Your mother or father thinks insurance benefits should be black and white. They have reached the age to qualify for Medicare, so why is it that the benefits are so confusing? Also, what other advantages are your mother or father entitled to besides Medicare? It’s important to look beyond the medical benefits to see what other government programs available to help seniors are available to your parents.
Government Programs for Seniors
Has your mother or father applied for Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP?) HEAP is for low-income individuals (families) that provides assistance with heating and cooling utilities. To apply, you or parent must apply through your parent’s state of residence. If Mom or Dad meets the criteria the benefits are payable toward heating, cooling and even some energy related repairs to the home.
In most states there is also assistance for telephone services, specifically mobile emergency services. It is crucial that your mother or father have a lifeline and phone service, one specifically with GPS tracking may be the best as your parent ages. Many wandering elderly individuals have been brought home safely because they have an affordable mobile phone with GPS. For seniors who may not need government assistance programs, many mobile carriers have special pricing if they maintain memberships to various organizations such as AARP.
It’s also suggested that your parent check out if they qualify for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP.) This program helps seniors purchase nutritional groceries if they have a limited income and resources. However, if one does not qualify there are other discount programs available. Shopping co-ops often save money on groceries and especially on fresh seasonal items. Another choice may be purchasing prepared meals that will satisfy your loved one’s diet and will create no waste and replenish weekly as needed.
Many chain stores offer special senior discount days and shopping on these specified days will be one more benefit in addition to your parent’s earned Social Security and Medicare.
Companion Care
If your loved one loves to hunt for bargains, caregivers can be the perfect companions to help you find those deals. Whether it’s shopping at a Farmer’s Market or the grocery store, they can help you find some steals! They can also help prepare some delicious meals at home that can accommodate your mom or dad’s dietary needs.
For more information about how are caregivers can help your parent save money or at home, give Assisting Hands Home Care a call at (239) 337-4263. We proudly serve Fort Myers, FL and the surrounding areas.
