Alzheimer’s New Jersey: The Respite Care & Wellness Program

Posted on August 12, 2016 by jwatrel

The Respite Care and Wellness Program of Alzheimer’s New Jersey

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Respite Care?

Respite Care is a form of short term relief for the primary family caregiver. “Respite” is for the caregiver; “Care” is for the person with Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disease that destroys memory and thinking skills and eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks of daily living. It is the most common cause of dementia. The continual demand for care can create emotional and physical stress for caregivers.

What is The Respite Care and Wellness Program?

The Respite Care and Wellness Program has been designed to help family caregivers learn about and experience  the importance of respite care services when the family member is providing primary caregiving services for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. The program offers family caregivers information about available community respite care resources such as home health care, adult day care and residential respite, as well as a one-time financial scholarship to help offset the cost of respite care.

Funding for The Respite Care and Wellness Program is limited, so we do not guarantee that an applicant will receive a financial scholarship. However, we encourage you to apply. If the funding is not available when you apply, your application will be kept on file until June 30th following your date of application. Applicants will be required to complete and submit a new application after June 30th if they are still interested in being considered for the Program.

Who is eligible for The Respite and Wellness Program?

To be accepted into The Respite Care and Wellness Program,

*the primary family caregiver and the person with Alzheimer’s disease must live together full-time in the State of New Jersey.

*the primary family caregiver must be a United States Citizen.

*the primary family caregiver must submit medical certification from a physician that the person receiving care has Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia.

*the primary family caregiver must submit an application complete with all required information. This application will require a notarized financial attestation.

How does the program work? What is the amount of financial assistance received through The Respite Care and Wellness Program?

The Respite Care and Wellness Program provides a one-time per family, financial scholarship of $1,000 to the primary family caregiver who is in need of respite care services.

When the completed application packet is received and it is deemed to be complete and all the eligibility criteria have been met it is then approved. If there is scholarship funding available, the scholarship is awarded by mail.

If the application is deemed to be complete and is approved, but there are no funds available at that time, the application will be maintained on file until June 30th following the date you apply. No applications are carried forward after June 3oth. An applicant must reapply following this date in order to be considered for the new fiscal year funding allocation.

If your application is deemed to be incomplete or you do not meet the eligibility criteria, you will receive a letter, which will detail the reason your application is not being approved.

Why do I need to fill out a W-9 form (Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification)?

Alzheimer’s New Jersey is required by the Internal Revenue Service to report our financial activities. As a result, recipients of scholarships through The Respite Care and Wellness Program will be sent a 1099-MISC (miscellaneous income) form for the tax year in which a scholarship was received. Please consult your own tax advisor with any questions.

What kinds of respite services can the scholarship funding be utilized for?

*In-Home Services: personal care services provided in the home by a certified home health aide (CHHA) employed and supervised by a licensed health care services firm or licensed home health care agency or a companion supervised by a licensed health care services firm.

*Adult Day Services: care provided in a social adult day care program or a licensed adult day health services program. Social day care is defined as a program of recreational and social group activities designed and staffed specifically for the daycare of individuals needing supervision for safety and activities of daily living.

*Overnight Respite: temporary placement in a licensed facility to allow the caregiver to travel, receive medical care or have a complete rest.

Alzheimer’s New Jersey Helpline can provide information about respite care services available throughout our service area but we do not make any specific recommendations concerning the choice of respite services. The family caregiver is responsible for the selection and arrangement of respite care services.

What if I receive the Scholarship Award but don’t use it all for respite services. What am I required to do?

If you do not utilize the complete $1,000.00 financial scholarship as outlined by the terms of the program, you are required to return the amount you did not use as a donation back to the program.

Can you reapply for participation in The Respite Care and Wellness Program?

No. An applicant can only be a recipient of the scholarship award once.

Fore more information:

For more information about the Respite Care and Wellness Program, please contact us: toll-free at 888-280-6055 or 973-586-4300. Website: http://www.alznj.org

This was revised 12/21/2015

Disclaimer: This information was taken directly from the Alzheimer’s New Jersey pamphlet and since I have never used the service, I don’t have an opinion, yes or no, on what the program is like. Please call their number that is enclosed for more information and any questions you might have for them.

 

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50 Ways to Support a Caregiver

Posted on August 10, 2016 by jwatrel

Practical Tips: 50 Ways to Support a Caregiver: For family & Friends

Have you ever wanted to help a friend or family member who is overwhelmed or stressed because of their caregiving duties? Here are 50 things you can do that can make a real difference.

  1. Let the caregiver know that it is OK to ask for help-no one can do it alone.
  2. If your offer of support is turned down, keep trying. Accepting help from others may not come easily to some people.
  3. Offer to bring the caregiver a meal.
  4. Create a sign-up calendar (online or offline) for others who want to bring food.
  5. Buy a gift certificate for a favorite store or takeout restaurant.
  6. Pick up a few extra groceries when you stop.
  7. Ask friends to chip in to hire a cleaning service (every week or every once in a while).
  8. Help with home safety changes like grab bars or ramps.
  9. Help organize the home to reduce clutter and avoid accidents.
  10. Help make a list of regular household tasks that others can do.
  11. Mow the lawn, rake leaves or shovel snow.
  12. Vacuum the house.
  13. Offer to pick up laundry. Return it clean and folded.
  14. Clean the refrigerator.
  15. Wash and vacuum the caregiver’s car.
  16. Pick up medication at the pharmacy.
  17. Help organize medications (create a chart or calendar).
  18. Send a card, email or text-let the caregiver and the family know you are thinking about them. Let them know you don’t expect a response.
  19. Offer to keep friends and family informed.
  20. Create a schedule of visitors or others who can help.
  21. Arrange for a trusted person to call regularly to check in.
  22. Join the caregiver for a walk.
  23. Walk the dog.
  24. Troubleshoot computer problems.
  25. Watch the caregiver’s kids.
  26. Give the caregiver a break.
  27. Stay with the person who needs care for an afternoon or weekend.
  28. Take the person who need care for an outing.
  29. Share a joke or humorous story-laughter is a good way to relieve stress.
  30. Lend a good book or movie-it may encourage the caregiver to rest.
  31. Return library books or movie rentals.
  32. Gently ask direct questions such a “Are you able to sleep?” or “How is your own health?”
  33. Encourage the caregiver to visit his or her own doctor or dentist.
  34. Treat the caregiver to a haircut, massage or manicure.
  35. Bring flowers.
  36. Find benefits, programs or community resources for the disabled, veterans or seniors.
  37. Find an attorney who can help with legal issues. Many communities offer free or low-cost legal services.
  38. Help with financial or insurance paperwork.
  39. Make calls for the caregiver.
  40. Help connect with other caregivers.
  41. Look online or in the community for chat or support groups.
  42. Research information about the loved one’s condition.
  43. Send links to sites that have helpful hints.
  44. Be thoughtful about the information you provide-don’t overwhelm them with too much.
  45. Allow the caregiver to complain, laugh or cry. You may not be able to fix the problem, but listening can help ease the stress.
  46. Offer to drive them to appointments.
  47. Offer to drive to their place of worship.
  48. Ask if you can research counseling options for the caregiver or the person who needs care.
  49. Find classes, books or online resources that teach stress reduction techniques such as deep breathing, yoga or medication.
  50. Help a caregiver create a list of things they are grateful for. Post the list where they will see it often. Positive thoughts can help get them through hard moments.

**Providing care for an older, ill or disabled loved on can be very rewarding. But it can be stressful too. Getting support from others can help caregivers cope with the stress. Look inside to find 50 ways to help support a caregiver.

**Disclaimer: This pamphlet was written by Nancy Calhoun for Journeyworks Publishing. This pamphlet is not a substitute for medical care. If you have questions or concerns, please talk with a healthcare provider.

Don’t go out this alone, learn to ask for help!

Journeyworks Publishing

P.O. Box 8466

Santa Cruz, CA  95061

1-800-775-1998

http://www.journeyworks.com

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Stress and the Caregiver: A Guide for Caregivers

Posted on August 10, 2016 by jwatrel

Ten Steps to Managing Stress: Stress and the Caregiver: A guide for Caregivers

Caring for a person with an ongoing illness or for an older adult can be very stressful. These tips will help you manage the stress that comes with the difficult job of caregiving.

  1. Talk with other Caregivers:

*Talking about the stresses of caregiving can give you a great deal of relief.

*Join a support group. Sharing with others who are going through the same kinds of things can help you feel better. You may also learn new ways to cope.

*You may want to talk with a friend or relative. Or, you may be more comfortable talking with a counselor.

2. Take Care of Yourself:

*Make sure you take time off caregiving. Time to yourself is essential!

*By taking breaks, you will be able to avoid ‘burnout’ and do a better job of caregiving.

*You will also be saving your health and emotional well being.

*Consider hiring a health aide to give you a regular break.

*Don’t forget to take of yourself. Get regular check-ups-your health is also important.

3. Ask for Help:

*Caregiving is a huge job-and it is too much to do alone.

*Ask family or friends to pitch in. Make a list of ways they can help. Have it ready when they offer.

*Use respite services. Contact your local social services to find out about respite care, adult day care and other resources in your area. For more information, visit ww.eldercare.gov on the Internet. Or, call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116.

*Consider hiring someone to clean your house and run errands.

4. Learn to Let Go:

*Focus on those things are most important. Let go of less important commitments.

*Accept that you may not be able to do things the way you used to. For example, you may not be able to clean your house as often or do the dishes after every meal.

5. Rest as much as you can:

*Without good rest, you will quickly wear down. Things that used to be manageable may seem unbearable.

*Help the person you are caring for get on sleep schedule so that you can too.

*If possible, sleep in a different room. Use a monitor to let you know if the person wakes up.

*Have someone else stay with the person one or two nights a week so that you can catch up on sleep.

6. Eat Well:

*Food is out body’s fuel. Without good food, we quickly wear down.

*East regular, healthy meals. Make sure you get plenty of fruits, vegetables, grains and protein.

*Avoid eating too much sugar, fat and salt.

*Avoid foods and drinks with caffeine.

7. Avoid Alcohol:

*Alcohol and other drugs may seem like they are helping stress, but in the long run, they will wear your body down.

*If you are using alcohol or other drugs to help you deal with stress, talk to your doctor or a counselor.

8. Keep your sense of humor:

*Try to find humor in difficult situations.

*Spend time with friends who are fun and make you laugh.

*Laughter can actually release chemicals in your body that will help you feel better.

9. Exercise:

*Exercise is one of the best ways to reduce stress. Even a few minutes a day can help!

*Try walking. Walking with friends will give you a social outlet as well as exercise.

*If you can’t leave your house or caregiving duties, you can exercise by stretching, walking or jogging in place.

*If the person, you are caring for needs exercise do it together. Try walking, dancing or seated exercises.

10. Be Good to yourself:

*You are doing a tough job and you deserve a reward.

*Buy yourself flowers, go out to dinner or watch a sunset.

*Think about what you can do for yourself (or what others can do for you) that will make you feel good. Then make it a priority!

This pamphlet was written by Mardi Richmond for Journeyworks Publishing.

For: Journeyworks Publishing

P.O. Box 8466

Santa Cruz, CA  95061

**This pamphlet is meant to help the caregiver out.

**Disclaimer: This pamphlet is meant to help the caregiver. Always take time out for yourself and consultant with a doctor when needed.

 

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Balancing Caregiving, Family & Work

Posted on August 10, 2016 by jwatrel

Caring for an older, ill or disabled adult: Balancing Caregiving, Family and Work: tips to make your job easier.

Caring for an older, ill or disabled person can take a lot of time and energy. For people who work or have other family obligations, caregiving can be very challenging. The tips below can help you find balance.

  1. No one can do it all:

*If you are working, taking care of a family and trying to provide care for an aging, ill or disabled adult, you may feel tugged in different directions.

*You may not be able to give 100% everywhere. This is a time when you will have to make hard choices.

*Be gentle with yourself. No one can do it all.

2. Set Priorities:

*Make a list of your personal, caregiving, family and work obligations.

*Let go of less important commitments wherever you can.

*It is important to put your personal needs first. You cannot care for another person if you are not healthy.

3. Talk to your employer:

*Find out if you have Employee Assistance Program that offers support to caregivers.

*Keep your work and your caregiving responsibilities as separate as possible. For example, make phone calls to find caregiving resources on lunch breaks not during  work time.

*Consider job sharing or working part time if possible. Or find out about flex-time schedules.

4. Join Together:

*Don’t try to carry the load alone. Enlist the support of other family members. Even children can help in some ways.

*Talk with your spouse and children about how difficult it is to be torn between responsibilities. Protect those family times that are most important.

5. Call a family meeting:

*If other family member are not helping enough, call everyone together to discuss options. Don’t wait until you are burnt out.

*Even distant family members can help by making regular phone “visits”, paying bills or researching local agencies by phone.

6. Seek help outside the family:

*A friend or coworker may be able to help by running errands or walking your dog.

*Consider hiring help for household chores and other tasks you would normally do yourself.

7. Use Community Resources:

*Use professional caregivers or adult day care. Try meal delivery, transportation services or volunteer support.

*Think about hiring a care manager. This is a social worker or nurse who specializes in finding care for older or disabled adults.

*Talk with an attorney or finance outside care.

*Free or low-cost care management and legal aid may be available in your county.

8. Take Care of Yourself first:

* Taking care of yourself means that you can provide better care for your loved one. You have to be your first priority.

*Try-no matter how hard it is-to have a life outside of caregiving. This will help you stay healthier, both mentally and physically.

*Be sure to eat healthy meals, get enough rest and exercise regularly.

*If you are feeling overwhelmed, talk to a family member, friend, counselor or health care provider. Consider joining a caregiver support group.

*See a health care provider if you are depressed, drinking alcohol more than normal or using prescription or other drugs to help you cope.

*Take time away from responsibilities for few hours each week.

9. Consider Alternatives:

*It is important to reassess your loved one’s needs periodically-and your ability to provide care.

*You have the right to get help and relief from the stress of caregiving.

**Balancing caregiving with other family and work obligations can be overwhelming at times. Getting help is essential. So is taking care of yourself! To find information about support groups and other services in your area, consult your local phone book. You can also call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 or visit its website at http://www.eldercare.gov on the Internet.

Pamphlet was written by Mardi Richmond for Journeyworks Publishing.

Disclaimer: Please remember everyone to take care of yourself and keep yourself healthy. The advice they give is quite helpful. Please remember to use your best judgment.

 

 

Posted in Bergen County NJ Programs, Health and Life Support Services, Men's Programming, New Jersey Senior Programming, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Disability Programming, Senior Rehabilitation Programming, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Tips for Caregivers: Dealing with Anger

Posted on August 9, 2016 by jwatrel

Tips for Caregivers: Dealing with Anger; Practical ways of helping you care for a person with memory loss and confusion.

People with memory loss and confusion sometimes become agitated, angry or violent. These behaviors can be very hard on caregivers and may even become dangerous. The following tips are designed to help you avoid and defuse angry outbursts.

  1. Remember that anger is a symptom:

*Try not to take angry outbursts personally.

*Remember that anger is often the result of loss of control or frustration.

*Look for early signs of frustration, such as fidgeting. Try to distract the person before violent outbursts occur.

2. Respond calmly:

*Respond to anger and outbursts in a calm and direct manner.

*Make eye contact. Speak in clear, short, easy-to-understand sentences.

*Approach the person slowly and from the front.

3. Look for physical causes:

*Check for pain, illness or constipation. These can cause frustration and anger.

*Have a doctor check for problems with vision or hearing that may cause confusion.

*Some medications can cause anxiety, hallucination or paranoia.

* Find out if medication may decrease symptoms.

4. Avoid Confusion:

*Limit choices that cause confusion.

*Avoid situations with a lot of noise, activity and people.

*Do the same things at the same time each day.

5. Plan for quiet times:

*Make sure the person is getting enough sleep.

*Alternate quiet times with other activities.

*Try listening to soft music or reading aloud.

6. Reduce Stress:

*Notice if the person is acting lost, confused or frightened. Calmly reassure him or her.

* Take a break if you are feeling angry or frustrated. The person may react to your mood.

*Plan stressful activities such as bathing for when the person is relaxed.

*Allow plenty of time for all activities and give clear, step-by-step directions.

*Try a daily walk to reduce stress.

*Provide soothing objects such as stuffed animals.

7. Assess Danger:

*Make sure the person cannot hurt him or herself.

*Try moving five steps back from the person to defuse the anger.

*Avoid holding or restraining the person. This may make the situation worse.

*If possible, avoid an upsetting situation or lead the person away from it.

*Try to distract the person with a favorite food or activity.

8. Keep yourself safe:

*If the person is violent, make sure you are safe. If necessary, stay out of reach or leave the room to avoid getting hurt.

*Call friends, family, neighbors or your doctor for help.

*If violent episodes are repeated, make an emergency plan to keep you and the person safe.

*If you feel unsafe or threatened, call 911 or your local emergency number.

9. Evaluate Episodes:

*After a violent episode, do not remind or blame the person. He or she may have forgotten what happened.

*Look at what caused the problem. See if there is any way to avoid the situation in the future.

*Remember that by responding calmly, you can sometimes help avoid outbursts.

10. Create a calm and safe home:

*Reduce clutter in the home. Provide good lighting to lessen confusion caused by shadows.

*Avoid changing living environments and caregivers when possible.

*When a change or move is necessary, include familiar objects in the new home.

*Try to make changes gradually.

**This pamphlet is not a substitute for professional medical care. If you have questions or concerns, please talk with a health care provider.

This was written by Mardi Richmond for Journeyworks Publishing.

P.O. Box 8466

Santa Cruz, CA  95061

**This information was taken directly from the pamphlets provided by Journeyworks Publishing to help caregivers.

Disclaimer: I have not used the methods provided in this pamphlet and please consult with a doctor before taking any new steps in caregiving.

 

 

 

 

Posted in Bergen County NJ Programs, Depression Programming, Health and Life Support Services, Men's Programming, New Jersey Senior Programming, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Disability Programming, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

5 Tips to Avoid Caregiver Burnout

Posted on July 27, 2016 by jwatrel

5 Tips to Avoid Caregiver Burnout: Written by Kristie Holt for Journey Works Publishing with a special thanks to their medical, professional and audience reviewers.

5 Tips to avoid caregiver burnout: Tips to make your job easy:

Caring for an older adult or a family member with a long-term illness can be very rewarding. It is also hard work. It can cause people to feel run down, depressed and even sick. Here are 5 things you can do to prevent burnout.

  1. Learn about the condition or illness

Learn as much as you can about the person’s condition and how it could change over time:

*Knowing what to expect can lower your stress.

*It will help you plan for future medical costs and needs. It may give you time to learn skills you will need later on.

*Some health problems may cause your loved one to act out, say harmful things or not even remember who you are. Knowing about the illness can help you understand when this is a symptom.

2. Ask for help.

Feel good about the hard work that you do. But remember that you can’t do it all. You will need help from others.

*Make a list of tasks you would like help with and people you can call.

*Ask a neighbor to pick up some items at the store each week. Ask family members to help with housekeeping chores, paperwork or research.

*Contact your local Area Agency on Aging to find volunteer groups in your area. Many groups help with meal delivery, transportation and respite care.

3. Take Breaks.

Find some time each day when you can safely step away from your work. For example, take a break when the person you are caring for is with a visitor. You may want to:

*Go outside for a walk or to relax in the garden. Go for a swim or bike ride.

*Read a book or listen to music.

*Chat with a friend.

*Use respite care or an adult day center or senior center for longer breaks at least once a week.

4. Take care of your health too!

To give the best care to your loved one, you need to stay in good health.

*Get regular health and dental checkups. Ask about getting a flu shot and any health screenings you may need.

*As much as possible, keep a regular sleeping patterns for yourself and the person you are caring for.

*Eat healthy meals and snacks. Get plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins.

*Daily physical activity  can lower stress, increase your energy and help keep your heart healthy.

*Your mental health is important too. Join a local or online support group. Talk to your family and friends or to a counselor.

5. Stay positive.

Be realistic about what you can and can’t do. It will help you keep a positive attitude.

*There are many things that you can’t control, but you can take charge of your own feelings.

*A positive attitude may help you give your loved one the best care possible.

*You may not be able to make the person you are caring for well but you can offer dignity and do your best to help them feel safe and loved.

*Even if your loved one is not able to show happiness or appreciation, you can feel good about the job you are doing.

***YOU CAN DO IT!!!!!

Caregivers have a tough job. And caregiver burnout is a real problem. Look inside for tips that can help. For more information and resources, visit the Eldercare Locator at http://www.eldercare.gov on the Internet or call 1-800-677-1116 to find services in your area.

This is take directly from Journeyworks Publishing  pamphlet and is very insightful.

Posted in Bergen County NJ Programs, Depression Programming, Disability Programming, Health and Life Support Services, Men's Programming, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Disability Programming, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Swim Inc. Ridgewood YMCA Water=Freedom

Posted on June 16, 2016 by jwatrel

Swim Inc. Water=Freedom

Swim Inc. provides a safe and supportive environment for adults with mobility impairments to participate in water exercise programs.

Exercise Body, Mind & Spirit in a Supportive Setting

Classes are offered generously, freely and graciously with dignity and respect for each participant

Join a Class

Visit our website http://www.swim-inc.org or call (908) 685-0040 to find out about pool locations and our application process. Medical clearance is required to participate.

Classes are FREE

Open to adults who suffer from MS, ALS, Arthritis, Parkinson’s Disease, Stroke, Post Polio syndrome and other mobility impairments. No individual membership at a host site is required to participate in a SWIM class.

Present an approved application and medical clearance form to register at a site. Classes are led by a site Aquatics Instructor or a volunteer Chapter Coordinator.

Most offer a social hour after class.

Volunteer Your Time & Talent

SWIM has endured for 35 years thanks to the service of many volunteers. Volunteer service opportunities for:

*Board of Directors
*Chapter Coordinators
*Social Hour Host/Hostess
*Aquatic Instructors

http://www.swim-inc.org
(908) 685-0040

Become a SWIM Friend

As a non-profit 501c3 tax-exempt organization, SWIM relies on tax deductible financial contributions including but not limited to cash, bequests and securities from:

*Corporations
*Foundations
*Individual Donors

Become a SWIM Site

If you are affiliated with a pool (community center, YMCA, etc.) and are interested in offering your site as a SWIM affiliate, contact the SWIM office and speak to our staff.

Find out more

Visit our website-www.swim-inc.org and Call us at (908) 685-0040.

Swim Inc.
120 Finderne Avenue
Bridgewater, NJ 08807

This information is taken from the Swim Inc. Pamphlet.

Discloser: I have been involved in Swim Inc. for five years now and recommend it highly for anyone who has a disability. It was so helpful to my father and now I am a volunteer in the Ridgewood, NJ site.

Good Luck!

Posted in Bergen County NJ Programs, Health and Life Support Services, Men's Programming, New Jersey Senior Programming, New Jersey State Program, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Disability Programming, Senior Rehabilitation Programming, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Swimming Safety Programs, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Alternatives to Domestic Violence

Posted on May 15, 2016 by jwatrel

Alternatives to Domestic Violence
Bergen County Department of Human Services
One Bergen County Plaza, 2nd Floor
Hackensack, NJ 07601-7076
24 hour hotline (201) 336-7575 All Information is kept confidential
TTY: (201) 336-7525
9-9 M-TH* 9-4:30pm F
http://www.co.bergen.nj.us
Email: adv@co.Bergen.nj.us

What is Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence is a systematic pattern of abusive behavior used by one person in a relationship to gain and/or maintain power and control over another. This includes dating, partner, spouse, eldercare and abuse between present or former household members.

Types of Abuse:

Abuse is any behavior used to control or intimidate another person and can be verbal, emotional, physical or sexual in nature.

Emotional/Psychological Abuse:

Name-calling, put-downs, threats, stalking, intimidation, degradation, tracking time, isolating victim from family or friends, forbidding victim to work or participate in outside activities, sleep deprivation, interrogation, accusing, using money to control, threatening to ‘out’ a gay or lesbian partner, harming pets, destroying property, throwing objects near victim.

Physical Abuse:

Pushing, shoving, slapping, kicking, punching, biting, restraint, hair pulling, strangulation, pinching, burning, grabbing, shaking, scratching, spitting, using weapons, throwing objects at victim.

Sexual Abuse:

Any non-consensual sexual act or behavior including forced sex, unwanted touching, sexual degradation and violence targeting at the genital area.

ADV Program Description

Alternative to Domestic Violence is a multifaceted domestic violence intervention program for Bergen County residents. We offer a comprehensive approach to intervention for individuals and families living with domestic violence. Most of our services are free of charge. Those of require a fee are affordable and are based on a sliding scale. No one is ever turned away due to lack of funds.

ADV Services

Clinical Services
*24 hour Hotline (201) 336-7575
*Crisis intervention/Case Management
*Counseling Services: Group and Individual

Legal Advocacy Services
*Court Appearance Preparation
*Court Accompaniment
*Domestic Violence Legal Advocacy Project (DVLAP)
*Legal Consultation
*Domestic Violence Crisis Response Teams

Community Outreach
*Prevention Through Education
*Professional Training and Education

Need Help? Start Here 211

This information is taken from the County of Bergen, NJ pamphlet on the Alternative to Domestic Violence (ADV). This is the current pamphlet.

Disclaimer: I have not used this service so I have no opinion, yes or no, to how good it is for personal reasons. Please call the above numbers for more information.

Posted in Bergen County NJ Programs, Health and Life Support Services, Legal Assistance Programs, Men's Programming, New Jersey Senior Programming, New Jersey State Program, Programs Preventing Mind-Hacking, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Disability Programming, Senior Services, Sexual Assault and Violence Help Programming, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Bergen County Community Transportation

Posted on May 15, 2016 by jwatrel

Bergen County Community Transportation:

Transportation for persons with Disabilities, Senior Citizens and Veterans of Bergen County

Bergen County
Department of Human Services
Division of Community Transportation
178 Essex Street
Lodi, NJ 07644
Phone: (201) 368-5955
Fax: (201) 845-4683
Available in Alternate Formats

Community Transportation: Know Priorities, Phone Early

Every effort is made to accommodate everyone who needs the transportation service, however, the highest priority is given to medical appointments, adult day care, employment and grocery shopping.

It is important to make reservations as early as possible as appointments are available on a first-come, first-served basis. To insure service availability, please make your appointments between 10:30am-2:00pm and make reservations with us at least 7-10 days in advance. Service requests outside of these hours however, be sure to ask if the dispatcher can take your trip request on a stand-by basis.

Requests for routine transportation, such as dialysis, physical therapy or any other trip required on a weekly basis, should be faxed to us at 201-845-4683 by the facility providing the service. Shopping is provided to certain areas on a weekly or monthly schedule-please ask your dispatcher for more information on the options available to your area.

Our office is closed and no service will be available on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr’s Birthday, Lincoln’s Birthday, President’s Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Election Day, Veteran’s Day, Thanksgiving and the Friday after Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. For specific dates, please call 201-368-5955 and press 5.

NJ Transit Buses:

NJ Transit offers lift-equipped buses on both local transit and commuter routes, although not all local bus trips are accessible. Check your NJ Transit timetable for bus trips marked with a ‘W’ to determine which trips are available for people who require the use of lifts.

Bergen County Community Transportation Mission Statement

Bergen County Community Transportation is a division of the Department of Human Services.

The Division of Community Transportation is here to provide a trouble-free, shared transportation system for persons with disabilities, senior citizens, veterans and welfare to work residents of Bergen County.

Service is provided in a professional, timely, courteous and caring manner in all types of weather. Service is door-to-door and is provided by drivers who are specially trained to assist citizens and persons with disabilities.

The vital service is life sustaining for clients with serious medical and health needs; a lifeline to homebound clients who are delivered nutritional meals daily; and a link to social services for clients who would otherwise be isolated and alone.

We currently provide transportation for:

*Routine medical visits (non-emergency cares, dialysis, etc.)
*Senior activity centers
*Shopping
*Competitive and Non-competitive employment
*Education
*Recreation
*Post-Stoke programs
*Meals on Wheels

The goals of Community transportation are to increase the number of clients served, to expand service to include night hours for recreational, educational and medical purposed and to remain a national model for special transportation services.

Transportation Options

In addition to our services, a number of municipalities offer various types of transportation exclusively for their residents. Service levels vary from in town only to door to door to set routes as well as varying in the days, times and types of trips offered. Although we have tried to gather specific information on their services, services change often and must be confirmed with the municipalities directly. Remember, even if you don’t see your town listed here; call your municipal building directly to find out what transportation options they may have for persons with disabilities and senior residents.

Contact:

Bergen County Community Transportation 201-368-5955
Bergenfield Town Vehicle 201-387-4055 ext4088
Bogota Town Vehicle 201-342-1211
Carlstadt Town Vehicle 201-939-2850
Cresskill Town Vehicle 201-569-5400
Dumont Town Vehicle 201-387-5040
East Rutherford Town Vehicle 201-933-3448
Medicals
Edgewater Town Vehicle 201-943-1700
Fair Lawn Town Vehicle-Set Route 201-794-5332
Fairview 201-943-5522
Ridgewood 201-670-5500
Fort Lee Parking Authority 201-592-3649
Set route and medical trips
Garfield Town Vehicle 973-478-7059
Glen Rock 201-670-3956
Hasbrouck Heights Reach Program 201-441-3350
Hillsdale 201-666-4800
Haworth 201-385-3577
Lyndhurst Town Vehicle 201-804-8457
Set route, medical transportation
Lodi 973-365-4005ext240
Mahwah Town Vehicle 201-529-2691
Montvale 201-391-5700ext225
New Milford Town Vehicle 201-967-7874
North Arlington Town Vehicle 201-955-6117
Old Tappan 201-664-1849
Oakland Town Vehicle 201-405-7731
Palisades Park Town Vehicle 201-585-4114
Park Ridge 201-573-1800
Paramus Town Bus 201-265-2100ext660
Ramsey Town Vehicle 201-825-3400
Ridgefield Town Vehicle 201-943-5215
River Edge Town Vehicle 201-599-6284
River Vale 201-664-2341
Rutherford Town Vehicle 201-460-3001
Starfish of River Edge & Oradell 201-265-7777
Starfish of Rutherford 201-438-3406
Saddle Brook Town Vehicle 201-845-4594
Teaneck Town Vehicle 201-837-0171
Westwood Senior Van 201-664-7100ext170
Woodcliff Lake 201-391-4977ext200
Wood-Ridge Town Vehicle 201-939-0202

Access Link-NJ Transit

Access Link is available to disabled clients who live within 3/4 of a mile of a bus route but are unable to use public transportation. This service is available the same hours as the public bus system. Call 1-800-955-2321 and ask for an assessment. 24 hours access 973-275-5555. Hearing impaired 1-800-772-2287.

NJ Transit’s Reduced Fares

Senior citizens and disabled residents can ride on most of the state’s buses for a reduced fare, which is 1/2 of the regular fare, rounded down to the nearest five cents. To ride at the reduced fare you must have an identification card, a reduced fare ticket and the appropriate reduced fare. A Medicare card can be used as identification or you can obtain a special Reduced Fare Identification Card.

Application for senior citizens and reduced fare tickets can be obtained at most banks in New Jersey. Persons with disabilities who do not have a Medicare card must call the Reduced Fare Program office for an application, which must be filled out by a doctor. For more information, call the Reduced Fare Program Office at (201) 761-8327 from 8:45am-4:15pm Monday through Friday.

Share the Cost if you Can

We are please to be able to offer this service free of charge to eligible Bergen County residents however, this service is expensive to provide. While the average cost to provide a round trip is about $16.00, we ask only a suggested donation of $1.00 to help defray the cost. These donations are set aside for the purchase of new busses.

Roadside Assistance for Wheelchair-Equipped Vehicles

We at Community Transportation understand the special challenges facing the physically impaired, yet active members of our community when their wheel-chair modified vehicles become immobilized due to accident or mechanical failure.

When a wheelchair-modified automobile becomes immobilized or is involved in an accident, the driver will call local police via 911 for assistance. If the officer determines that the vehicle is disabled beyond immediate repair on site, he or she will then call for a towing service and will contact the County Police for further assistance. The County Police will then call Community Transportation to dispatch a driver to transport the damaged vehicle’s driver to either their intended destination or to their home at which point service will end.

This is offered as a free service on an emergency basis only to any person traveling in or through Bergen County in a wheelchair-modified vehicle, although transportation will only be available within County limits.

Cancellation/No Show Policy

When an appointment is scheduled, the date and time of the request is secured. As appointments are on a first-come, first-served basis, if transportation is canceled, either by calling or in person at the time of pick-up, it would prohibit another client from securing that date and time.

If you cancel three (3) scheduled transportations in one (1) month, transportation will be suspended for one (1) month.

If you cancel three (3) scheduled transportation in one (1) month, your transportation will be suspended for six (6) months.

During the duration of suspension, no transportation will be provided, including previously confirmed transportation for the affected suspension period.

Shuttle Service

Community Transportation established two shuttle service routes to help reduce the number of cares on the already congested highways. Both shuttles run Monday through Friday, except on Federal Holidays.

Bergen Community College Shuttle:

This shuttle service operates from the Bergen Community College campus in Paramus to the Bergen Community College campus in Lyndhurst. It provides transportation to students, faculty and employees. There is allowance for a route deviation within two blocks of the scheduled route by calling (201) 368-5955 the day before the requested deviation.

Tri-Boro Shuttle:

This shuttle service operates from the Ridgewood Train Station to the towns of Montvale, Park Ridge and Woodcliff Lake in the morning going to work and in the afternoon going back to the Ridgewood Train Station. There is allowance for a route deviation within two blocks of the scheduled route by calling (201) 368-5955 the day before the requested deviation.

This information comes directly from the pamphlet from the Division of Community Transportation of the County of Bergen, NJ and was last updated on 1/13/16.

Disclaimer: I have not used any of the services that the county or towns provide so I have no opinion, yes or no, to how good they are for travelling. For questions, please call the above numbers for information.

Posted in Bergen County NJ Programs, Men's Programming, New Jersey Senior Programming, New Jersey Senior Transportation Programming, New Jersey State Program, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Disability Programming, Senior Driving Programs, Senior Services, Senior Transportation Programming, Senior Travel Programs, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Heightened Independence & Progress: Supporting Independent Living for People with Disabilities

Posted on May 5, 2016 by jwatrel

Heightened Independence & Progress: supporting Independent Living for People with Disabilities

What is hip?

hip is a non-profit agency run by and for people with disabilities. Its purpose is to promote full inclusion and full accessibility for all people and to enhance the ability of every individual to live and work with maximum independence.

hip was founded in 1980 as one of the first Centers for Independent Living in New Jersey. Two CIL’s comprise our umbrella organization, with locations in Bergen and Hudson Counties. We offer a variety of programs and services to people with disabilities through public and private funding. hip’s work extends beyond our two counties and several programs have multi-county, state-wide and national impact.

hip is governed by a Board of Trustees and staffed as well by people who themselves have disabilities. They understand the needs of their peers and are constantly working within their communities on new approaches to enhance the independence of both individuals and families within our spheres of service.

What does hip offer?

*information, referral and independent living skills training
*resource on the Americans with Disabilities Act and other legislation
*assistance with applications for transportation, housing, food stamps, home energy and other financial entitlement programs.
*funding for disability-related equipment and home modifications
*care management, linking individuals and families to essential services
*assistive technology demonstrations and ‘hands-on’ instruction
*peer support groups
*leisure time activities
*Hispanic Outreach Program
*programs to develop confidence and self-advocacy skills for high school students to prepare for adult life and employment
*Multimedia Transcription Service (MTS), which transcribes braille textbooks for students nationwide and other essential documents for the public and private sectors

What is Independent Living?

Independent Living is based on the philosophy that all people have the right to determine how they best live, work and play in their community. Centers for Independent Living are consumer-controlled, non-residential organizations that work to make changes in their communities to benefit people with disabilities locally and in the larger society.

Support for Heightened Independence & Progress

hip’s services are available to people with disabilities, their families and friends in Bergen & Hudson and beyond. A consumer does not have to be a member of hip to receive our services. Nevertheless, hip has actively pursued a membership enrollment effort since its incorporation to provide our participants with a sense of proprietorship and to enable those who benefit from our programs and services to join the effort to extend these services to others. hip also welcomes as members the families and friends of people with disabilities, professionals and volunteers in the field of disability and members of the community at large.

hip receives funding from a variety of federal, state and local government agencies and is also financed by contributions from corporations, foundations, member dues and donations and by the gifts of supporters and friends.

How can I participate?

Contact us to learn more about how hip’s services can help you, your family or the community. You may wish to become involved in our varied activities. You can enhance your own independent living or promote the concept of full inclusion by becoming an active hip participant.

Heightened Independence & Progress

Bergen County Central Office
131 Main Street, Suite 120
Hackensack, NJ 07601
Phone: (201) 996-9100
Fax: (201) 996-9422
Email: ber@hipcil.org
http://www.hipcil.org

Hudson County Branch Office
35 Journal Square, Suite 703
Jersey City, NJ 07306
Phone: (201) 533-4407
Fax: (201) 533-4421
Email: hud@hipcil.org

President/CEO: Eileen Goff
Hudson hip Director: Marilyn Gonzalez-Vazquez

This information is taken directly from the hip pamphlet.

Disclaimer: I have never used this service before and I do not have an opinion on it either yes or no to how good it is and please call the above number to get further information.

Posted in Bergen County NJ Programs, Disability Programming, Drug Assistance Programming, Health and Life Support Services, Men's Programming, New Jersey Senior Programming, New Jersey State Program, Prescription Drug Programs, Senior Caregiver Programs, Senior Disability Programming, Senior Services, Support Services for Seniors, Uncategorized, Woman's Programming | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment