By Betty Berry, Tuesday, Aug. 17, 2010  Q: All the talk about healthcare reform has led me to think about myMedicare coverage and whether I really understand all the parts and rules. Is there somewhere I could go for a refresher course?

A: Understanding Medicare isn’t easy. A review of the numerous parts and rules can’t hurt. Every year there are changes, and you need to keep up to date on your coverage to determine if and how those changes might affect you.

A refresher course, called Medicare 101, is scheduled in Thousand Oaks 10-11:30 a.m. Monday at the Goebel Senior Adult Center, 1385 E. Janss Road.

The presentation, facilitated by Senior Concerns, will define Medicare’s parts and options. Those new to Medicare will learn how and when to enroll, and what happens if they don’t enroll. The review also will cover the cost and if a medical review is required. People who work beyond age 65 will learn how their job status might affect enrollment dates.

Anyone who has Medicare fee-for-service or is enrolled in a Senior Advantage Plan (HMO, PPO or PFFS) should attend.For reservations, call 381-2744.

Q: I live in Simi Valley and in years past have enjoyed the information expo at the Senior Center. Do you know if it will be offered again this year?

A: The Simi Valley Council on Aging will hold the Wellness and Information Expo 2010 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 8 at the Simi Valley Senior Center, 3900 Avenida Simi. The event will feature more than 50 vendors and agencies that specialize in providing resources for seniors.

In addition to information on social services, legal assistance, long-term care, housing and adult education, the expo will offer several types of free health screenings on a first-come, first-served basis. Carotid artery screenings, chair massages, heel bone scans, hearing exams, oral cancer screenings, glucose testing and condensed exercise classes will be available.

Admission is free. For more information, call 583-6363.

Happenings

Brain Fitness Program, Aug. 30 through Oct. 8 at Senior Concerns Day Center, 401 Hodencamp Road, Thousand Oaks. For information and reservations, call Susan at 497-0189.

Savvy Caregiver Training, professional training for the nonprofessional, 3-5 p.m. Wednesdays from Sept. 1 through Oct. 20, Senior Concerns Day Center, Thousand Oaks. To register, call Norma at 484-6028.

“Will You Pass Your Next Driving Test?” seminar, 1:30-3 p.m. Sept. 2, Simi Valley Senior Center, 3900 Avenida Simi, Simi Valley. For information or reservations, call 583-6363.

— Betty Berry is a senior advocate for Senior Concerns. The advocates are at the Goebel Senior Adult Center, 1385 E. Janss Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362; or call 495-6250 or e-mail betty@seniorconcerns.org (please include your telephone number).

Read more: http://www.vcstar.com/news/2010/aug/17/goebel-senior-center-to-offer-medicare-review/#ixzz0yK8x5tfp
– vcstar.com

 

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