The Frederick County Guide Spring 2017 | Page 42

S E N I O R S \\ VARIETY OF SERVICES OFFERED FOR SENIORS in Frederick County There are a number of agencies in Frederick County that exist to serve the region’s older residents. We’ve gathered information on a few of those services as reference for older county residents, and those who care for them. Senior Care provides services such as: Frederick County Commission on Aging • Meal preparation In 1965, the Frederick Board of County Commissioners conducted a survey of the needs of the older residents in Frederick County. Based upon the results of this survey, the commissioners established the Frederick County Commission on Aging in December 1965. The purpose of the Commission is to advise the County Executive and the Frederick County Department of Aging on all matters relating to development and administration of the area plan and operations conducted hereunder, and to be advocates for issues relating to aging. This commission is composed of 15 voting members, all residents and registered voters of Frederick County. There are also non-voting ex-officio members. Members serve staggered terms of 3 years. The Commission on Aging is always interested in qualified advocates for seniors to serve on the board as vacancies occur. The County Executive appoints members. If you would like to apply to be a member, send a letter of interest, along with your resume to: Joyce M. Grossnickle, Administrative Officer Office of County Executive Winchester Hall, 12 E. Church St., Frederick, MD 21701 Call 301-600-1100 for more information. Senior Care Services The Frederick County Department of Social Services offers Senior Care services to help frail older persons to live in their homes and avoid having to move into a nursing home or other institution. Senior Care is a coordination system of community services for the elderly provided jointly by local aging, social services, health and other agencies. Senior Care services start with an evaluation of the older person’s service needs by Geriatric Evaluation Services staff. Then, a case manager helps locate and arrange for the needed services. 42 thefrederickguide.com • Bathing and dressing • Light housekeeping • Shopping/budgeting • Transportation To be eligible for Senior Care services, a person must be 65 years of age or older, a resident of Maryland, meet eligibility requirements and annual assistance guidelines, and have a medical condition that puts them at risk of having to enter a nursing home or other institution. Those who meet these eligibility requirements can receive most Senior Care services at little or no cost to them. Some services are available free to those who have limited financial resources. The Senior Care system is managed locally through a cooperative agreement between Frederick County Departments of Aging, Social Services and Health. It is a program of the Maryland Department of Aging and is funded by the State of Maryland. For more information, contact Frederick County Social Services, 100 E. All Saints St., Frederick. 301-600-2635. Senior Centers The Frederick County Department of Aging operates a number of senior centers as community focal points offering educational programs, health and fitness activities, recreation and social opportunities, as well as access to resources and benefits to help individuals maintain wellness and independence throughout the county. Each senior center has its own personality, but all have one thing in common: a commitment to offer activities and events that are appealing to each participant. The staff takes pride in the program offerings—from exercise classes and health and wellness activities to evening card parties, day trips and dances. All activities are built around the needs and wishes of participants.