Navigating the myriad of senior resources in Multnomah County, Oregon, can be daunting for older adults and their families seeking support and assistance. From senior care services to financial aid, healthcare providers, and recreational activities tailored to seniors, the county offers a wealth of resources to enhance the quality of life for its aging population.

This comprehensive guide aims to provide a detailed overview of the diverse range of senior-friendly services available in Multnomah County, empowering seniors to access the support they need to live better and safer in their community.

Understanding Multnomah County Senior Resources

Importance of Local Senior Resources

Local resources are crucial for seniors as they often provide the most immediate and accessible assistance to our elderly who aren’t always able to access the resources themselves due to some limitation. Multnomah County’s Aging and Disability does an excellent job of providing resources to cater specifically to the needs of its senior residents, however, there are several entities that provide assistance in Multnomah County.

Locally based service organizations typically understand the unique challenges the area’s seniors face, from weather-related issues to navigating the city’s infrastructure and beyond.

Moreover, these resources can foster a sense of community among seniors, reducing feelings of isolation by connecting them with peers in similar situations.

By utilizing local senior resources, older adults gain access to essential services that can help maintain their independence. This support is vital for seniors to lead fulfilling lives with the dignity and care they deserve.

Identifying Your Needs as a Senior

Before exploring the various resources available in Multnomah County, seniors, and their families should assess their specific needs. This assessment covers various aspects of daily life, including health care, mobility, social interaction, and financial support.

Seniors should consider what types of services would most improve their quality of life.

Questions to Assess Senior Needs for Local Resources:

Are you having any difficulty with bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, or getting around inside your home?
Do you need help with managing finances, taking medications, preparing meals, grocery shopping, or doing housework?
Transportation: Do you have trouble getting to doctor appointments, grocery stores, or social events due to lack of transportation?
Socialization: Do you feel isolated or lonely living alone? Would you be interested in social activities or senior centers?
Safety and Security: Do you have any concerns about falling or staying safe at home alone?
Nutrition: Are you able to prepare healthy meals for yourself consistently? Do you experience any difficulty eating due to physical limitations?
Mental and Emotional Wellbeing: Have you noticed any changes in mood, memory, or sleep patterns?
Technology Use: Do you feel comfortable using technology like phones, computers, or tablets to stay connected or access services?

It’s also essential to think about the desire for recreational activities and community engagement, which play a significant role in mental and emotional well-being. By clearly identifying these needs, seniors can more effectively target the resources that will provide the most benefit, ensuring they receive the right support that aligns with their personal circumstances.

Senior Care and Assistance in Multnomah County

Touring and Selecting a senior care community in Multnomah County

Right Fit Senior Solutions – Sarah is an expert in all things related to senior care and has lived and worked in the Portland Metro area for over 18+ years. Feel free to reach out and start the conversation if you want an easy button for discovering, touring, and comparing senior housing options for care needs.

Independent living options and amenities to support your active and healthy lifestyle.
Assisted Living options to explore care needs in a preferred community setting.
Memory Care for options in a secure community.
Adult care home options for intimate care in a family setting. (home cooked meals sound good?)
Nursing home care options for those with higher needs.

Oregon State Ombudsman

If you need someone to help you navigate a difficult situation or you’d like to make an official complaint while you or a loved-one is living in a long-term care community the Oregon State Ombudsman is a great resource.

Financial Assistance Options

Understanding the financial aspect of senior care is important and Multnomah County provides various options to alleviate the monetary strain on older adults and their families.

We’d be crazy not to point you in the direction of Oregon’s state funded resource hotline: Call the Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC): 503-988-3646 or adrc@multco.us(link sends e-mail), for 24-hour information and assistance to seniors (older people), people with disabilities, and caregivers.

The State of Oregon offers its Medicaid program for financial assistance. This program is available to help cover the costs of medical care, prescription drugs, in-home services and even helps pay for long-term residential care communities like assisted living and nursing level care. Seniors can explore Medicaid programs that may offer support based on income levels.
Property tax deferral programs for those who own their homes, reducing the financial burden and allowing them to age in place comfortably.
Utility assistance and food benefits programs also exist to help manage living expenses.

Transportation For Seniors

Two programs that are helpful for Multnomah County residents are the Rideshare program and TriMet. An easy tool to use for this is a fillable PDF by the local senior services branch that you can fill out here.

*As a note, any recipient of assistance through the state Medicaid programs is eligible to receive free transportation.

RideConnection

An alternative transportation program for seniors that serves the tri-county area. Visit their website here: https://rideconnection.org

Nutrition Assistance

For nutrition assistance we recommend two very low-cost or free options available.

Meals on Wheels

Home-delivered meals are a convenient option for residents of Multnomah County, Oregon. Local businesses or community organizations like Meals on Wheels bring these meals to your door.

SNAP (food stamps)

SNAP is a statewide program for low-income families and particularly seniors. Although you may think that you do not qualify for the program or that you may only qualify for a minimal amount, we recommend that you still apply because it automatically opens the doors for other programs that your case manager has access to.

To learn more about SNAP for seniors, visit: https://www.multco.us/food-assistance/food-and-nutrition-seniors

In-Home Care / Community in Multnomah County

Homecare Providers for Seniors

In Multnomah County, senior residents have access to a network of healthcare providers specializing in geriatric care. These providers are attuned to the unique health challenges that come with aging, offering services such as routine check-ups, specialized treatments, and preventive care aimed at maintaining seniors’ health and well-being. Home Care Worker Program

Medicare Rx Help

Multnomah County offers a free program called SHIBA (Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance) that provides help with Medicare. Trained volunteers can assist you with finding benefits, comparing plans, and filing appeals. They can also offer educational resources to help you understand Medicare and make the best choices for your health care needs.

Foster Grandparent Program

The Foster Grandparent Program is seeking volunteers 55 and over to mentor and tutor children facing challenges in Multnomah, Washington, and Clackamas counties. These volunteers will serve at local organizations, providing one-on-one support to children such as tutoring, mentoring teenagers and young parents, caring for sick or disabled children, and helping children who have been abused or neglected. In return for their service, volunteers will receive a non-taxable stipend and program support in finding placements and schedules.

Recreational Events and Classes for Seniors

Beyond healthcare and assistance, Multnomah County recognizes the importance of recreation and lifelong learning for seniors. The county’s parks and recreation departments offer a wide range of events and classes specifically designed for older adults.

These can range from gentle fitness programs, such as yoga and water aerobics, to art workshops and technology classes that encourage mental stimulation and creativity. Social events like dances, group outings, and cultural celebrations are also available, providing seniors with opportunities to connect with peers and stay engaged with the community.

Additionally, many community centers like The community for positive aging or the Multnomah County library host book clubs, educational lectures, and hobby-specific gatherings to cater to diverse interests. These recreational activities not only enrich seniors’ lives but also promote physical health and mental well-being through an active and social lifestyle.

Neighborhood House Senior Center

Provides a variety of activities, classes, and services for older adults, including transportation assistance. Visit their website for details: https://nhpdx.org/senior-services-2/

East Portland

YWCA of Greater Portland
600 NE 8th Street, Suite 100
Gresham, OR 97030
971-803-0389

North/Northeast Portland

Consortium partners for North and Northeast Portland area:

Hollywood Senior Center
1820 NE 40th Avenue
Portland, OR 97212
503-288-8303 extension 105

North Portland satellite office:

Charles Jordan Community Center
9009 N Foss Avenue
Portland, OR 97217
503-288-8303

Voting for Seniors – Multnomah County has an excellent resource to make voting for seniors more accessible. You can find more information about this program here.

A Comprehensive Guide to Senior Resources in Multnomah County