HHS announced this week that it is distributing $68 million in grants to help seniors, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers better understand and navigate their health and long-term care options.   The grants, part of the Affordable Care Act, will be used to help seniors and individuals with disabilities and their caregivers make more informed decisions about their health and long-term care. Specifically, the funds will be used to help families: understand their Medicare and Medicaid benefits, including coverage for preventive services; navigate options for long term care including community-based services that can help individuals remain in their homes; and assist those transitioning from nursing or rehabilitation facilities back home to put the supports in place to make that transition successful.

“We know how difficult it can be for individuals and caregivers to deal with a sudden illness or chronic disease while at the same time trying to navigate through a complex health care system to figure out where to go to get appropriate help.  The Affordable Care Act seeks to give people more control over their own care, while lowering health care costs and improving quality,” said HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius.