Resources for Minnesotans

MINNESOTA BOARD ON AGING

The Minnesota Board on Aging is an organization with authority to assist older Minnesotans. Minnesota Board on Aging Department of Human Services P.O. Box 64976 St. Paul, MN 55164-0976 (651) 431-2500 or (800) 882-6262 Senior LinkAge Line: (800) 333-2433 www.mnaging.net

MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

The Minnesota Department of Health is the state agency with the authority to license hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities and home health care agencies in Minnesota. Office of Health Facility Complaints P.O. Box 64970 St. Paul, MN 55164-0970 (651) 201-4201 or (800) 369-7994 www.health.state.mn.us

SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION

The Social Security Administration is the federal agency that has the authority to administer Social Security benefits. Social Security Administration Office of Public Inquiries 1100 West High Rise 6401 Security Boulevard Baltimore, MD 21235 (800) 772-1213 www.ssa.gov

FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is the federal agency that has authority to take action against deceptive, fraudulent and unfair business practices in the marketplace. Federal Trade Commission Bureau of Consumer Protection 600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, DC 20580 (877) 382-4357 TTY: (866) 653-4261 www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov

MINNESOTA OMBUDSMAN

FOR LONG-TERM CARE

The Office of the Minnesota Ombudsman for Long-Term Care has authority to investigate complaints concerning nursing home, home care services, hospitals and other long-term care facilities related to the health, safety, welfare, rights and government benefits of people. Office of Ombudsman for Long-Term Care Elmer L. Andersen Human Services Building 540 Cedar Street St. Paul, MN 55155 (651) 431-2555 or (800) 657-3591 www.mnaging.net

SENIOR LINKAGE LINE

Senior Linkage Line is the Minnesota Board on Aging’s statewide information and assistance service. Senior Linkage Line at (800) 333-2433.

CENTERS FOR MEDICARE

AND MEDICAID SERVICES

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is the federal agency with the authority to run Medicare. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services 7500 Security Boulevard Baltimore, MD 21244 www.cms.gov

MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE

The Minnesota Department of Commerce has authority to regulate certain health insurance companies and third-party administrators, as well as financial advisors and securities, including companies that issue securities, securities brokers, and securities agents. Minnesota Department of Commerce 85 7th Place East, Suite 280 St. Paul, MN 55101 (651) 539-1500 or (800) 657-3602 www.mn.gov/commerce

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STAYING SAFE as you begin traveling again

As more countries begin opening their borders after more than a year, it’s time to look forward to some summer travel.

Despite the lifting of many travel restrictions, you may still have some safety concerns about vacationing.

Here are a few tips to make your travels easier.

KNOW THE RESTRICTIONS

Wherever you are planning to travel, make sure to check on any restrictions that country or region might have, and be prepared to prove that you have been vaccinated if required.

TravelBans.org has regularly updated restrictions from many countries posted on their site, making it a good source of information for your travel plans.

If you aren’t vaccinated, be sure to check on your destination to make sure you aren’t required to have vaccinations. Most countries are still requiring proof of a negative test, and some may still require quarantine once you arrive.

TAKE PRECAUTIONS

If it’s within your budget, consider upgrading your flight to business class or even first class to limit your exposure to Covid.

If you aren’t able to upgrade, you can still travel safely by wearing a mask (or two) and changing them out frequently.

It’s also smart to keep your air vent open to help with circulation and to use hand sanitizer frequently during the flight as well as after. Don’t forget to sanitize after using handrails, elevator buttons or shuttle grab bars.

WHY NOT CAMP?

If you aren’t comfortable with indoor accommodations, you can certainly try camping. There are plenty of options to give you a chance to spend time in the great outdoors.

TRAVEL INSURANCE IS IMPORTANT

Even as countries begin to open up again, there is always the potential that things might change quickly.

Purchasing travel insurance can be expensive, especially for insurance that allows for cancellations for any reason, but it may give you some peace of mind. Along with Covid-19, there are many health issues that could arise and having insurance means you won’t lose out on all the costs you’ve paid in advance.

CAR RENTAL

INSTEAD OF BUSES

Renting and traveling by car when possible also cuts down on the crowds you would encounter on full flights or tightly packed buses.

If you decide to use public transportation, check to see what their social distancing guidelines are in advance.

MAINTAIN PHYSICAL

DISTANCE WHENEVER POSSIBLE

If you are able, avoid big crowds whenever possible to cut your chances of getting ill.

Outdoor activities, such as national parks and beaches, and off-peak sightseeing cut your risk of exposure to any illness.

After a year-long hiatus from vacationing, this summer can be chance to get out and enjoy yourself. Just make sure to to stay safe and healthy.

Dana D. Hetland, Director

101 Nokomis St. W. • PO Box 340 • Osakis, MN 56360 (320) 859-2118

hetlandfh@midwestinfo.com • www.royhetland.com “Showing kindness & helpful compassion to families in the Lakes area for over 35 years.”

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