Stethoscope and blood pressure cuff.

Medicare Open Enrollment Period Ends Thursday, December 8, 2017

Via National Council on Aging The Medicare Open Enrollment Period is an annual period of time (October 15 through December 7) when current Medicare users can choose to re-evaluate part of their Medicare coverage (their Medicare Advantage and/or Part D plan) and compare it against all the other plans on the market. After re-evaluating, if you find a plan that is a better fit for … Continue reading Medicare Open Enrollment Period Ends Thursday, December 8, 2017

Aging Network News

Via Area Agencies on Aging Association of Michigan Aging Network News The National Association of Area Agencies on Aging has called on Congress to reject any tax cut proposals that fail to recognize the fiscal realities of the aging of our nation and/or would undermine critical aging programs. Since 10,000 Baby Boomers turn 65 every day now and the older adult population is expected to hit … Continue reading Aging Network News

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Social Security Q&A Part 3

By Vonda VanTil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Question: Can I refuse to give my Social Security number to a private business? Answer: Yes, you can refuse to disclose your Social Security number, and you should be careful about giving out your number. But, be aware, the person requesting your number can refuse services if you don’t give it. Businesses, banks, schools, private agencies, etc., are … Continue reading Social Security Q&A Part 3

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Managing Someone Else’s Money: Protect My Money

By Michelle Goetz, Project Coordinator Millions of Americans are managing money or property for a loved one or friend who is unable to pay bills or make financial decisions. Yet, there are billions of dollars that are inappropriately taken from vulnerable seniors and veterans. To help you know your rights and responsibilities as a conservator, trustee, power of attorney, or veterans’ affairs fiduciary/ representative payee, … Continue reading Managing Someone Else’s Money: Protect My Money

An elderly man's hands rest on top of a wooden cane.

Dementia Support Program for Caregivers

By Christine Steinmetz, Hotline Attorney November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month and National Family Caregivers Month. According to the World Health Organization and the Alzheimer’s Association, there are approximately 47 million people in the world with dementia and approximately 5 million Americans have Alzheimer’s. In addition, every 66 seconds someone develops the disease. Dementia effects mainly older adults; however, it can affect younger adults … Continue reading Dementia Support Program for Caregivers

A question mark drawn in white chalk on a blackboard.

Social Security Q&A Part 2

By Vonda VanTil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Question: My brother had an accident at work last year and is now receiving Social Security disability benefits. His wife and son also receive benefits. Before his accident, he helped support another daughter by a woman he never married. Is the second child entitled to benefits? Answer: The child may qualify for Social Security benefits even though your … Continue reading Social Security Q&A Part 2

A question mark drawn in white chalk on a blackboard.

Social Security Q&A Part 1

By Vonda VanTil, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Question: I have medical coverage through my employer. Do I have to take Medicare Part B? Answer: You are not required to take Medicare Part B if you are covered by a group healthcare plan based on either your employment or the employment of a spouse. When your coverage ends, you may contact the Social Security Administration to … Continue reading Social Security Q&A Part 1

Alzheimer's Association: Chicago, Rita Hayworth Gala 30th Anniversary.

Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

By Kathryn Larlee, Hotline Attorney On May 16, 1987, a New York Times article announced that the famed actress, Rita Hayworth, had died in her New York apartment from Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 68. It was reported that the actress had been under the care of her daughter since 1981. The public disclosure of the cause of her death brought national and international … Continue reading Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

Eyeglasses sitting on paper.

These Are the 10 Best States for Aging

Via U.S. News By Casey Lewis, Staff Writer Aging in America In 2016, Americans age 65 and older accounted for 15.2 percent of the total population, up 2.8 percent from 2000. These numbers are only expected to grow considerably over the coming decades, and the U.S. Census Bureau predicts that one in five Americans will be 65 and over by 2030. Read the full article … Continue reading These Are the 10 Best States for Aging

Stethoscope and blood pressure cuff.

Flu Season When You Are Age 65 or Over

By Emilee Evans, Legal Intern According the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the peak of flu season occurs between November and March. In consideration of the upcoming season, the first step to preventing the flu would be to get your flu shot. Other common preventative methods include practicing good health habits such as: regularly washing your hands (especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching things … Continue reading Flu Season When You Are Age 65 or Over