Information & Options Counseling

Options Counseling— A decision-support process that includes: listening to expressed preferences, values & needs, talking about options based on needs & preferences,  supporting an individual to make informed choices, connecting the individual to services and following up with the individual.

Local Contact Agency (LCA)— LCA staff, who are certified Options Counselors, are responsible for working with the resident and nursing home staff to discuss options for transitioning to the community by offering contact information for community based services that may facilitate transition once a resident indicates interest in learning more about transitioning home during their assessment. The LCA also takes the application for Money Follows the Person (MFP) with is a demonstration project that assists Medicaid eligible North Carolinians who live in inpatient facilities to move into their own homes and communities with supports.

Money Follows the PersonMoney Smart for Older Adults—Kerr-Tar began to promote this program that was developed jointly by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).The program raises awareness among older adults and their caregivers on how to prevent financial exploitation and encourages advance planning and informed financial decision-making.