Program Description
The Older Americans Act (OAA) is a federal act that provides funding to states for programs and services that help the elderly. North Dakota uses these federal funds, among other funding sources, for the state’s Adults and Aging Services.
The intention of these services is to help elderly residents remain living in their communities and avoid institutional (nursing home) placement. Some services offered include home-delivered meals, legal assistance, caregiver support, and in-home assistance.
The Aging Services Division of North Dakota’s Department of Human Services implements these services and programs under the provision of the OAA.
Eligibility Guidelines
General Requirements
Applicants must be at least 60 years of age and legal residents of North Dakota. Some small exceptions exist for residents under 60.
Financial Requirements
There are no income or asset limits. However, one’s income and assets does play a role in determining priority for services. Applicants who have low income, live in a rural area, have limited English proficiency, or are a member of a minority group are given priority.
Benefits and Services
Programs available through the Aging Services Division of North Dakota’s Department of Human Services provide many services that support seniors. Below is a list of relevant programs and the services they provide:
- Aging and Disability Resource Link: Information and referral assistance.
- Assistive Safety Devices Distribution Service: Safety devices like grab bars and seat lifts, as well as installation if needed.
- Dementia Care Service: Care consultation, and education and training for caregivers.
- Family Caregiver Support Program: Counseling, support groups, respite care, training.
- Health Maintenance Services Program: Blood pressure monitoring, foot care, home visits, medication set-up.
- Legal Assistance Service: Legal advice and representation.
- Local Contact Agency Service: Assistance transitioning from a long-term care facility back into the community.
- Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program: Investigates complaints and advocates for the senior.
- Nutrition Services Program: Meals delivered in-home or in a group setting.
- Options Counseling Service: Assessment of needs and referral services.
- Preventive Health Program: Exercise programs to help prevent falls, etc.
- Telecommunications Equipment Distribution Service: Telecommunications equipment like captioned phones and large button phones.
- Vulnerable Adult Protective Services Program: Addresses the safety of vulnerable seniors.
How to Apply / Learn More
Interested parties should contact the Aging & Disability Resource LINK at 855-462-5465. More information on Aging Services can be found here and here.
Elderly state residents should also consider applying for services under the SPED and Expanded SPED programs.