Elder Care Resources

Caring for an aging parent, elderly spouse, domestic partner or close friend presents tough challenges. Employees with elder care responsibilities have to juggle work responsibilities with the needs of an elderly loved one in addition to the needs of their kids, spouse, etc. This can lead to increased stress and isolation for the caregiver employee. Many are not sure of the next step, or even the first step, in caring for an elderly family member. It's not uncommon for caregivers to ignore or delay their own needs, which can have a negative affect on their personal health, finances and sometimes their employment.

WellSpan EAP has compiled a list of helpful links and information.

Employer resources

AARP Employer Resource Center  
This site created by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) is dedicated exclusively to resources and information related to aging employees. Specifically, employers can find information on workforce trends, retention strategies, workplace law, benefits and best practices. Resource guides and workforce assessment tools are also available.

Resources for caregivers and seniors

WellSpan Center for Aging
300 Pine Grove Commons
York, PA 17403
(717) 851-5736
(888) 603-1540
Map and Driving Directions

The WellSpan Center for Aging specializes in the unique healthcare needs of maturing adults. The center is staffed by board-certified geriatricians and specially trained psychiatrists, nurses, and social workers. They conduct evaluations, assess daily living skills, provide diagnosis, treatment, and referrals, and work with families to improve quality of life.

Eldercare Locator 
Provides information for families and friends of the elderly (ages 60+), as well as referrals to area agencies on aging for information on insurance, Medicaid, taxes and respite care.

Benefits Check Up 
Many older people need help paying for prescription drugs, health care, utilities and other basic needs. Millions of older Americans are eligible for but not receiving benefits from existing federal, state and local programs.  Developed and maintained by The National Council on Aging (NCOA), Benefits Check Up screens for benefits programs for seniors with limited income and resources.

AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) 
The AARP (American Association of Retired Persons) is a nonprofit, membership organization dedicated to helping people 50 and over improve the quality of their lives. This site offers an immense amount of information and resources dedicated to seniors, those living and working with seniors, and caregivers.

Medicare Nursing Home Comparison 
On the Medicare web site, you can compare Medicare prescription drug plans, compare hospitals and nursing homes in your area, find out about eligibility for Medicare and when to enroll, and find helpful phone numbers and additional web links.

National Alzheimer's Association
As many as 5 million Americans currently live with Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia, a general term for the loss of memory and other intellectual abilities serious enough to interfere with daily life. The Alzheimer's Association provides information, education and support services.

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services  
This government site contains information for those with limited income and resources, who may qualify for extra help.

The Pennsylvania Department of Aging  
The Pennsylvania Department of Aging offers links to local resources in Pennsylvania, based on your zip code or county.  It also offers information on state programs and services such as prescription assistance programs, adult daycare, and links to state agencies.

The Pennsylvania Department of Aging Long Term Care Helpline
1-866-286-3636
The helpline provides information on Alzheimer's disease as well as information on geriatric assessment centers, dementia care units, older adult daily living centers, Alzheimer's Association chapters and training resources