The Elderly Services Program (ESP) helps older adults remain safe and independent in their own homes. It provides in-home care for eligible seniors who might otherwise be forced to leave their homes and enter a nursing facility. ESP expands (it does not replace) care that may already be provided by family, friends or other caregivers.

Council on Aging (COA) manages the program for the Warren County Board of County Commissioners. A volunteer community board is appointed by the commissioners to advise on program needs and policies. Warren County Community Services, Inc. screens seniors for eligibility, enrolls them in the program and manages their on-going care.

Eligibility

Services are available to Warren County residents age 60 and older who need help with certain activities of daily living (personal care, housekeeping, cooking, transportation, etc.). Eligibility for the program and each service is determined by an ESP care manager during a home visit.

There is no income qualification for this program. However, depending on income, individuals may be required to help pay for the cost of their care through a co-payment. Co-payments are set on a sliding scale depending on income and medical expenses. Co-payments and donations hep strecth limited tax dollars to serve more Warren County seniors.

ESP is funded primarily by a county-wide property tax levy. Other funding comes from federal and state money, grants, donations and client co-payments. For more information, read the program's annual report.

Provided services include:

• Adult Day Services: Structured programs provide a secure, stimulating environment and respite for caregivers. Transportation may be available.
• Care Management: A professional care manager coordinates services and monitors care.
• Consumer Directed Care:Clients can hire a friend or family member to provide home care services. Eligibility determined by ESP care manager.
• Electronic Monitoring System: 24-hour, in- home monitoring systems provide safety and/or medication alerts.
• Environmental Services: Pest control, major housecleaning and waste removal.
• Home Care Assistance: A trained aide helps with housekeeping, personal care and other daily activities, and provides respite (time off) for the primary caregiver.
• Home Modifications and Repairs: Minor repairs and safety upgrades such as ramps, grab bars and dead-bolt locks. Must be combined with another service.
• Independent Living Assistance: Help with benefit applications, and organizing personal and household records.
• Meals and Nutrition Counseling: Home- delivered meals. Special diets can be accomodated with a doctor's orders. Home-delivered meals are always free, regardless of ESP co-payment status, but donations are accepted.
• Medical Transportation: Transportation to medical appointments within Warren County and bordering counties.

For more information or to enroll, call Warren County Community Services at (513) 695-2271.