Many seniors are missing out on benefits of which they are entitled according to the National Council on Aging. In a recent brief they cited lack of awareness about benefits, perceived (real or otherwise) complexity of applications, the stigma associated with receiving entitlements, and not understanding who may be eligible.
Two of NCOAÛªs offering include BenefitsCheckUpå¨ and the Eldercare Locator. Millions have utilized these tools to find benefits, get assistance in applying for programs, and understand how to use them to remain healthy and independent. Yet millions more could stand to gain from these services.
Key findings include:
- There were $1.2 billion in benefits that users may be eligible to receive but are not getting.
- Seventy-one percent were missing out on benefits they are eligible to receive.
A little more than 9% of adults aged 60+ live below poverty; another 9.8% live below 150% Federal Poverty Level, earning less than $16,335/year.
Yet there are safety net programs out there:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP
- Medicare and Medicaid, including community-based long-term supports and services, and subsidies that make Medicare affordable.
- The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP)
- Supplemental Security Income, or SSI
- Respite care
- Tax relief
- Transportation
- Legal assistance
With support from the U.S. Administration on Aging, n4a and NCOA have launched a campaignÛÒYou Gave, Now SaveÛÒto promote the Eldercare Locator and BenefitsCheckUpå¨ as key places where seniors and their families can seek out personalized assistance to screen and apply for benefits.
To use the Eldercare Locator: Call 1-800-677- 1116, Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST or visit www.eldercare.gov
To use BenefitsCheckUp: visit www.benefitscheckup.org
You can receive printed copies while available of the You Gave, Now Save Guide to Benefits Programs for Seniors by contacting Maria Gonzales Jackson.
Adapted from my about.com blog.