The service helps callers become aware of the various long-term care options for their particular situation. Armed with that information, they can make better-informed decisions on the best choices for themselves and their loved ones.

NY Connects: Westchester Choices for Long-Term Care is a joint, state-funded initiative of the Westchester County Departments of Senior Programs and Services and Social Services, the Westchester County Office for the Disabled  The service has been available in the county since late 2007.

Calls are answered by trained specialists and all calls are confidential.  Help is provided in many languages, and TTY is available for the hearing-impaired.

Long-term care involves medical and non-medical services, and NY Connects can provide information on both, such as Medicaid and Medicare, in-home and out-of-home care, transportation, health, recreation, advocacy, insurance and financial planning.

As people sort out the various options, they may decide, for example, that assisted-living housing best fits their needs. Or, they might find a combination of adult day care and physical therapy a better fit.

NY Connects can also provide information about short-term care, perhaps if a person needs rehabilitation or home care after an illness or accident.