In the News
Retire Online
There is no longer any need to travel to the Social Security to apply for Social Security. Now you all you have to do is visit the administration’s website to apply for benefits. There are instructions for using the site, as well as a benefits estimator and information on Medicare.
Lifelong Learning
Tri-C’s Encore Campus has published its Lifelong Learning brochure for 2009 and made it available for download. See the Seniors Programs page for additional information.
Disaster Preparedness
Emergency situations can arise at any time and it important to be prepared for them. They can take the form of hot weather, winter storms, power outages and many other events. A valuable new tool for disaster preparedness is VNAReadySeniors.org, an online resource administered by the Visiting Nurse Association. After filling out an online survey, participants will receive a free personalized Ready Seniors Checklist. It is an action plan will save valuable time in the event it is needed.
Consumer Information
Nursing Home Rankings
U.S. News & World Report has posted rankings of nursing home quality based on the government’s Nursing Home Compare site. A new five-star ranking system has been created to assist Medicare patients and their families in better evaluating nursing homes.
Helpful Phone Numbers
Many agencies in the state of Ohio provide services to seniors. The Ohio Department of Aging provides a list of helpful toll-free phone numbers with links to their agencies or organizations.
Saving Starts at Home
The Federal Trade Commission has information that can help you save on heating and cooling bills, as well as on gasoline.
ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS APPLICATION 2008 - 2009
The Ohio Department of Development (ODOD) offers several programs to help low-income Ohioans pay their utility bills and improve the energy efficiency of their homes. With this form, you may apply for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), Winter Crisis Program (WCP), Summer Crisis Program (SCP), Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) and Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP). For WCP and SCP, an appointment is required at a local provider agency.
TRAVEL
Discover Ohio
The Ohio Department of Travel and Tourism website is packed with information on where to go and what to do close to home.