DRCOG Area Agency on Aging Network of Care

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.

OmbudsmenIf you live in an assisted living residence or nursing home, or are a participant in the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, you might need someone who can help you understand your rights. An Ombudsman advocates for the rights of people like you. An Ombudsman works with you to make sure you receive the care you want and need. They help residents of long-term care residences and Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly participants maintain their quality of  life and receive quality care. An Ombudsman can help you resolve issues related to your care, health, safety and rights.For more information call 303-480-6734.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.Need information for an aging relative or yourself? DRCOG~s Aging and Disability Resource Center has experts in the field of aging and disability. We can provide information, assistance and advocacy over the phone, by email and in person. Medicare assistance is provided through the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) serving Arapahoe, Douglas and Jefferson counties and Senior Medicare Patrol, a healthcare fraud reporting program. Colorado Choice Transitions (CCT) is a program of the Area Agency on Aging that provides two types of services, Options Counseling and Community Transition Services/Extended Transition Services. DRCOG offers the Elder Refugee Program. It is funded through the Older Americans Act (OAA) and a grant from the Colorado Refugee Service Program. AAA case managers provide intensive, short-term, case management services for people 60 and older who need help identifying and making life transitions. Spanish-speaking case managers are on staff: reach them by calling the case management line and choosing the Spanish-language option.