PROGRAM PRINCIPLES.

The program must adhere to the following principles:

(1) the intent of the program is to evaluate, through the operation of pilot projects, whether providing the services of a trained volunteer advocate selected by an elderly individual or the individual's designated caregiver is effective in achieving the following goals:

(A) extend the time the elderly individual can remain in an appropriate home setting;

(B) maximize the efficiency of services delivered to the elderly individual by focusing on services needed to sustain family caregiving;

(C) protect the elderly individual by providing a knowledgeable third party to review the quality of care and services delivered to the individual and the care options available to the individual and the individual's family; and

(D) facilitate communication between the elderly individual or the individual's designated caregiver and providers of health care and other services;

(2) a volunteer advocate curriculum must be maintained that incorporates best practices as determined and recognized by a professional organization recognized in the elder health care field;

(3) the use of pro bono assistance from qualified professionals must be maximized in modifying the volunteer advocate curriculum and the program;

(4) trainers must be certified on the ability to deliver training;

(5) training shall be offered through multiple community-based organizations; and

(6) participation in the program is voluntary and must be initiated by an elderly individual or the individual's designated caregiver.