EXECUTIVE SUMMARY A major objective of this Four Year Plan is to help the Montgomery County Office of Aging and Adult Services (MCAAS) to produce quality planning that will enable MCAAS to enhance the goals set forth in Pennsylvania Act 70 and the Older Americans Act, by providing comprehensive and coordinated services to serve older and disabled individuals, while also seeking ways to utilize available resources more efficiently. MCAAS - WHO WE ARE The Montgomery County Office of Aging and Adult Services (MCAAS) serves as the designated area agency on aging for Montgomery County, working with dozens of providers to serve over 45,000 older Montgomery County residents each year through a variety of services and programs which assist individuals and families in preventing premature institutionalization and supporting elderly and disabled individuals to live as independently as possible within the community. Responding to the increased needs of our county residents during this time of financial challenge is an ongoing concern, as Montgomery County’s aging population now totals over 225,000 persons over age 55, and the county continues to have the highest median age within this Southeast region of Pennsylvania. Whether provided directly by trained MCAAS staff, or through one of over 100 agency contracts, MCAAS offers in-home services, senior community center services, comprehensive long term care assessment, care management, information and assistance, caregiver support programs, protective services, adult daily living center services, ombudsman services, transportation, nursing home transition, and other important services and programs to assist county residents and their families as part of a continuum of care across all areas of the county. In order to facilitate a timely response to low-income adults, families, and the elderly seeking assistance through the Montgomery County Office of Aging and Adult Services, over 100 agency staff are located within local offices in four areas of Montgomery County. Community offices in Willow Grove, Norristown, Pottstown, and Lansdale provide direct access to any of the MCAAS services and programs, and links to community services available to meet individual needs. Together with our providers, our MCAAS network provides a trained response to over 45,000 Information and Assistance contacts received each year from consumers and their families, assisting them with needs in a comprehensive way. MCAAS - THE CURRENT SITUATION Considering demographic changes related to the aging of Montgomery County (from a 28% increase in those over age 85; to the 40% increase in those age 55-64), there is concern that existing resources will not be able to adequately respond to the growing numbers of Montgomery County residents as they age, especially since a waiting list of almost 200 individuals already exists for those seeking care through MCAAS. Montgomery County has a significantly higher percentage of lower income households for those over age 65 when compared to the rest of the population, and so we can see that many of our older residents are feeling financial pressure from living in a region with a high cost of living, with many on fixed incomes and unable to meet increased costs for the basics required to remain at home safely in the community. New trends, such as the needs of grandparents as caregivers, the aging of the county population led by the Baby Boomers, and increased numbers of non-English speaking older adults (particularly in the Asian communities), will guide MCAAS when adjusting plans for the future, ensuring inclusiveness and responsiveness within areas of special need. As part of the development of the 2012-2016 Four Year Plan, 852 persons provided input through a general public survey, over 200 individuals participated in 5 public meetings, and local discussions with the staff/Advisory Council were held to discuss the priorities and concerns older residents have as they age in their communities. There were common themes and priorities listed from each group of participants, including: Top Needs Identified in the Public Survey: Financial (292); Transportation (243); Health Care (236); Senior Community Centers (210); Home Health and Personal Care (202); Affordable Housing (192); and Nutrition / Meals (172) Top Needs Identified by Focus Groups: Home Health Care (Affordable home care, for staying in own home) Nutrition, Home Support (Supports to assist in maintaining home and independence with age) Affordable, Supportive Housing Options (To assist in remaining in community) Transportation (Less restrictions, More availability and choice) Financial/ Economic issues (Cost of living issues, creating difficult choices for everyday needs) MCAAS - THE FUTURE In setting goals for the future within Montgomery County, five major goals have been designed to incorporate the state's priority themes, as well as the local needs within our county. The following goals and objectives describe a future path for the Montgomery County Office of Aging and Adult Services (MCAAS), with unique strategies outlined to achieve the goals and objectives defined, and leading to outcomes which will be measured in an ongoing way over the years ahead. GOAL #1 MCAAS will work collaboratively to enhance the existing system of coordinated and comprehensive services and programs to support stronger communities for older and disabled adults who choose to age at home in a community setting. GOAL #2 MCAAS will provide enhanced access to information, benefits, and programs for older and disabled adults seeking to make informed choices regarding their options along the long term care continuum. Goal #3 MCAAS will support health and wellness programs for older and disabled adults to enhance each person’s mental and physical wellbeing within their communities. Goal #4 MCAAS will support efforts to enhance the quality of life for older residents who are most at risk. GOAL #5 MCAAS will continue to support an individual’s right to choose home and community-based options, despite shrinking public resources available in this current economic environment. Although some objectives, and strategies may need to change along the way, especially as financial priorities may shift, MCAAS will continue to collaborate whenever and wherever possible to enhance existing (and in many cases shrinking) resources, reduce duplication of effort within the network of care that exists, and create an even more responsive system of long term care throughout Montgomery County. MCAAS will also continue to expand collaborative efforts within our Southeast regional aging network, and within local collaborative networks in Montgomery County, to build a more effective advocacy presence as it may relate to legislative and budgetary issues of concern to the aging network, and to build a stronger economic road for the network moving forward. This work has begun and will continue to be important in shoring up continued support for priority aging programs and services. Already partnerships exist between MCAAS and the United Way, local community health foundations, and other foundation and grant avenues, and these avenues will continue to be strengthened and create a stronger combined impact on the communities we all serve. Likewise, building additional and creative collaborative funding opportunities will assist MCAAS and its providers to respond beyond the surveyed needs and work toward the establishment of a more “Aging Friendly” Montgomery County for all residents. II. The Montgomery County Office of Aging and Adult Services (MCAAS): An Overview II-A Who We Are The Montgomery County Office of Aging and Adult Services (MCAAS) serves as the designated area agency on aging for Montgomery County, mandated to develop and provide a comprehensive and coordinated system of services for older persons. As one of 52 area agencies on aging within Pennsylvania, MCAAS works with dozens of providers to serve over 40,000 older Montgomery County residents each year through a variety of services and programs which assist individuals and families in preventing premature institutionalization and to support the elderly and the disabled in living as independently as possible within the community. Responding to the increased needs of our county residents is an ongoing concern, as Montgomery County’s aging population now totals over 225,000 persons over age 55, and the county continues to have the highest median age for this Southeast region of Pennsylvania. Whether provided directly by trained MCAAS staff, or through one of over 100 agency contracts, MCAAS offers in-home services, senior community center services, comprehensive long term care assessment, care management, Information and Assistance, caregiver support programs, protective services, adult daily living center services, ombudsman services, transportation, nursing home transition, and other important services and programs to assist aging county residents as part of a continuum of care across all areas of the county. Additionally, MCAAS is an integral part of a system of services assisting low-income adults and families, as well as many physically disabled adults, to achieve self-sufficiency in the community. The adult services provided through the MCAAS system address individual and family needs for housing assistance, shelter services, case management, in-home services, or other supportive programs for about 2,000 low-income county residents each year. MCAAS also assesses and assists the disabled adult population through links with the Aging and Disability Resource Center planning, and assessing for home and community-based waiver programs. In order to facilitate a timely response to low-income adults, families, and the elderly seeking assistance through the Montgomery County Office of Aging and Adult Services, over 100 agency staff are located within local offices in four areas of Montgomery County. Community offices in Willow Grove, Norristown, Pottstown, and Lansdale provide direct access to any of the MCAAS services and programs, and links to community services available to meet individual needs. Together with our providers, our aging network provides a trained response to over 45,000 Information and Assistance contacts received each year from consumers and their families, assisting them with all long term care needs. Despite the fiscal challenges predicted for the next four years, and numerous mandated changes dictated by state government, the Montgomery County Office of Aging and Adult Services staff continue to work in tandem with a dedicated network of providers and collaborative partners, showing commitment, creativity, and perseverance on behalf of the growing numbers of adults and families who seek quality programs and services through Montgomery County government. The MCAAS Organizational Structure: Montgomery County Commissioners Montgomery County Human Services Cabinet MCAAS Advisory Advisory Council Council MCAAS Executive Executive Director Director Deputy Director for Admin. Services Deputy Director for Clinical Services Data Unit, Monitoring and Contract Unit, ITST Support All Clinical Programs, Clinical Supervisors, and Clinical Staff within 4 District Office Locations: Central (Norristown) Pottstown, Willow Grove, Fiscal Administrator Fiscal Department Staff Office Manager Office Support Staff II-B. A Look at the Community We Serve B-1. Studying the Trends and Demographics: A major objective of this Four Year Plan is to help the Montgomery County Office of Aging and Adult Services (MCAAS) to produce quality planning that will enable the agency to enhance the goals set forth in Pennsylvania Act 70 and the Older Americans Act—that is to provide comprehensive and coordinated services to serve older persons and to assist in using available resources more efficiently. At MCAAS, we recognize that a central element to effective planning is quality assessment of local needs and trends. It is only after first taking a close look at the community, that MCAAS can then fully understand the complex needs existing within our region, identify future priority goals, and plan for the most efficient use of resources to address these local needs. The following section provides a description of several major assessment efforts related to Montgomery County and MCAAS which have assisted the agency in developing the next four year plan. When the demographic data is analyzed in conjunction with the needs assessment information available, our goals can become more focused and the impact measured more effectively. As part of assessment process, these major sources have provided demographic and needs assessment information for this plan and will be quoted throughout this next section: U.S. Census Data available for Montgomery County: Census 2010 and data analysis provided by the PA Department of Aging and the Montgomery County Planning Department State Aging and Disability Agencies in Times of Change, National Association of States United for Aging and Disabilities States Survey, 2011. The BoomerANG (Aging’s Next Generation) Study, 2005-2007, funded by MCAAS in collaboration with 5 county foundations to study the trends of the Baby Boomers in Montgomery County ( www.montcopa.org/mcaas ) Montgomery County Office of Aging and Adult Services Four Year Plan Survey, 2012 (www.montcopa.org/mcaas ) Series of 5 focus groups for professionals and the community; Surveys received from 852 community, staff and professionals. What the Numbers Show Montgomery County Background: Montgomery County is the third largest county within the state of Pennsylvania, occupying a 483 square mile area north west of Philadelphia, and consisting of 24 boroughs and 38 townships. The 2010 Census reports that the total population of Montgomery County grew 6% to 799,874 residents since 2000, yet Montgomery County counted 220,679 persons that were 55 years of age and older, representing a significant demographic trend, as predicted in the MCAAS BoomerANG Study in 2007. Statistics from the U.S. Dicennial Census Data indicates that numbers of the most frail elderly (over age 85) residents have grown by over 28%, and the newest group to age into the aging network, those from age 55 – 64, have grown over 40% since the year 2000. Also remarkable when considering the county statistics is the number of centenarians that reside within Montgomery County, since this amazing group of elder residents has grown from numbering 147 to 221 since the last census was taken. Although Philadelphia County still has a greater number of adults over age 60, Montgomery County has a higher percentage of older adults, and the Montgomery County demographics indicate there is still a higher median age than exists in any of the other counties within the Southeastern region of the state. The BoomerAng Study indicated that by the year 2015, the median age for Montgomery County will be 44 years of age, and projections show that this county should continue to remain the oldest county in the Southeastern region of Pennsylvania over the years ahead. Population Distribution by Area: When compared to the state average of 283.9 persons per square mile, Montgomery County is instead populated with close to 1,656 persons per square mile, making our county a very densely populated county. Beyond being a Montgomery County resident, most older adults who reside within the county boundaries often identify themselves as residents of one of the following county regions: Central Montgomery County, Eastern Montgomery County, the Lower Merion Area, the North Penn Area, Western Montgomery County, and the Upper Perkiomen Area. There is diversity among the various regions, with some areas in the Western and Northwestern areas viewed as rural, while others appear more urban or suburban. MCAAS continues to provide local offices to cover four major service areas within our county, since consumers and families prefer local accessibility for services and cannot easily travel to the county seat when applying for services or benefits. Staff travel time for visits to consumer homes and facilities is reduced as well, and local support and collaboration is more easily obtained due to our local office presence. Although the entire county is considered a metropolitan area, Eastern Montgomery County, which borders Philadelphia County, has been developed to a greater extent and is home to the largest number of older adults 60+ and 85+, with over 43% of the aging population for the county residing in the Eastern region. Western Montgomery County, including the rural Upper Perkiomen Area, has seen great development in recent years, yet still contains distinctly rural areas and is home to a smaller, but growing percentage of older adults 60 and 85+, especially as developers build more age-restricted housing in that region. The following chart from the BoomerANG Study indicates where most of the aging population should continue to be regionally located within Montgomery County during the years ahead. Age 50+ Households by Region (From Year 2000 – 2015) 60,000 E. MontCo. 50,000 N.Penn 40,000 20,000 Gtr. Norristown The Merions 10,000 W. MontCo. 30,000 0 Disability Issues: The 2008-2010 American Community Survey estimates that 62 % of those over age 65 have some type of disability to report. The physical limitations reported under this survey are different than previous surveys, and include: hearing, vision, cognition, ambulation, self-care, and living independently. Almost 38% of the population over age 65 reported no limitations in these areas 2010 Population Estimates for Disability % Population 65 Years and Over with a difficulty With a hearing difficulty With a vision difficulty With a cognitive difficulty With an ambulatory difficulty With a self-care difficulty With an independent living difficulty 112,684 13,248 5,322 7,938 20,766 7,395 15,587 Total civilian non-institutionalized population 780,069 Population 65 and over with no disability 11.8% 4.7% 7.0% 18.4% 6.6% 13.8% 42,428 37.7% 2010 Source: 2008-2010 American Community Survey 3 year Estimates As we seek to better understand the needs of disabled older adults in Montgomery County, we have reviewed areas of disability in terms of service planning for the future. The MCAAS Four Year Plan Survey and public meeting discussions have yielded issues related to the need for residents, as they age or experience a disability, to be able to remain within their natural communities, with access to transportation, health care, and basic services to remain as independent as possible within their own homes. Assistance with home support tasks, basic home care, home modifications and repairs were all cited as significant needs within the survey process and contributed to the health and wellness issues cited as a leading area of concern. Income: Although Montgomery County is diverse in its socio-economic status, it is also one of the wealthiest counties in the state. When compared to the rest of the state, Montgomery County’s median family income is $ 76,380, substantially higher than the state average of $50,398, and only 5.6% reported as being under the poverty guidelines in 2010. However, the situation with many of our elderly and disabled residents warrants a different focus. When considering the high cost of living for the Southeastern region of the state, the economic strain felt by those over age 75 especially, must be considered. Over 21% of householders over age 65 had an annual income of twice the poverty threshold, and the highest response from the MCAAS need surveys indicated that the financial and economic stress was a number one priority for almost half surveyed. As indicated in the chart below, a significantly higher percentage of lower income households exists for those over age 65, and so we can see that our older residents are feeling financial pressure from living in a region with a high cost of living, and many on a fixed income unable to meet increased costs for the basics needed to remain at home in the community. Householder Income by Age Age Cohort 45-64 22% 31% 65+ 22% 57% 26% 35% Total 45+ 0% 10% 20% 29% 30% 25% 40% 50% 9% 17% 60% 70% 9% 19% 80% 90% 100% Gender: In the general population, the 2010 Census showed the ratio to be 52% female to 48% male, with the percentage of women increasing to 60% and males decreasing to 40% for those over 65 years of age. As in all other areas of the country, the needs of older women living alone continue to be worthy of note, especially as gender relates to poverty and abuse. Over 7,500 women are over the age of fifty and below the federal poverty guidelines in Montgomery County, and many live alone without social supports. Housing: In order to meet the present and future housing needs of older adults, data from the U.S. Census, and the Montgomery County Planning Commission was obtained to better understand the present and projected living arrangements of older adults age 65 + in Montgomery County. Estimated Living Arrangements of Seniors (Persons 65 and Older) Living Arrangement in 2010 In own home or apartment In age restricted community or apartments In assisted living In nursing home Estimated Population 93903 Percent of Seniors – 2010 Census 77.8% 2000 Census 82.4% 19099 1607 6118 15.8% 1.3% 5.1% 8.9% 2.3% 6.4% 2010 Estimated Senior Housing Arrangements 1% 5% 16% In own home or apartment In age restricted community or apartments In assisted living In nursing home 78% As the above chart indicates, a smaller percentage of older adults resided in either a private home or an apartment from the previous census, yet this remains the primary living arrangement for older adults in Montgomery County. The increased number of Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) and 55+ communities has grown significantly within Montgomery County, and the trend is noteworthy when considering the chart above. When surveyed, older adults in Montgomery County have always reported their desire to remain at home in the community, yet each major survey of residents has cited AFFORDABLE housing as a major issue of concern for the future, since the economic downturn in recent years has had an effect on the accessible and affordable retirement housing options available to the average 65+ Montgomery County resident. There are currently 89 age-restricted housing projects / communities within Montgomery County. Many of them are built on multiple levels, and/or located in areas away from services, transportation or medical care, especially the newer projects being developed in Western Montgomery County. As residents age, there will need to be additional local and county-wide planning efforts made to incorporate the numbers of older persons in need of specialized housing, and to consider the shift from institutional (nursing home) care to more community care options. Montgomery County continues to support the work of the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission, which has set a goal to “expand and preserve the stock of accessible, affordable housing units for seniors” through modifying planning tools which exist and create more “aging friendly” communities in the region. Analysis of the selected housing characteristics from the Census suggests that many older adults in Montgomery County that are living on a more limited income, whether they are living in an owner-occupied or renteroccupied unit, are dealing with the challenge of trying to meet their monthly housing and related expenses along with other basic expenses, such as food, transportation, prescription, and health care costs, to name a few. Since the cost of living in Montgomery County remains above the state average, and rental costs are higher as well, it is clear to see that older residents remain challenged in trying to make ends meet. MCAAS staff also cited concerns over increased needs present in the current residents of subsidized senior housing complexes across the county, especially noting increased isolation and behavioral concerns, which prompts the need for care management and assistance within those complexes. Although there are dozens of apartment complexes located throughout Montgomery County that offer either rent subsidies or reduced-rate rents for older adults, it is important to note that the present waiting lists to enter subsidized housing units range from 6 months to 5 years, with a little over 2 years as the average waiting list length. In addition, Housing Choice Vouchers (formerly Section-8) through the Montgomery County Housing Authority, which have also been a resource to older adults in Montgomery County related to housing costs, generally have a waiting list and the office is currently not “open” to taking any new applications at the time of this report. Affordable housing will continue to be a primary issue into the future for MCAAS, and collaborative efforts to enact a new blueprint for housing will assist in responding to the demographics cited. Ethnicity: Similar to the data for Pennsylvania, Montgomery County is experiencing an older population that is becoming increasingly diverse. As Montgomery County reexamines the ways in which it publicizes and delivers services and programs, to ensure that inclusiveness for all of these diverse cultures, data from the 2010 Census for Montgomery County demonstrates the continued increase among racial and ethnic populations for all age groups. Also remarkable is that according to reliable sources within minority communities across Montgomery County, the numbers of Asian and Hispanic individuals have increased beyond the following numbers reported on the official census. The demographic chart below from the 2010 Census provides a closer look at the changing demographics among racial and ethnic backgrounds for older adults age 60+ and 85+: Total Population White African American Asian/Pacific Islander Hispanic* Other Two or More Races Percent of 2010 Population 2000 Population 141,815 Change in Population: 2000-2010 17.0% 89.2% 93.9% 6.4% 14,717 131,661 13,926 6,712 40.1% 12.4% 38.9% 57.6% 60+ 2010 Population 165,924 85+ 60+ 85+ 60+ 20,615 148,006 19,350 10,577 85+ 60+ 918 6,070 4.5% 3.7% 604 2,608 52.0% 132.7% 85+ 60+ 85+ 60+ 85+ 60+ 270 1,856 131 407 18 713 1.3% 1.1% 0.6% 0.2% 0.1% 0.4% 126 915 61 191 8 553 114.3% 102.8% 114.8% 113.1% 125.0% 28.9% 85+ 60+ 52 151 0.3% 0.1% 44 90 18.2% 67.8% American Indian 85+ 7 0.0% 9 -22.2% *Census Bureau considers Hispanic to be an ethnicity and not a race, so these numbers do not add to 100% total population Similar to the data for Pennsylvania, Montgomery County has experienced an older population that is becoming increasingly diverse. As Montgomery County reexamines the ways in which it publicizes and delivers services and programs, to ensure that they are inclusive of all of these diverse cultures, data from the U.S. Census also provides an indication of the number of older adults as well as adults (who may pursue services or information on behalf of an older adult) where their ability to speak English may present a barrier: 52,152 Foreign Born Residents in Montgomery County (53% naturalized citizens) Montgomery County has 7% foreign born residents/ PA has 4.1% foreign born residents 90.4% of residents of Montgomery County speak English at home. 2.0% of residents speak Spanish at home (63% speak English very well, 16% speak English well, 15% speak English not well, 6% don't speak English at all). 4.3% of residents speak other Indo-European language at home (73% speak English very well, 17% speak English well, 8% speak English not well, 1% don't speak English at all). 2.8% of residents speak Asian or Pacific Island language at home (49% speak English very well, 28% speak English well, 19% speak English not well, 3% don't speak English at all). 0.6% of residents speak other language at home (79% speak English very well, 17% speak English well, 4% speak English not well). As MCAAS takes steps to increase “cultural inclusion” through its outreach efforts, minority data must be analyzed for each region of the county to assist in focusing publicity and service delivery within targeted areas of the county. Grandparents as Caregivers: A trend worth noting in the consumer base being served by MCAAS and other service providers within Montgomery County is the increase in Grandparents as Caregivers. In the 2000 census, 10,226 grandparents were reported to be living in a household with one or more own grandchildren under 18 years of age, yet the 2010 numbers show an increase in this situation of 8%. The specialized caregiving needs for this emerging population have been expressed within the staff discussions and public meetings held related to Montgomery County’s Four Year Plan, and an examination of the 2010 census shows this trend to be indeed significant. Additionally, the economic squeeze felt by those caring for grandchildren is noteworthy, since many elderly caregivers are making choices related to self care versus their primary consideration of care for the children in the home. 2010 Census Report – Montgomery County Estimated Number Grandparents as Caregivers # Grandparents Living w/Grandchild (Under age 18) 2010 TOTAL Grandparent responsible for own grandchild (under age 18) Grandparent NOT responsible for own grandchild (under age 18) 2006 11,132 10,226 3,299 3,151 7,833 7,075 Montgomery County Elderly Population Trends: Using the 2000 Census to make adjustments of the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC) projections, the Montgomery County Planning Commission was able to provide MCAAS with the following chart which looks at the growth in the 55-64 age cohort, the 65-74 age cohort, the 75 and over age cohort and the over all 55 and over population between 2000 and 2025. OVER-55 POPULATION 2000-2025 Age Cohort 55-64 65-74 75+ Total 55+ Total Population Persons In 2000 68,447 55,562 56,235 180,244 750,097 Percent Of Total 9.1% 7.4% 7.5% 24.0% - Persons In 2025 105,900 100,700 80,000 286,600 857,000 Percent Of Total 12.4% 11.8% 9.3% 33.4% - Change 2000-2025 37,453 45,138 23,765 111,659 106,903 Absolute Change 2000-2025 54.7% 44.8% 42.3% 61.9% 14.3% As the chart indicates all three age groups are expected to show strong growth in the future, with the total number of older adults 55+ in Montgomery County increasing 61.9% from 2000 to 2025! This will be especially significant when considering the continuum of long term care services to be provided to our county residents, from senior centers and other supportive community services through long term care assessments and nursing home transition services, as the demands for services and programs grow in the future years. Conclusion of Initial Data Analysis: Focusing on the next four years, the Area Plan will identify the steps that MCAAS will be taking to develop greater capacities to continue providing comprehensive and coordinated services to meet these present needs. However, in addition to assisting MCAAS with a focus for the next four years, the Montgomery County population trends and demographics make a strong statement and point to growing needs as county residents age into the future. New trends, such as the needs of grandparents as caregivers, the aging of the county population led by the Baby Boomers, and increased numbers of non-English speaking older persons will lead MCAAS to adjust plans for the future to ensure inclusiveness and responsiveness to areas of special need. At this time, it is also essential that steps are taken now to increase partnerships and collaborative efforts, placing the aging network throughout Montgomery County into a better position in meeting the diverse and complex needs of a rapidly growing number of older adults over the next 25 years and beyond. Changing preferences for services, led by the strong need to maintain the independence of individuals as they age in the community will continue to be a priority, as well as continuing to focus on efforts to provide financial stability moving forward. II-B.2 A Study of Local Needs MCAAS began its planning process for the 2012 - 2016 Four-Year Plan during the Fall of 2011. Connections were made with MCAAS staff, Advisory Council members, and key leaders within the community to review the goals from the previous plan, and to establish a new framework for surveys and focus groups to outline regional and county needs related to older and disabled adults, in preparation for the next Four Year MCAAS Plan. Collaborative discussions took place among stakeholders to discuss trends, as well as funding availability which could affect planning services and programs within the years ahead. In addition to understanding the demographics and analyzing the needs, almost a thousand persons with concerns related to an older adult in Montgomery County expressed their opinions for the 2012 MCAAS Needs Assessment through the following: 5 professional and community focus groups held in various regions of the county 852 surveys received from consumers, older adults, caregivers, advisory council members, MCAAS staff, service providers, and aging professionals. 2A. The MCAAS Four Year Plan Survey MCAAS Four Year Plan Surveys designed to outline future priorities were mailed and distributed from February through April 2012 to over 1,000 residents countywide, and the survey response was the highest ever recorded for our department. The survey had also been posted online and sent in email blasts to providers as well, generating an increased number of online responses from our last survey in 2008. Surveys were translated into Spanish, Korean, and Chinese, and efforts were made to present surveys to targeted populations to ensure access by diverse groups within the county. Key leaders within the Asian, Latino, Russian, and Indian communities were provided with surveys and offered a chance for participation with individual MCAAS focus groups. The MCAAS surveys asked individuals to identify concerns they face as an older adult, or as the caregiver of an older adult. Respondents were asked to rank their top three pressing needs from a selection of 20 possible issues, and space was also available to add additional concerns to the survey as well. Inquiries were also made as to which (if any) programs had already assisted respondents, and basic demographic questions were asked at the end. The survey was brief, and took an average time of just 3-4 minutes to complete. The following chart summarizes the results of the 2012 MCAAS Survey: Major Needs for Older Residents of Montgomery County 350 300 Number of Consumers 250 200 150 100 50 0 al ci n na Fi So al ci s s e e g n e rt ls rs ce ns te in io ar ar ar ce te po ea iv ni C tio C at C an n vi p t L r u M l a n e r t / e d ay lth Su lth C H fic na or Se po on nt D te P di ea ea er le iti ity R so ai pp ns lt is o r v r s b H H n t i s & a u O M I l a M u u es rg Pe Tr e ta As N e m rd Ad er ln ae m m te en nd el ffo om o C o n a A M H W H lu /C lth or Vo ni ea e H S e om H C e ar s m a gr ro ng si ou er th O The top needs for older residents identified in the survey responses were : Financial (292); Transportation (243); Health Care (236); Senior Community Centers (210); Home Health and Personal Care (202); Affordable Housing (192); and Nutrition / Meals (172) Also important to note from the surveys was the number of persons indicating they had received help in the past for an older adult, and when checking responses on the type of help received, the following responses were given: 2012 MCAAS Survey Assistance Received by the Older Adult / Family Member Senior Center Government Programs 270 Family 225 189 Friends/Neighbors 166 Other Programs 174 MCAAS 165 124 Church Assistance you private Paid 101 Other Professionals Home Delivered Meals 83 81 It is interesting to note the numbers of individuals responding to the survey who had received formal, government, or agency services, while large numbers of responses still indicated that informal services were also provided to assist through family, church, or friends. As we examine services along a continuum of care, it is often the support of those informal sources which can be a critical element in permitting an elderly or disabled individual to be maintained safely within a community setting, as opposed seeking an institutional setting. The importance of senior centers is also noted above, due to their strong community presence and visibility, and also because two large focus groups were held in a senior center setting with their participants completing surveys in large numbers. In total, surveys were completed by 852 persons, more than twice the response rate from the last surveys distributed by MCAAS! Of those responding to the surveys, 22% reported themselves as minority. The largest minority group responding identified themselves as Asian-American, with a total of 96 surveys returned. Most surveyed individuals responded that their monthly income fell between $650 – $2,000 per month, and the majority of the respondents (389) were over age 75 years of age. The respondents were mostly women (70%), and 55% of those completing a survey reported that they live alone. Surveys were returned from all geographic areas within Montgomery County, and in many ways mirrored the population of older residents outlined in the demographics as well, since more responses from the Eastern and North Penn regions also reflect the significant numbers of older adults residing in those regions of the county. 2B. Advisory Council Input: Additionally, our Advisory Council went through a similar process during the March of 2012 related to our local needs and identified these top areas of concern: Most Important: Home Care / Support Services Transportation Affordable Housing Caregiver Issues The MCAAS Advisory Council still believes that increased advocacy and outreach efforts will be necessary to connect older adults and families with much-needed services, and to assist them in maintaining their independence within their own homes if they choose to do so. Together with others locally and regionally, the MCAAS Advisory Council intends to continue to work toward increased funding and support for home and community – based services. 2C. Listing of Needs From MCAAS Staff Discussion / Survey Our staff were offered survey questions to outline their own priorities, based on their professional experience. Many interesting and helpful comments were made, and program suggestions were offered for the future as well. Similar to the responses from the general survey, the most important issues continue to fall within many of the same major categories, all geared toward supporting individuals in remaining independent within the community: Most Important: Affordable Housing Home Maintenance Income/Financial Mental Health Information and Referral/Outreach Home Modifications Least Important: Volunteer Activities Soc. / Rec. activities (sr. centers) Meals Programs Adult Day Care Transportation Assisted Living 2D. Priorities from the MCAAS Focus Groups – Spring 2012 Focus groups were held across Montgomery County during the Spring of 2012. Two were held in senior centers, one in a Korean church, 2 in Human Services buildings located in different regions of the county. One meeting focused on targeted input from community leaders and professionals, and it was attended by over 35 individuals to gather community feedback related to needs and priorities. (http://www.thereporteronline.com/article/20120222/NEWS01/120229883/montco-seeks-ideas-for-fundinginitiatives-to-help-elderly-residents ) Additional community meetings were advertised and open to the general public, with members of the community as well as providers of aging services encouraged to attend. One additional meeting was limited to leaders within the Asian community, to solicit input related to one of the fastest growing segments of our elderly populations here in Montgomery County. The meetings were held in urban, as well as rural areas of the county ensuring convenient locations for all residents, and over 200 individuals attended the various focus groups held to discuss the Four Year Plan. Top Needs Identified by Focus Groups: Home Health Care (Affordable home care, for staying in own home) Nutrition, Home Support (Supports to assist in maintaining home and independence with age) Affordable, Supportive Housing Options (To assist in remaining in community) Transportation (Less restrictions, More availability and choice) Financial/ Economic issues (Cost of living issues, creating difficult choices for everyday needs) 2E MCAAS Study Results and Challenges It should be noted that whether persons provided input through the general public survey, through participation during a public meeting, or through discussions with the staff/Advisory Council, there were common themes and priorities listed from each group of participants. While the Montgomery County Office of Aging and Adult Services cannot attempt to solve larger, more universal issues like affordable housing or an improved cost of living within the county, MCAAS can try to address some pieces related to the continuum of care which exists to improve the life situation for older and disabled adults within this planning area. It is in this vein that we will outline goals and priorities for the years ahead in order to attempt to respond to the major areas identified, and as the agency is able to do so with the resources available. The largest challenge will of course be in obtaining the necessary resources to complete the tasks outlined in this plan. With years and years of stagnant Aging Block Grant funding, and decreased support through the Department of Public Welfare, many of these goals may not occur in the future. MCAAS and community agencies and programs within our Aging network are struggling to maintain existing services and programs, further challenged when facing the increased needs and numbers of older individuals and families requesting our assistance. Although the state and federal support is changing for our local aging services and programs, we are fortunate at the county level to have strong Commissioner support for the human services. However, just as with other levels of public funding, Montgomery County is facing a large financial challenge as well, so support from all sectors, both public and private, will be necessary in the years ahead as well in order to sustain a workable system of support for our older Montgomery County residents. Strengthening collaborative efforts within our Southeast regional aging network, and within local collaborative networks in Montgomery County, will build an effective advocacy presence as it may relate to legislative and budgetary issues of concern to the aging network, and build a stronger economic road for the network moving forward. This work has begun and will continue to be important in shoring up continued support for priority aging programs and services. Already partnerships exist between MCAAS and the United Way, local community health foundations, and other foundation and grant avenues, and these avenues will continue to be strengthened and create a stronger combined impact on the communities we all serve. Likewise, building additional and creative collaborative funding opportunities will assist MCAAS and its providers to respond to the surveyed needs and work toward the establishment of a more “Aging Friendly” Montgomery County for all residents. Section III. MCAAS Goals for the Future The following goals and objectives describe a future path for the Montgomery County Office of Aging and Adult Services (MCAAS). Several strategies will be utilized in achieving the goals and objectives outlined, and will then lead to outcomes which will be measured in an ongoing way over the years ahead. Although some goals, objectives, and strategies may need to change along the way, especially as financial priorities may shift, MCAAS will continue to collaborate whenever and wherever possible to enhance existing (and in many cases shrinking) resources, reduce duplication of effort within the network of care that exists, and create a responsive system of long term care throughout Montgomery County. GOAL #1 MCAAS will work collaboratively to enhance the existing system of coordinated and comprehensive services and programs to support stronger communities for older and disabled adults who choose to age at home in a community setting. Objective 1A. MCAAS will foster stronger collaborative relationships when planning for coordinated aging services and programs across all regions of Montgomery County. Strategies: a) MCAAS will enhance existing collaborations with municipalities, foundations, county government, and other groups to engage in planning for the aging needs of Montgomery County residents. b) MCAAS will continue to work with the United Way on the Communities That Care project and other projects which build strong community-based supports in targeted areas of Montgomery County to foster aging-friendly communities. c) MCAAS will continue to support and participate as a member of the Human Services Cabinet and with the new model of collaboratives for human services, the Human Services Council, to ensure that aging issues are woven into the larger human services fabric of Montgomery County. d) MCAAS will continue to advocate for a LIFE (Living Independence for the Elderly) model of care within the county. Objective 1B. MCAAS will address areas of unmet need, as identified in the MCAAS Four Year Plan Survey, to ensure a comprehensive system exists to support older residents as they try to remain in their own homes in their community of choice. Strategies: a) MCAAS will continue to support transportation coordination and enhanced service delivery in response to transportation concerns raised during the MCAAS survey and focus groups. b) MCAAS will support efforts to strengthen the home support services available to older adults in the community, through programs such as Project Hearth, Senior Companions, and other efforts. c) MCAAS will continue to collaborate to address unmet housing needs for older and disabled adults, especially in the areas of affordable and accessible housing options, nursing home transition needs, and rehab programs available to maintain existing housing while aging in place. Objective 1C. MCAAS will seek new ways to expand caregiver support, since caregivers are an essential element to the provision of home care services for older and disabled adults. Strategies: a) MCAAS will continue to support the idea of Family Caregiver Mentoring, and will work with volunteer opportunities to encourage experienced caregivers as mentors to new family caregivers. b) MCAAS will examine ways to address the growing need of Grandparents as Caregivers, and will work collaboratively on appropriate resources and training to support this expanding group of caregivers. GOAL #1 – Outcomes and Performance Measures During the next four years, MCAAS will support two new collaborative projects designed to strengthen community resources for residents as they age in place. Participation in the Human Services Cabinet and the Collaborative Human Services Council will provide increased structure and support to aging services and programs in a more collaborative way county-wide. Ongoing work regarding transportation service issues, while never completely addressed, will result in improved satisfaction results from consumers surveyed. Collaborative grant funding will result in 10 additional tenant-based rental units available for Nursing Home Transition consumers, and other elderly in need of accessible rental units. A caregiver survey during 2014 will reflect the needs of caregivers over time and the assistance to needed to keep loved ones at home. This survey will also examine unmet needs for Grandparents as Caregivers and other emerging caregiving groups. GOAL #2 MCAAS will provide enhanced access to information, benefits, and programs for older and disabled adults seeking to make informed choices regarding their options along the long term care continuum. Objective 2A. MCAAS will provide increased information and outreach opportunities to connect older adults and their families within all areas of Montgomery County Strategies: a) MCAAS will pursue expanded partnerships for benefits outreach, with a concentration on connecting with community watch groups, churches, and other grassroots community groups in all areas of the county to develop a more unified plan. b) MCAAS will support and expand efforts made through APPRISE and other volunteer efforts to assist older adults in making choices related to benefits and insurance coverage. c) MCAAS will work closely with the new Human Services Collaborative structure in Montgomery County to ensure that ongoing communication and outreach on aging issues and programs is strengthened through the collaborative partnership agencies across the county. d) MCAAS will work with other regional area agencies on aging and their advisory councils to strengthen advocacy efforts and improve communication to the public and to policymakers. e) MCAAS will expand its media presence through electronic sources (website, Facebook, etc.), the written press and newsletters regarding issues and programs of importance to older residents of Montgomery County. f) MCAAS will continue its work with the Human Services Cabinet (MC Human Service Directors) to better inform and advocate on behalf of the Montgomery County residents in need of the County’s services and programs. Objective 2B. MCAAS will expand efforts to enhance connections with targeted minority and ethnic populations across Montgomery County. Strategies: a) MCAAS will target the growing Asian and Indian populations in the county, through increased outreach efforts to churches and community leaders. b) MCAAS will recruit more diverse staffing and volunteers to assist in improving service access for diverse populations. c) MCAAS will continue development of targeted written outreach materials in additional languages for use in outreach and advocacy efforts. GOAL #2 – Outcomes and Performance Measures Annual community outreach meetings will be held to educate and inform gatekeepers related to benefits, services, and programs for community residents as they age in place. Increased APPRISE volunteer activity will assist more consumers annually. A coordinated benefits outreach plan for Montgomery County will be developed. Increased number of information/outreach materials translated into additional languages, resulting in increased participation in MCAAS programs by Limited English Proficient consumers. Increased number of staff and volunteers available within MCAAS programs, speaking Asian, Spanish, Russian, and other targeted languages. MCAAS will improve visibility and recognition among community consumers, legislators, and other community leaders, as measured through the next community needs survey. Goal #3 MCAAS will support health and wellness programs for older and disabled adults to enhance each Objective 3A- MCAAS will continue to support a system of quality senior community center programming throughout Montgomery County. Strategies: a) MCAAS will support senior community center planning to form new collaborations which strengthen local community support and enhance programming in each region of the county. b) MCAAS will seek ways to develop new partnerships between centers which will help sustain stronger senior center models across Montgomery County. Objective 3B – MCAAS will promote collaborative partnerships to better serve the health and wellness needs for older and disabled adults across the county. Strategies: a) MCAAS will work with Montgomery County Office of Behavioral Health to focus outreach and case management services targeting isolated, elderly individuals with behavioral health issues, and drug and alcohol concerns. b) MCAAS will work with hospitals and long term care facilities to promote supportive care transitions, reduce hospital readmissions, and strengthen health promotion efforts for those aging residents of the county. c) MCAAS will strengthen ties to disability groups of all types and will support the Aging and Disability Resource Center concept, on a regional basis as well. GOAL #3 – Outcomes and Performance Measures Care transitions work related to hospital and nursing home admissions will exist in 2 areas of Montgomery County within the next 3 years, and funding applications will be completed. Behavioral Health and Drug and Alcohol intervention services will target senior housing complexes throughout Montgomery County and increase the numbers of consumers assisted through partnerships with BH/DD/D&A. A “senior center without walls” model will be explored through collaborative funding for one targeted area of the county. At least two senior centers in Montgomery County will share resources and planning for future goals and to strengthen community involvement. Goal #4 MCAAS will support efforts to enhance the quality of life for older residents who are most at risk. Objective 4A- MCAAS will collaborate in the areas of Protective Services and Ombudsman programs to protect those most vulnerable, elderly in need. Strategies: a) MCAAS will continue support Protective Services in a collaborative way with partners such as the DA’s Office, the Domestic Violence network, Consumer Affairs, and others to support a coordinated response to vulnerable elderly in need. b) MCAAS will continue to support an expansion of volunteer efforts related to the Ombudsman Program to protect those with care concerns in the county. Objective 4B- MCAAS will partner with community groups to protect older and isolated adults at risk in the areas of homelessness, nutrition, and safety. a) MCAAS will expand efforts to better communicate, educate, and coordinate in meeting the safety and emergency preparedness needs of older, isolated adults who may be at risk. b) MCAAS will collaborate with other advocates and groups to address growing food insecurity issues among the elderly, and to ensure better nutritional outcomes for those at risk. c) MCAAS will continue to work with those coordinating housing programs under the new Housing Blueprint to ensure those disabled and older adults at risk of homelessness can have their needs met effectively and in a timely manner. GOAL #4 – Outcomes and Performance Measures Additional volunteer ombudsman will be trained annually to respond to care complaints in the 152 licensed facilities within Montgomery County An alternative plan will be provided for the increased numbers of at-risk elderly and physically disabled individuals seeking emergency shelter within Montgomery County. Annual nutritional risk surveys will show a trend toward improved nutrition for older Montgomery County residents. Working with the Montgomery County Public Safety Department, registration for Ready PA will increase, and the number of elderly residents receiving coordinated information on emergency preparedness will increase in each region of Montgomery County. GOAL #5 MCAAS will continue to support an individual’s right to choose home and community-based options, despite shrinking public resources available in this current economic environment. Objective 5A - MCAAS will partner with Bucks, Chester, and Delaware County area agencies on aging to develop and implement a nonprofit, sustainable home care business model to support residents as they age within the four suburban counties. This model will assist the counties in meeting growing service demands and in addressing the growing waiting lists across the region during this time of shrinking public funding. Strategies: a) MCAAS will continue the development of a nonprofit model of home care, in response to market surveys and a business plan established by the four suburban counties (Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties). b) MCAAS plans to address growing waiting lists in Montgomery County and the surrounding suburban counties (Chester, Bucks, Delaware counties) through this sustainable business model which will funnel “profit” back to area agencies on aging to address their growing needs and waiting list by the third year. Objective 5B – MCAAS will continue to support and expand advocacy efforts on a regional basis which support home and community based services to be available to those aging in community settings across the county and the Southeastern region. Strategies: a) MCAAS Advisory Council will continue to meet with the Advisory Councils from the Southeastern region to combine advocacy and outreach efforts in support of home and community based services for older and disabled adults. b) The AAA directors in the Southeastern region will also continue to unite in efforts to advocate whenever necessary on issues related to funding and programming to support older residents. c) Legislative visits will be made with AAA staff and Advisory Council members sharing legislators throughout the region to heighten the impact when advocating for home and community-based care issues. GOAL #5 – Outcomes and Performance Measures The new nonprofit model will assist older adults unable to benefit from traditional AAA services to remain at home and prevent institutionalization for one year longer than would have been possible without those services provided. The four suburban counties will sustain a quality service which will be able to assist local AAA’s with their waiting list needs, thus serving additional older residents with home and community-based service options and prevent nursing home placements. Coordinated efforts through the new nonprofit will assist in securing new funding necessary to assist in supporting county agencies during the next four years. Advocacy efforts by the regional AAA’s will result in an increased number of shared legislative visits and increased recognition and support from local legislators on key issues of importance to Aging and the human services in Montgomery County. III-B Goal Integration With the PA Department of Aging Priority Themes for 2012-2016 The PA Department of Aging’s five policy priorities for use in developing the next Four Year Plan for 20122016 are listed below, along with a few selected aligned goals, objectives, and strategies mentioned within the MCAAS Four Year Plan: 1. Service Innovation seeks innovative solutions to improve the quality of life for older and disabled adults. MCAAS Advisory Council will continue to meet with the Advisory Councils from the Southeastern region to combine advocacy and outreach efforts in support of home and community based services for older and disabled adults in communities across the region. MCAAS will work with Montgomery County Office of Behavioral Health to focus outreach and case management services targeting isolated, elderly individuals with behavioral health issues, and drug and alcohol concerns. MCAAS will work with hospitals and long term care facilities to promote supportive care transitions, reduce hospital readmissions, and strengthen health promotion efforts for those aging residents of the county. 2. Communities to Age and Live Well supports all older residents choosing to live at home as long as safe, comfortable and medically supported. MCAAS will continue to work with the United Way on the Communities That Care project and other projects which build strong community-based supports in targeted areas of Montgomery County to foster aging-friendly communities. MCAAS will continue to support transportation coordination and enhanced service delivery in response to transportation concerns raised during the MCAAS survey and focus groups. MCAAS will support efforts to strengthen the home support services available to older adults in the community, through programs such as Project Hearth, Senior Companions, and other efforts. MCAAS will continue to collaborate to address unmet housing needs for older and disabled adults, especially in the areas of affordable and accessible housing options, nursing home transition needs, and rehab programs available to maintain existing housing while aging in place. MCAAS will expand efforts to better communicate, educate, and coordinate in meeting the safety and emergency preparedness needs of older, isolated adults who may be at risk. 3. Revitalize and Rearchitect Services examines existing services and explores new means for better programming and service delivery. MCAAS will collaborate with other advocates and groups to address growing food insecurity issues among the elderly, and to ensure better nutritional outcomes for those at risk. MCAAS will continue to work with those coordinating housing programs under the new county-wide Housing Blueprint to ensure those disabled and older adults at risk of homelessness can have their needs met more effectively and in a timely manner. 4. Promotion of Health and Wellness examines healthy lifestyles as we age. MCAAS will seek ways to develop new partnerships which will help sustain stronger senior center models across Montgomery County. A “senior center without walls” model will be explored through collaborative funding for one targeted area of the county. At least two senior centers in Montgomery County will share resources and planning for future goals and to strengthen community involvement. MCAAS will work with hospitals and long term care facilities to promote supportive care transitions, reduce hospital readmissions, and strengthen health promotion efforts for those aging residents of the county. 5. Effective and Responsible Management examines resources available for the short and long term MCAAS will partner with Bucks, Chester, and Delaware County area agencies on aging to develop and implement a nonprofit, sustainable home care business model to support residents as they age within the four suburban counties. This model will assist the counties in meeting growing service demands and in addressing the growing waiting lists across the region during this time of shrinking public funding. MCAAS will enhance existing collaborations with municipalities, foundations, county government, and other groups to engage in planning for the aging needs of Montgomery County residents. III-C FUNDING CHALLENGES As MCAAS begins to implement the goals, objectives, and strategies included in this 2012-2016 Four Year Plan, thoughts also turn to the increasingly challenging financial situation which currently exists. Although MCAAS began many years ago to partner with other community groups and funders to strengthen available resources and create a more diverse funding base for MCAAS and our aging providers into the future, there are challenges facing every level of support today. Some objectives, and strategies may need to change along the way, especially as financial priorities may shift, yet MCAAS will continue to collaborate whenever and wherever possible to enhance existing (and in many cases shrinking) resources, reduce duplication of effort within the network of care that exists, and create an even more responsive system of long term care throughout Montgomery County. MCAAS believes that advocacy efforts may provide a strong response during these critical times. Efforts to educate and outreach may again build the strong voice of concern to be heard more clearly for the years ahead, and the regional approaches when voicing common concerns, will be pursued more vigorously for the future. Advocacy is needed now more than ever, as our traditional base of Lottery funding for aging services in the community has remained stagnant for years in the face of growing needs, eroding our ability to continue providing the comprehensive network of care needed by the residents we all serve. Lottery dollars continue to slip away to fund shortfalls in the state budget elsewhere, such as the recent transfer of $50 million in Lottery surplus to fund MA nursing home beds at a time when thousands are on waiting lists across the state waiting for basic home care to prevent more expensive state nursing home care provided in an institutionally-based setting. Together we must realistically face our financial challenges by re-establishing priorities to meet the growing demands, working collaboratively on positive solutions that work to provide the best alternatives and choices in the most effective way possible to address our growing needs. Over the next four years, MCAAS will continue to work collaboratively within our dedicated network of partners, and demonstrate our shared commitment to create a more "aging friendly" Montgomery County on behalf of the growing numbers of adults and families seeking quality programs and services through Montgomery County government.
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