Recently on the blog we’ve looked at the warning signs that a loved one may need extra support and ways to provide assistance. Where can you turn if you’re overwhelmed with finding resources for yourself or your loved one, or just don’t know where to start? Resource Advocates provide information and referrals that best meet the needs of seniors and caregivers to maintain independence at home. Today we sat down with CSSW Resource Advocate Kevin Bell to learn more about this program.
Senior Resource Connect: If you had to give an “elevator speech” about what your organization does, how would you describe it?
Kevin Bell: The Senior Service Resource Advocate provides a variety of advocacy, education, and support services for low-income and other vulnerable older adults in Washtenaw County. Information and referral services are provided to best meet the needs of older adults to maintain independence in the home. Service areas may include assistance with Medicare/Medicaid forms, respite care, or assistance with emergency funding needs for food, shelter, or other basic requirements.
In addition, the Resource Advocate, in partnership with the Community Mental Health Partnership of Southeast Michigan (CMHPSM) conducts evidence-based community presentations to seniors and community partners called Get Connected: Linking Older Adults with Resources on Medication, Alcohol and Mental Health. The 3-part presentation is free and addresses topics related to substance abuse prevention, medication management and mental health concerns in older adults.
SRC: Walk me through the step-by-step process. What happens when you get a phone call/referral?
KB: A Resource Advocate will gather information to determine the participant’s short and long-term needs. Once those need(s) are identified, the resource advocate helps the participant prioritize them based on the most immediate (short-term) versus long-term need. Priority is given to participants whose health and safety is at risk.
The Resource Advocate asks the participant if they have a computer. If so, they will direct them to resources via the Senior Resource Connect Web site (and paper copy of the guide) and other resources when needed via the Internet, and collaborating agencies, etc. Verbal referrals are made to the participant if they do not have access to a computer. Resources can also be sent via mail to participants.
If appropriate, the Resource Advocate may refer the participant to other Senior Services programs such as Home Services (for installation of safety equipment, minor handyman chores), RSVP (older adult volunteer services program), respite care, and Medicare/Medicaid counseling.
If it is determined that emergency funding services are needed, such as help paying bills (e.g., utility, housing or car repairs), the Resource Advocate can help them apply for emergency assistance through Senior Services and/or refer them to other agencies that can help. Sometimes, the Resource Advocate works with other agencies if additional funding is needed.
At this point, the Resource Advocate will complete the necessary documents needed to start the assistance process — CSSW intake, emergency funding intake, collection of verification documents (for emergency funding).
SRC: What organizations do you work closely with?
KB: Hoarding Task Force of Washtenaw County has multiple member agencies (program supported by Synod)
Barrier Busters (Washtenaw County Office of Economic Development) is a network of more than 100 agencies.
Senior Crisis Intervention Program and collaborating agencies: Ypsilanti Meals on Wheels, Ann Arbor Meals on Wheels, Jewish Family Services, Washtenaw County Foster Grandparents Program, Michigan Medicine Housing Bureau for Seniors, Legal Services of South Central Michigan.
Ypsilanti Senior Center
Washtenaw County Community Mental Health Service
City of Ann Arbor, Pittsfield Township, Ypsilanti Township (Fire, Police, and housing professionals/inspectors) via the Hoarding Task Force.
SRC: What are some things you wish the public knew about your role?
KB: The degree of assistance provided to a participant varies and may take more time based on the need. A Resource Advocate is not a caseworker. They only provide resource referrals on a case-by-case basis. They do not provide services to help facilitate a participant’s needs and setting up of services over extended periods of time.
SRC: What tips do you have for someone with a loved one that’s looking for resources for themselves or a loved one?
KB: Talk to the person first and determine if are willing to seek assistance. Have them make the call or help facilitate a call to a service agency or provider that may be able to help them.
Thank you to Kevin Bell for sharing information about this wonderful program. You can learn more about resource advocacy by calling (734) 971-9781 ext. 8 or visiting the website.
