Planning ahead is the ideal way to manage your future health care and support needs. There are many options and navigating those systems can be daunting but there is a great resource in your community.Adult Resources for Care and Help (ARCH) is designed to streamline access to a full range of long term services and support. ARCH provides assistance to individuals and caregivers needing either public or private resources, to professionals seeking assistance on behalf of their clients, and to individuals planning for their future long term care needs. ARCH is provided by Area Agency on Aging programs and is available to support those who 18 59 years of age with a disability or those who are 60 years of age or older. Options counselors may assists with applications for public and private programs such as Medicaid and LEAP, and assist the individual in developing and implementing a long term care plan. ARCH empowers older adults, adults with disabilities, and their caregivers to navigate health and long term care options that reflect their unique needs, strengths, values, circumstances and goals.Assistance with transition from a hospital or skilled nursing facility setting back into the community or those at high risk of being admitted to a long term care facility will receive the highest priority. This program focuses on creating a plan that supports people in the home whenever possible. If you know of someone who needs support or want to learn more about your future planning options contact your local Area Agency on Aging. We are here to help.Editors note: This article was submitted by Eva Veitch the Community Living Services Program Coordinator for Region 10 Area Agency on Aging and ARCH. Eva can be reached at 970-249-2436 or eveitch@region10.net
