The Family Caregiver and Senior Advocacy Program provides information, resources and referrals for services to seniors and/or their caregivers to reduce caregiver stress and provide seniors with information and access to services to assure they can "age in place" successfully. Areas the advocate may assist with include, but are not limited to, assistance with new Medicare laws, financial assistance, nutrition assistance, information on healthcare directives (living wills), falls prevention, emergency preparedness, and food programs.

The Family Caregiver and Senior Advocacy Program is funded in part by Title IIIE program funding of the federal Older Americans Act through our local Area Agency on Aging (SEMAAA). Additional funding support is provided by United Way of Faribault, United Way of Goodhue, Rice and Pierce Counties, Community Funds/Drives of Pine Island, Wabasha, Greenfield and Cannon Falls, civic organizations, such as American Legions, Lion Clubs, VFW's, etc., and additional generous donations from businesses and individuals.

We continue to solicit additional required matching funds from other local agencies, grants, civic organizations, businesses and individual donations. Those receiving services are asked for a donation once a year in addition to providing input through an evaluation survey.

Purpose of Program - Outcome for clients:

• To educate caregivers on their options and how to plan for the optimal care giving experience.

• To provide information and assistance to caregivers and seniors that will increase the likelihood that they will be able to live in their communities independently and remain self-sufficient for as long as possible.