Readers posed several questions about how to care for aging parents. Staff writer Thomas Goldsmith, who reports on issues affecting seniors, got the answers.

Q: At issue: A proposed rating system for assisted-living facilities. Consumers need information about how well adult-care homes are providing quality care so they can make informed decisions about placement in the homes. Information is already available from the federal government about nursing homes, home health agencies and hospitals. Consumers often have to make quick decisions about placement in adult care homes, and without some basis for evaluating homes, they do not have a starting point for making an informed decision.

A: The General Assembly passed legislation last year that set up a five-star rating system for adult-care homes, a state category that includes assisted-living facilities. The system was stalled in the rule-making process but will go into effect in January unless it is delayed by the legislature. Information on fines and violations on North Carolina adult-care homes is available from the Division of Health Service Regulation at 855-3765. Press 0 for information.

* Web site: www.ncdhhs.gov/dhsr/acls/adultcarehomefines.html

A few counties have updated listings about inspections of adult care homes online.

* For Wake County: lnweb02.co.wake.nc.us/dhs/ acth.nsf/1Home!OpenPage

* For Durham County: 65.36.175.93/dss/ adultcarelistings.cfm

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Q: Why is there not a Web site, agency, etc., that physicians can refer caregivers to? When you are in the thick of caretaking, there is no time to do research. If anyone who comes into contact with a senior and/or a caregiver could send those people to a clearinghouse of information it truly would be helpful.

A: The Triangle J Area Agency on Aging, an umbrella agency of services for older people in seven central counties, maintains a comprehensive Web site for caregivers called Full Circle of Care.

* Web site: www.fullcirclecare.org

In Wake County, the Center for Volunteer Caregiving, a nonprofit, faith-based organization, helps match volunteers with clients who need care. In addition, the center offers training for caregivers.

* Phone: 460-0567

* Web site: www.volunteercaregiving.org

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Q: We are independent and live in our own house but are in the beginning stages of, "Gee, it would be nice if I could find someone to ...." What I'm interested in is a listing of agencies that we possibly may be able to call on for assistance, any and all categories. Right now, our main concern is yard work. Are there any agencies that furnish yard workers at possibly a reduced rate?

A: I would need more information to know whether you are eligible for free or low-cost maintenance. In Wake County, an invaluable resource for questions such as this one -- and many others -- is Resources for Seniors. The equivalent of the Council on Aging in other counties, Resources for Seniors offers dozens of different services and a free, comprehensive directory as a guide. In other counties, try the Council on Aging, usually located in the county seat.

Resources for Seniors

* Phone: 872-7933

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Q: The needs we have so far are modest and intermittent: We could use help in replacing high light bulbs, don't want to do all yard work, etc. We are sufficiently affluent to hire out the work we really need. Soon I intend to contact some local agency or such -- I don't know which one -- to find out what sort are available, fee-based, for older folks. Are there errand-running services? Shopping? Odds and ends chores, in and out of the house?"

A: This would be the same answer as above concerning Resources for Seniors and county councils on aging. If you are a longtime resident, word of mouth can still be useful in locating help. Beware of service companies that appear because they "happen to be in the neighborhood," have no permanent address, only use a cell phone, etc. Scams involving yard work, home maintenance, etc., and older North Carolinians are dismayingly common.

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