Senior Concerns In the News

QUESTION: If I remember correctly, there has been some activity in the past regarding a possible Village to Village program in Thousand Oaks. Is there any update on that potential program happening in the Conejo Valley? ANSWER: You recall correctly. The committee that was researching the possibility has done extensive [...]

Q: In the past few months I have had several friends laid up because of falls. I believe this is one of the most serious things that can happen to a senior. Do you agree, and, if so do you have any hints on how to avoid falls especially in [...]

Q: I have a long-term care policy that I purchased about 10 years ago and have just received a notice that my premium is going to increase by a substantial amount. I am provided with several options for reducing the premium amount but not sure what is best and how [...]

Q: A family member has been diagnosed with a terminal illness and while not needed at this particular time I am beginning to think about hospice services. When looking into this type of care what should I consider when selecting a hospice provider? A: I commend you on preparing for [...]

Q: A family member just told me she is a prediabetic. I would like to learn more about this condition and what one should do if they are diagnosed with it. Do you know where I start my search for information? A: The Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association provides free [...]

Q: I am about to sign up for Medicare and have more than a few questions. But the question I currently have regards doctors and why, when selecting a doctor, you should ask, "Does he or she take assignment?" What does that mean? A: There are many questions that could [...]

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 [...]

Q: I am attempting to help an elderly relative with health care coverage selection. I am so confused, and I can't believe a senior is required to understand all of the options available. I have run into Medicare, Medi-Cal, Medicaid, Medigap and Medicare Advantage. Everything starts with an M, and [...]

Q: I have been a very busy person all my adult life and was looking forward to having free time when I retired. Now that I am retired I find myself with time on my hands and it is not all that I thought it would be. I'm considering volunteering [...]

Q: Most seniors want to "age in place" but their current homes do not fit their current physical needs. Do you have any suggestions about what they should consider if downsizing or remodeling? A: There are many issues that should be considered when building or remodeling for this aging population. [...]

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 [...]

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. [...]

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 [...]

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 [...]

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 [...]

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 [...]

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 [...]

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 [...]

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 [...]

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. [...]