Several new federal government programs are now operating to help people with disabilities, people with lower incomes and people who are over aged 65 years.

The goal of the program is to support community living for people who need healthcare supports.

There are several branches of the program. These are:

• Medicare Outreach. All 50 states and territories and 125 tribal governments have been funded to provide outreach and assistance to Medicare beneficiaries on their benefits. In particular an increase in the use of preventative services is hoped for. www.centerforbenefits.org
• ADRC Options Counseling Grants: 20 states have been funded to strengthen Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRC) to provide information and support as people learn how to manage the full range of services and supports available in their community.
• Evidence – based Transition Grants to help elderly people remain in their own homes rather than to have to move into rehabilitation or nursing homes after a hospital stay.

For a full funding chart that shows the location of program offices, go to www.aoa.gov/aging_statistics/health_care_reform.aspx#map

For more information on the Administration on Aging and its programs and services, go to www.aoa.gov.

For more information on Medicaid and Medicare, go to : www.cms.gov