Frequently Asked Questions

Commission on Aging has a variety of services and can guide you to community resources for individual needs. While each situation differs, a caseworker can speak with you to go over questions and assist with information & resources. Please call the Front Desk at (989) 797-6880 to ask for assistance, Monday – Friday 8am-5pm.

Frequently Asked Questions are intended to provide general information to assist the community. 
Our organization does not endorse or promote any vendors, products, or services featured.

Simply dial 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898211 to receive information on resources. Ask about your local food pantry as well as the drive-thru giveaways for emergency food assistance.

https://www.unitedwaysaginaw.org/get-help

Call your utility provider first and ask about payment plans and communicate any medical equipment that requires power. See below for additional options with utility assistance.

Commission on Aging:

Commission on Aging can assist with minor home repairs, up to $600.  Home repairs are defined as permanent improvements to an older person’s home to prevent or remedy a sub-standard condition or safety hazard. This fund is limited, please call to inquire about availability.

Department of Health & Human Services:

Emergency Relief Home Utilities

https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/assistance-programs/emergency-relief

Community Action Committee (CAC):

(989) 753-7741

https://www.facebook.com/saginawcac/

Habitat for Humanity, Saginaw-Shiawassee:

(989) 753-5200

https://www.habitat.org/mi/saginaw/saginaw-shiawassee-habitat-humanity

REVIVE:

REVIVE is a grant or loan program offered by participating financial institutions, often in partnership with organizations like the Federal Home Loan Bank, to help homeowners with essential repairs, safety upgrades, and accessibility modifications. 

Compassionate Care Network 989-443-4287

Isabella Bank 989-754-0388

https://ccninc.org/

United Way of Saginaw County

(989) 755-0505

https://www.unitedwaysaginaw.org/

Disability Network of Mid-Michigan

(989) 835-4041

https://www.dnmm.org/locations/saginaw/

Region VII Area Agency on Aging has trained MMAP counselors that can answer your insurance questions.

Please visit MMAP – Region 7 AAA or call (800) 858-1637.

Medicare is federal health insurance for people 65 or older, and some people under 65 with certain disabilities or conditions --- run by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps cover medical costs for some people with limited income and resources. The federal government has general rules that all state Medicaid programs must follow --- run by MDHHS. Michigan Department of Health & Human Services

For more information:

What’s the difference between Medicare and Medicaid? | HHS.gov

Medicare and Medicaid: What Are the Differences? | National Council on Aging

Skilled care is covered by Medicare if ordered by doctor. Things like: Registered Nurse, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, etc. 

Private duty care is usually not covered by traditional health insurance plans. Things like: Personal Care, Homemaking, Meal Prep, Med Reminders, etc.

Waiver/PACE Programs provide a Nursing Home level of care in the community for participants who are eligible for Medicaid. 

A Commission on Aging Care Management Registered Nurse and Licensed Social Worker team use person centered planning to assist medically needy/nursing home level of care participants to remain in their homes. The team identifies needs, explores services and care options. The agency requests a voluntary cost share, based on the participants’ income. Care Management does not bill Medicaid or have financial eligibility criteria.

The MI Choice Waiver Program began in 1992. Through the program, eligible adults 18 and older who meet income and asset criteria receive Medicaid covered services like those provided by the nursing home but can stay in their home or in assisted living facilities. Participants receive supportive services, such as respite and chore services, meal delivery, personal emergency response systems medical supplies, among other assistance. All of the services provided are free of charge to the participant and paid for through the waiver program.

For more information or to apply you can contact the MI Choice Waiver Agents for Saginaw County:

Region VII Area Agency on Aging

(800) 858-1637

MI Choice (Medicaid) – Region 7 Area Agency on Aging

A&D Home Health Care, Inc.

(989) 249-0929

MI Choice Waiver | a-dhomecare1

Planning for Long-Term Care? Through the MI Options Program, Region VII Area Agency on Aging has trained counselors offering one-on-one, person-centered support to help you:

  • Understand your care options
  • Navigate major life changes
  • Plan for independence at home and in the community

Anyone 18+ (including caregivers) can connect — no income or asset limits.

Call Region VII at (800) 858-1637 to get connected with an experienced and caring options counselor.

Senior Preferences offers a comprehensive resource guide for Seniors. Click on the region you are looking for.

https://www.seniorpreferences.com/

Senior Housing (Independent Living):                                                                  

Retirement Communities:

  • Tradition of Saginaw (Main Campus) (989) 702-2568, 3785 N. Center Rd., Saginaw MI
  • Traditions of Saginaw (West Campus) (989) 341-8535, 5155 McCarty Rd., Saginaw MI
  • Wellspring Lutheran Services (989) 791-1831, Senior Living Center, 2825 Wieneke Rd., Saginaw MI.
  • Independence Village (989) 291-4053, 4141 McCarty Rd., Saginaw MI
  • Swanhaven Manor (989) 845-6063, 300 Kennely Rd., Saginaw MI
  • Holiday Winter Village (989) 652-4100, 255 Meyer Rd., Frankenmuth MI

Saginaw County Housing Commission (Independent living apartments):

(989) 755-8183 

https://www.saginawhousing.org/

  • Davenport Manor, 2811 Davenport Ave., Saginaw MI.
  • Elmwood Manor, 2814 E. Genesee Ave., Saginaw MI.
  • Maplewood Manor, 535 S. Warren Ave., Saginaw MI.
  • Rosien Towers, 310 S. Harrison, Saginaw MI.
  • Pinewood Manor, 2715 S Jefferson, Saginaw MI.

In Home Care (Private Duty care) caregivers can assist with daily tasks such as personal care, dressing and grooming, toileting, meal preparation, medication reminders, help paying bills, doing laundry, housekeeping, shopping, errands, and transportation.

Whether you are looking for care to come in for a couple hours a day, once a week, or a caregiver who will provide 24-hour care in your home, we strongly urge you to do your research, interview each and every person, and to always check references.

Nursing homes are facilities licensed by the State to provide nursing care and medical treatment.  There are two types of nursing home care: “skilled care” and “custodial or basic care.”  Skilled care is provided by a licensed professional such as a registered nurse, physical, occupational or speech therapist.  Custodial or basic care provides assistance with a person’s activities of daily living. 

An Assisted Living Facility is a type of residential community for adults who need help with daily activities, but not the intensive medical care of a nursing home.

Refer to lists in MML guide (Adult Day Care, Adult Foster Care Homes, Dementia Care Homes, PACE, Homes for the Aged (HFA), Hospice, In Home Care, Respite Care Facilities, Skilled Nursing Facilities)

Region VII Area Agency on Aging has a free legal program for residents of Saginaw County who are 60+ years of age. Contact Region VII AAA (800) 858-1637 and ask to speak to an Information and Assistance specialist about their free legal program for seniors. Financial & Legal – Region 7 Area Agency on Aging

Area Legal Resources:

The State Bar Legal Resource Center is a lawyer referral service that will refer you to a private attorney who can provide you with an initial consultation for a nominal fee. Call (800) 968-0738 for more information.

Elder Law has become a specialty arm of the legal profession because the average life span and the number of senior citizens continues to increase. With age comes a host of issues. These attorneys offer legal guidance and counseling on preparing for long-term care, choosing retirement plans, planning, and settling your estate, program eligibility, and a host of other issues that older Americans may face.

  • Geraldine Anne Brown (989) 791-8181
  • Burgess & Sweeney Law (989) 652-9923
  • Chalgian and Tripp Law offices, PLLC (989) 272-7779
  • David J. Fisher (989) 792-9641
  • David M. Gilbert (989) 790-2500
  • Norman S. Harrison (989) 790-7177
  • Law Office of Jerry Reif (989) 790-1461
  • Smith Bovill, P.C. (989) 792-9641
  • Sturtz & Sturtz, P.C. (989) 799-4701
  • Swartz and Wilson, P.L.C. (989) 793-7000
  • Carol M. Thomas (989) 793-2300
  • Zolton Law Offices (989) 792-1111

Personal Emergency Response Systems

When you experience a fall, have a medical issue, or experience any type of an emergency, every second counts! If you are alone, delayed medical care can jeopardize your recovery and your independence! A Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) is commonly referred to as a “Lifeline” or a “Life Alert”. These medical alert systems are specifically designed to protect seniors and to ensure access to medical attention in the event of an emergency. 

These medical alert devices are designed to be worn as either a pendant (necklace) or wrist band (watch). They are typically waterproof and designed to be worn at all times, even in the shower. These medical alert systems summon help at the push of a button. These units ensure prompt, caring assistance 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Many of these systems also have add-on features which include: a fall detection “auto alert,” medication dispensers, bed mats, or wander guards. Relatively new to the market are versions of this system that are compatible with cell phones and GPS versions that work anywhere you go. Most of these units have a one-time-only installation fee, and then an ongoing monthly rental fee. Please contact the individual business to find out the specifics on their unit and/or add on features. Also, some of these companies may offer discounts, or even waive their installation fee if you tell them that the Saginaw County Commission on Aging referred you.

Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman Program

Since 1972, the Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman Program strives to improve the quality of care and quality of life experienced by residents who reside in licensed long term care facilities. Licensed long term care facilities are nursing homes, homes for the aged, and adult foster care homes.

Ombudsmen advocate for the resident in the facilities, guided by the wishes of the resident. All services are provided under strict confidentiality. Ombudsmen cannot share information about the resident or the resident’s concerns without the resident’s permission. The program also aims to improve the long-term care system, speaking for passage of laws, regulations and policies benefiting over 100,000 Michigan long term care residents. The Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman Program is funded by federal and state government. There is no cost to residents or families for ombudsman services.

To reach a local ombudsman, call (866) 485-9393.

Home | MLTCOP

Nursing Home Complaints

The Bureau of Survey and Certification (BSC) accepts and processes complaints against various state-licensed and federally certified health facilities, agencies, and programs.

To file a complaint against a state-licensed or federally certified health facility, including nursing homes, hospitals, home health agencies, hospices, surgery centers, dialysis centers, and other providers call the Complaint Hotline (800) 882-6006.

File a Complaint with BSC

Adult Protective Services investigators protect vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect and exploitation by coordinating with mental health, public health, law enforcement, the probate courts, the aging network, community groups and the general public.

If you suspect abuse, neglect or exploitation, call (855) 444-3911 any time day or night to make a report. Staff will investigate allegations within 24 hours after the report is received.

Adult Protective Services

Learn more about Elder Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation here: https://mi.gov/elderabuse

Each pharmacy offers their own delivery options, prices, and discounts. Some of the pharmacies listed also offer specialty items, prepackaged “bubble packs”, and/or offer additional services such as filling of the patient’s own medication planners. Please call the individual pharmacy for details on delivery charges, delivery area, and senior discounts.

Chesaning Area:

Frankenmuth Area:

Freeland Area:

Saginaw Area:

St Charles Area:

Mail order Pharmacies: