DRCOG Area Agency on Aging - Ombudsman

Veteran Directed Care supports Veterans of all ages to remain in their homes and communities by providing Veterans with a flexible budget to hire, train, and manage in-home caregivers of their choice including family and friends. Caregivers provide non-medical in-home help with daily activities (like bathing, dressing) and instrumental activities (like preparing meals, managing medications). Veteran Directed Care provides relief for Veterans who are isolated or whose primary caregiver is overburdened. The video below shows how the program benefits Veterans and those who care for them. Eligibility is determined by the VA, and Veterans must be enrolled with the Veterans Health Administration to participate. DRCOGs Area Agency on Aging case managers provide personalized, ongoing support for Veterans participating in the program. To enroll, contact your VA primary care physician or VA social worker and ask for a referral to Veteran Directed Care; or call 303-399-8020 to connect with the VA Rocky Mountain Regional Medical Center.The Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) is an organization of local officials working together to address the region~s challenges by fostering cooperation among county and municipal governments in the Denver metropolitan area. In its sixth decade of service, DRCOG is proud of its focus on quality-of-life issues. The DRCOG Aging and Disability Resources Center for Colorado (ADRC) is the place where older adults (60+) and people with disabilities (18+) can get help accessing long-term services and supports to remain independent in the community. ADRC services are provided at no cost. DRCOG~s ADRC serves Adams, Arapahoe, Clear Creek, Douglas, Gilpin and Jefferson counties, the City and County of Broomfield, and the City and County of Denver.

The DRCOG Aging and Disability Resources Center for Colorado (ADRC) is the place where older adults (60+) and people with disabilities (18+) can get help accessing long-term services and supports to remain independent in the community. ADRC services are provided at no cost. DRCOG~s ADRC serves Adams, Arapahoe, Clear Creek, Douglas, Gilpin and Jefferson counties, the City and County of Broomfield, and the City and County of Denver.Caregiver respite vouchers and caregiver information and assistanceThe program offers valuable information and referrals to trusted providers. Eligible caregivers can access respite services, receive an opportunity to recharge and take a break from caregiving duties. A one-time voucher provides up to 32 hours of in-home care to be used within 90 days from receipt of the award. Call 303-480-5656.Comprehensive Support and GuidanceNavigating the complex landscape of aging and disability services can be overwhelming. DRCOGs ADRC provides expert information, assistance, and advocacy to empower individuals in making informed decisions. Services are accessible by phone, email, or in person, ensuring that every resident receives the help they need. Call 303-480-6700Key Services Offered by the ADRCOptions CounselingFor individuals exploring long-term care options, DRCOGs ADRC offers personalized options counseling. This service helps older adults, individuals with disabilities, and their caregivers understand available resources, assess needs, and develop customized care plans. Options counseling ensures that individuals remain as independent as possible within their communities.Medicare Assistance and Fraud PreventionThe ADRC offers Medicare assistance through the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for residents of Arapahoe, Douglas, and Jefferson counties. Trained counselors provide unbiased guidance on Medicare plans, benefits, and enrollment, ensuring that beneficiaries make informed decisions. Additionally, the Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) program educates individuals about healthcare fraud, scams, and abuse, helping protect their benefits and personal information.Colorado Choice Transitions (CCT)A key initiative of DRCOGs Area Agency on Aging, Colorado Choice Transitions (CCT) assists individuals transitioning from nursing homes and institutional settings back into the community. This program offers two crucial services:Options Counseling: Helps individuals explore community-based services and supports.Community Transition Services/Extended Transition Services: Provides hands-on support in coordinating housing, healthcare, and social services to ensure a smooth transition to independent living.Case Management ServicesDRCOGs case management services are designed to support individuals aged 60 and older who need short-term, intensive assistance with major life transitions. Case managers help clients assess their needs, develop care plans, and access necessary services, ensuring they remain safe and independent in their communities. For Spanish-speaking residents, bilingual case managers are availablesimply call the case management line and select the Spanish-language option.For more information, visit https://www.drcog.org/area-agency-aging or call 303-480-6700 directly to speak with a knowledgeable professional.