For older people, benefits often go unused

Some examples: about 14 million adults According to recent estimates, people over the age of 60 are eligible for help from the Federal Supplementary Nutrition Assistance Program (also known as food stamps) but have not signed up. It also covers her over 3 million adults over the age of 65, but has not registered. Medicare Savings Program, pay Medicare premiums and cost shares. And his 30% to 45% of the elderly Medicare Part D Low Income Grant Programwhich covers the premium and cost sharing of the plan and reduces the cost of prescription drugs.

“Every year, tens of billions of dollars go unspent,” says seniors who don’t know about benefits, find it too difficult to complete applications, or feel conflicted about asking for help. Because, said. Josh HodgesChief Client Officer of the National Council on Aging and an advocacy group for older Americans that operates the National Center for Benefits Outreach and Enrollment.

“You earned these benefits,” Hodges said, and seniors should think of them “like Medicare and Social Security.”

Here’s how to get started and information about some programs.

ask for help

The assessment identifies which federal, state, and local programs can help with various needs (food, housing, transportation, health care, utilities, and other essentials). In many cases, agency staff will help seniors fill out forms and collect the necessary documents.

A common mistake is to wait until a crisis hits so there is no food in the refrigerator or the power company is about to turn off the electricity.

food assistance

To combat the stigma that some seniors attach to food stamps, AARP launched a marketing campaign in Atlanta and Houston stating, “Food prices are rising and we are all spending more money on our grocery budgets.” I’m trying to stretch it out,” he said. AARP Foundation Benefit Access Program.

If the effort changes the perception of older Americans about the program and increases enrollment, AARP plans to expand significantly next year, she said.

Subsidies for medical expenses

AARP also works closely with community organizations in South Carolina, Alabama, and Mississippi to help seniors apply for low-income subsidies for Medicare Savings Programs and Part D prescription drug plans. . Over the next year, we plan to expand the program to up to 22 states.

The value of these medical benefits for low-income seniors is substantial. At a minimum, the Medicare Savings Program will cover the cost of Medicare Part B premiums. Most are $170/month or $2,040/year. For the lowest-income elderly, the benefits are even broader and cover the cost of medical services.

Other aid

As part of the broader “benefit research” process, check for property tax relief programs for seniors in your area.

Barriers to getting help

Proponents of many programs say agencies serving older adults are facing staff shortages, complicating efforts to provide assistance. Low pay is a common reason. For example, according to Markwood, 41% of regional agencies on aging report staff vacancies of up to 15%, and a further 18% report vacancies of up to 25%. Government agencies have also lost a significant number of volunteers during the Covid-19 pandemic.

At the same time, the pandemic and rising inflation have increased the demand for assistance and made the needs of our clients more complex.

“All of this is amplified by the financial burden that older people are feeling,” Markwood said.