Information and Assistance:

Wading through the maze of services available for older adults can be very daunting.  The Department on Aging provides accurate information and assistance on all issues concerning older adults. Inquiries are received from eligible seniors, caregivers and family members either in or outside Oneida County. Our trained staff will also help the older adult and/or their family plan for current and future needs.

ADRC of the Northwoods: Aging & Disability Resource Center of the Northwoods, Rhinelander Office.  Bringing people and resources together.  Providing information, assistance and advocacy to older adults, persons with disabilities and their families to promote healthy choices, independence and an enhanced quality of life.  ADRC's provide Information and Assistance, Long-Term Care Options Counseling, Health and Wellness, Benefits Counseling and Long-Term Care Services.  The ADRC of the Northwoods is the first place to go with your aging and disability questions.  Call 1-800-699-6704.

Disability Benefit Specialist:  The ADRC now includes a Disability Benefit Specialist for adults age 18-59 with a physical and/or developmental disability.  Provides information and advocacy regarding benefit programs, including eligibility assessment, appliction assistance and appeals process.

Elder Benefit Specialists: Known as “red tape cutters” since they assist older adults in understanding the maze of benefit programs such as;  Medicare, Social Security, Medicaid, Veterans Benefits, housing, SSI, etc.....  Staff provides free information, assistance and representation at their main office, satellite locations and in client’s homes.

Nutrition Services:

Senior Dining Program: Provides socialization and a noon meal at eight locations in the county (Rhinelander & Woodruff serve Monday-Friday,  Sugar Camp, Pier-Willow, Cassian/Harshaw, Three Lakes, Nokomis and Lake Tomahawk serve 2-3 times per week).  Voluntary donations accepted.

Home Delivered Meals: Volunteer drivers deliver a noon meal from a local meal site directly to the person in their home. This program is for individuals who are unable to attend their local meal site or prepare their own balanced meals. Voluntary donations accepted.

Transportation:

Bus service: (with wheelchair lift), Monday-Friday within Rhinelander city limits for older adults and persons with disabilities. One-way fare in city limits is $2.00.  Grocery shopping rides available on Wednesday and Friday mornings.  Rides are free to Trig’s and Wal-Mart, and are available to other locations for a fee.  Call for reservations one day in advance.

Escort Service: Provides transportation with private automobiles owned by volunteer escort drivers to medical appointments within the county or outside the county.  Persons 60 and older (and spouse), as well as those who are physically or developmentally handicapped or disabled are eligible. Passengers pay a portion of the mileage reimbursement given to the drivers.

Family Caregiver Support:

Alzheimer’s Family and Caregiver Support Program: Offers emotional, financial and social support for families dealing with Alzheimer’s Disease. Funding can provide assistance in receiving:  In-home Supportive and/or Respite Care, Adult Day Care, counseling, information, referrals and education.

Family Caregiver Support Program: This program is meant to provide direct support to the large number of family members who are serving as primary caregivers for older adults.  Services include support and information to caregivers through care (respite) as well as education and training.

Foot Care: Basic Foot Care is offered by an Aspirus nurse two Wednesdays a month, 8am-4pm.  APPOINTMENTS ARE REQUIRED.

Recreation/Social: Oneida Senior Center is a multipurpose facility operated by the Department on Aging Mondays-Fridays, 8 a.m. -4:30 p.m. for both informal and organized social, recreational and educational activities: including: exercise classes, speakers/discussion groups, bridge lessons, bowling, dance classes, parties, cards, craft classes, bus trips (day and overnight), etc...

Miscellaneous Services:

Loan Closet: A variety of equipment (walkers, wheelchairs, canes, etc.) is available to loan for 90 days or less to Oneida County residents 60 and older .  Please call 24 hrs. in advance to check inventory and request next day pick up.  A fee of $5 will be charged for walkers, canes and other small items.  A fee of $10 will be charged for wheelchairs and rollator walkers (walkers with seats).

• Loan Closet Rental Agreement
• Addendum to Loan Closet Rental Agreement

Newsletter: Free distribution through the “Best Years” section of the Daily News on the last Sunday of each month with information on issues and programs relevant to older adults including menus for all nutrition programs.