Here in Robson Ranch, our diverse population shares at least one common characteristic: We either are aging now or caring for an aging resident. I was unaware until recently that there are many resources available locally both for caregivers and for those needing care in our community. Doni Green, Director of Aging Programs with the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG), recently shared a presentation with the Denton County Commissioners Court outlining NCTCOG Aging Programs available to many in North Texas.
North Central Texas Area Agency on Aging (NCTAAA) and North Central Texas Aging and Disability Resource Center (NCTADRC) are two programs now available. Funding for these programs comes from a variety of sources, including the State of Texas, Denton County, and local grants.
The programs are free of charge for individuals who meet the eligibility guidelines. Extensive information is also available to help caregivers as well as to guide individuals in setting up services for loved ones.
Eligibility guidelines for NCTAAA include:
* People age 60+
* Caregivers of people aged 60+
* People age 55+ who care for grandchildren under age 18
* People age 55+ who care for children with severe disabilities
* People who care for family members with dementia
Some services provided by NCTAAA include:
* Care coordination/caregiver support coordination
* Preventative health workshops
* Congregate and home-delivered meals
* Transportation
* Some services pertaining to dementia
NCTAAA resources available are based on eligibility and provided at no charge to those who qualify. They can be reached at 1-800-272-3921, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
NCTADRC eligibility and services include:
* Assist people of all ages with disabilities and their family caregivers in accessing long-term services and support.
* Help locate affordable housing.
* Help locate community-based services for nursing home residents who wish to return to community living.
* Providing temporary relief from caregiving responsibilities for people who can’t pay privately.
For more information on NCTADRC resources, call 1-855-937-2372 (YES-ADRC), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Information about the programs and available services is located at www.nctcog.org/aging-services.
If any of these services would make your life easier, please don’t hesitate to contact them.
Contact Commissioner Dianne Edmondson by email at [email protected] or phone her at 972-434-3960. You can also stop by her office in the Southwest Courthouse, 6200 Canyon Falls Drive, Suite 900, in Flower Mound.