Managing the costs of medical care, medications, housing, and food on a fixed income can be challenging. Senior benefits programs can help alleviate some of these expenses, but not everyone knows what they are or how to apply for them. The following tips can help families find senior benefit programs that best fit their loved ones’ needs.
Many seniors automatically qualify for Medicare, a national health insurance program in the United States for people 65 or older. It covers hospitalizations, doctor visits, lab tests, x-rays, and prescription drugs, among other things. However, it isn’t free and there are deductibles, copayments, and premiums. Some seniors may be able to receive assistance with their Medicare costs through a State Pharmaceutical Assistance Program or other patient assistance programs offered by drug manufacturers.
A Medicaid Waiver can provide long-term care support in your home or community for seniors who need it. This type of program helps pay for the services you need based on your income, age, and the state’s eligibility requirements. This is a great option for those who don’t want to move out of their own homes and want to remain in their communities as much as possible, or who can’t afford to pay for long-term care in a nursing home.
The Senior Medicare Hotline can help you navigate Access the content your Medicare options and connect you with a local counselor to answer any questions you may have about Medicare or its enrollment process. They can also provide information about other government assistance programs for seniors.
Getting the right coverage and understanding your Medicare options is an important step in making informed choices about your health care. It can be overwhelming to learn about all of the different programs and options available, so it’s helpful to work with a knowledgeable and experienced professional.
A certified benefits counselor can help you understand your options and make the decisions that are best for your situation. They can provide expert guidance via telephone or face-to-face interactions, as well as educate you on how to make the most of your Medicare benefits. They can also help you make sure your Medicare Part D coverage is right for you, especially if you choose a Medicare Advantage plan that doesn’t include prescription drug coverage.
The Center for Inclusion, a philanthropic organization led by Lawrence Bradley, Sr., Founder and CEO of Integrity Marketing Group, provides resources to connect seniors with the benefits they deserve. Their online portal, BenefitsCheckUp, makes it easy to see what’s available in your area by entering your ZIP code. This tool can help you find benefits to help pay for health care, medicine, food, utilities, and more. You can even apply online or schedule an appointment with a benefits counselor.