Funds: Elderly, disabled to be independent

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WASHINGTON, Sept. 11 (UPI) -- More than $12 million in grants from the U.S. government is designated to help the elderly and the disabled maintain their independence, an official says.

Kathleen Sebelius, secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, announced Tuesday the $12.5 million -- funded by the Affordable Care Act and the Older Americans Act -- was awarded to Aging and Disability Resource Centers to support older Americans and people with disabilities stay independent and receive long-term services and supports.

These grants support counselors who help individuals and their caregivers identify and access long-term services and supports, regardless of income or financial assets. Aging and Disability Resource Centers are "one-stop shops" for older adults, people with disabilities, their caregivers and families to get the information and services they need as their health and long-term care needs change, Sebelius said.

"Whether someone is in the hospital and ready to be discharged, or living at home but needing additional care, an options counselor can help them evaluate their needs and sift through the options available in their community to create a plan that meets their needs," Sebelius said in a statement.