TRANSPORTATION: Qualifying Seniors are transported to and from medical appointments and other limited needs. Volunteer Drivers are trained to transport individual Seniors. DART Tickets are available to qualifying Seniors in Big Rapids. Four vans are available for handicapped, medical and group social trips.

HOMEMAKER AIDE: Services such as light housekeeping, errands, grocery shopping and personnal support are provided to eligible Seniors on a priority of need basis.

SPECIALIZED RESPITE: A trained respite aide and/or volunteers provide in-home companionship and supervision for the frail elderly, as needed, in the absence of the primary caregiver.

SENIOR MEALS PROGRAM: Offers a hot, delicious mid-day meal delivered to the door of county Seniors who cannot attend one of the meal sites.

ON-SITE RESPITE: This service offers relief to the primary caregiver offering planned activities for your loved one between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

CASE COORDINATION AND SUPPORT: Social Workers assess the needs of Seniors and initiate available services in coordination with other agencies.

DISASTER COORDINATION: Coordination between the COA and Civil Defense will aid in locating and assisting isolated Seniors in the event of a diaster.

EPIC CENTER: Assistance with the Elder Prescription Insurance Program is available.

EQUIPMENT LOAN CLOSET: Donated wheelchairs, walkers and other medical equipment are available for use through the Commission on Aging, free of charge to county Seniors.

FILE FOR LIFE: Up to date information packet that lists vital information in case of an emergency. Includes emergency contacts and medical data. You list the medical problems and the medication so medical personnel will know immediately how to offer treatment.

MEDICARE/MEDICAID ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (MMAP): Trained volunteers help with insurance questions and billing problems.

Informational Services

ADVOCACY: The COA is continuously updated on Senior related issues and concerns. When a Senior encounters a difficult problem, the COA staff will make every effor to act in their behalf.

INFORMATION AND REFFERAL: Information is provided regarding matters of concern to Seniors. When needed, referrals are made to appropriate agencies, persons, or community resources.

LIVING WILLS & DURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEEY FOR HEALTH CARE: The COA has forms and instructions available for county residents.

MEDICARE/MEDICAID ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (MMAP): Trained volunteers help with insurance questions and billing problems.

NEWSLETTER: The "Keyhole" is mailed out monthly to area residents, containing a calendar of events, information, and items of interst to Seniors as well as programs, activities and menu for lunches offered daily at the Senior Center.

RESOURCE GUIDE: An informative booklet listing local, state and national service organizations.

RESOURCE LIST: A list of individuals who are available on a private pay basis, for a variety of needs and/or services.

SENIOR HOME MAINTENANCE PROGRAM SERVICE: Membership entitles individuals 55 and over to reduced costs of skilled home repair maintenance services as well as job opportunities for those 55 and older who have the needed repair skills. Seniors helping Seniors at reduced rates!

Funding and Compliances

The Commission on Aging (COA) is funded by County millage, private contributions, memorials, local communiy rebates and the Michigan Department of Transportation. Grant funding through the Older Americans Act, Office of Services to the Aging, Area Agency on Aging of, Title 111B, State Alternative Care, and Senior Center staffing also play an important role in service provision.

The Commission on Aging (COA) and Senior Center certifies that it will comply with the Department of Health and Human Services Regulations under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Regabilitation Act of 1973, and the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988.