Aging in Place

Here is a handy article from Consumer Reports to help you prepare your home to comfortably age in place.

Consumer Reports: How to Age in Place

Things for Seniors to Watch Out For

Many times a Senior will have to hire a contractor to perform work at their home. Most contractors will require the Senior to sign a contract. While this, along with asking the contractor to provide a copy of their license, insurance and references, is a good idea but it could be misleading at best or predatory at worst. If the Senior is not familiar with contracts or is confused in any way, they should seek help from a trusted friend, relative or lawyer. Here’s an example of a contract that contains language that might become problematic for a Senior:

“RENEWAL This agreement shall automatically renew for a future period of one year subject to price increase. Either party has the option to discontinue this Contract after the contract has been enforced for a minimum of one year by giving the other party thirty (30) days written notice prior to annual renewal.”

Signing a contract with an automatic annual renewal clause could cost the Senior money that they weren’t budgeting for. It’s very easy to forget that the contract was going to renew whether they needed this ongoing service or not. Don’t be afraid to require a contractor to amend a proposed contract if it does not reflect your wishes.

Local Resources

Delaware Co. Office For The Aging: 607-832-5750

Delaware County Office for the Aging — see the Resource Directory and The Dispatch newsletter.

Senior Vision Services (Delaware County): Laura Williams, 607-724-2428 — avreus.org

Greene County Aging Services & Resources: 845-719-3555

Greene County Senior Citizens Round Table News

Senior Vision Services (Greene County): 518-463-1211

Ulster County Office For The Aging: 845-340-3456

Free Rides for Medical Appointments

Monday–Thursday afternoons — Catskill Neighbors, Inc. has organized a team of volunteer drivers to transport local residents to medical appointments scheduled between 1 and 4 pm.

To use this service: Please call 845-280-0459 as soon as you make your appointment. Include information about where you live and the location of the appointment. You will receive a call-back confirmation, and the name of your driver. Prior to your appointment, the driver will contact you about details of pick-up. We need at least 48 hours to match a resident with an available driver.

To become a volunteer driver: We are eager to add more drivers as this program gets established. The commitment would be a willingness to be “on call” 2–4 afternoons/month, as your schedule allows. Please call 845-280-0459 to volunteer. Mileage can be reimbursed at your request, and excess auto liability insurance is provided by Catskill Neighbors, Inc.

The Buzz — monthly publication by the Ulster County Office for the Aging.

Senior Vision Services (Ulster County): 518-463-1211

Community Food Pantry: 845-586-2233 — Rt. 28 in Arkville, NY. Hours are Mondays 10 AM–noon.

The Family Table Community Assistance Program: 845-586-3150 — 629 Main Street, Margaretville, NY. the-family-table.org

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