Information and Referral
Call between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday.
Walk-ins welcome.
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The Information and Referral (I&R) Department provides information about a wide range of services available to older adults on topics from A-Z.
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I & R also advocates for the needed services.
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With a database of information at their finger tips, trained professionals help older adults connect with services that will meet their needs.
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There are many services available in the Greater New Bedford Area and throughout Massachusetts. Or, if you need to locate services in other sections of the country, we can give you the numbers to call.
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The I &R Department regularly updates its database ensuring the information you receive is correct and current.
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The I&R centers often check back with callers to see if the services they referred the caller to were able to meet their needs and to check if you need additional information.
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You can count on our Aging Services Experts to be informative, pleasant, helpful, good listeners, and always sensitive to the needs of elders.
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I&R works to bring people and services together.
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Remember that help is just a phone call away. Call Coastline Elderly Services at 508-999-6400.
Some Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I need some help at home preparing my meals. Can I get some assistance?
A: I&R staff can explain the in-home services that may be available to you, such as homemaking, meals on wheels, personal care assistance, laundry and many other services.
Q: What day care options are available for seniors in the Greater New Bedford Area?
A: I&R can provide you with telephone numbers, eligibility guidelines, fees and contact people for all the day care programs in the county.
Q: I am living on a fixed income and I need affordable housing. Can you help?
A: There are many housing options available including subsidized senior housing, Adult Family Care, assisted living and others. Call us and we will tell you what's available.
Q: My landlord wants to evict me from my apartment. What can I do?
A: I&R can refer you to legal services for help with eviction notices or any other legal problems.
Q: I've heard about the Health Care Proxy but don't know where to get more information about it. Can you help?
A: Our I &R experts have the Health Care Proxy forms as well as many other useful forms for elders. Just give us a call and we'll gladly send them out to you. Call Coastline Elderly Services (508) 999-6400.
Q: Who qualifies for home care services?
A: Anyone over 60 years old, whose income falls within the State limits, and who needs help with personal care, meal preparation, or another critical need qualifies for assistance. Contact us for more information.
Q: Can I get service if I'm not qualified for home care?
A: Yes. there are other programs for seniors, disabled adults, and their families that help them locate and obtain housing and care services. For more information, call Coastline Elderly Services (508) 999-6400.
Q: Are home care services free?
A: The State of Massachusetts, through the Executive Office of Elder Affairs, established income guidelines for elders who receive home care services. Elders pay for services based on these income guidelines. Some elders' income is so low that they will not have to share the cost. Most elders pay part of the service cost which can range from $5 to $105 a month. Most paying elders contribute $5- $45 to the cost of services. To view financial guidelines, please click HERE.
Q: I live with my family, can I get help?
A: Living with family members does not prevent you from receiving home care services. If your age, income, and needs meet the eligibility guidelines, you can receive services even if you live with one or more family members.
Q: Does my doctor have to call or write your agency to get me help?
A: No, you can call Coastline Elderly Services yourself. An Intake Specialist will take down your basic information. A Case Manager will call and arrange a time to visit your home and meet with you to discuss your needs. For more information, call Coastline Elderly Services (508) 999-6400.
Eldercare Locator:
A nation-wide service to help families and friends find information about community services for older people.
1-800-677-1116
http://www.eldercare.gov
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An in-state resource to assist consumers, professionals, and caregivers in finding information about elderly services in Massachusetts
1-800-243-4636
TDD/TTY 1-800-872-0166
http://www.800ageinfo.com/
