Information & Assistance for Senior & Disabled
Information and Assistance
Information and Assistance specialists provide information that relates to older adults and persons with disabilities regarding community resources and supports in Clinton, Eaton and Ingham Counties. This service allows the public to access reliable information about a wide range of services in a timely fashion. Knowledgeable staff help individuals and caregivers navigate systems of support that promote independence and choice.
There are many programs and services available in the community. Staff members can provide information on topics such as housing options, eligibility and availability of government funded long term care programs, transportation, nutrition programs and caregiver support resources. Staff can provide contact information to access services or assist clients in making connections.
Information and Assistance Specialists can be reached in one of several ways:
- Call 517-887-1440 or toll free (800) 405-9141.
- Stop by the office between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
- Mail an inquiry to 5303 S. Cedar St Building 1, Lansing, MI 48911.
- Email TCOA.
In order to make appropriate referrals, Information specialists may need to discuss the income, safety or health status of the older adult or person with a disability. The Tri-County Office on Aging keeps any information shared confidential.
Person-Centered Options Counseling
Person-Centered Option Counseling (PCOC) is a participant-led process to discuss and explore choices, opportunities, and resources for long term supports and services (LTSS) that meet your needs. PCOC is available to people of all ages and income, and PCOC Counselors are trained to work with you, family members and/or caregivers in your support circle. PCOC Counselors can connect you to resources and services to help you live in the environment of your choice while considering your preferences at each step along the way.
A PCOC Counselor can help you develop your own personal long-term care plan. Whether you are in a nursing home, hospital, rehabilitation facility, community setting, or in your own home, a PCOC Counselor can guide you through your questions about living in the community, such as:
- Can I live in the community safely and independently?
- What services and supports are available for me in my home?
- What services, assistive devices, or home modifications are available to support me in my home?
- What funding resources may be available for services and supports?
Examples of services PCOC Counseling can provide are:
- Unbiased information about long term services and supports.
- Assistance with referrals and resources as needed. Examples include personal care assistance, homemaker/chore services, home-delivered meals, respite care, transportation assistance, financial assistance, legal assistance and other community resources.
- Information about possible resources available to pay for the services.
- A person-centered approach that ensures that your choices are respected.
- Follow-up and help with planning next steps.
- Counseling when and where you need it.
Please contact the Statewide MI Options Call Center or TCOA’s PCOC Counselor for more information or to make an appointment. A visit can take place in your home, the hospital, a nursing home, a rehab facility, or at TCOA’s offices. PCOC Counseling is also available by telephone and email.
Statewide MI Options Call Center at: 1-800-803-7174 (8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday – Friday)
TCOA Option Counselor: KC Austern, LMSW-clinical, 517-887-1418 (8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday – Friday)
*This project has been made possible through a grant awarded to Tri-County Office on Aging by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
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