By Betty Berry, Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Q: I am interested in learning more about hospice care. Is there someone or somewhere that I can get this information?
A: Yes, there is. The next seminar in Senior Concerns’ “Solving the Aging Puzzle” series will address hospice care and who provides such services and where. “Hospice: When? Why?” will be facilitated by two hospice organizations, Hospice of the Conejo, a volunteer organization, and Buena Vista Hospice, a Medicare-approved provider.
The speakers will address when you should use hospice services and benefits of such services. The presentation also will dispel the myths about hospice care and provide guidelines as to when you should have a conversation about getting hospice care.
This should be a most informative presentation. Reservations are suggested and can be made by calling Senior Concerns at 497-0189. If you should forget to make reservations, walk-ins are welcome if seating is available.
If you need respite care for a special-needs senior so you can attend, you can make arrangements for that care at the center when making your reservation. Reservations for respite care are required.
Q: I am new to Medicare and have been told that Medicare doesn’t cover everything. I am looking for information about options to supplement Medicare. Where can I obtain unbiased suggestions?
A: It is never too early to investigate the options and then be able to make an informed decision when the time comes.
For a good review of what is available, you should mark your calendar for the next “Senior Issues” seminar.
“Supplementing Your Medicare Coverage” is scheduled for 1:30 to 3 p.m. May 11 at Westlake Village Civic Center, 31200 E. Oak Crest Drive in Westlake Village. The seminar will be facilitated by the senior advocate and will address the need and ways you can supplement your Medicare coverage. Information will be given about Medigap policies, supplemental policies, employers’ retirement policies, prescription drug coverage policies and veterans’ benefits.
You will learn how these policies work and whether you need more than one. You will become aware of the only time Medicare will pay for care in a skilled nursing facility.
No reservations are required. For more information, call 495-6250.
Q: If I remember correctly, in years past, the city of Thousand Oaks has recognized a senior for volunteer services he or she has provided to the community. Is this honor still being given and, if so, when?
A: Yes, this program known as Senior of the Year is still in existence, and the Thousand Oaks Council on Aging is currently in the process of accepting nominations.
Any organization or individual residing in the Conejo Valley may submit a nomination. The nominee must be at least 60 years of age and a resident of Thousand Oaks or the areas within the city’s sphere of influence for three of the past five years.
Criteria for the award are based on the nominee’s volunteer services benefiting the community of Thousand Oaks. Longevity of service is not a consideration, and all contributions to the community will be considered.
Nomination forms are available at the Goebel Senior Adult Center. Deadline for filing an application is Monday. Time is of the essence, so make your nomination today. The award ceremony will be June 2 at the Goebel Senior Adult Center. More about that later.
