Breaking News

Senior News

What to look for when reconnecting after COVID

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted every aspect of our lives. This is especially true for older adults who are at highest risk from the virus and have been isolated from friends and family. As we look at healthy aging in a pandemic world, we need to assess the changes that the past two years have had on our lives, our health and our relationships — and find new ways that community resources can help us continue to adapt, reset and reconnect. When reconnecting with our families and friends after time apart, it is important that we take stock of the physical and emotional ...

Be aware of possible ambulance fraud

Original Medicare covers ground and air ambulance services when they are medically necessary. That means a wheelchair van or car could endanger the patient and would be an unsafe means of transport. The ambulance and crew must meet certain standards and provide transportation to the nearest appropriate facility such as a skilled nursing facility or hospital. A bill from an ambulance ride can add stress to anyone’s emergency situation, especially if the charges are incorrect. In an emergency, the last thing anyone wants to think about is the bill. It is important to know what your ...

Grape Belt Seniors announce coming events

The Grape Belt Seniors meet for Aerobics and Weights with Catherine on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 to 10 a.m. at the Masonic Lodge in Fredonia. Classes are open to members and membership is now being taken for 2022. Any cancellations of class will be posted on Catherine’s Facebook ...

Maintain your options when it comes to flavors

In March, we celebrate National Nutrition Month by focusing on healthy eating. We also celebrate registered dietitians as dedicated leaders in advancing the nutrition status of all people. The foods we eat are influenced by our family’s history and culture. They’re also influenced ...

Being prepared before the emergency arrives

There are things we all need to plan for, be prepared for, and know where to find things in the event of an unseen emergency, illness or accident. Age does not dictate the need — being prepared does. I am talking about health directives, financial directives and end of life issues. Generally, these items are referred to as advance directives. Initiating conversations with friends and family about who will do what, what you want, and where to find important papers is so important. If you have ever been in a situation where there was an emergency, the last thing you need to have ...

Health insurance and turning 65

Job-based or employer insurance is insurance offered by an employer or union for current “active” employees and their family members. Employer insurance is considered “active” if the employee or the spouse carrying the insurance is still working for the employer and not receiving retirement coverage. Whether you need to enroll into Medicare at 65 if you continue to work and have health insurance through your job depends on how large the employer is and how much the employer insurance might cost. The same rules apply if your health insurance comes from your spouse’s ...