Rhode Island News - New program offers after-hours help for elderly in need

By Felice J. Freyer Journal Medical Writer

Elderly people who need emergency help after hours now have a place to turn.

The state Department of Elderly Affairs has awarded a one-year $113,000 grant to Family Service of Rhode Island to operate the “After Hours Emergency Response Program for Elders in Crisis.”
The new program means that when the DEA shuts its doors at 4 p.m., there will be someone answering the phone and responding to any problems that arise — whether it be a medical or police emergency, or simply a neighbor who finds an elderly person who seems confused and “just not right,” said Larry Grimaldi, DEA spokesman.

The number to call is the DEA Protective Services reporting line: (401) 462-0555. If it’s after 4 p.m., someone at Family Service will pick up. A licensed clinician will make an initial assessment of what to do. The clinician will advise public safety personnel on the scene and, if necessary, arrange for emergency home health care or to move the person to an assisted-living facility or nursing home. The clinician may report to the scene to evaluate and help out.

The number to call is the DEA Protective Services reporting line: (401) 462-0555.