GEMS in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex

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Animal Therapy

All Star Equestrian Foundation

P.O. Box 892/6601 FM 2738
Tel: (817) 477-1437
Mansfield, TX 76063

AREAS SERVED: Mid-Cities
Owner/Affiliation: North American Riding for the Handicapped Association
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm

The All Star Equestrian Foundation offers horseback riding as a therapeutic form of mental, physical and emotional fitness. Participants enjoy a wealth of benefits, including improved motor skills and balance. All Star's team of certified instructors emphasize riding and various horse-related activities for individuals with cerebral palsy, stroke injuries, autism and other conditions, to foster participants' independence and well-being.

K-9 FRIENDS Visiting Therapy Dogs of GTDOG

1931 Pin Oak Drive
Tel: (800) 730-4925
Flower Mound, TX 75028

AREAS SERVED: North Dallas
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm

Dog-lovers in the Visiting Therapy Dogs group unite in support of a wonderful cause. By sponsoring weekly pet visits to local long-term care facilities, the group facilitates the primary tenet of its mission statement: everyone should have an opportunity to enjoy the unconditional love and friendship of their K-9 Friends!

SPCA: Compassion Connection

362 South Industrial Boulevard
Tel: (214) 651-9611
Dallas, TX 75207

AREAS SERVED: Dallas, North Dallas
Owner/Affiliation: Science Diet, VCA Animal Hospital
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 12:00pm-6:00pm; Saturday, 10:00am-6:00pm; Sunday, 12:00pm-6:00pm

The SPCA of Texas' Compassion Connection brings the healing presence of animals to people in health care facilities. Society volunteers take their own pets on the visits: dogs, rabbits, birds—even cats.

Arts

A.R.T.S (Artistic, Recreational, Therapeutic Services) for People

2525 Ross Avenue
Tel: (214) 841-9200
Dallas, TX 75201

AREAS SERVED: Dallas County
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm

A.R.T.S. for People is an alliance of artists, therapists and healthcare workers. Guided by the conviction that well-being is greatly improved through positive social interaction and self-expression, A.R.T.S. for People employs music, dance, expressive therapies and other recreational activities to engage clients and promote wellness. The exciting programming includes drama, creative movement and fine art. Clients benefit by improving their communication skills and building self-esteem. Other benefits include physical and emotional release. A.R.T.S. for People welcomes clients of all ages.

ArtReach-Dallas, Inc.

2801 Swiss Avenue, Suite 120
Tel: (214) 827-1025
Dallas, TX 75204

AREAS SERVED: Dallas
Owner/Affiliation: City of Dallas
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm

For over two decades, Artreach-Dallas has provided over 200,000 low-income, disabled and elderly participants with access to artistic and cultural events each year. Participants in the Community Events program attend symphonies, movie screenings, ballet performances and other events free of charge. A number of senior centers in the Dallas area host the popular Senior Theatre Arts program, in which participants enjoy weaving, sculpture, and creative writing, drawing and painting classes, among other activities. In the past, seniors have joined forces with playwrights, directors and other theater professionals to produce plays based on their individual histories—and performed them for standing-room-only crowds.

Arts for Children and Adults at Risk (ACAR)

2000 West Airport Freeway
Tel: (972) 721-2488
Irving, TX 75015

AREAS SERVED: Irving
Owner/Affiliation: City of Irving, Dayspring Counseling, Irving Art Association
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm

The ACAR advocates the therapeutic benefits of the arts. The program serves as a creative outlet for persons living with learning and physical disabilities, chronic illnesses, depression, and other challenges. The agency's art therapy classes are free to the public and run for nine to twelve months, depending on individual needs. Regularly scheduled workshops include composition and painting; all materials are provided by ACAR.

Caregiver Resources

Best Friend's Alzheimer's Book Series, The

Irving, TX 75015

AREAS SERVED: Nationwide

Virginia Bell and David Troxel's four guidebooks assist professional and family caregivers in caring for individuals with Alzheimer's. The books educate caregivers on how to offer emotional support and promote communication and positive behavior. One of the books outlines approximately 150 activities geared specifically toward people with Alzheimer's. Another book aims to improve Alzheimer's care by assisting facilities in recruiting and training staff.

La Voz del Anciano

3316 Sylvan Avenue
Tel: (214) 741-5700
Dallas, TX 75212

AREAS SERVED: Dallas County
Owner/Affiliation: Dallas Area Agency on Aging, Department On Aging, National Hispanic Association Disability Services
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-4:00pm

La Voz del Anciano, a long-standing organization of nearly three decades, helps Dallas County's Hispanic seniors locate and obtain social services and community resources. La Voz employs a number of activities to educate Hispanic seniors, their families and caregivers. These include training seminars, health fairs and study circles. La Voz also promotes seniors' health by offering three-kilometer walks for the elderly.

MedicalView

Dallas, TX 75212

AREAS SERVED: Nationwide
Owner/Affiliation: Visual Data Corporation

The MedicalView website provides links to interactive programs that address a wealth of medical issues, including cancer, multiple sclerosis and heart attacks. The site offers a comprehensive list of short informational programs that answer questions pertaining to specific medical conditions. Web audiences click on the queries to receive detailed responses from medical specialists.

Counseling and Support Groups

Elder Wisdom Circle

506 Tampico
Tel: (925) 945-8814
Walnut Creek, CA 94598

AREAS SERVED: Nationwide
Owner/Affiliation: Asbury Services, CBC.CA, Meredith Corp. Volunteer Match
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm

Elder Wisdom Circle is web-based nonprofit organization of volunteers, sixty and older, who offer practical advice on a broad range of topics—from gardening and personal goals to major life changes. The organization encourages seniors to share their experiences in ways that not only empower those in need but also reinforce their own roles as leaders within their communities. Seniors may participate from the privacy of their homes or in groups within their long-term care settings.

Heritage Outpatient for Senior Adults

3500 Interstate 30
Tel: (972) 682-4260
Mesquite, TX 75150

AREAS SERVED: Mesquite
Owner/Affiliation: Mesquite Community Hospital
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm

The Heritage Outpatient Program for Senior Adults provides mental health intervention to seniors, who are referred to the program by concerned individuals—which may include friends, family or members of the clergy. Participants undergo a free clinical assessment. Individual and group counseling are both available. A licensed staff comprised of counselors, RNs and social workers, who are supervised by psychiatrists, provide treatment for dealing with depression, anxiety, isolation, grief, anger and other mental health issues. Participants receive free transportation to the program via wheelchair-accessible vans. Heritage is Medicare certified.

Crisis Lines

Friendship Line for the Elderly

Tel: (800) 971-0016
Mesquite, TX 75150

AREAS SERVED: Nationwide

Dr. Patrick Arbore, Ed.D., the 1988 recipient of the American Society on Aging award for outstanding contributions in the field of aging, is the founder of Friendship Line for the Elderly. An expert with more than thirty years of experience in the areas of aging, grief and crisis intervention, he is a noted workshop leader and lecturer, speaking on such issues as crisis, depression and despair in the elderly.

Dentists

Community Dental Care

1440 West Mockingbird, Suite 120
Tel: (214) 630-7080
Dallas, TX 75247

AREAS SERVED: Dallas
Owner/Affiliation: Dallas County Dental Society, United Way
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:30pm

Community Dental Care, formerly Dental Health Programs, was founded over four decades ago. Today, the nonprofit organization operates nine clinics throughout Dallas and Collin counties that offer preventative care such as X-rays, cleanings and fluoride treatments, and routine dental care that ranges from fillings to oral surgery. Community Dental Care primarily serves a low-income population, in addition to individuals with HIV/AIDS. Some centers provide dentures. Patients who require periodontal work and other special procedures may be referred to Parkland Oral Surgery and Baylor College of Dentistry. Community Dental Care also educates the public on oral hygiene and proper nutrition at Dallas County health fairs.

End-of-Life Services

Growth House

Dallas, TX 75247

AREAS SERVED: Nationwide
Nonprofit Organization

Growth House is a website that provides resources for life-threatening illnesses and end-of-life care. Its mission is to improve the quality of information and resources for this population. Growth House's network serves an international consortium of health organizations, which hosts a discussion forum for over 18,000 professionals. The website explains major issues in hospice and home care, pain management, grief, and death with dignity. It also offers disease-specific interviews and guides, and maintains an online bookstore. Growth House Radio is a unique online entertainment service that offers a unique mix of music and educational features on end-of-life care.

Estate Sales and Liquidation

Millchell Estate Sales, Inc.

2112 Lipscomb Street
Tel: (817) 923-3274
Fort Worth, TX 76110

AREAS SERVED: Fort Worth
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm

Millchell Estates Sales, Inc. provides its clients with various estate liquidation services. Experienced, certified appraisers manage every step of the process—initial consultation, preparing inventories, advertising, final sale and post-sale clean-ups. Whether clients are selling their homes or relocating, Millchell's aims to make this transition seamless.

Financial Management

Griffin Financial Mortgage, LLC

1701 River Run, Suite 308
Tel: (888) 415-1955
Fort Worth, TX 76107

AREAS SERVED: Fort Worth
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm

Griffin Financial Mortgage specializes in reverse mortgages, a process that helps homeowners over the age of sixty-two generate income, helping to preserve their financial freedom and independence. Homeowners retain the title and can choose from several payment options ranging from a line of credit to a lump sum or monthly payments. The money is non-taxable and does not affect Social Security or Medicare benefits. Borrowers do not need to worry about making monthly payments, since none are required for the term of the loan.

Reliance Mortgage Company

8115 Preston Road, Suite 800
Tel: (214) 346-5210
Dallas, TX 75225

AREAS SERVED: Dallas
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm

Reliance Mortgage Company specializes in reverse mortgages, a process that helps homeowners over the age of sixty-two generate income, helping to preserve their financial freedom and independence. Homeowners retain the title and can choose from different payment options, including a lump sum or monthly payments. The money is non-taxable and does not affect Social Security or Medicare benefits. Borrowers do not need to worry about making monthly payments, since none are required for the term of the loan.

Fitness

Texercise

210 East Ninth Street
Tel: (817) 258-8081
Fort Worth, TX 76102

AREAS SERVED: Fort Worth
Owner/Affiliation: Area Agency on Aging of Tarrant County, Department of Aging & Disability Services
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm

Statewide program Texercise encourages healthy eating habits and regular physical activity among seniors and their families. It also promotes participation in recreational programs such as the Texas Senior Volleyball Association, an organization for men and women who are fifty or older. Additionally, Texercise works with senior centers and communities to organize new fitness programs. The agency's website features helpful logs to monitor physical fitness and activity. It promotes healthy nutrition by educating seniors about the MyPyramid food guide, which has replaced the traditional Food Guide Pyramid.

Full-Service Organizations

Senior Adult Services

1111 West Beltline Road, Suite 110
Tel: (972) 242-4464
Carrollton, TX 75006

AREAS SERVED: Dallas County
Owner/Affiliation: Cities of Addison, Carrollton, Coppell and Farmers Branch, Metrocrest Medical Foundation, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-12:00pm, 1:00pm-5:00pm

Senior Adult Services aids seniors, their families, and caregivers in many ways. Case managers conduct needs assessments to determine participants' needs. Seniors may borrow walkers, wheelchairs and other medical equipment free of charge. Support and educational groups meet regularly. Volunteers deliver hot lunches to participants. The organization's monthly newsletter shares information on helpful resources and upcoming activities.

Participants in the Tel-A-Friend program call daily to check on each other. The Friendly Visitor program provides visitors to homebound seniors. Participants who own their homes have access to the Home Repair program. Volunteers perform functions such as painting, replacing broken windows, doing minor electrical work and installing wheelchair ramps. Senior Adult Services volunteers install grab bars and handrails in homes, regardless of homeowners' ability to pay. Volunteers also provide seniors with transportation to medical appointments and other necessary errands.

General Senior Services

Bedford Hurst Senior Citizen Center

2817 R D Hurst Parkway
Tel: (817) 952-2325
Bedford, TX 76021

AREAS SERVED: Bedford, Hurst and surrounding cities
Owner/Affiliation: City of Bedford
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm

For over twenty years, the Bedford-Hurst Center has provided an array of services and activities to vibrant seniors in both cities. For a dollar, members enjoy a full year of community fun! The event calendar, brimming with activities, includes weekly dances, tai chi instruction, line and tap dance classes, ceramics, china painting workshops, needlecraft and quilting groups, bridge games and AARP meetings. Bedford-Hurst's staff organizes field trips and group travel as well.

Geriatric Wellness Center of Collin County

401 West 16th Street, Suite 600
Tel: (972) 941-7335
Plano, TX 75075

AREAS SERVED: Collin County and surrounding areas
Owner/Affiliation: United Way
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm

The Geriatric Wellness Center of Collin County offers services to residents fifty-five years and older, as well as their loved ones and caregivers. The Center is a one-stop facility for: routine health screenings such as physicals, lab work and blood pressure checks; support groups that educate members on diabetes, Alzheimer's, hearing loss and other medical issues; resource referrals that pertain to housing, transportation and nutrition; and senior network groups. Members may borrow medical equipment such as wheelchairs, canes and walkers from the Center free of charge.

Jewish Community Center of Dallas

7900 Northaven Road
Tel: (214) 739-2737
Dallas, TX 75230

AREAS SERVED: Dallas County
Owner/Affiliation: Jewish Federation of Greater Dallas, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Thursday, 6:00am-10:00pm; Friday, 6:00am-5:00pm; Saturday and Sunday, 7:00am-6:00pm

The Jewish Community Center of Dallas is at the heart of the Jewish community. People of all ages and religious affiliations are welcome, and participants are accepted regardless of their financial situation. The programs include cultural, recreational, social, and educational offerings. The center hosts art exhibits and a periodic lecture series for the enjoyment and enrichment of its members. Senior-specific activities and nutritional programs are also available. The center boasts a health club, a swimming pool, a tennis court, and athletic fields as well as youth and adult sports leagues.

Lake Worth Senior Citizens Center

3501 Roberts Cutoff Road
Tel: (817) 237-3281
Fort Worth, TX 76114

AREAS SERVED: Tarrant County
Owner/Affiliation: City of Lake Worth
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, 9:00am-3:00pm; Tuesday, 9:00am-4:00pm

Lake Worth Senior Citizens Center offers several wonderful activities that satisfy a wide range of interests. Active seniors enjoy ballroom dance and country western dance; those who prefer quieter pursuits enjoy ceramics, quilting, oil painting and crochet. Bingo, bridge, and other games provide a little friendly competition. There are even computer classes for the technologically inclined. Lake Worth hosts a half-day social every Tuesday, and a daylong social featuring games and food every Friday.

Lighthouse for the Blind of Fort Worth

912 West Broadway
Tel: (817) 332-3341
Fort Worth, TX 76104

AREAS SERVED: Tarrant County
Owner/Affiliation: City of Fort Worth
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm

Lighthouse for the Blind has been serving the visually-impaired communities of Forth Worth and Dallas for over sixty years. The nonprofit organization offers a broad range of programs that provides assistance through education, training, skills enhancement and job placement. Lighthouse for the Blind operates an online retail store, Servmart, that distributes specialized office products and supplies to employers of visually-impaired and disabled persons.

Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP)

1400 Crescent, Suite 3
Tel: (940) 383-1508
Denton, TX 76201

AREAS SERVED: Denton County
Owner/Affiliation: Corporation for National & Community Service, Cities of Denton and Lewisville
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm

RSVP places adults, age fifty-five and older, in volunteer positions with local nonprofit organizations. Volunteers serve within a variety of settings, including churches, nursing homes, public schools and Habitat for Humanity. RSVP offers five programs of its own. Childhood Immunization volunteers visit hospitals to educate new mothers on childhood immunizations. The Rockin' Readers program sends volunteers to kindergarten and first grade classes, where they read to students weekly. The Senior Environmental Corps addresses environmental issues; for example, volunteers lead approximately 15,000 schoolchildren, annually, through the Elm Fork Environmental Education Center. Participants in Grand Connections, a mix of grandparents raising grandchildren and other nontraditional families, engage in support groups and other programs that address their special needs. At the Learning Center, RSVP staff and volunteers attend educational seminars on running nonprofit agencies. RSVP also hosts senior-specific seminars that focus on topics like identity theft prevention and personal safety.

Richardson Senior Center: Older Adult Program

820 West Arapaho
Tel: (972) 231-4798
Richardson, TX 75080

AREAS SERVED: Richardson
Owner/Affiliation: City of Richardson
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 9:00am-9:00pm; Wednesday, Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm; Saturday, 1:00pm-5:00pm

Richardson Senior Center serves adults who are fifty-five or older. The Center's monthly newsletter details the activities that are offered. A sampling of activities includes hatha yoga, pool tournaments, golf lessons, line dancing, voice lessons and scenic trips. The Center also provides regular blood pressure screenings. Lunch, snacks and beverages are available daily for a small charge.Trained volunteers answer questions about eligibility for public health benefits, such as Medicare and Medicaid. They also educate seniors about important issues like living wills and supplemental health insurance.

Wesley Rankin Community Center

3100 Crossman
Tel: (214) 742-6674
Dallas, TX 75212

AREAS SERVED: Dallas County
Owner/Affiliation: Area Methodist Churches
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm

Wesley-Rankin Community Center, a Christian-based organization, has been serving West Dallas residents since 1902. The Senior Citizen program is the center's fastest growing program. Seniors receive complimentary transportation to the center, where they enjoy nutritious lunches, companionship and activities such as bingo. Participants also receive transportation to medical appointments and community center-sponsored outings. The seniors create decorative heart-shaped pillows for heart surgery patients at the Veteran's Administration Hospital of Dallas. Many also take part in free sewing classes, where they make items such as clothing and curtains. The Senior Citizen program takes place on weekdays.

Home Design and Modifications

Arlington Neighborhood Services

201 East Abram
Tel: (817) 459-6777
Arlington, TX 76010

AREAS SERVED: Arlington
Owner/Affiliation: City of Arlington
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm

The Housing Modifications program is part of Arlington's Community Development plan. It is designed to assist low-income individuals and families modify their homes to accommodate elderly or disabled family members. City-approved repairs range from electrical to structural—heating, plumbing, door and porch adjustments and ramp installations are among the most common requests. The program's beneficiaries must meet eligibility requirements, due to limited grant funding.

Premier Bathrooms

Tel: (800) 475-9077
Arlington, TX 76010

AREAS SERVED: Nationwide

Premier Bathrooms transforms bathrooms for elderly, frail and disabled people so they can comfortably maintain their independence. The company's products range from walk-in showers and baths to bath seats, grab bars and hydrotherapy tubs. Premier Bathrooms' representatives advise their customers on the best options for their unique needs. A full demonstration of all products is available at local stores.

In-Home Specialty Services

Merry Maids

Arlington, TX 76010

AREAS SERVED: Arlington, Bedford, Burleson, Carrollton, Colleyville, Dallas, Deer Park, Denton, Flower Mound, Fort Worth, Garland, Grand Prairie, Grapevine, Irving, North Richland Hills, Richardson, The Colony

Merry Maids' clients enjoy professional housecleaning that ranges from light housekeeping services such as dusting and vacuuming to more involved tasks like oven cleaning and washing the walls. Potential customers receive a cost estimate based on their particular cleaning needs. Services are rendered on a regular basis, according to clients' preferences. One-time services are also available. Visit Merry Maids' website to locate an office in your area.

NSeam Living At Home/Block Nurse Program

1150 South Freeway, Room 130
Tel: (817) 338-2958
Fort Worth, TX 76104

AREAS SERVED: Near South East, Morningside
Owner/Affiliation: City of Fort Worth
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm

Since 1996, NSEAM has enabled seniors to maintain their independence. The nonprofit organization serves seniors in the 76104 zip code, also known as the Near Southeast and Morningside community. NSEAM volunteers provide companionship to seniors through phone calls and visits and aid seniors at home by doing light chores and preparing meals, as well as performing yard maintenance and minor home repairs. Volunteers also provide transportation and assist with grocery shopping. In addition, staff members help seniors make use of local resources, including food banks and Meals-On-Wheels.

Independent Living Facilities and Services

Arlington New Beginnings, Inc.

311 North L Robinson Court
Tel: (817) 860-6763
Arlington, TX 76011

AREAS SERVED: Tarrant County
Owner/Affiliation: City of Arlington, Mount Olive Baptist Church
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm

Arlington New Beginnings Inc is an affordable housing development for seniors. The facility has fourteen two-bedroom units spacious enough to room one senior as well as personal caregiver. The agency hosts educational seminars featuring groups such as the Alzheimer's Society and the Diabetic Society. It organizes health and nutrition focus groups to educate its residents on proper hygiene, diets and medical issues. Residents participate in various activities including bingo, Scrabble and other board games.

Catherine Booth Friendship House

1901 East Seminary Drive
Tel: (817) 531-2923
Fort Worth, TX 76119

AREAS SERVED: Dallas, Fort Worth
Owner/Affiliation: The Salvation Army
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-6:00pm

The Salvation Army runs Catherine Booth Friendship House, which allows low-income residents to enjoy safe and affordable housing. The facility features nearly a hundred apartments for seniors age sixty-two and older. Single and married residents can both be accommodated.

McFadden Hall

1331 East Lancaster
Tel: (817) 332-7747
Fort Worth, TX 76102

AREAS SERVED: Tarrant County
Owner/Affiliation: Union Gospel Mission
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm

Union Gospel Mission operates McFadden Hall, Tarrant County's first residence for low-income senior women. Potential residents must submit an application in order to secure one of the facility's sixteen apartments. The building features handicap-accessible rooms as well as one private suite. The apartments are furnished and feature shared bathrooms. The facility boasts a kitchen and a laundry room. Residents enjoy the piano and the computer in the large common area, and attend Bible study and social events. A fence encloses the facility, which is monitored around the clock. McFadden Hall has a sliding scale of fees based on residents' income levels.

Library Services

GP Memorial Library Bookmobile

901 Conover Drive
Tel: (972) 237-5741
Grand Prairie, TX 75051

AREAS SERVED: City of Grand Prairie
Owner/Affiliation: Public Library of Grand Prairie
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Tuesday, Thursday, 10:00am-9:00pm; Wednesday, 10:00am-6:00pm; Friday-Saturday, 9:00am-6:00pm; Sunday, 1:00pm-5:00pm

The Grand Prairie Memorial Library is on wheels! Library card in hand, book lovers may choose their favorite read from the traveling library's plentiful selection. The bookmobile makes scheduled stops at Terry's Supermarket and the Prairie Estates Apartments for local convenience.

Irving Bookmobile

801 West Irving Boulevard
Tel: (972) 721-4868
Irving, TX 75060

AREAS SERVED: Irving
Owner/Affiliation: City of Irving
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Thursday, 10:00am-9:00pm; Friday-Saturday, 10:00am-6:00pm; Sunday, 1:00pm-5:00pm

The Irving bookmobile service makes bimonthly book drop-offs to nursing homes, apartment complexes, retirement homes, assisted living residences, and local churches and schools. Book selections may be ordered through the Irving Public Library's comprehensive online catalog or from the bookmobile itself; the schedule is posted on its website.

Library on Wheels (LOW)

1515 Young Street
Tel: (214) 670-1708
Dallas, TX 75201

AREAS SERVED: Dallas
Owner/Affiliation: City of Dallas
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Wednesday, 11:00am-9:00pm; Friday, 10:00am-5:00pm; Saturday, 11:00am-5:00pm; Sunday, 1:00pm-5:00pm

Library on Wheels, a program of Dallas Public Library, offers older adults the opportunity to borrow, return and reserve materials without having to visit the library. The wheelchair-accessible bookmobile makes approximately thirty stops per month throughout Dallas. In addition to print materials, seniors may borrow audio books, movies and music, and can even obtain a library card through the bookmobile if they do not already have one.

Living Will

Five Wishes

Tel: (888) 594-7437
Dallas, TX 75201

AREAS SERVED: Nationwide
Owner/Affiliation: Aging with Dignity
Nonprofit Organization

Meal Delivery

Meals on Wheels Inc. of Tarrant County

320 South Freeway
Tel: (817) 336-0912
Fort Worth, TX 76104

AREAS SERVED: Tarrant County
Owner/Affiliation: Meals on Wheels Association of America
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm

Meals on Wheels of Tarrant County delivers nutritious meals to needy homebound individuals. Clients are accepted regardless of age, income level or how long they will be homebound; the main criteria is that they do not have regular access to balanced meals. The menu changes seasonally and encompasses clients' preferences and dietary needs.

Meals on Wheels case managers meet with clients on a quarterly basis to determine their needs and how to address them; for example, they process applications that allow low-income participants to receive financial help with their utility bills, and work with organizations to allow participants to borrow walkers, bath rails and other necessities free of charge. After discovering that clients were sharing their meals with their pets, the agency began working with a local animal welfare agency to provide free pet food to those with cats and dogs. The program also provides items such as blankets, fans, air conditioners and microwaves.

Metroport Meals on Wheels, Inc.

428 North Highway 377
Tel: (817) 491-1141
Roanoke, TX 76262

AREAS SERVED: Northeast Tarrant and South Denton Counties
Owner/Affiliation: Meals on Wheels Association of America
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm

Volunteers from Metroport Meals on Wheels deliver hot lunches to participants' homes on weekdays. Participants range from needy, homebound individuals to those recovering from surgery. The duration of meal delivery may be short- or long-term. The organization is able to deliver meals immediately to new participants. Services are available regardless of participants' ability to pay. The organization also offers lunches and activities programs within six different senior centers. Metroport Meals on Wheels serves the following communities: Argyle, Bedford, Colleyville, Grapevine, Haslet, Justin, Keller, Marshall Creek, North Richland Hills, Roanoke, Southlake, Trophy Club and Westlake.

Traveling Chefs

Tel: (972) 248-0402
Roanoke, TX 76262

AREAS SERVED: Collin and Dallas Counties

Traveling Chefs provides full-service catering for its clients. The service includes shopping, cooking and kitchen cleanup. Experienced chefs prepare appetizing entrées from a menu with over four hundred selections, all in the comfort of your own home. Whether you're planning a party, an intimate meal or are simply too busy to prepare dinner for the family, Traveling Chefs eliminates the fuss, making mealtime a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Their "Jumpstart to Health" package is a great gift idea for someone who is interested in healthy dieting; the package includes a nutrition consultation, a customized menu and an entire month of service. Some packages include the cost of food for added convenience.

Medical Supplies and Specialty Items

AMS Medical Supply

911 North Beltline Road
Tel: (972) 216-7700
Mesquite, TX 75149

AREAS SERVED: Dallas
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm

AMS Medical Supply is an online retailer of affordable medical equipment and supplies that range from hospital beds and wheelchairs, to syringes and blood glucose monitors. AMS honors manufacturers' warranties.

Body Care Boutique, Inc.

Tel: (972) 617-6646
Mesquite, TX 75149

AREAS SERVED: Dallas
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm

Cancer survivor Peggy Page founded Body Care Boutique, an online retailer of medical garments and specialty items that range from wigs to incontinence supplies, because she personally faced the difficulty of locating such items in a single place. The website also features mastectomy garments, including bras and swimwear. Customers receive their orders in discreet packaging.

Clothing Solutions

Tel: (800) 336-2660
Mesquite, TX 75149

AREAS SERVED: Nationwide

Clothing Solutions offers attire for people who require full or partial assistance in dressing. With a varied population in mind—from individuals with limited mobility, to those who may attempt to undress themselves at inappropriate moments, to those who are incontinent—Clothing Solutions manufactures pieces to suit individuals in various scenarios. The designs include features such as zip-fronts, inseams secured by snaps, pullover styling, rear seat panels and back openings. All of these features are disguised to promote the wearer's dignity as well as their comfort.

e-Pill

Tel: (800) 549-0095
Mesquite, TX 75149

AREAS SERVED: Nationwide

e-Pill is an online store that offers a plethora of medication-reminder merchandise. Alarms, vibrating timers, watches and pagers, pill organizers and identifiers—all are technological solutions to the often hard-to-remember and easy-to-forget problems with tracking daily medication schedules. e-Pill provides a money-back guarantee for all its products.

Express Ramps

Tel: (866) 491-1110
Mesquite, TX 75149

AREAS SERVED: All boroughs
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-6:00pm

Express Ramps is a web-based business that specializes in wheelchair ramps. Some of the ramps less than ten feet long collapse for easy transport. Ramps longer than ten feet are described as "modular," since they can be assembled by joining small pieces to create more permanent ramps that do not require building permits. All ramps fulfill a spectrum of needs. The company's online ramp wizard ensures picking out the correct design is fail-safe. Customer service representatives are helpful and well-trained in regard to their products. Customers need the skills and help of at least one handy friend to set up most ramps.

Gold Violin

Tel: (877) 648-8400
Mesquite, TX 75149

AREAS SERVED: Nationwide

Gold Violin offers its clients nifty gadgets and support products to enhance independent living. The Gold Violin online catalogue is replete with merchandise for seniors with physical and cognitive conditions that may hinder daily routines; memory enhancing products such as photo phones and day-of-the-week clocks are as handy as they are helpful. Many of the products are specifically designed for people with arthritis, dementia or visual impairments.

Home Delivery Incontinence Supplies (HDIS)

Tel: (800) 269-4663
Mesquite, TX 75149

AREAS SERVED: Nationwide

HDIS offers a full range of incontinence supplies. Company representatives helpfully answer questions and provide advice. The online catalog is extensive and all orders are delivered in discreet packaging.

Lifeline

Tel: (800) 380-3111
Mesquite, TX 75149

AREAS SERVED: Nationwide

Lifeline is an affordable, easy-to-use medical alarm that promotes the independence of seniors, individuals with disabilities, and the chronically ill by helping them to stay safely at home.

MedicAlert

Tel: (800) ID ALERT
Mesquite, TX 75149

AREAS SERVED: Nationwide
Nonprofit Organization

MedicAlert, a nonprofit organization, stores important health records for its members. The organization's 24-hour response center quickly supplies emergency response personnel with these records in the event of an emergency. Members wear the MedicAlert Emblem, a bracelet engraved with their ID numbers, medical conditions and the phone number of the emergency response center. The E-HealthKEY is a small electronic device that fits on a keychain and contains medical records that can be quickly accessed during emergencies. MedicAlert also stores state-recognized advance directives and do-not-resuscitate orders so that members' loved ones and medical caregivers have access to this crucial information should the need arise.

MediKeeper

Tel: (866) 231-6007
Mesquite, TX 75149

AREAS SERVED: Nationwide

MediKeeper is an online record-keeping service that aids seniors, their caregivers and physicians in keeping track of important health-related information. MediKeeper's features include MediKost, which uses personal information to help seniors choose the most appropriate pharmacy and Medicare prescription discount card; MediKabinet, which tracks subscribers' medications and related information including dosage, side effects and drug interactions; MediTracker, which logs personal health markers like weight, cholesterol and blood pressure, and MediForms, which enables subscribers to avoid completing medical forms repeatedly. A phone call to MediKeeper during an emergency quickly provides medical personnel with subscribers' medical information.

Multi-Medical, Inc.

2313 8th Avenue
Tel: (817) 514-9403
Fort Worth, TX 76110

AREAS SERVED: Dallas, Fort Worth, Mid-Cities, North Dallas
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm

Multi-Medical, Inc. sells medical and mobility equipment. The staff is comprised of licensed therapists (fluent in Spanish and sign language), equipment specialists and service technicians who are certified by the equipments' manufacturer. The company's primary goal is to provide its clients with state-of-the-art equipment that enhances their mobility and independence.

Shield Healthcare

Tel: (800) 765-8775
Fort Worth, TX 76110

AREAS SERVED: Nationwide

Shield Healthcare is a web-based medical supply company that offers products ranging from incontinence and ostomy supplies to nutritional supplements. The company is dedicated to providing the highest level of customer service, making sure that their employees receive regular training on products and services.

Movers

Senior Moving Company

2621 Nova Drive
Tel: (972) 488-1700
Dallas, TX 75229

AREAS SERVED: Dallas
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm

Senior Moving Company specializes in helping seniors move. A company representative visits customers in their homes to provide free estimates. Available services include packing and unpacking, moving, storage and shipping. Customers may purchase packing materials from the company. Senior Moving Company also refers customers to businesses that handle estate sales.

Pharmacies

Mason's Pharmacy

2101 West Airport Freeway
Tel: (972) 252-8644
Irving, TX 75602

AREAS SERVED: Irving
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-6:00pm; Saturday, 9:00am-2:00pm

Mason's Pharmacy has been a staple in Irving for over thirty years. Unlike pharmacy chains, Mason's is locally owned and operated, and staffed with members of the community that people know and trust. Customers depend on Mason's accurate, prompt and caring service.

Midway Park Pharmacy

2700 West Pleasant Run Road
Tel: (972) 223-2623
Lancaster, TX 75146

AREAS SERVED: Lancaster
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-6:00pm; Saturday 9:00am-1:00pm

Midway Park Pharmacy has served the community of Lancaster since 1983. The staff performs a variety of services for their customers, which includes educating them on medications and related contraindications and side effects. The pharmacy allows customers to use in-house charge accounts. Midway Park Pharmacy also delivers prescription medications to customers in the Lancaster and DeSoto areas.

Real Estate

Senior Real Estate Specialists (SRES)

Tel: (800) 500-4564
Lancaster, TX 75146

AREAS SERVED: Nationwide
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm

Senior Real Estate Specialists realtors have received a special education from the Senior Advantage Real Estate Council so they can effectively assist seniors with major decisions such as selling their home or refinancing. These specialists are equipped to counsel seniors on topics that include relocating and purchasing property. Clients receive pertinent information on the real estate market as well as referrals to attorneys and other professionals who focus on senior-related issues.

Vintage Living

15851 Dallas Parkway, Suite 600
Tel: (214) 561-8611
Addison, TX 75080

AREAS SERVED: Dallas, North Dallas
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm

Vintage Living is staffed by experienced Seniors Real Estate Specialists (SRES). Vintage realtors act as consultants and advocates for clients who want to refinance, rent, lease, purchase or sell their homes. The agency provides free consultations with licensed realtors to develop specialized plans for their clients, as well as vital information about community resources for seniors, moving and relocation services and home improvement.

Recreation/Vacation

Elderhostel

11 Avenue de Lafayette
Tel: (800) 454-5768
Boston, MA 02111

AREAS SERVED: All boroughs
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-6:00pm

Elderhostel is a nonprofit organization that designs affordable and educational itineraries for older adults. The objective is not just to visit a destination, but to get to know a place and learn about the native culture. By humanizing and contextualizing the travel experience, Elderhostel goes beyond the commonplace travel experience by offering informed lectures, field trips and cultural excursions. Both U.S. and international destinations are covered. The organization also serves as a social network where like-minded seniors can meet. Some trips include intergenerational programs and community service work.

Senior Housing

Dickinson Place

911 St. Joseph Street
Tel: (214) 821-5390
Dallas, TX 75246

AREAS SERVED: Dallas County
Owner/Affiliation: Highland Park United Methodist Church
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-4:00pm

Dickinson Place offers affordable housing accommodations for adults age sixty-two and older. The apartments come with slight modifications—emergency pull stations and grab bars in the bathrooms—to allow easy mobility for residents with physical disabilities. Rents are based on a sliding scale and can be partially subsidized by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Residents experience the perks of hotel conveniences such as paid utilities, grounds and building upkeep, laundry rooms, common areas and meal plans. A geriatric medical center is available on-site.

Services for the Hearing Impaired

Deaf Action Center Texas

3115 Crestview Drive
Tel: (214) 521-0407 TTY
Dallas, TX 75235

AREAS SERVED: North Texas
Owner/Affiliation: Dallas Council for the Deaf
Nonprofit Organization

Deaf Action Center, a nonprofit, provides a multitude of services to assist individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing to maintain their independence and improve their quality of life. The center's interpreters help individuals to communicate in job interviews, theatrical performances and numerous other situations. American Sign Language lessons are offered at the center, as is counseling for conditions that range from anger and depression to employment and adjustment issues. Home visits may be arranged to assist individuals who need help coping with hearing loss and want to learn how to use assistive devices. Seniors enjoy meals, field trips and other activities, as well as helpful services such as casework, health screenings and benefits counseling—all available through the Senior Center. The Deaf Action Center runs a forty-unit apartment building specifically designed to accommodate individuals and families who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Goodrich Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

2500 Lipscomb Street
Tel: (817) 926-5305
Fort Worth, TX 76110

AREAS SERVED: Dallas, Fort Worth
Owner/Affiliation: Alcon, Cash America, Charter Communication, Coors Light, Neiman Marcus, Omni American, Pier 1, Star Telegram, Texas Rangers
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:30pm

Goodrich Center is a nonprofit communication center for the deaf and hard of hearing in Tarrant County. For thirty-five years, the organization has been bringing the deaf, hearing impaired and hearing communities together. Goodrich case managers conduct needs assessments and advocate on behalf of clients. The center also provides around-the-clock interpreters for legal and medical emergencies. The Deaf Senior Citizen Program is for people who are sixty years of age or older who communicate mainly through sign language. Participants meet twice a week at the center, and also undertake visits to homebound or hospitalized individuals.

Services for the Visually Impaired

NFB Newsline

Tel: (888) 882-1629
Fort Worth, TX 76110

AREAS SERVED: Nationwide

Pioneered to assist people with visual impairments, National Federation for the Blind's Newsline is a toll-free news hotline. Gathering news bytes from over two hundred media affiliates, including giants such as USA Today, the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal and prominent magazines such as The Economist and AARP, subscribers receive their news at the touch of button. NFB-Newsline gives its "readers" access to local, national and world news twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

Transportation

Call a Ride of Southlake (CARS)

P.O. Box 92683
Tel: (817) 416-9757
Southlake, TX 76092

AREAS SERVED: City of Southlake
Owner/Affiliation: Southlake
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm

Call A Ride of Southlake provides non-emergency transportation for senior and disabled persons. CARS travels within a twenty-five mile radius—including Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving and Arlington—to attend to participants' medical needs, and within seven miles of Southlake to assist with shopping, errands and social events. Transportation runs Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00am and 5:00pm.

Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART)

1401 Pacific Avenue
Tel: (214) 515-7272
Dallas, TX 75202

AREAS SERVED: Dallas, Carrolton
Owner/Affiliation: Cities of Carrollton, Dallas, Farmers Branch, Garland, Irving, Plano
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm

DART's Paratransit is a specialized transportation service for people whose disabilities or health-related conditions prevent them from independently using fixed-route public transit. It is provided by public transportation systems as part of the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Each county has different service providers and different operating hours. Individuals must first qualify before they can participate.

Grand Connection

1821 West Freeway
Tel: (972) 237-8545
Grand Prairie, TX 75050

AREAS SERVED: Grand Prairie
Owner/Affiliation: City of Grand Prairie
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm

Grand Connection provides transportation to Grand Prairie residents who are at least sixty years of age or are mentally or physically disabled. Participants receive transportation to and from school, work, grocery shopping, medical and dental appointments, and the Dallas County Health and Human Services Nutrition Program appointments. Transportation requests are subject to availability. Trips are either free or subject to a small fee of $1.00 each way depending on the destination.

Handitran

501 West Sanford
Tel: (817) 569-5390
Arlington, TX 76004

AREAS SERVED: Arlington, Pantego
Owner/Affiliation: City of Arlington
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm

Handitran provides seniors and people with disabilities with transportation anywhere within Arlington and Pantego. Passengers use the service to get to and from work, medical appointments, recreational and personal activities. Public school trips are not allowed. Mini-buses equipped with wheelchair lifts and taxicabs transport passengers. Passengers who do not have their fare can still ride, but the fare must be repaid within two weeks, at twice the rate.

Mid-Cities Care Corps

745 West Pipeline
Tel: (817) 282-0531
Hurst, TX 76053

AREAS SERVED: Mid-Cities
Owner/Affiliation: St. Philip Presbyterian Church
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-12:00pm

Mid-Cities Care Corps offers several indispensable services to seniors. The organization's volunteers transport seniors to and from medical and dental appointments and personal errands, such as grocery shopping. Volunteers also assist participants with housekeeping. Homeowner participants may have a variety of work done on their homes, ranging from minor plumbing to wheelchair ramp installation. Adopt-A-Lawn volunteers perform lawn maintenance for seniors on a bi-weekly basis. Participants must be at least sixty years of age and live in one of the following communities: Bedford, Colleyville, Euless, Grapevine, Haltom City, Hurst, Keller, North Richland Hills, Richland Hills, Southlake, Watauga or Fort Worth's Central Hospital District.

Mobility Impaired Transportation (MITS)

1600 East Lancaster
Tel: (817) 332-4444
Fort Worth, TX 76102

AREAS SERVED: City limits of Fort Worth, Richland Hills, and Blue Mound
Owner/Affiliation: Fort Worth Transportation Authority
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm

MITS provides door-to-door transportation for disabled individuals who cannot utilize regular buses. Passengers pay $2.50 per ride and can order tickets online or via mail. Passengers' caregivers ride free of charge. Other guests may accompany passengers when space permits. Service animals and pets may also ride if they are on a leash or in a pet carrier. MITS operates Monday through Saturday from 5:00am to 12:00am, and Sunday from 6:00am to 10:00pm. The service area includes Fort Worth, Richland Hills and Blue Mound.

Northeast Transportation Service (NETS)

1515 South Sylvania
Tel: (817) 336-8714
Fort Worth, TX 76111

AREAS SERVED: Fort Worth
Owner/Affiliation: American Red Cross
Nonprofit Organization
Business Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:00am-6:00pm

NETS provides transportation to seniors and the disabled who are residents of Bedford, Euless, Grapevine, Haltom City, Hurst, Keller or North Richland Hills. Passengers are driven from their homes to a variety of destinations, including medical and dental appointments, places of employment and education, and even grocery shopping. The fee is $1.50 per ride. NETS operates from 7:00am to 6:00pm, Monday through Friday. Passengers must schedule their trips in advance

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