Staff from the Area Agency on Aging District 7 (AAA7) recently visited with U.S. Congressman Bill Johnson while he was traveling and visiting throughout the district.

Staff discussed with Johnson many of the services and programs provided through the AAA7 and asked for his support with legislation surrounding federal funding of programs that help seniors and those with disabilities stay safe and independent in their own homes.

While in the area, Johnson stopped for a visit in Jackson County with AAA7 consumer Mildred Sandlin, who is on the AAA7’s Choices Program. The Choices Program is a consumer-directed option for those on the AAA7’s PASSPORT Program, which provides in-home services for seniors in order to live safely at home.

Through the Choices Program, Mildred can self-direct her in-home services, including the hiring of her own care providers. Some examples of the services that can be provided for a senior through the PASSPORT and Choices Programs include personal care, homemaking, home-delivered meals, medical emergency response system, medical transportation, home medical equipment and supplies, and other services available as needed.

The local Area Agency on Aging District 7, Inc. provides services on a non-discriminatory basis in 10 Ohio counties including Gallia, Jackson, Lawrence and Scioto. These services are available to help older adults and those with disabilities live safely and independently in their own homes through services paid for by Medicare, Medicaid, other federal and state resources, as well as private pay. The AAA7’s Resource Center is also available to anyone in the community looking for information or assistance with long-term care options. Available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., the resource center is a valuable contact for learning more about options and what programs and services are available for assistance.

Those interested in learning more can call toll-free at 1-800-582-7277 (TTY: 711). Here, individuals can speak directly with a nurse or social worker who will assist them with information surrounding the programs and services that are available to best serve their needs.

The agency also offers an in-home assessment at no cost for those who are interested in learning more. Information is also available on www.aaa7.org, or the agency can be contacted through e-mail at info@aaa7.org. The agency also has a Facebook page located at www.facebook.com/AreaAgencyOnAgingDistrict7.