Does the Area Agency on Aging for North Florida provide services directly to seniors?
Though the majority of direct services are provided through contracts with Lead Agencies, the Area Agency on Aging does provide direct service to caregivers in crisis through the Family Caregiver Support Initiative. In addition, the Area Agency on Aging manages the Elder Helpline for the fourteen county planning and service area. Please see the Programs and Services section of this web site for a brief overview of these and other agency programs.

Who should I call if I have questions about services available in my area?
If you are calling within the following counties, you may reach the Elder Helpline at 1-800-963-5337 (1-800-96ELDER): Bay, Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Taylor, Wakulla, or Washington. The Elder Helpline can also be accessed through a statewide toll-free number at 1-800-467-4624.

Are there volunteer or internship opportunities available with the Area Agency on Aging?
Yes. The Area Agency on Aging offers both opportunities for professional internships and volunteerism. Volunteer opportunities are available through the Canines for Companions Program and the Department of Elder Affairs' Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders and Sunshine for Seniors programs. These programs have a pre-screening and training curriculum that must be completed prior to placement. Other volunteer opportunities may be available through one of our fourteen Lead Agencies. The Area Agency on Aging is a partner with Social Work, Office of Field Placement at Florida State University and Florida A&M University. We have provided professional internships for students majoring in clinical and administrative tracks.

How can I find out about Assisted Living Facilities and Nursing Homes in Florida?
You can go to the following site on the Internet or call the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) at (888) 419-3456:

http://www.floridahealthstat.com/qs/
owa/facilitylocator.facllocator

Who can I call regarding questions about my Medicare statement?
The Area Agency on Aging serves as a liaison agency to the Department of Elder Affairs' Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders (SHINE) Program. There are over thirty certified volunteers throughout the area that are able to assist beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers with questions about Medicare, Medicaid, and other health insurance. For assistance please contact the Elder Helpline at 1-800-963-5337.

Does the Area Agency on Aging have any faith-based programs?
Yes, the AAANF contracts with a few churches in Madison and Taylor Counties to provide support services to caregivers of older adults, and education and support to grandparents raising grandchildren.

In addition to the five churches the AAANF currently contracts with to provide services to caregivers, the AAANF supports a demonstration project in Gadsden, Jefferson, Leon, and MadisonCounties named STARS, which stands for Support Through Alzheimer's Relief Systems. With the assistance of lead agencies and the Department of Elder Affairs, trained professionals and volunteers deliver services to under served populations coping with Alzheimer's disease.

STARS services include Assessment, Caregiver Support, In-Home Respite Care and other types of care. This project partners with Community Churches and local Alzheimer's help groups, as well as national resources such as the Alzheimer's Association. Information is available through the Elder Helpline.

Are there any programs that offer financial assistance for medications?
Sunshine for Seniors can help lower prescription drug costs. This counseling service will assist in enrolling eligible elders in free and discounted prescription drug programs. This program is implemented through the SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) volunteer network. Sunshine for Seniors is administered by the Florida Department of Elder Affairs. For more information please call the Elder Helpline at 1-800-963-5337.

I think my neighbor's son is hurting her physically and stealing money from her? Who should I contact to express my concerns? I don't want to be considered a nosy neighbor.
If you or someone you know, age 60 and older, is being abused or neglected physically or emotionally, is neglecting their own needs, or is being financially exploited, you should contact the Abuse Registry (Hotline) at 1-800-962-2873. A specialist will take down the information you report and assist in having appropriate law enforcement, Adult Protective Services or local social service organizations respond to the person you are concerned about. You do not need to identify yourself, and the information you provide will be kept confidential. In addition, you may contact the Elder Helpline at 1-800-963-5337. We can assist you in making the call.