In light of the arrival of new immigrants from Afghanistan, the National Center on Law & Elder Rights (NCLER) has collected and shared resources for advocates to help deliver trauma-informed services and better understand eligibility issues, available services, and asserting language access rights.

According to NCLER, immigration status generally determines eligibility for benefits programs and services, such as cash assistance and health insurance. Some Afghans may qualify for Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs) and others may be seeking refugee status. Aging services and legal assistance providers might find it helpful to reach and assist older immigrants through partnerships with resettlement agencies and similar organizations aiding in the resettlement efforts.

See the listing of resources from NCLER below:

• NCLER: Access to Public Benefits for Older Immigrants (webinar recording and Chapter Summary)
• NCLER: Language Access Rights: Tips for Advocates of Limited English Proficient Older Adults
• NCLER: Trauma-Informed Lawyering
• Justice in Aging: Older Immigrants and Medicare
• Social Security Administration: Spotlight on SSI Benefits for Noncitizens
• gov: Health Coverage for Immigrants
• Immigrant Legal Resource Center: Public Charge Resources
• National Immigration Law Center: Overview of Immigrant Eligibility for Federal Programs and Overview Table
• National Immigration Law Center: FAQ- Eligibility for Assistance Based on Immigration Status