Features

New TCARE Software Supports Montana's Caregivers

Caregiving for a loved one can be a rewarding experience, but it often comes with significant emotional, physical, and financial challenges. Over one in five Americans serve as unpaid caregivers, with many providing more than 20 hours of care each week. This heavy load often leads to physical, emotional, and financial stress, making it challenging for caregivers to continue caring for their loved ones at home.

Recognizing these difficulties, the Aging Services Bureau of the Senior and Long-Term Care (SLTC) Division, in partnership with the Money Follows the Person (MFP) program and local Area Agencies on Aging, is introducing a game-changing tool to better support Montana’s caregivers: the TCARE software program.

An Evidence-Based Approach

TCARE is an evidence-based program designed to assess family caregivers and connect them to programs and resources that can effectively reduce their stress and burden. The software operates by addressing the root cause of caregiver burnout, known as identity discrepancy. This occurs when a caregiver’s personal identity (such as being a spouse, son, or daughter) conflicts with the new responsibilities and expectations of their caregiving role, leading to stress and burnout.

By identifying and addressing this identity conflict, TCARE provides tailored support to help caregivers manage and reconcile their roles, effectively preventing burnout.

Onboarding and Training

The first onboarding session for training TCARE specialists was held virtually with 13 participants on December 19th. Once the participants complete the additional training modules, they will be able to start accepting referrals for the program. The program includes a soft launch of the program in participating planning and service areas.

These specialists will use the TCARE Family Caregiver Support Software to create individualized care plans that address issues such as burnout, stress, and depression. Continuous follow-up assessments and adjustments to care plans will ensure ongoing positive outcomes for caregivers.

The Role of TCARE Specialists

TCARE specialists play an important role in this program. They assess more than 90 burnout factors to measure a caregiver’s burnout risk and create tailored, data-driven care plans. Caregivers receive ongoing support and updates from their dedicated TCARE specialist, so they get the help they need when they need it.
Moving Forward

The TCARE software program, with its clinically proven approach, aims to prevent caregiver burnout by offering better care for caregivers. As this program rolls out in Montana, it is expected to provide crucial support to those in need and enhance the overall well-being of family caregivers.

Through initiatives like TCARE, the SLTC Aging Services bureau strives to create a network of care that not only assists caregivers but also ensures that they have the resources and support necessary to maintain their well-being.
For more information on how to participate in the TCARE program or to learn more about its benefits, please contact Patrick Kelly at (406) 444-0998 or send an email to Patrick.Kelley@mt.gov.

illustration of a blue car and yellow car driving in opposite directions through a winter landscape

Stay Safe on Montana's Winter Roads

Well, the snowy season has officially arrived in Montana. Winter here is stunning, with snow-covered landscapes and crisp, clear air. However, the same beauty that makes winter enchanting can also make driving treacherous. For older adults, it’s essential to take extra precautions to stay safe on the roads. Here are some tips and advice to ensure your winter driving experience is as safe and stress-free as possible.

Prepare Your Vehicle

Before you hit the road, make sure your vehicle is ready for winter conditions:

Winter Tires: Invest in a good set of winter tires. They offer better traction on snow and ice compared to all-season tires.
Battery Check: Cold weather can affect your car’s battery. Have it tested to ensure it’s in good working condition.
Fluids: Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent the fuel lines from freezing. Use winter-grade windshield washer fluid and make sure your antifreeze levels are adequate.
Emergency Kit: Always carry a winter emergency kit that includes a blanket, flashlight, first-aid supplies, food, water, a shovel, and traction aids like sand or kitty litter.

Plan Ahead

Knowing the road conditions and planning your route can make a big difference:

Weather Reports: Check weather forecasts before you leave. If a severe storm is expected, it’s best to delay your trip.
Route Planning: Choose main roads and highways that are more likely to be cleared and treated. Avoid back roads that might be impassable.
Daylight Driving: Try to drive during daylight hours when visibility is better, and roads are less icy.

Drive Cautiously

When you’re on the road, adjust your driving to the conditions.

Slow Down: Drive slower than usual to give yourself more time to react to any changes in road conditions.
Increase Following Distance: Keep a safe distance between you and the car in front of you to allow for longer stopping distances on slippery roads.
Brake Gently: Avoid sudden movements. Brake gently to avoid skidding. If you start to skid, steer in the direction you want to go and ease off the gas pedal.
Use Your Lights: Use your headlights to increase visibility, especially in snowy or foggy conditions.

Stay Connected

Make sure you’re able to communicate and get help if needed.

Mobile Phone: Keep your mobile phone charged and with you whenever you drive. Store important contacts, like roadside assistance, in your phone.
Let Others Know: Inform someone about your travel plans, including your route and estimated arrival time. This way, they can check on you if you don’t arrive as expected.
Stay in Your Vehicle: If you get stuck, it’s usually safer to stay in your vehicle until help arrives. Run the engine for warmth, but make sure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow.

Know Your Limits

It’s important to recognize when it’s not safe to drive.

Listen to Your Body: If you’re tired or unwell, avoid driving. Cold weather can be more physically taxing, so it’s crucial to be at your best.
Consider Alternatives: Sometimes, the best option is to avoid driving altogether. Consider public transportation, ride-sharing services, or asking friends and family for help.

Winter driving in Montana requires preparation and caution, but with these tips, older adults can navigate the winter roads more confidently and safely. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the beauty of winter from behind the wheel.

Don't Let Life's Challenges Leave You in the Cold

Energy Share Provides Assistance Paying Heating Bills

Energy Share is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to helping Montanans overcome home energy emergencies. Whether it’s a disconnect notice or a propane tank running low, Energy Share provides situational assistance regardless of income, heat source, or energy provider.

As cold weather sets in, heating bills can quickly become overwhelming. If you or someone you know is struggling to pay these bills, call 1-888-779-7589 or visit their webpage.

You can also connect with Energy Share’s services through your local Human Resources Development Council.
In Montana, community spirit is all about neighbors helping neighbors. Something as simple as accompanying a friend to complete an application can make a big difference. Additionally, inform your energy provider about your situation — they might be able to direct you to further resources.

Past Issues

Shining A Light on A Silent Epidemic

November is a month dedicated to raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, a devastating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. This silent epidemic, characterized by progressive memory loss, cognitive decline, and behavioral changes, has a profound impact on individuals, families, and communities.

Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that gradually destroys brain cells. As the disease progresses, individuals may experience difficulty with:

Memory: Forgetting recent events, names, or familiar places
Thinking: Struggling with problem-solving, planning, and decision-making
Language: Finding the right words or following conversations
Behavior: Experiencing personality changes, agitation, or wandering

Impact on Families

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease can be emotionally and physically demanding. Family members often face challenges such as:

Emotional stress: Dealing with the loss of a loved one’s cognitive abilities
Financial strain: Managing health-care costs and potential changes in living arrangements
Social isolation: Limited opportunities for social activities and support

Importance of Awareness

Raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease is crucial for several reasons.

Early diagnosis: Early detection can help individuals and their families plan for the future and access appropriate support services.
Reducing stigma: Challenging negative stereotypes and misconceptions about the disease can help create a more compassionate and understanding environment.
Promoting research: Increased awareness can drive funding for research aimed at finding a cure and improving treatments.
Encouraging support: Fostering a supportive community can empower individuals living with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.

Action You Can Take Today

“Research shows that adopting healthy behaviors, like getting exercise and good quality sleep, may reduce the risk of cognitive decline,” said Melanie Williams, Executive Director for the Alzheimer’s Association of Montana.

“We know that the brain changes that lead to an Alzheimer’s diagnosis are happening 15 to 20 years before the disease is ever diagnosed,” Williams said. “Factors including high blood pressure, lack of physical activity, our diet, and how social we are all play a role in our risk for developing Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.”

24/7 Helpline: 1-800-272-3900

The Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline (1-800-272-3900) is a free service offering support for caregivers, families, the public, and people living with dementia.

You’ll connect with a live person who can provide information, local resources, crisis assistance, and emotional support.

Information is also available on the Association’s website: www.alz.org. A free online webinar explaining the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s is available there as well.

November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

Alzheimer’s Awareness Month is an opportunity to come together as a community and support those affected by this devastating disease.

By raising awareness, challenging stigma, and promoting research, we can work toward a future where Alzheimer’s is no longer a burden.

Worried About Winter Heating Bills?
Energy Share Can Help

Cold weather is coming, and heating bills can pile up fast. Do you know someone who is worried about how they’re going to pay those bills?

Two programs in Montana can help.The first is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which helps pay a portion of your winter heating bill. The second is Energy Share, which helps Montanans at risk of losing their heat or electricity and have no other resources to pay their bills.

In Montana, it’s about neighbors helping neighbors. This might be as simple as going with a friend to help them apply for assistance.

Call Energy Share at 1-888-779-7589 to learn more. You can also find information at www.energysharemt.com.

Yes, Your Heat Can Be Turned Off In Winter

Many people think utility companies cannot shut off services during winter. However, under certain circumstances, this can happen.

From November 1 to April 1, a regulated utility cannot shut off gas, underground propane, or electric service without prior approval from the Public Service Commission (PSC). The PSC regulates companies such as Cut Bank Gas, Energy West, Montana-Dakota Utilities, and NorthWestern Energy).

The PSC will not approve a winter shutoff if a customer is unable to pay (for example, if they are receiving public assistance) or if a household member is at least 62 years old or has a disability.

Customers must inform their utility company if these circumstances apply to their household.

For more information, visit the Public Service Commission’s website at psc.mt.gov/consumers/energy/pdf/UtilityRules03012001.pdf or call 1-406-444-6199 or 1-800-646-6150.

Please note, electric cooperatives and propane vendors are not regulated by the PSC. Each has its own policies, so be sure to check with your energy provider for their specific rules.

Honoring Montana's Seniors for Older Americans Month

The Administration for Community Living (ACL) leads the nation in recognizing the invaluable contributions of older Americans. Each year, we celebrate their impact, highlight aging trends, and reaffirm our commitments to serving the older adults in our communities. The 2024 theme, Powered by Connection, introduced during Older Americans Month (OAM) in May, acknowledges the profound impact meaningful relationships and social connections have on health and well-being. This theme emphasizes how connectedness supports independence and aging in place by combating isolation, loneliness, and other issues.

Rhandi Rachlis: A Life Powered by Connection

For Rhandi Rachlis of Basin, Montana, fostering meaningful connections has been a lifelong endeavor. Since moving to Montana in 1965, Rhandi has dedicated herself to her community through various roles, most notably as a volunteer at Basin Elementary School for over two decades.

“It’s so convenient because I love it,” she said. “I didn’t have kids when I was younger, and I thought I’ll just try it. They were looking for a foster grandma, and I just got sucked in. It’s a learning experience — I’m still learning.” As part of the Rocky Mountain AmeriCorps Foster Grandparents Program, Rhandi finds her volunteer work both challenging and enriching.

“I do what they tell me … or try to,” she laughed. “In the mornings, I help kindergartners and first graders with their reading and writing. I’ll help them complete their worksheets, recognize letters, and understand when they need to get up and jump around a bit.” Her afternoons often involve assisting older students with various tasks, from editing stories to accompanying them on field trips.

Supporting the Arts Community

Beyond her volunteer work at the school, Rhandi is an active supporter of the arts community. “I’ve been on lots of boards over the years, trying to help in whatever way I can,” she said. Her artistic spirit shines through in her personal projects and her involvement in local initiatives, such as the artist refuge she co-manages.

Physical and Mental Well-Being

Rhandi’s dedication extends to her physical and mental well-being. “I promised myself I would go to tai chi classes in Boulder, but I haven’t gone yet. Instead, I do my own exercises and meditations at home.” Her routine includes morning meditations, pushups, and inversions, which she believes are beneficial for her brain and body. “My pushups and my inversions have really helped my back and my knees. And I ride my bike while listening to music,” she explained.

Challenges of Aging

Despite her active lifestyle, Rhandi acknowledges the challenges of aging. “I’m sad for what I’m losing. I’m 87, and I’m not as smart or energetic as I used to be. I can’t work as hard, and I’m more isolated socially and culturally because I don’t want to drive at night anymore.” She expressed a desire to move closer to services and community events, but finding affordable housing has been difficult.

Keeping Engaged and Connected

Through all these changes, Rhandi remains committed to staying engaged and connected. She enjoys exploring different music genres on iTunes and maintains a keen interest in ethnic and folk music. “I love discovering new music. Recently, I found a Ukraine radio station that plays ethnic music from around the world.”

Rhandi Rachlis exemplifies the spirit of Older Americans Month. Her lifelong contributions to her community, her dedication to fostering connections, and her pursuit of personal growth and well-being inspire us all. As we reflect on Older Americans Month, let’s honor the remarkable seniors like Rhandi who continue to enrich our lives and communities.

Are You a Montana Veteran?
Take the Veteran Long-Term Care Survey.

Imagine a future where every Montana veteran receives the care and support they deserve, tailored to their unique needs and experiences. This vision is driving the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) to gather insights from veterans across the state. With more than 3,300 veterans already participating, the goal is to reach at least 5,000 responses by July 15, 2024.

This survey, launched following the approval of House Bill 264 and signed by Governor Greg Gianforte in April 2023, focuses on assessing Montana’s veteran population demographics, the current state of long-term care services, and future needs. The goal is to create a robust data set that will guide the development of services tailored to veterans' needs.

Tailoring Services

"Valuable insight from survey participants will help us tailor our services more effectively, ensuring they meet the real and evolving needs of our veteran population," said Barb Smith, Senior and Long Term Care (SLTC) administrator. Smith emphasized the importance of the survey in examining needs for nursing home care, domiciliary support, Alzheimer's disease services, and various types of community and in-home care. Additionally, it will assess the condition and capacity of Montana’s veteran cemeteries.

Veterans like Blake Fuhriman, Executive Director for the Veterans Navigation Network, recognize the survey’s significance. "This survey provides an opportunity for veterans like myself to have a say in how our state treats veterans," Fuhriman said. "That is definitely worth the 15 minutes of time it took me to complete the survey."

The survey is available online at veteransurvey.mt.gov until July 15, 2024. For those who prefer a hard copy, a downloadable version is also available on the website.

Presenting the Findings

In collaboration with the Montana Veterans Affairs Division, the SLTC will compile the survey results into a detailed report for the State Administration and Veterans’ Affairs Interim Committee in September. This comprehensive assessment will inform future strategies to ensure Montana’s veterans receive the care and support they deserve.

Veterans’ voices are crucial in shaping the services that will support them and future generations. Take the survey, join a focus group, and contribute to the future of veteran care in Montana.