Open Enrollment, which runs October 15^th through December 7th, is that one time each year when older Ohioans can, and should, review their Medicare options and coverages.  It is important for older adults to understand that there are different plans and choices available for the upcoming year and that price comparisons can be very beneficial.  OSHIIP, a program of the Ohio Department of Insurance, can help those who have Medicare learn about changes, such as new deductibles, co-pays, coinsurance amounts, part D options, and financial assistance programs for those who may need extra help in paying for their Medicare.

OSHIIP representatives will be accepting appointments for individual counseling on Tuesday, November 13th, at the Marion County Council on Aging office, located at 125 Executive Dr.  They can provide free and unbiased educational and enrollment assistance for those who may want to make changes to their Medicare plans.  Interested seniors are encouraged to call the Council on Aging at 740.387.0401 to make an appointment for a free consultation with an OSHIIP representative.

There are many good reasons to create your own personal Social Security account.  Through this account, you can apply for social security retirement and disability benefits; apply for Medicare;  apply for  Extra Help with your prescription drug costs; check your annual earnings record and potential benefit amounts; get a replacement Medicare card, and much more!  Get more information and answers to frequetly asked questions at www.socialsecurity.gov/faq

Partnering with Interim HealthCare, the Marion County Council on Aging is pleased to announce that limited funding is now available to assist with in-home respite care services. Respite care is available for temporary, non-emergency caregiver relief, and is designed to decrease stress and isolation for the caregiver. Services must be provided in the client’s home and is to be used by those full-time caregivers who can be best served by this short term assistance.   The person receiving the care must be over the age of 60, a resident of Marion County, and living in an independent living situation. Qualification for Respite Care Services is by a written standardized assessment, which shall determine the appropriateness for client enrollment in this program. The type and extent of care will vary, depending on the circumstances.

For further information on this new service, please contact the Marion County Council on Aging at 740.387.0401 or Interim HealthCare at 740.387.0301

Trained volunteers for the Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program (OSHIIP) are available to answer your questions about issues concerning Medicare options, prescription plans and other supplement insurance plans.   Contact the Marion County Council on Aging at 740-387-0401 for additional information or to schedule an appointment for consultation.