Programs
The Elder Helpline is the starting point for seeking information and assistance for older adults, persons with disabilities 18+ and their caregivers. The Elder Helpline is housed locally within the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC), which provides information about Medicaid programs and provides access to Statewide Medicaid Managed Long Term Care Programs, as well as home and community based programs that provide in-home services to seniors and people with disabilities.
Need Assistance? Call the Elder Helpline Today! 866-467-4624
The Elder Helpline
866-467-4624
SHINE/SMP
The SHINE Program (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) provides Medicare and health insurance counseling from unbiased and trained volunteers.
To learn more about the SHINE program, click here.
The SMP (Senior Medicare Patrol) empowers seniors to help prevent Medicare fraud.
EHEAP - Emergency Home Energy Assistance Program
Please note that EHEAP operations previously managed through the Florida Department of Elder Affairs are being transitioned to the Florida Department of Commerce, Division of Community Development.
Senior households experiencing crises with their energy provider are encouraged to reach out to the following resources:
- Florida LIHEAP Online Portal: Seniors may apply for LIHEAP crisis assistance online at https://floridaliheap.com. The portal is mobile-friendly and allows applicants to complete and submit an application electronically.
Instructions: Click link above - Click Start Application
- Local LIHEAP Community Action Agency: Seniors may also contact their local Community Action Agency (CAA), which serves as a LIHEAP subrecipient in their county. CAAs can assist with in-person applications and provide guidance on available crisis benefits. To find the local CAA serving a particular county, seniors or their caseworkers may contact FloridaCommerce or visit www.FloridaJobs.org/LIHEAPHelp for a directory of local providers listed by county.
Instructions: Click link above - Find Your County - Click "Local County Contact Information" to get started
LIHEAP Crisis Assistance Overview
LIHEAP provides crisis benefits to eligible households that are experiencing or are in immediate danger of a home energy disconnection. Seniors are given priority in eligibility, and households with at least one elderly member receive an additional benefit. Crisis assistance can help cover past-due balances, deposits, disconnect and reconnect fees, and other eligible charges to prevent or restore energy service.
Florida LIHEAP eligibility is set at 60% of the State Median Income (SMI) and households enrolled in TANF, SNAP, or SSI may qualify through categorical eligibility without additional income verification.
Next Steps
We understand that this transition may raise questions for seniors we serve. We are committed to ensuring continuity of service and FloridaCommerce will provide updates as the transition progresses.
Health Promotion & Disease Prevention Programs
Our Healthy Promotion and Disease Prevention Programs are delivered through our community partner, Big Bend Area Health Education Center (AHEC).
All these programs are Evidenced Based, which means they have demonstrated through evaluation to be effective in improving health and well-being or reducing disease, disability, or injury in older adults.
Our current programs focus on falls prevention, physical activity, caregiver education/support and mental health.
If you are interested in more information on any of these health and wellness programs, please contact AHEC at 850-224-1177.
Elder Abuse Prevention
The Elder Abuse Prevention Program ensures that older adults, caregivers and professionals receive education and training relevant to elder rights.
This program is supported through partnerships with the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF), legal services, the local Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, law enforcement and numerous other victim advocate agencies.
Interested in Elder Abuse Prevention Training?
Suspect the exploitation, neglect or abuse of an older adult? Call 1-800-96-ABUSE or Click Here to learn how to make an anonymous report to DCF.
The majority of our in-home services and meal programs come from General Revenue and Older American Act Nutrition Programs. These programs are state and federally funded.
Home and Community Based Programs
- Community Care for the Elderly (CCE) - provides in-home services such as respite, shopping assistance, bathing, housekeeping, etc. A co-pay may be assessed based on the client's ability to pay.
- Home Care for the Elderly (HCE) - provides some in-home services but focuses primarily on providing a stipend to caregivers to assist with support and health maintenence such as housing, food, doctor visits, etc.
- Alzheimer's Disease Initiative (ADI) - provides in home services such as respite, caregiver training, transportation, etc. Clients must be 18+ and have a diagnosis of dementia or related disorder.
- Older Americans Act (OAA) - These programs provide access to supportive services, home delivered meals, congregate dining sites, Elder Abuse Prevention programming and Health and Wellness Education.
Emergency Management Services / Special Needs Shelters
While living in Florida, it is important to keep in mind severe weather hazards and potential threats. Everyone should have pre-defined emergency plans and always keep an emergency supply kit ready and stocked.
Advantage Aging Solutions partners with innovative companies to provide virtual training and support for caregivers. Whether you are a family member or a friend, you can find the resources you need to continue providing the best care for your loved one.
