Category: Programs & Services

Retirement FAQs
Q: How do I show proof of my Social Security benefit amount?

A: There are several ways to do this:

Use your SSA-1099 form as proof of your income

Use your annual notice that tells you your benefit amount for the year

Go online and request a Proof of Income Letter at www.socialsecurity.gov/bene

Call Social Security’s toll-free number: 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) 7 a.m.–7 p.m., Monday–Friday

Q: I understand that by 2013 I will no longer be able to receive my Social Security payments by paper check. What are the benefits of using direct deposit?

A: The benefits of using direct deposit are:

It’s safe, secure and convenient;

There are no checks to be lost;

You are in control of your money; and

You will get your benefits on time, even if you’re out of town, sick, or unable to get to the bank.

You choose the account where your Social Security payment is deposited. If you don’t have a bank account, you can use the Direct Express (www.godirect.gov) prepaid debit card to receive Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and other Federal benefit payments. With this card, you can make purchases, pay bills and withdraw cash.

Q: How does a blind or visually impaired person choose how Social Security communicates with them about important information?

A: Blind or visually impaired beneficiaries can receive information from Social Security in different ways. To learn about notification options:

Visit www.socialsecurity.gov/notices and go to the page, “If You Are Blind Or Visually Impaired—Your Choices For Receiving Information from Social Security”

Call toll-free at 1-877-708-1776 (TTY 1-800-325-0778)

Contact your local Social Security office

Contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate if you live outside the United States

Q: What is a disability trial work period?

A: The “trial work period” allows Social Security disability beneficiaries to test their ability to work for at least nine trial work months within a 60-month period. During the trial work period, you can receive full benefits no matter how much you earn, as long as you remain disabled and you report your work activity. For more information about work incentives see our publication Working While Disabled—How We Can Help at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10095.html.

Q: What are the “Parts” of Medicare?

A: There are four (A-D) Medicare parts:

Hospital insurance (Part A) helps pay hospital bills and some follow-up care. The taxes you or your spouse paid while working finances this coverage, so it’s premium free. For those who are not “insured,” coverage may be purchased.

Medical insurance (Part B) helps pay doctors’ bills and other services. There is a monthly premium you must pay for Medicare Part B or you may refuse this coverage.

Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans, which generally covers the same benefits as a Medigap policy, such as extra days in the hospital after you have used the number of days Medicare covers. People with Medicare Parts A and B can choose to receive all of their health care services through one of these provider organizations under Part C. There might be additional premiums required for some plans.

Prescription drug coverage (Part D) helps pay for prescription drugs. Anyone who has a Medicare Part A, Part B, or Part C is eligible for prescription drug coverage (Part D). Joining a Medicare Part D plan is voluntary and you pay an additional monthly premium for the coverage. To learn more about Medicare benefits, read our publication, Medicare, at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10043.html.

Q: I can’t get health insurance because of my pre-existing condition. Is there anything I can do?

A: You may be eligible for the new Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan—a program for people who have a pre-existing condition and have been without health insurance coverage for at least six months. For more information, call toll-free: 1-866-717-5826 (TTY 1-866-561-1604), 8 a.m.–11 p.m. (Eastern Time). Or visit www.pcip.gov and select “Find Your State” to learn about eligibility and how to apply.
Q: How do I show proof of my Social Security benefit amount? A: There are several ways to do this:
March into Medicare

Hawai‘i’s Sage PLUS (SHIP) counselors are often asked, “What is Medicare, and how does it affect me?”

Medicare is the United State’s federal health insurance that is available to those 65 years and older, and to people at any age with certain disabilities.

You can choose to use the government’s Original/Traditional Medicare, or a commercial Medicare Health Plan or a Medicare Supplement (also known as “Medigap” insurance).

Sage PLUS is a Medicare Counseling Program, nationally known as the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) and it is a volunteer-based program. Many of the volunteers started with the program to learn more about Medicare for their families and have been with us for more than 10 years. If you have specific questions about your circumstances, or you would like to volunteer, please call 1-888-875-9229 or visit www.hawaiiship.org.

Have you recently enrolled in Medicare and aren’t sure what to do next? Here are a few tips to give you a jump start on a healthy future:

Step 1: Sign up for the “Welcome to Medicare” physical exam.

Call your doctor and schedule your “Welcome to Medicare” physical exam today. It’s an easy way for you and your doctor to get an accurate benchmark of your health.

During the exam, you and your physician will review your medical and family history, assess current health conditions and prescriptions, and conduct health screenings to establish a baseline for care.

You will also have an opportunity to talk about short- and long-term goals to improve your health and overall well-being. For example, your physician will provide you with a plan of action that may include referrals for other services, including preventive services such as cancer screenings, flu shots, routine vaccines and diabetes tests. Many of these services are free to most Medicare beneficiaries as a result of the Affordable Care Act.

At the end of your appointment, be sure to schedule an annual “Wellness Exam” for the following year. Thanks to the Affordable Care Act, Medicare now covers a yearly check-up. The “Welcome to Medicare” and annual “Wellness Exam” are great ways to assess changes in your health and catch any health issues early.

Step 2: Register at MyMedicare.gov

Register at www.MyMedicare.gov for easy access to your health information. This free, secure online service provides access to personalized information regarding your Medicare benefits and services. If you don’t have a computer, ask someone you trust, like a family member or the administrator at your local senior center, to help you sign-up and regularly review your information.

Step 3: Take advantage of all your Medicare resources.

Medicare offers a number of resources to help you get the most out of your benefits. If you are a new enrollee, check out the New to Medicare? section of www.medicare.gov.

Review your Medicare & You 2011 handbook; or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048. If you need help in a language other than English or Spanish, say “Agent” at any time to talk to a customer service representative. More information is available at www.healthcare.gov, a new web portal from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. ■ This information prepared by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Hawai‘i’s Sage PLUS (SHIP) counselors are often asked, “What is Medicare, and how does it affect me?” Medicare is the United State’s federal health insurance that is available to those 65 years and older, and to people at any age with certain disabilities. You can choose to use the government’s Original/Traditional Medicare, or a commercial…
Healthy Heart, Happy Heart: Medicare’s Preventive Benefits

This February share your heart with those special people by using your Medicare Preventive Benefits. As of January 1, 2011, under Original/ Traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans there are no co-pays for preventive benefits. That means if your doctor feels that you could benefit from a cardiovascular screening you will pay nothing out of pocket for the screen. Taking advantage of the preventive benefits available will help keep you stay healthy (and happy).

Everyone who has had Medicare Part B for at least 12 months is also now eligible for a “Yearly Wellness Exam.” You will pay nothing for the exam if your doctor accepts assignment. You and your doctor will make or update a “prevention plan” for you based on your current health and risk factors.

In October of 2010 every Medicare household received a Medicare & You 2011 handbook. On page 45 is a list of Medicare Covered Preventive Services. We encourage you take the handbook to your next doctor’s appointment and ask him or her if you need any of the screenings, tests, shots or exams. If you don’t have your handbook, or you would like a paper copy of the Preventive Checklist, you can call for a copy or go to the Sage PLUS Program website and download a copy.

If you are new to the program or have Original/ Traditional Medicare, you can also choose to receive information electronically by creating your own MyMedicare.gov account. This is Medicare’s free, secure online service for accessing personalized information regarding your Medicare benefits and services. Your personalized account includes a two-year calendar of the Medicare-covered tests and screenings, and a personalized “on the go” report that you can print and take to your next doctor’s appointment.

Also if you would like to share a little more of your heart, the Sage PLUS Program is a volunteer based counseling program. We are always looking for volunteers to help our community. For more information about volunteering or if you have a Medicare question, we can be reached at: 586-7299/ 1-888-875-9229 or at www.hawaiiship.org.

From all of us at the Sage PLUS Program/ the Hawaii SHIP we wish you a healthy and happy 2011.

Pamela Cunningham is the Coordinator for Hawaii SHIP (Sage PLUS Program)

This February share your heart with those special people by using your Medicare Preventive Benefits. As of January 1, 2011, under Original/ Traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans there are no co-pays for preventive benefits. That means if your doctor feels that you could benefit from a cardiovascular screening you will pay nothing out of…
What’s in a Name?

If you are a bride-to-be planning a wedding, there’s so much to do: get the dress; choose a caterer; book a venue; select the flowers. But there’s one more important thing you may need to put on your list: contact Social Security if there’s going to be a name change.

You should tell Social Security if you legally change your name for any reason. You should also tell your employer. Skipping these important steps may:

■ Delay your tax refund; and

■ Prevent your wages from being posted correctly to your Social Security record, which may lower the amount of your future Social Security benefits.

Changing your name with Social Security can be simple, if you prepare before visiting an office. First, go to www.socialsecurity.gov. Read the Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5) online at www.socialsecurity.gov/online/ss-5.pdf. The site will further explain what two important documents you may need to take to the Social Security office.

First, you’ll need to show Social Security a recently issued marriage document as proof of your legal name change. You will be asked to provide additional documentation if the one you provide does not give enough information to identify you in records, or if you legally changed your name more than two years ago.

Second, you must provide an identity document that shows your old name. It also needs to have other identifying information, preferably a recent photograph. (An expired document as evidence of your old name is acceptable.)

Finally, if you are a U.S. citizen born outside the United States and the records do not show it, you will need to provide proof of your U.S. citizenship. If you are not a U.S. citizen, Social Security will ask to see your current immigration documents.

Keep in mind to bring original documents. A copy of an original is only accepted when it has been certified by the issuing agency. Photocopies or notarized copies of documents are not accepted.

Your new Social Security card will have the same number as your previous card, but will show your new name. Social Security will mail your number and card as soon as the office has all of your information and has verified your documents with the issuing offices.

Jane Yamamoto-Burigsay is the Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Hawai‘i. For more information, visit www.socialsecurity.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778)

If you are a bride-to-be planning a wedding, there’s so much to do: get the dress; choose a caterer; book a venue; select the flowers. But there’s one more important thing you may need to put on your list: contact Social Security if there’s going to be a name change.
New Law Equals Medicare Savings

The “Extra Help” and the “Medicare Savings Programs” now allow more people with Medicare to pay $2.50 for generics drugs, $6.30 for brand name drugs, never experience the “donut hole” and to get help from the State of Hawai‘i in paying for their Medicare Part A and/ or B Premiums.

Making ends meet shouldn’t mean going without your medications. If you have limited income and resources, Medicare’s “Extra Help” program sets it up so that you pay no more than $2.50 for each generic drug and $6.30 for each brand name drug. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services estimates that “Extra Help” can save Medicare members as much as $3,900 per year.

People Qualify and Don’t Even Know It

The new law will allow more people to qualify for “Extra Help” and the “Medicare Savings Programs.” Even if you were turned down for “Extra Help” or for the “Medicare Savings Programs” in the past, you should reapply. If you qualify, you’ll get help paying for Medicare prescription drug coverage premiums, co-payments and deductibles and Medicare premiums.

To qualify, you must make less than $16,821 a year (or $22,626 for married couples). Even if your annual income is higher, you still may be able to get some extra help with your drug coverage. Your resources must also be limited to $12,510 (or $25,010 for married couples). Resources include bank accounts, stocks and bonds, but not your house or car. (Medicare Savings Programs asset levels are $6,600 for a single person and $9,910 for a couple)

There’s No Cost or Obligation to Apply

It’s easy and free to apply for “Extra Help” and the “Medicare Savings Programs.” You, a family member, trusted counselor or caregiver can apply online at www.socialsecurity.gov or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY users should call 1-800-325-0778) and ask for the Application for Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs.

You can also call Sage PLUS, the Hawai‘i State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), at 586-7299 or 1-888-875-9229 to reach a certified counselor in your area.

For an application for the Medicare Savings Programs you can call your local Med-QUEST Office at 808-524-3370 or 1-800-316-8005. All the information you give is confidential.

Now it’s even easier to qualify for “Extra Help” from Medicare and get help from the State of Hawai‘i in paying for Medicare premiums. A new law changed how your income and assets are counted in 2010:

• Life insurance policies don’t count as resources (for prescription drug assistance).

• Household expenses—like food, mortgage, rent, heating fuel or gas, electricity, water, and property taxes—paid by relatives, friends and others do not count as income.

• Asset amounts are now higher to receive assistance from the State of Hawai‘i in paying for the Medicare Part A/B Premiums, also known as the Medicare Savings Programs (MSP).

• If you apply for the “Extra Help” through Social Security, your application will automatically be sent to the State of Hawai‘i for consideration.

The “Extra Help” and the “Medicare Savings Programs” now allow more people with Medicare to pay $2.50 for generics drugs, $6.30 for brand name drugs, never experience the “donut hole” and to get help from the State of Hawai‘i in paying for their Medicare Part A and/ or B Premiums.
Hoarding Habits

Who are hoarders and clutterers? Television shows like Mission Organization and Hoarders on A&E TV have brought to the forefront this behavior that is often observed but rarely addressed. On a more sobering note, it has opened our eyes to thousands who may find themselves living with fear, isolation, shame and self-neglect. The elderly are particularly at risk due to debilitating mental or physical decline, or a transmission of a pre-existing, underlying mental condition, such as obsessive-compulsive behavior manifesting itself into old age. Is this a problem? For many, their hoarding habits boarder on eccentricity, uniqueness or a Bohemian lifestyle. For others, it is facing eviction notices, visits by social workers, the police, and definitely the resident manager.

Dr. Harry Moody of the Institute for Human Values in Aging, International Longevity Center in New York, says, “Hoarders are refusing to let go of the past.” He posited that our capitalist society of “more is best” contributes to our “collecting our way into immortality.”

Hanging onto our past creates a dead sea— water pours in, but no water flows out. We need to understand the process of holding on, and letting go early. Referring to Erik Erikson’s last two stages of life, Generativity vs. Stagnation, and Integrity vs. Despair, we equate Generativity to generosity, or the giving of ones self (and one’s stuff), and Integrity to the feeling of peace within one’s self after having accomplished what was meaningful in life. Contrarily, we face Stagnation and Despair when, as a result of hoarding, we experience feelings of being “stuck,” resentment, a sense of not having reached our goals in life; at worst, time has run out, as we face mortality in the last life stage. To attain the stage of Generativity and Integrity successfully, we need to be giving and receiving many “thanks” instead.

Interestingly, there is a difference between hoarding and cluttering and collecting. According to Dr. Monika White, President and CEO for Healthy Living, clutter has a disorganized environment. Collections are usually interesting, inherited or things that have order and value.

On the other hand, hoarders usually collect large quantities of the same item, of no evident value, or too much of an item that eventually gets ruined, such as 100 rolls of wet toilet paper or written materials (newspapers, magazines). Hoarders also often express the “my neighbor is trying to poison me” syndrome. The individual is usually single, delusional, paranoid, isolated, suspicious and litigious. Many also suffer from some kind of impairment such as hearing or vision loss. They face eviction by being a nuisance, making false complaints of fumes or radio static, or mistaking entries and theft; yet, there is rarely evidence to warrant official action.

The prevalence of hoarding is unknown because it is a very BIG secret. Doctors, lawyers, anyone can be a hoarder. Between 18 to 42 percent of hoarders are diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive behavior. Twenty percent have dementia, mostly female and single.

White says that hoarding and obsessive-compulsive behavior are partly genetic and partly learned. Hoarders tend to mimic the lifestyle their parents with obsessive-compulsive disorder, have some degree of dementia, past experiences of deprivation, sentimental attachment to items, or a strong need to keep in control. The individual is unable to move on, perpetually living in the past. Hoarders are usually more competent than not, often extremely intelligent and witty.

It’s important that hoarders are protected against discrimination and violation of their rights to self-determination. In order for agencies such as the Adult Protective Services (APS) to intervene, a written psychiatric evaluation that supports a protective order and a judge’s decision must occur first. Further, social workers and other health and welfare professionals must determine that the least restrictive alternatives have been tried, and the individual lacks capacity to the point of endangering him/herself or others because of the hoarding behavior.

If you know someone who struggles with hoarding, document all your concerns, observations and complaints. Keep note of your actions and calls. Establishing a track record is essential from any perspective; legal, social or medical.

Call the following organizations for help:

Hawai‘i Department of Elderly Affairs Division: 768-7700

Honolulu Gerontology Program: 543-8468

Catholic Charities Hawai‘i: 521-4357

Adult Protective Services: 832-5115

Lei Shimizu, MSW, LSW Coordinator Information & Assistance Services, Elderly Affairs Division Department of Community Service City & County of Honolulu

Who are hoarders and clutterers? Television shows like Mission Organization and Hoarders on A&E TV have brought to the forefront this behavior that is often observed but rarely addressed. On a more sobering note, it has opened our eyes to thousands who may find themselves living with fear, isolation, shame and self-neglect.
Tools to Help Your Decide When to Retire
These days, everyone is taking a new look at their finances—and no one is looking more closely than the millions of baby boomers who are nearing retirement age. While some boomers expected to retire at one of the traditional milestones, such as age 62, the current economy is forcing many of them to re-evaluate their plans. Many are wondering if they should work longer, or how their Social Security benefit—or their spouse’s benefit—would be affected if they continued working.

To help them find answers, Social Security has published a fact sheet called When To Start Receiving Retirement Benefits. You can read it online at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10147.html.

As most workers know, your choice of a retirement age—from 62 to 70—can dramatically affect your monthly Social Security benefit amount.

If you choose to start receiving benefits early, the monthly payments will be reduced based on the number of months you receive benefits before you reach your full retirement age. The rate of reduction will depend on the year you were born. The maximum reduction at age 62 will be:

25 percent for people born between 1943 and 1954

30 percent for people born after 1959

If you wait until your full retirement age, your benefits will not be reduced. And, if you should choose to delay retirement, your benefit will increase up to 8% a year from your full retirement age until age 70. However, there is no additional benefit increase after you reach age 70, even if you continue to delay taking benefits.

Social Security also has created several retirement planners to help you make an informed decision. Social Security has an online calculator that provides immediate retirement benefit estimates. The online Retirement Estimator uses information from your own earnings record, and lets you create “what if” scenarios. You can, for example, change your “stop work” date or expected future earnings to create and compare different retirement options.

*To use the Retirement Estimator, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator. *Read When To Start Receiving Retirement Benefits at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10147.html.

*And for general information about Social Security, visit www.socialsecurity.gov.

Retirement decisions are unique to everyone. Make sure you are up to date with the important information you will need to make the choice that’s right for you.
These days, everyone is taking a new look at their finances—and no one is looking more closely than the millions of baby boomers who are nearing retirement age. While some boomers expected to retire at one of the traditional milestones, such as age 62, the current economy is forcing many of them to re-evaluate their…
Covering Every Season of Life

The cool winds and changing leaves are telltale signs—another autumn has arrived. Sometimes it’s hard to believe how quickly the seasons change and the years pass by. Whatever season of life you happen to be in, it may be a good time to reflect on the protection you have through Social Security.

Each stage of life—from the spring of youth to the summer of middle age to the autumn of retirement—comes with its own set of financial concerns. And in each situation, Social Security is there to help.

Of the more than 53 million Americans receiving Social Security benefits, nearly one-third are not retired workers or their dependents. They’re disabled workers and their families, or the survivors of a deceased worker. These non-retirement Social Security benefits can be especially important to young workers because about one-in-eight young people will die before retirement, and about one-in-four will become disabled.

While the death of a husband, wife or parent is emotionally devastating, it often can be financially devastating as well. Social Security provides a monthly survivors benefit payment to help the qualified family members of a deceased worker.

Social Security disability protection is equally valuable. Few workers have an employer-provided, long-term disability policy. With Social Security, however, the average worker has the equivalent of a disability insurance policy. The policy pays monthly benefits to workers and their families, based on the workers’ lifetime earnings. So you can rest a little easier knowing that Social Security provides some measure of security, if life does not turn out as planned.

On the other hand, if you do work and retire as planned, Social Security serves as the foundation for a secure retirement. Social Security is the largest source of income for most elderly Americans today, but Social Security was never intended to be your only source of income when you retire. You also will need other savings, investments, pensions or retirement accounts to make sure you have enough money to live comfortably.

The Social Security Statement that you receive in the mail each year provides an estimate of your retirement, survivors and disability insurance benefits. If you’d like to try out some different scenarios and see how various retirement ages and future earnings may change your retirement picture, visit our online Retirement Estimator at www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator. It provides an instant, personalized estimate of your future benefits.

And perhaps the best news of all is that it’s easier than ever to apply for retirement benefits. You can do it right from the comfort and convenience of your home or office by visiting www.socialsecurity.gov/applytoretire. It can take as little as 15 minutes.

Whether you’re young or old, Social Security is there through every season.

You can find out more at www.socialsecurity.gov.

The cool winds and changing leaves are telltale signs—another autumn has arrived. Sometimes it’s hard to believe how quickly the seasons change and the years pass by. Whatever season of life you happen to be in, it may be a good time to reflect on the protection you have through Social Security.
Medicare and Las Vegas
Now that we have your attention … Medicare is available in all 50 states and territories, including Las Vegas. Now is the time to review your Medicare options for both health and drug plans. Medicare Open Enrollment is November 15th to December 31, 2010, but you can compare options beginning October 15, 2010.

Every year, there are new Medicare prescription drug and health plan choices available. Open Enrollment is the time of year when Medicare beneficiaries can review their current health or prescription drug plans, compare what will be available in the new year, and choose the plan that best meets their needs. There’s never been a better time to check out Medicare options. With the new health care law, there are new benefits, including lower prescription costs, wellness check-ups and preventive care. Comparing plans may save Medicare beneficiaries money, get better coverage, or both.

Information is available several ways and here are three easy steps:

STEP 1: Have a list of your current prescription medications available. Check with your current providers (doctors office, physical therapist, etc.) to find out what plans they will accept so that you can still see them. Calculate your gross income and assets (so you can be screened for financial assistance to help with some, or all, of your medical costs).

STEP 2: Compare plans that will be available in Hawai‘i in 2011.

Visit www.medicare.gov to get a personalized comparison of the costs and coverage of the plans available in your area.

Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) 24-hours a day/7 days a week to find out more about your coverage options. TTY users call 1-877-486-2048.

Get one-on-one help from the Hawai‘i State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), also known as the Sage PLUS Program. A certified volunteer can be reached at 808-586-7299 or 1-888-875-9229. You can also pick up a Sage PLUS Medicare Prescription Health/Drug Plan

Compare Form from your nearest pharmacy or online at www.hawaiiship.org. Mail or fax the form in for a personalized comparison.

STEP 3: Enroll in a plan early so that you can enjoy the holiday season.

From January 1, 2011 to February 14, 2011 is a one-time disenrollment opportunity if you want to change from your current Medicare Advantage (MA) Health plan and return to Original/Traditional Medicare. If your MA plan includes drug coverage, you will also have the opportunity to enroll in a supplemental Medicare Prescription Drug Plan.

If you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to call the Sage PLUS Program for guided assistance through the Medicare Open Enrollment Process. Call us at 808-586-7299 or 1-888-875-9229.
Now that we have your attention … Medicare is available in all 50 states and territories, including Las Vegas. Now is the time to review your Medicare options for both health and drug plans. Medicare Open Enrollment is November 15th to December 31, 2010, but you can compare options beginning October 15, 2010.
Living Beyond…

Aging is inevitable; it is a process of growing old. However, it should not influence an individual’s life expectancy. We are able to live long and healthy lives if we live a healthy lifestyle by exercising, eating right, and for some, taking medications as prescribed by a health care provider.

“Healthy aging” helps us take control of a natural part of life. There is no one way to age healthy. It is about making good habits a part of our everyday living. Simple things like drinking more water can have a huge effect on how we age. Do you take the stairs when in a building, or do you ride the elevator? Do you walk to the mailbox, or use your vehicle? Do you limit snacking, or snack on healthier choices, such as fruits, vegetables and items made from whole grains? Making small adjustments to various bad habits benefit us immediately and in the long run.

Being physically active can involve things like taking walks or outdoor sports. Staying active makes our joints and muscles move, reducing stiffness and further joint pain. Staying active also increases metabolism so that food is not stored as fat. Walter Breuning, the oldest known man in the world whom just celebrated his 114th birthday on September 21, 2010, said that hard work and eating right are both ways to age healthy.

Another way to age healthy is to get a good night’s sleep. According to the National Institute on Aging, “getting enough sleep helps [us] stay healthy and alert” (Age Page). Sleep gives our body time to recharge and it also prevents us from being tired throughout the next day.

Already have a chronic condition? You can still “put life back in your life.” Better Choices Better Health, or Chronic Disease Self Management Program (CDSMP) workshops, are being held throughout Hawai‘i. This is an evidence-based program developed through Stanford University. Its research shows that people can have an increased quality of life through self-management skill building.

The Elderly Affairs Division of the Department of Community Services City & County of Honolulu is currently conducting Better Choices Better Health workshops island wide. These workshops are open to individuals 60 and older with any chronic condition, such asthma, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, arthritis, cancer, high blood pressure, obesity or fibromyalgia. The workshops are also available to caregivers and others who may live with a loved one who has a chronic condition. Support systems are welcomed to register. During these self-management workshops the focus is on staying active and enjoying life even with an ongoing health problem.

For more information about Better Choices Better Health, or to sign-up for workshops, call the Senior Helpline at (808) 768-7700

Aging is inevitable; it is a process of growing old. However, it should not influence an individual’s life expectancy. We are able to live long and healthy lives if we live a healthy lifestyle by exercising, eating right, and for some, taking medications as prescribed by a health care provider. “Healthy aging” helps us take…
Make AARP the Next Chapter in Your Life

Across the state, Hawai‘i’s AARP chapters offer rewarding opportunities for friendship, education, advocacy and volunteer service. On O‘ahu there are three AARP chapters in Honolulu, Pearlridge and Wai‘anae.

The Honolulu Chapter (Chapter 60) meets for lunch on the first Wednesday of every month at the Hale Koa Hotel, where guest speakers talk on such diverse topics as legislation and entertainment. Some members enjoy attending special events and engaging in community service activities. Others donate their time teaching AARP Driver Safety classes or preparing tax returns through the AARP Tax-Aide program.

“Everyone has a different reason for joining a chapter,” says T. J. Davies, treasurer of the Honolulu Chapter, which has more than 100 active members. “I’m not the kind of person to sit around. I’m able to give my time to something that I believe in. I believe in helping people in my community to the best of my ability.”

Create The Good is another community service initiative offering opportunities for chapter members to get involved. AARP launched Create The Good nationally last year to encourage boomers and older Americans to make a difference in their communities and help solve pressing local problems. Create The Good expands on traditional ways to volunteer. It connects people with simple but meaningful activities, time-flexible opportunities, and a wide variety of areas of interest. Find out more at www.createthegood.org. Or call Jackie Boland at AARP Hawai‘i at 545-6003.

Whatever you’re interested in, connecting with AARP through one of its O‘ahu chapters is a fun and rewarding way to connect with others in our community.

Honolulu Chapter Contact: T. J. Davies at 593-1026 Meetings: First Wednesday of the month at the Hale Koa Hotel

Pearlridge Chapter Contact: Larry Carrasco, Vice President, at 455-5658 Meetings: Second Thursday of the month at Flamingo Restaurant in Pearl City.

Waianae Chapter Contact Zoe Jarvis at 696-3369 Meetings: First Friday of every month (location to be announced).

Across the state, Hawai‘i’s AARP chapters offer rewarding opportunities for friendship, education, advocacy and volunteer service. On O‘ahu there are three AARP chapters in Honolulu, Pearlridge and Wai‘anae.
Medicare Reform
If you’re one of more than 193,000 Hawaii residents who depend on Medicare for stable, affordable health care, the new health reform package passed by Congress this year offers benefits you should know about.

The Reform:

Improves access to primary care doctors. Your primary care doctor will receive bonuses for treating patients in Medicare, helping ensure that Hawaii beneficiaries have continued access to primary care services.

Closes the Medicare Part D coverage gap or “donut hole.” Skyrocketing drug costs are a particular problem for Hawaii residents. In 2007, 36 percent of Medicare beneficiaries in Hawaii fell into the coverage gap, which meant they had to pay the entire cost of medications and their premiums. Under health reform, if you reach the donut hole in 2010, you’ll receive a rebate for $250 to help pay for prescriptions. Beginning in 2011, if you reach the donut hole you’ll receive a 50 percent discount on your brand-name drugs. The coverage gap will be closed over the next 10 years.

Provides preventive care, free of charge. You’ll no longer have to pay out of pocket for preventive care services, such as screenings for cancer and diabetes. You’ll also be able to work with your doctor to develop your own plan to keep you as healthy as possible.

Improves the coordination of care for people with chronic conditions. In 2004, 17 percent of Hawaii Medicare beneficiaries discharged from the hospital were re-admitted within 30 days. The new law provides benefits to older residents to help you stay in your home and community.

No one should be left to struggle with medical bills after a lifetime of hard work. By knowing what’s in the law and when the different benefits take effect, you can take advantage of the new provisions for yourself and your family.

Check www.aarp.org/getthefacts for the latest information.
If you’re one of more than 193,000 Hawaii residents who depend on Medicare for stable, affordable health care, the new health reform package passed by Congress this year offers benefits you should know about.