KAREN’S KORNER,
As we grow older, we think that life should be a little easier. We have worked most of our lives and now it is time for those “golden retirement years.” The time to travel, be with our loved ones, and have fun and fellowship with our friends. And while that does happen sometimes, there are some situations and circumstances that get in the way of those “golden years.”
One of the topics I have been hearing and reading a lot about lately has been the rising cost of healthcare. The longer we age, and indeed, we are living much longer these days, healthcare can become and does become an issue for seniors.
According to A Senior Connection: (An organization compensated by the Assisted Living Communities and Residential Board & Care Homes, and Independent Centers designed to help and answer pertinent questions concerning senior issues, states the following:
“The older we get, the more healthcare we need. It is important to get screenings for disease and natural aging conditions to catch any health issues in their beginning stages. While doctor visits multiply, medical costs are rising, which can impact one’s retirement budget. Make sure you have signed up for Medicare, or Medicaid if you qualify, these programs are there to help make the cost of healthcare a little more bearable.”
I know, none of us enjoy going to our doctor, unless you have a great one like mine, but it is a necessity to keep our appointments and stay on top of illnesses and concerns. Then and only then can we make the proper choices concerning our healthcare.
There are also various other insurance resources that you can choose to best suit your personal needs. There are consultants who would love to talk with you concerning questions you have!
We have a wonderful resource here at the Council on Aging, and if you have questions about Medicare or Medicaid or insurance in general, please contact the COA at 318-371-3056, and we will put you in contact with her. She is very knowledgeable and loves seniors.