Resources: Gov Info : State of Texas : Texas Department on Aging

P.O. Box 12786
Austin, TX 78711
512-424-6480

General information: 800-252-9240
E-mail: mail@tdoa.state.tx.us

These programs are aimed at helping people 60 years of age and older maintain their health, personal independence, dignity and ability to contribute to society.  Through its 28 affiliated regional area agencies on aging, the Texas Department on Aging provides a wide array of services, according to local needs and resources, to any Texan 60 or older.  These include:

NUTRITION – served at both nutrition sites and by delivery to homebound seniors.

TRANSPORTATION - Provided to nutrition sites and senior centers, doctors' appointments, shopping and other destinations.  Locations are determined by locally identified needs.

IN-HOME SERVICES - Help for homebound elderly.

SENIOR CENTERS – point of contact for services like nutrition, transportation, physical fitness, health screening, and volunteerism.

INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE - Assistance with obtaining information about federal, state or local services.

NURSING HOME OMBUDSMEN – certified volunteers who visit nursing homes, helping residents, family and facility staff obtain the best possible level of care and quality of life.

BENEFITS COUNSELING AND LEGAL HELP - trained benefits counselors or attorneys donate their services free or at a reduced rate.

CASE MANAGEMENT – specialized help for seniors who need care from a variety of sources, case workers plan and coordinate the most efficient, economical ways.

HEALTH SCREENING - Monitoring services such as dental, blood pressure, diabetes, sight and hearing checkups. Prescription drug use education is also available.

THE RETIRED SENIOR VOLUNTEER PROGRAM (RSVP) - This is a volunteer program that allows seniors a chance to contribute to their communities by sharing their time and life experience.

OTHER SERVICES - Services provided only in specific areas include: home repair/modification; adult day care; emergency response systems; caregiver respite; and escort service. Contact your area agency on aging for information.

The Houston-Galveston Area Council has been designated an Area Agency on Aging for the Houston regional area.