ElderSource HelpLine provides resources for isolated seniors, caregivers

Free, live phone service provides information on local agencies, services

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Seniors, disabled adults and their caregivers can get free, live help from trained customer service specialists and information about local programs and services through ElderSource’s HelpLine.

ElderSource specialists are trained to listen to callers’ concerns and to help them access local agencies, services and programs, according to Linda Levin, CEO of ElderSource, a local nonprofit organization designated by the state as the Area Agency on Aging and Aging and Disability Resource Center for Northeast Florida. The agency provides information and referral resources for caregivers and seniors in Northeast Florida’s seven-county area.

“ElderSource’s HelpLine is designed to help callers find the help they need to live as safely and as independently as possible,” Levin said. “During the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, the HelpLine is proving to be a crucial source of reliable information and help to seniors and caregivers in our service area.”

ElderSource HelpLine counselors work with callers to explain what resources are available and to help them enroll in the programs for which they are eligible. The service is part of the federal Aging and Disability Resource Centers program, that addresses the frustrations many older adults, people with disabilities, and family members experience when trying to learn about and access service programs and support. An additional program that ElderSource offers helps area seniors understand their Medicare benefits that cover expenses due to COVID-19 testing and illness.

The HelpLine assistance is available to persons of all income levels living in Baker, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Nassau, St. Johns and Volusia counties. The HelpLine specialists are available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The ElderSource HelpLine number is (888) 242-4464.