS):
or 1-512-438-3011
•
Capital Area Agency on Aging:
/
divisions/area-agency-on-aging or 512-916-6062
•
Adult Protective Services:
or 1-800-252-5400
•
Alzheimer’s Association:
•
Medicare:
•
Williamson County Animal Shelter:
pets.wilco.org
•
Humane Society of Williamson County:
www.
texashumaneheroes.org
CA NEWS
Resources for the Elderly in Williamson County
