Ways to Stay Active

By Sheila Robison, MiCAFE at Elder Law of Michigan We have all heard and read though ways to stay healthy. We all know the benefits of daily exercise and the reason behind it. We know exercising regularly is the right thing to do for optimal health purposes. It’s not just our doctor who tells us this. Being active is ideal and will give us maximum energy and … Continue reading Ways to Stay Active

(Mid-America Pension Rights Project): A Working-Class Program that Works to Solve Your Pension Problems

By Sandra Wisnewski, Director of the Mid-America Pension Rights Project at Elder Law of Michigan The Mid-America Pension Rights Project (MAPRP) assists clients with pension and 401(k) issues. There are no age or income restrictions and there is never a charge for the services. The Pension Project works to find answers and solutions to your pension-related problem. Just ask Mr. H. Mr. H was 63 when he first contacted the project. He … Continue reading (Mid-America Pension Rights Project): A Working-Class Program that Works to Solve Your Pension Problems

Prevention of Slips, Trips, and Falls in the Home

By Pam Canty, Intake and Screening Integration Coordinator at Elder Law of Michigan We can prevent many common slips, trips, and falls in the home. Many accidents in the home happen because of some simple things we overlook. However, when we get older, we should make changes in the home for safety reasons so we can continue to be independent in our homes longer. Since I … Continue reading Prevention of Slips, Trips, and Falls in the Home

Mid-America Pension Rights Project: What is REA and Why is it Important?

By Christine Steinmetz, Pension Attorney at the Mid-America Pension Rights Project at Elder Law of Michigan Am I entitled to my late spouse’s pension? The Mid-America Pension Rights Project is frequently asked this question by clients. As a widow or widower, you MAY be entitled to part of your spouse’s pension. Under Federal Law, known as the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), private pension … Continue reading Mid-America Pension Rights Project: What is REA and Why is it Important?

A Life Well-Lived

By Ron Tatro, Vice President at Elder Law of Michigan We have all found ourselves in this time of confusion, fear, and uncertainty. This environment has left us fearful, searching for hope and answers, and sometimes depressed. More than 6,000 fellow Michiganians have lost their lives. We have all been directly or indirectly impacted by these losses. In the last weekend of June, my friend Tom … Continue reading A Life Well-Lived

Social Security in Plain Language

By Vonda Van Til, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Some of the terms and acronyms people use when they talk about Social Security can be a little confusing.  We’re here to help you understand all you need to know. We strive to explain your benefits using easy-to-understand, plain language.  The Plain Writing Act of 2010 requires federal agencies to communicate clearly in a way“the public … Continue reading Social Security in Plain Language

A Redesigned Retirement Benefits Portal That Works for You

By Vonda Van Til, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist We are excited to tell you about our redesigned retirement benefits portal at http://www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement.  Keeping you informed about our products and services, and helping you prepare for making decisions that will affect your benefits is very important to us.  Preparing for retirement is one of the most important decisions you can make. Our website has helped … Continue reading A Redesigned Retirement Benefits Portal That Works for You

Important Information About Reaching Social Security During the COVID-19 Pandemic

By Vonda VanTil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist During the current coronavirus pandemic, we continue to provide help to you and other people in your communities.  While our offices are not providing service to walk-in visitors due to COVID-19, we remain ready and able to help you by phone with most Social Security business.  You can speak with a representative by calling your local Social Security … Continue reading Important Information About Reaching Social Security During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Qualifying for Supplemental Security Income with Social Security

By Vonda Van Til, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist We pay monthly Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to people with disabilities who have low income and few resources, and people who are age 65 or older without disabilities who meet the financial limits. Income is money you receive, such as wages, Social Security benefits, and pensions.  Income also includes things like food and shelter.  The amount … Continue reading Qualifying for Supplemental Security Income with Social Security

Safety Tips for Seniors Who Live Alone

By Shanon Gallagher, MiCAFE Network Screening Integration Coordinator at Elder Law of Michigan Most people enjoy the independence of living on their own, so it is not surprising that you and your loved ones would prefer to continue to live on your own for as long as possible. However, as you age you may go through subtle changes that make you more susceptible to accidents. According … Continue reading Safety Tips for Seniors Who Live Alone