Chesterfield senior advocate answers common questions

Getting older can bring about new challenges when it comes to daily living. Fortunately, there are many services available to help seniors remain independent as they age.

As the county's senior advocate, Diane Peterson regularly receives inquiries from seniors and their loved ones regarding available services for older adults. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions and answers.

Q: I can no longer drive and need to get to medical appointments. What transportation is available for seniors in Chesterfield?

A: The following services are available:

• Access Chesterfield - Service is available for any disabled person, those over 60 or those who meet federal poverty level income guidelines, 279-8489

• Shepherd's Center of Chesterfield (medical and grocery shopping), 706-6689

• Shepherd's Center of Richmond (medical and grocery shopping), 355-7282

• Smart Ride, 222-6824

• American Red Cross, 780-2298

Q: My mother recently moved to Chesterfield. What activities are available?

A: Several organizations offer classes and recreational opportunities for seniors including:

• The Lifelong Learning Institute in Chesterfield, 378-2527

• The Shepherd's Center of Chesterfield (Adventures in Learning), 706-6689

• Parks and Recreation: Older adult programs at the Bensley (275-5321) and Ettrick Community Centers (526-5596)

• Senior Connections Friendship Cafes, 343- 3000

• Chester, Manchester and Midlothian YMCAs, 748-9622

• Chesterfield County Public Libraries, 768- 7941

• Volunteer opportunities through nonprofit organizations, hospitals, the school system and more.

Q: A family member needs to move to more affordable housing and her only income is her Social Security. Is there affordable housing for seniors in Chesterfield?

A: Section 8 is a government assisted housing program of apartment complexes which were built or renovated under the Section 8 program. If accepted by a Section 8 complex, the rent will be no more than 30 percent of a person's gross income. Medical expenses are considered for older or disabled adults. If the deductions add up to more than 30 percent of gross income, the older or disabled adult may not have to pay rent. Section 8 housing for seniors ages 62 and older is available in Chesterfield at Rockwood Village, 745-0911.

Other affordable complexes include:

• Market Square (55 and older), 279-0133

• Courthouse Senior Apartments, 796-9191

• Chester Village Apartments, 425-1200

• The Park at Ridgedale, 271-4166

• The Atlantic at Charter Colony, 378-9919

Senior Connections, The Capital Area Agency on Aging, conducts home visits to discuss benefit programs older adults may be eligible to receive such as food stamps, fuel assistance, the Medicare Prescription Drug Program and more. To request an assessment, call Senior Connections at 343-3000.

Q: My mother is the sole caregiver for my 82-year-old father who has had a stroke, is diabetic and is dependent in his activities of daily living. Can she get assistance caring for him?

A: A Senior Connections' care coordinator for the county can schedule a home visit to do an assessment, develop a care plan and make referrals for respite care, home health care and other services based on the couple's needs. For more information, call Senior Connections at 343-3000.

Q: My 90-year-old mother lives alone and has difficulty preparing her meals. Sometimes she forgets to turn the stove off. Can my mother receive prepared meals?

A: A Senior Connections' care coordinator can schedule a home visit and do an assessment for home-delivered meals and other support services. Call Senior Connections at 343-3000 for an assessment.

Q: Where can an older adult who has not enrolled in Medicare Part D and needs help reviewing the prescription drug plans get help?

A: The Virginia Insurance Counseling and Assistance Program (VICAP) can help seniors compare the different drug plans by providing information and answering their questions. VICAP, 343-3014