Is There Help To Pay For Internet Service?

April 3, 2023

Question: I have been told there is help to pay for my phone, but what about my internet service? Answer: Well your question got me doing a little research and I am learning a lot! I have worked with phone discounts for many years called “Lifeline”. I will explain the benefits for those that don’t understand what the Lifeline Discount program is. Lifeline is a monthly discount on your phone service of $9.25 per month (more if you live on Tribal lands). This discount can apply regardless of how you receive your phone service, traditional landline, cell phone or through ...

Are COVID-19 Tests Still Covered By Medicare?

March 27, 2023

Question: How does Medicare cover COVID-19 tests? Answer: Medicare coverage for COVID-19 related issues has changed as we have moved through this pandemic. In the beginning it was about isolation and CDC protocols. The immunization process began to make us feel more comfortable with COVID-19 and being around others. We are approaching the end of the National Department of Health and Human Services declared Public Health Emergency (PHE), which is set to expire at the end of the day on May 11, 2023. This PHE expiration will end many of the other declarations and legislative actions taken ...

South County Annual Senior Social To Be Held May 3

March 20, 2023

The Chautauqua County Office for Aging Services is celebrating its 50th anniversary during May’s Older Americans Month. The anniversary also gives us the opportunity to honor the conty’s older adult community that we have the privilege to serve. This year the OAM’s theme is “Aging Unbound”, which offers the opportunity to explore diverse aging experiences and discuss how communities can combat stereotypes and ageism discrimination. Our communities only benefit when older adults remain engaged, independent, and included. Our annual social will be a celebration including ...

What Seniors Can Do To Safeguard Their Mental Health

March 20, 2023

No one is immune to issues that can adversely affect their mental health, including men and women nearing retirement age and those who are already retired. Though the term “golden years” suggests life in retirement is one sunny day after another, many individuals 60 and older are dealing with mental health issues. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 15 percent of the world’s adults aged 60 and over suffer from a mental disorder. What makes that statistic even more troubling is that the WHO acknowledges it likely doesn’t paint the most accurate picture of ...

What To Do After A Medicare Denial

March 20, 2023

For many, Medicare Part A (hospitalization) and Medicare Part B (Medical) denials are due to reasons such as not meeting medical necessity; frequency limitations; and even basic coding mistakes. Denials are subject to appeal, since a denial is a payment determination. It is beneficial for an individual to understand why they have received a Medicare denial letter. Medicare’s reasons for denial for Part A and Part B can include: ¯ Medicare does not deem the service medically necessary. ¯ A person has a Medicare Advantage plan, and they used a healthcare provider outside of ...

CARTS Can Be A Solution For Seniors

March 20, 2023

Need a ride or want to save on your transportation costs? CARTS is Chautauqua County’s public transportation system. CARTS is public transportation for everyone living, working, or visiting in Chautauqua County. Whether you want to go shopping, to a medical appointment, to work, to college, or to visit a friend, CARTS can get you there safely, comfortably, and economically. CARTS strives to provide the highest quality transportation services to all citizens and guests of Chautauqua County. There are several options when considering scheduling a ride with CARTS. CARTS Jamestown City ...