What to Do When

GET CONNECTED

Familiarizing Yourself with Local Resources That Can Help

TEXAS HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

The agency offers a wealth of information to connect you to resources, health care providers and services that can help you and your aging loved one live healthier. In the menu bar on their website is a dropdown for “Services,” which provides a wide range of helpful resources for people with medical, physical, intellectual or developmental disabilities; older adults; and caregivers who need a break from their duties. If you’re unsure how they can help, or even if you may not qualify for a program or service, Texas Health and Human Services’ trained professionals can help steer you in the right direction.

Call 1-855-937-2372 or visit hhs.texas.gov

2-1-1 TEXAS

As a trusted state resource available for free 24/7, 211 Texas is a connector for all Texans to critical, community-based services. Whether it’s a sudden medical bill, a natural disaster, a veteran trying to return to civilian life, or a concern about an aging parent—people from all walks of life can find themselves in need of assistance and confronted with a maze of agencies and programs that are challenging to navigate. Their trained helpline specialists are good listeners, blending understanding and expertise to provide information and referrals drawn from a comprehensive database of social services.

An Overlooked Resource

UNITED WAY OF GREATER HOUSTON

United Way seeks to ensure that all older adults can live vibrant lives. They offer resources to a number of programs that focus on older adults’ health, financial security and engagement.

Visit referral.unitedwayhouston.org for a searchable directory that offers information on several community programs covering an array of categories including transportation, housing options, benefits screenings, dementia evaluations and elder abuse.

Support groups

are an excellent resource and there are many specifically for caregivers. See srgtexas.com to find support groups in your area.

AREA AGENCY ON AGING

Serving over 250,000 people annually, Texas’ 28 area agencies on aging offer help to Texans age 60 and older, their family members and caregivers to locate and access local services, including benefits counseling, legal assistance, care coordination, caregiver support services, in-home support and the ombudsman program.

Houston-Galveston Area Agency on Aging Call 1-800-437-7396 or visit h-gac.com/area-agency-on-aging Harris County Area Agency on Aging Call 832-393-4301 or visit houstontx.gov/health/Aging