A report of need was received mid-morning on a spring day, stating that an individual was going to have no place to live due to their residence being deemed unfit for human habitation by a Codes Enforcement Officer. The individual was informed that they would no longer be allowed to remain in the residence past June 2nd, and that all necessary repairs would need to be completed by June 30th. Additionally, it was stated that all required repairs must be made with appropriate permits. The STEP Office of Aging Protective Services investigator was informed by the consumer that, if the repairs were not made, the home would be condemned.
Due to some complications with the consumer’s Medicare insurance, the Protective Services investigator worked with STEP's PA Medi Coordinator to discuss options for the individual. The investigator also worked directly with the Protective Services Supervisor throughout the investigation, and it was agreed that follow-up would be conducted to ensure the individual secured safe housing.
Another obstacle was the presence of a cat in the home that also needed a safe place to go. The investigator collaborated with the SPCA to ensure that the cat was safe and that a new home would be found for it due to the consumers’ inability to care for it.
The Protective Services worker made multiple visits to assist the consumer with completing a medical assistance application and to discuss alternative housing options. During a follow-up visit to collect the completed application, the investigator recognized that the consumer was experiencing a medical emergency and required immediate care. The investigator arranged for an ambulance, and the consumer was transported to the hospital and admitted. Following the hospital stay, the consumer was transferred to a nursing facility, where all of their medical needs are now being met.
This is just one example of the outstanding work that the STEP Office of Aging’s Protective Service Team performs for individuals in our community daily.
