Southwest Aging and Disability Resource Services serves as a vital connection for older adults and individuals with disabilities in the community, helping them maintain their independence and quality of life. The organization provides a knowledgeable Options Counselor who assists clients and their families in navigating the wide array of services available, ensuring that each person’s specific needs are met. This includes guiding individuals through the process of selecting appropriate resources and helping to initiate those services, offering a personal and informed approach to care planning.
A major component of Southwest Aging and Disability Resource Services is its commitment to advocacy and protection for vulnerable populations. The Long Term Care Ombudsman program advocates for residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities, working diligently to ensure their rights and well-being are upheld. Additionally, the agency participates in the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) program, which is dedicated to educating Medicare beneficiaries about how to monitor their medical expenses, with the goal of combating waste, fraud, and abuse within the Medicare system. Volunteers play an important role in this effort, enhancing both the reach and impact of the program.
The organization also prioritizes providing comprehensive information, referral, and assistance to elderly residents and individuals with disabilities throughout Montana. Their services extend to helping clients fill out crucial applications for assistance programs such as Medicaid and SNAP, making essential support more accessible. For low-income residents of Silver Bow County who are 60 years or older, Southwest Aging and Disability Resource Services provides food boxes, contributing to food security and the overall well-being of seniors in the area.
Supporting caregivers is another focus at Southwest Aging and Disability Resource Services through the use of TCARE, a Tailored Caregiver Assessment and Referral tool. Staff members guide family caregivers through an assessment process that identifies their unique stressors and needs, connecting them to targeted services that help alleviate burnout and promote resilience. The staff assists with connecting caregivers to resources that make a real difference in their journey.
Southwest Aging and Disability Resource Services also offers skilled counseling to Medicare beneficiaries, helping them decipher the often-complex Medicare system. This includes assistance with choosing the best drug plans, selecting supplements, and comparing all available options so that clients can make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage. The organization fosters a sense of community involvement through its broad range of volunteer opportunities suitable for all ages, including collaboration with longstanding volunteer efforts. This supports both those who receive services and those who wish to make a meaningful contribution, further enriching the supportive environment that Southwest Aging and Disability Resource Services strives to create.