To find in-home help, the best place to start is the regional Area Agency on Aging ( www.n4a.org) or the local aging services provider in your area. The Department of Social Services may also have this information. Personal Care Services and Community Alternatives Program for Disabled Adults are Medicaid programs that are also available.

Most agencies have private pay services and some have grant programs that also provide care to the elderly. Search “Home Health Agencies” in the advertising section of your local telephone directory. Check to see if the area has a volunteer network, such as “Senior Companion.” These services are usually free of charge and provide an opportunity for the caregiver to receive respite. Meals on Wheels and home health nursing are other in-home assistance services that are usually available in all counties. Finally, physicians should be able to refer patients to home health nursing if needed.