Senior Concerns In the News

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. [...]

Q: My question has to do with respite care for a caregiver who is trying to do the whole job himself, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. I don't think he understands that it is OK to ask for help nor does he know what type of help [...]

Q: I have been told walking will help my physical problems. While I think walking is a great exercise, I am concerned with traffic and potential accidents. Do you have any hints on ways to reduce a chance of an accident? A: Pedestrian safety affects each of us every time [...]

Q: It seems as though I've been renewing my driver's license by mail forever, and now I have a notice that the current renewal must take place at the Department of Motor Vehicles. Why? Also, I'm sure I'll be required to take a written test, and to say the least [...]

Q: I'm hearing more and more about how overweight the people of this nation are becoming — both young and old. We are told to eat right, cut back on portions and eat our fruit and vegetables. I'm not in control of how much food is served. Are there any [...]

Q: In past years Simi Valley has offered a health expo in the spring at the senior center. Do you know if that event will be offered again this year? A: Yes, the Simi Valley Wellness Expo 2016 is scheduled from 8 a.m. to noon April 20. The theme for [...]

Q: A friend of mine just took part in a program called Economic Check-Up. What she told me about her appointment sounds like something I could benefit from. Is that program still being offered? A: Yes, Senior Concerns will be offering the Economic Check-Up program on April 14 at Senior [...]

Q: My husband was considered disabled by his employer yet when he applied for Social Security disability he was turned down. Can you provide an explanation? A: It is not unusual for a person to be turned down when first applying for Social Security disability. Perhaps Social Security just needs [...]

Q: Recently my husband had a stroke and required therapy. I was surprised that his treatment included different types of therapists. Can you explain the different types of therapy? A: That is a very good question. I'm sure many of us are a bit confused about the services of different [...]

Q: I am beginning to have some problems with my vision but am unsure of which doctors are trained to do what procedures. Can you provide definitions for doctors and/or providers of eye care? A: I'd be glad to. It is very important to know the difference between the types [...]

Q: I am going to need in-home health care and wonder how to go about selecting an appropriate agency. Is there anything in particular I should focus on and does Medicare have any special requirements for the care to be covered? A: Medicare Part B covers medically necessary part-time or [...]