Q: On occasion my doctor’s office asks me to sign some sort of release saying if Medicare doesn’t pay them I’ll be responsible. Can you explain the reason for such a step? A: Medicare beneficiaries are often asked by their doctor’s office to sign a form agreeing to pay for specific medical care if it [...]
Q: I need to find a new doctor. Do you have any suggestions about how to go about this search other than asking friends about the doctors they use? A: There are many reasons for someone to be looking for a new doctor. It could be because of dissatisfaction with the current doctor, the current [...]
Q: What is considered elder abuse and, if suspected, who can help? A: Elder abuse is a growing concern and can be inflected in numerous ways. It can be actual physical, emotional or financial abuse or it can be a result of neglect or abandonment. It can also be self-abuse. Physical abuse is any pain [...]
Q: A friend of mine just told me that she has attended several presentations of interest to seniors at the Westlake Village Civic Center. Is this an ongoing offering and, if so, can you provide particulars? A: Your friend is right on the mark. Senior Concerns and the city of Westlake Village present a monthly [...]
Starting Aug. 3, a new service will offer seniors van rides between the cities of Thousand Oaks, Moorpark, Simi Valley, unincorporated areas and other places in the East County. The intercity Dial-A-Ride and Americans with Disabilities Act program will allow seniors 65 and older and ADA cardholders to travel between most areas in eastern Ventura [...]
Q: I’ve been hearing a lot lately about medication errors and am concerned about my dad and his prescriptions. What might I do to help avoid a problem? A: I did some checking with those who work with prescriptions and was told that about half of patient safety issues are related to medications. To ensure [...]
Senior Concerns is pleased to announce a partnership with Hospice of the Conejo to present a free weekly grief support group for seniors who need help to recover from the loss of a spouse or significant other. This new support group is offered in addition to the four support groups that are currently offered by [...]
Q: I, like many seniors, want to age in my own home. I have heard people use the terms “aging in place” and “village to village” and would like to learn more about both. Can you suggest where I could start my research? A: You are not alone in wanting to remain in your own [...]
Q: I am ashamed to admit I was a victim of a scam. Can you give some hints that will help others spot a con artist? A: Don’t beat up on yourself for being taken. Anyone can be a victim. A clever con artist is a good actor who disarms the victim with a good-guy [...]
Q: My parents are getting on in age and will eventually need my assistance. I have no idea where to start planning. Can you suggest some starting points? A: Many people avoid dealing with this subject until a crisis arises. You are to be congratulated for wanting to be prepared. There are four areas that [...]
