Q: I have a friend who is really in debt because of her credit cards. I've tried to talk to her about the problem but my words seem to fall on deaf ears. I think if she read about credit card debt in your column she might realize the trouble she is in. Will you [...]
Q: In the past I've heard about Medicare fraud and how important it is for everyone to fight it. I'm sure fraud occurs in all areas of care but am concerned with services provided by in-home agencies. What red flags would you suggest we look for? A: You are correct. Fraud occurs in all areas [...]
Q: A group of us were out the other night when one person needed to use an ATM. When she returned to the table a discussion about ATM's and scams took place. It seemed we all had different ideas about how it happens and how to protect against it. Do you have any thoughts on [...]
Q: I'm a senior with Medicare as my health care insurance. I am wondering if I have any say in what hospital I would use if I have need for that type of care. Some friends have indicated that I must go to the local hospital but others have said that I can go elsewhere. [...]
Q: I recently applied for my Medicare benefits and soon after received a form to complete asking for information about employer's health plans that I might be entitled to. Why would Medicare need such information? A: Medicare needs to know about other health care coverage to establish your benefits file and to determine whether or [...]
As part of an ongoing commitment to provide resources and support for family caregivers of those caring for aging loved ones, Senior Concerns will present a community seminar on “Diet and Memory: The MIND Diet Plan,” on Tuesday, June 28, 2016, 5:30-7:00 p.m. at Senior Concerns, 401 Hodencamp Road, Thousand Oaks. This informative seminar, led [...]
In partnership with the National Council on Aging, Senior Concerns is offering one-stop shops for free economic check-ups to assist low-income adults in managing budgets, saving money, finding work, and setting financial goals. Participants in the economic check-up program must be age 55 or older with a household income at or below 250 percent of [...]
Q: I've heard a lot about road rage lately and wonder if seniors are targeted victims. If so, what can we do to protect ourselves? A: It appears that road rage continues to be part of our lives. However, I think this type of anger is more likely directed at drivers' behaviors rather than at [...]
Q: I am a low-income senior and have heard friends talk about assistance they are receiving from various programs. Do you know where I could obtain information about some of these programs? A: You have asked a question which might be of interest to many low-income seniors, so mark your calendar for May 23. That's [...]
Q: I am trying to educate my parents about how identity theft can happen, but don't think they really believe what I am saying. Perhaps they would listen more if the information came from a third party. Can you address the way it happens? A: I would be glad to. The information will be informative [...]
