Southwestern CT Agency on Aging

Grants: swcaa's annual request for proposals invites nonprofit agencies serving older adults to apply for older americans act (oaa) funding administered by swcaa. Every three years, a robust area plan is developed to include a needs assessment for older adults in Southwestern Connecticut. The identified needs form the foundation for evaluating the applications for funding. Swcaa actively recruits and provides technical assistance to nonprofits to assist them in applying for funds through the oaa. The invitation to apply includes public notice in the newspaper, promotion on the website and facebook, and postcards sent to nonprofits, mass emails to organizations within swcaa's distribution list and the distribution lists of other member organizations such as the united way. Application materials are posted on the swcaa website along with other resources to guide the applicant. All applications received by deadline are reviewed by the grants manager for minimal requirements and compliance with state and federal regulations. Swcaa board of directors and advisory council evaluate applications using a standardized evaluation tool. Awards are made based on the existing level of funds, the anticipated ability of the applicant to meet the identified needs and the applicant's ability to comply with all requirements.

Transition: swcaa is designated by the department of social services to assist individuals wishing to transition out of nursing facilitates back to the community. The socials service professionals work with nursing home residents to overcome barriers that would prevent the individual from returning home. Working closely in a team that includes transition and housing coordinators, the social service professionals develop a plan to find appropriate housing, identify necessary in-home supports and initiate other formal and in-formal services to support the individual. Staff stay with the individual for one year post transition to support the client in his or her new environment.

Care management: swcaa is contracted by the department of social services (dss) to provide care management services to individuals enrolled in the Connecticut home care programs. This medicaid waiver supports older adults and younger persons with disabilities to remain in their home and forego premature institutional placement. Swcaa's social service professionals are responsible to assess the applicant's financial and functional eligibility for the program. The assessment information is submitted to the dss for approval. Once approved, swcaa develops a care plan by authorizing services from medicaid providers that will support the independence and improve the quality of life for clients. Clients are monitored and care plan authorizations are adjusted based on emergent changes or needs. Mandatory home visits and monthly monitoring are documented in a client management system. Swcaa is reimbursed based on the census and completion of required activities.