1) My mother is 86, and my brother and I have been caring for her. However, with our schedules, it is becoming more difficult. What do you have available that might help?

LifeStream has a variety of services available, depending on your mother's situation and resources. Our Options counselors work with individuals to assess needs and coordinate services provided by home health care agencies to meet the individual's needs. Those services can include in-home care, homemaker help, respite care, transportation, meals and other services.

2) Recently, I fell in the bathroom. I was able to get up but, I'm worried that it could happen again and that I would need help. Is there something you could suggest to help?

LifeStream has teamed up with ADT Companion Services to offer a Personal Response System. This system can give you the peace of mind you need to remain in the comfort of your own home. The device is worn like a necklace around your neck and can easily be used to signal help. For pricing and details, call LifeStream, (800) 589-1121.

3) I've seen your New InterUrban vans in my community. How do I catch a ride?

You can reach us at (888) 589-1121 to schedule a ride or find out more information. The

New InterUrban is open to riders of all ages 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays in Delaware, Madison, Grant, Blackford, Henry, Randolph and Jay counties.

4) How do I find out if there is a Senior Cafe near my house and how much does it cost to have lunch? Can I have the meal delivered?

See our list of Senior Cafes is available from LifeStream; we have 10 cafes available, plus the Blackford County Hospital offers an evening meal. The program is open to those age 60 and up. Reservations are needed to ensure we have enough food on hand for all those who need a meal. To reserve a meal, call the Senior Café or call LifeStream. Meals are served on a donation basis with a recommended donation of $3.50 per meal. Meals can be delivered weekdays to your home if you live in our seven-county service area. Cost is $6.25 a meal for a hot meal to be delivered to your home.

5) Where do you get all the money for your programs?

We are supported in large part by federal and state funding; however, we also accept donations, bequests and grants. We are not, however, a government agency. We are an independent non-profit. In addition, clients can "private pay" for services; that is, clients pay for services just like they would if they were to contract with a provider for services. Our funding allows us to only serve a small percentage of the aging and disabled population who needs help.

6)  I need assistance with picking a Medicare Part D plan. Where can I get help?

LifeStream Services has several staff in our Aging and Disability Resource Center who are trained as SHIP counselors. SHIP stands for the Senior Health Insurance Information Program. SHIP counselors are trained in issues related to senior health insurance programs including Medicare, Medicaid, and Long Term Care Insurance. Contact the LifeStream office for more information about SHIP counseling. Call (800) 589-1121 today.

7)  I have been caring for my grandfather, but it seems to be time to check into nursing facility placement.  How do I get him admitted to a nursing facility?

LifeStream Services Options Counselors are well versed in many different programs that may be able to assist you in continuing to care for your grandfather at home.  There are a variety of options ranging from respite care to home modifications that can assist in caring for a loved one.  However, if you do need to pursue nursing facility placement, Options counselors are also trained in how to complete that screening process.