C a p i ta l D i s t r i c t
Spotlight
Senior A Spotlight News publication in cooperation with
THE RESOURCE FOR SENIORS
COMPLIMENTARY
JANUARY 2020
NO. 1
Quotes to live by for 2020 Is your Medicare income wrong? New Year’s resolutions cdseniorspotlight.com JANUARY 2020 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 1
ALBANY, NEW YORK
Empire State Plaza Ice Rink
Free Skating Daily 12-8pm* Rentals: $4 for adults, $3 for children 12 & under Free Rental Saturdays Courtesy of Hannaford Supermarkets *Please visit empirestateplaza.ny.gov for NEW weekend maintenance hours
Learn to Skate Clinics
Presented by: BlueShield of Northeastern New York Hosted by: Hudson Mohawk Figure Skating Club January 4, February 1, March 7 10am-12pm (Register Online)
Hannaford Kidz Expo Saturday, March 7, 2020 10am-5pm FREE
empirestateplaza.ny.gov 111332_4
2 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — JANUARY 2020
Editor’s desk
Happy New Year
H
ello. I’m Michael Hallisey and this is 2020. I can’t tell you how long I have waited to do that. So, here we are with another year under our belts, and I hope that the events of the past year were kind enough to you and your family to reflect upon them with a smile on your face. Of course, that’s the best way I feel is best to approach each day: finding the positive in life to make you smile. New Year’s Resolutions is a topic we broach in this edition, and frankly, I don’t often subscribe to the practice. Please don’t mistake me, I feel best about myself when I make efforts to educate myself and improve upon bad habits. For example, my wife says I’m on my phone too often. Now, my job often requires that I have this cell phone with me. Does it require that I spend time on social media? Why, yes it does. I need to respond to breaking news, read up on current events and educate myself on trends. Am I obligated to respond with an “LOL” on the latest Baby Yoda meme from Disney’s “The Mandalorian”? Why, yes. This is the way. All joking aside. My iPhone generously reminds me of the average time in which I am on my phone, and the progress (or lack thereof ) I make to reduce that amount of time. It is a work in progress, and an effort worth making. Afterall, if my wife feels she’s in competition with my phone, I like to think I’m smart enough to recognize who will ultimately lose. Roughly 80 percent of people walk away from their resolutions, and that’s likely because these promises are not important enough. First, you have to know why you want to make a change. Second, you have to be willing to accept what will happen if you quit. And, third, you don’t have to wait until January to make such promises to yourself. If you want to make a change, be kind to yourself. Stop and smile for a moment and access what you have today. That change will come, if you’re patient enough. Sincerely, Michael Hallisey, Managing Editor Spotlight Newspapers
January 2020 Features Luring fishers to smaller rods New Year’s Resolutions
7 10-11
Columnists A Patriot Remembers
4
Retiring Retirement
8
Social Security Corner
14
Senior Services Bethlehem Public Library
5
Albany JCC
6
LifePath 6 Niskayuna Senior Center Voorheesville Public Library
9 13
publisher - John
McIntyre editor - Michael Hallisey advertising sales - Denice Mau art director - David Abbott graphic design - Martha Eriksen Capital District Senior Spotlight is a unit of Community Media Group LLC. Published monthly. Deadline for advertising and calendar events is the 5th of the month preceding publication. Display advertising rates are available on request. Capital District Senior Spotlight reserves the right to refuse advertising for any reason. We do not guarantee any of the information, services or products published in this or any issue. The opinions expressed by the contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this paper. Copyright © 2011 by Capital District Senior Spotlight. No portion of Capital District Senior Spotlight may be reproduced without written permission from Community Media Group LLC.
JANUARY 2020 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 3
A Patriot Remembers
Quotes to Live By for 2020
T
Words of motivation for the New Year
his article may serve as a motivational or inspirational force for the year 2020. Maybe it will be taken up as part of a New Year’s resolution to live by. Read it now and pick it up every four months to see if it has moved you, brings back some nostalgia or is “plain ole horse sense.” They are listed in no special order but numbers so you can pick out your favorites.
It’s a pretty day for making things right. Robert Duvall as Boss Spearman in the movie “Open Range”
Good friends are like stars, you don’t always see them but you know they’re always there.
Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.
Winston Churchill
Never be afraid to try. Remember, amateurs built the Ark, professionals built the Titantic.
Home is where the heart is. Proverb
The best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time. Abraham Lincoln
Unknown
He who does not understand your silence will probably not understand your words.
Elbert Hubbard
Winning isn’t everything, the desire to win is; it’s the only thing. Vince Lombardi
How far would Moses have gone if he had taken a poll in Egypt? Harry Truman
Listen and silent are spelled with the same letters, think about it.
Hindi proverb
Frank DeSorbo
Hindi proverb
For 2020, these little bits of wisdom may perk up your days. Happy New Year.
OrganizeSenior SeniorMoves Moves Organize Organize Senior Moves has been the leading Senior Move Management company in the Capital Region for over 10 years!
Helping seniors make their moves
110501_4
Organize Senior Moves guides people through the difficult task of downsizing • Experienced: • Design Layouts 500+ moves • Downsizing • Set up new home • Organizing • Estate Sales • Estate Sale/Clean Outs • Layout & Design • Sale/Donation • Packing Stage old home sale of New Place of• Items • Organizing • Unpacking • Oversee whole move
GIVE YOURSELF A CHANCE TO IMPROVE YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE! In Home Personal Training • Is balance an issue? • Do you need someone to keep you motivated to stay active?
• Packing/Unpacking • Decluttering/ • Downsizing Kavanaugh(518) • Home Staging Michelle Organizing • Oversee Movers528-2622 Anastasi founded Organize
Certified Geriatric Personal Trainer through A.A.H.F.
Call Today 518-312-7983
KeepMovingWithStephanie.com 4 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — JANUARY 2020
110502_4
Senior Moves five years ago to help seniors and their families deal with downsizing and moving step by step.
FREE CONSULTATION
We can do as much or as little as you need! Free one-hour consultation for any project!
518.621.6568
“Makes Moving Easier”
Member of NASMM
www.OrganizeSeniorMoves.com
110506_4
In-home personal training is convenient and can help you start living with confidence/independence. Assisted Stretching Available Stephanie Hutchins
Senior calendars
No Gimmicks, No Hidden Fees, Just the Lowest Price for Cremation with Professional & Dignified Service.
Bethlehem Public Library
Saturday, Jan. 4
Bring a journal or notebook and see how easy and fun it can be to get organized through bullet journaling. If you already keep a bullet journal, you’re invited to share your insight and experience, 1 p.m. Sign up online or call.
iPad Basics Monday, Jan. 6
Do you have a new iPad? We’ll show you how to use it. Bring your iPad and Apple ID and password, 10 a.m. Sign up online or call.
Check ’Em Out Books Monday, Jan. 6
Discuss “The Expatriates” by Janice Y.K. Lee, 7 p.m. Copies are available at the information desk. Large-print audio and downloadable copies may be available.
We Heard You: Brainstorming Priorities
Wednesday, Jan. 8, at 6 p.m.
In November, the library asked our friends and neighbors to take part in a brainstorming workshop to talk about the evolution of our services and how the our space can be used to best meet those needs. Now architect Paul Mays returns to talk about those responses.
Daybooks
Monday and Thursday, Jan. 13 and 16, at 1:30 p.m.
Discuss “The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek” by Kim
Michele Richardson. Copies are available at the information desk. Large-print audio and downloadable copies may be available.
Listening Parties: Music with a Sense of Humor Thursday, Jan. 16, at 7 p.m.
Does music require humorous lyrics to be funny or can it be evoked in the abstract? Listen to and discuss some examples.
Tech Room Makerspace Open House Monday, Jan. 20
Drop in for an overview of the equipment available for use anytime the library is open. Check out the Cricut Maker, sewing machine, Makerbot 3D printer, button makers, die cut machine, laminator and more. Try out sample projects or just see the equipment in action, 2-4 p.m.
Sunday Cinema
Sunday, Jan. 26, at 1 p.m.
Film series with titles suitable for adult audiences. Visit www.bethlehempubliclibrary. org for a list of titles. Shown with Subtitling for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing when possible.
The Capital District’s leading provider for Direct Cremation, Urns and Memorial Services with over 40 years experience to bring it all together. 218 2nd Avenue, Troy, NY • 518-435-8030 www.SimpleChoicesCremation.com
Roy F. Bordeau Owner/Manager Serving Families Since 1975
110504_4
Bullet Journal 101
Serving the entire Capital District
St. Sophia & Holy Wisdom Apartments 426 Whitehall Road, Albany, NY
One Bedroom Apartments
All the convenience of city life with a peaceful tranquility of a lovely suburban setting u u
Weekly Buses to Markets & Malls Computers On Site
u u
24 Hour Security On CDTA Bus Route
If qualified, pay 30% of your gross annual income which cannot exceed:
$31,500 for 1 person – $36,000 for 2 persons
Equal Housing Opportunity
(518)459-4910
110490_4
451 Delaware Ave., Delmar (518) 439-9314 www.bethlehempubliclibrary.org
96 1924 – 2020
• Assisted Living • Memory Care • Enhanced Care • Respite Care
Adobe Premiere Elements Training Monday, Jan. 27, at 10 a.m.
Learn how to edit videos, create titles, insert transitions, add special effects, adjust audio and more to create a professional-looking video suitable for a variety of media.
110508_4
JANUARY 2020 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 5
Senior calendars Albany JCC, Adult Department 340 Whitehall Road, Albany (518) 438-6651, ext. 112 Louisa Soleau, Program Director
Sixty - Plus Dining
Mondays & Wednesdays, at 4:45 to 6 p.m.
Full-course kosher dinners for those 60 and older. Reservations taken until 9:30 a.m. the day of the meal. Suggested contribution: $3 per person. Guest under 60 pay $10.
Fun and Fitness to the Songs of Broadway Thursdays, 10:15 to 10:45 a.m.
A fun, gentle exercise class with instructor Richard Feldman. There is a $2.25 suggested donation per session.
Eye On The World
Thursdays, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
A current events group dis-
cussion with guest moderators. There is a $2.25 suggested donation per session.
Senior Chorale
Thursdays, from 1 to 3 p.m.
Sherri Strichman, chorale director, instructs rehearsals and performances each Thursday afternoons. To participate, there is a $2.25 donation suggested per session.
Any Media Art Club
LifePath
formerly Senior Services of Albany www.seniorservicesofalbany.com 28 Colvin Ave., Suite 2, Albany (518) 465-3322
Westview Bang your drum
Come and beat the drums, this fun-sit down exercise will help build community connections, enhance your mood and give you more mental clarity. Limited to the first 12 people who sign up. Once a month for five months. To RSVP, please call Nora at (518)482-2120.
Livingston Bang your drum
Come and beat the drums, this fun sit-down exercise will help build community connections, enhance your mood and give you more mental clarity. Limited to the first 12 people who sign up. Once a month for five months. For more information, please call Will at (518) 508-5944.
Mondays, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Join us in this fun, creative social setting to practice your craft. Bring your own supplies and lend support, advice and inspiration to your fellow artists. A drop-in fee of $5 is charged eached day.
More information on LifePath Meals on Wheels: 20 Warren St, (518) 465-6465
LifePath Living Center: 80 Central Ave, (518) 512-2725
Cohoes Senior Center: 10 Cayuga Plaza, Cohoes (518) 235-2420
Caregiver Connection/ Caregiver Support (518) 694-3511
Newgate Social Adult Day Services: 760 New Scotland Ave. (518) 449-8035
Westview Senior Center: 680 Central Ave, (518) 482-2120
Discuss current events each Thursday at 11 a.m. 6 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — JANUARY 2020
Watervliet Senior Center: 1501 Broadway, Watervliet (518) 273-4422
Livingston School Apartments: 315 Northern BLVD, (518) 508-5944
Case Assistance: (518) 435-1794 HIICAP: (518) 935-2307
Transportation: (518) 434-4219
Feature
RODgeeks President Bob Penicka shows off a model of his 42-inch RG-42 fishing rod. Jim Franco / Spotlight News
Luring fishers on smaller rods Latham company trying to hook customers on 42-inch rod
build a business around that. That’s how we came around to building crazy little 42-inch short rods. That are easy to live Bob Penicka. “It fishes great with and they fish great.” By and it’s easy to take with you For the 10th year in a row, and fish anywhere, anytime.” the number of people fishing COLONIE — GenerAt first blush it may seem has increased to 49.4 milally, most good fish stories are like a gimmick, but Penicka lion in 2018, the highest raw about a big one, either catching backs it up his product with a number since 2007, according it or how it got away. But, a partnership with St. Croix and to a report published by the new line being manufactured its 70-plus years of designing Outdoor Foundation. Due to by RODgeeks is out to prove high-end fishing rods and his the population increasing, the bigger isn’t always better, at least as far as the rod goes. The own resume that includes stints percentage of people who went bigger the fish, real or exagger- as an engineer for GE and the fishing at least once in 2018 dropped by 0.1 percent to 16.4 COO of Calloway Golf. ated, just always makes for a percent while the aggregate better story. “We use the best materinumber increased by 300,000. als and the best methods to The RG-42 fishing rod is While the serious angler build a lightweight, strong just 42 inches long, but has may scoff at the idea of using fishing rod,” he said during a most of the amenities of a a stubby 42-inch rod, the vast recent interview at the comfull size, high quality rod and majority of fishermen, about pany’s headquarters on Avis comes with a solid spinning rod and nifty carrying case, Drive. “The world doesn’t need 42 millions, are recreational, tackle box and even a pair of another company making a 7- tossing in a worm just a few pliers. and 8- foot fishing rods for the times a year. That is the market RODgeeks is going after with shelves of bass pro shops. We “It has a solid backbone to the RG-42, and, like completare trying to use our knowlfight a good size fish and the ing any task, the quality of the edge of product and productip is designed to cast bait a tion techniques and marketing tool used does make a differlong way and it will give you to find where the needs are and ence. a good sensitivity and a solid where we can help someone “Nobody creates a solid hook set when you feel the bite,” said RODgeeks President out with a better product and product for them and we think
Jim Franco
we have done that,” Penicka said of the recreational fisherman. “Our biggest challenge is people see it and say a 42-inch rod? Is it worth it? Will it work well? This is a serious fishing implement, even though it looks pretty unconventional.” It took the company nine iterations of blanks — just the bare rod sans the eyelets to run the line through, the handles or grips often made of cork or rubber, or fixtures to hold the reel — to get it right because the focus was to get everything a full-size rod offers into something about half the size.
Global ‘Mom and Pop’ shop
For a company that makes fishing rods that are shipped all over the world via St. Croix, the shop in Latham has a mom and pop feel to it that is open to anyone who wants to come in to check out the blank rods or ask questions. “We were looking around and noticed retailers make more than double what they paid for a rod when they bought it from the manufacturer. That’s too much markup,” he said. “One of our hooks is we are truly factory direct. Most of the blanks are made in China and go through three levels of distribution before they get to the consumer and I thought if I can go straight from the factory to the consumer I can offer them a better value and I can have a lucrative segment of the business. Everything we do we go right to the consumer. We can paint a rod any color you want and ship it to right to your door.”
JANUARY 2020 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 7
Retiring Retirement
In the Fear-Free Zone
N
‘My grandkids are nearing retirement’
ow in his 100th year, Delmar resident George Coffey approaches life as a fear-free zone. While many in his shoes are fighting on multiple physical and financial fronts, George just keeps moving and reinventing himself. It’s the story of his life. “I moved 20 times,” he says of his track record. “I sold worms at the age of 12, moved on to selling cars later and sold gas right here in Delmar as the owner of the Mobil Station next to what is now Stewart’s on Delaware Avenue.” If it could be bottled, what George is selling now would
Robert LaCosta
take the world by storm. “I’ve seen all sides of life’s story,” he says. “I’ve had a wonderful life. But when people ask me what my secret is, I tell them the honest truth: ‘Don’t worry.’ Why? Because The Bi-
by a man who has collected 468-and-counting pension checks from General Electric, you might dismiss it. But George talks to a lot of seniors and pegs anxiety as one of the leading causes for their ailments. “Now just because I tell “When people ask me what people I’m not worried about my secret is, I tell them the their situation,” he says, “it doesn’t mean that I’m not honest truth: ‘Don’t worry.’” concerned.” In Part II, we will learn George Coffey some of other “moving” lesGeorge Coffey holds a copy of sons from this World War II ble tells us to turn everything his first paycheck from Hannay veteran. over to The Lord. If God is and Son. He earned $20 for 40 Robert J. LaCosta is a local going to worry for me, there’s hours of work in 1941. author and columnist. To suggest no sense in me worrying.” seniors for this column, call 518Robert LaCosta 435-1250. If that advice wasn’t given
Don’t just live longer, live better! Every month, we’ve got what you need to know.
cdseniorspotlight.com 8 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — JANUARY 2020
To advertise call Denice at 518.439.4949 or email: MauD@Spotlightnews.com
Senior calendars
Mondays 10 a.m. — SS Zumba Gold 11 a.m. — CDPHP Motion & Fitness
Tuesdays
9 a.m. to noon — Tom’s Computer Class (first and third Tuesday each month) 9:15 to 9:45 a.m. — Tai Chi 10 a.m. — Cards, Bridge, Wii Bowling and Mahjong 10:30 a.m. — Line Dancing Noon — Lunch 12:30 to 2 p.m. — Afternoon program: lectures, trivia or games 1 p.m. — Silver Sneakers
Thursdays
9:15 to 9:45 a.m. — Tai Chi
10 a.m. — Cards, Bridge, and Wii Bowling 10:30 a.m. — Bocce, Pickle Ball Noon — Lunch 12:30 to 2 p.m. — Afternoon program: lectures, trivia or games 7 p.m. — Gentle Yoga
Add Your Event to our Monthly Calendar for Older Adults! Does your organization have an event of interest to older adults? If so, we want to know about it!
Fridays
10 a.m. to noon — Beginner Mahjong 10 a.m. — Men’s Group 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. — Alzheimer’s Support Group (first Friday of each month) 11 a.m. to noon — CDPHP Chair Pilates
Events must be submitted via email to: halliseym@spotlightnews.com Deadline is the first of the month prior to publication.
All listings must include date, time, location, contact information and any fees. Please do not exceed 90 words per item listing.
For more information, please call Michael Hallisey at 518-439-4949
110507_4
2682 Aqueduct Road, Niskayuna (518) 372-4969
111334_4
Niskayuna Senior Center
Want to make a difference in the lives of Southern Saratoga’s seniors?
VOLUNTEER TODAY to provide supportive services such as friendly visiting, transportation, and shopping.
Call Ava at 518-399-4624 to volunteer! Care Links volunteers
You can play Mahjong on Tuesdays.
Upcoming Events ***CLOSED *** Monday, Jan. 20 Peppermint Pig: Thursday, Jan. 2, at 12:30 p.m. Blood Pressure Screening: Tuesday, Jan. 7, at 10 a.m. Little Christmas: Tuesday, Jan. 7, at 12:30 p.m. iPad Basics: Thursday, Jan. 9, at 11 a.m. Historian Talk: Thursday, Jan. 9, 12:30 p.m.
Spice of Life Trivia: Tuesday, Jan. 14, 12:30 p.m. Fig Newton Trivia: Thursday, Jan. 16, 12:30 p.m. Give Me a Hug Trivia: Tuesday, Jan. 21, at 12:30 p.m. Share your memories: Thursday, Jan. 23, 12:30 p.m. iPad Basics: Tuesday, Jan. 28, at 11 a.m.
provide supportive services at no cost to seniors 60+ in Southern Saratoga County.
518-399-3262
Our Wellness Express Van provides free rides for seniors to medical appointments. Available in select Southern Saratoga communities.
518-399-4624
JANUARY 2020 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 9
New Year’s Resolutions Common resolutions: • • • • • • •
Exercise more Lose weight Quit smoking More time with loved ones Save more money Learn a new skill Pick up a new hobby
10 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — JANUARY 2020
W
e as humans have a tendency to put things off for another day, which only draws more attention to the measurement of time, and how it slips away. Of course, we catch ourselves with the changing of the season; when the first hot days of summer replace the cool winds of spring, and when the leaves of our favorite oak tree starts to change color. It’s nothing more than a quick glance at your watch until you sit down at the dinner table and it’s Thanksgiving, and you see how much older your neices, nephews and grandchildren have all become. New Year’s resolutions come to mind around the holidays. You take note of the projects you’ve neglected and promise to pay better attention
to them next year. Often times these resolutions focus more on a goal to lose weight, read more often, or to see friends. But, we know what happens next. About 80 percent of people ultimately lose the drive to see their resolution through by about Valentine’s Day, according to U.S. News & World Report. Our effort to lose weight is thrwarted by candy, and it’s too cold to go out and visit the gym. It happens. But, sometimes it all has to do with the kind of promises we make to ourselves, and how we plan on executing them. Here, we have provided a few ideas for New Year’s resolutions. They are simple to do and they don’t require a gym membership. — Michael Hallisey
Volunteer More than one-third of senior citizens feel lonely. That figure is based on a recent study conducted by the University of Michigan. Unfortunately, the sense of loneliness is common among retired adults and widowers. Volunteering at a local library, school or food kitchen can give you a new-found purpose. It also gives you the opportunity to make new friends, and to see them on a frequent basis.
Need help?
Share your resolutions with friends. By sharing, it adds a sense of obligation. It also welcomes support as they ask for updates, provide encouragement and give you advice.
Can’t hit the gym? Add a cardio routine by taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
Drink A properly hydrated person is less likely to suffer from poor digestive health. Water provides healthy skin, lubricates joints and helps bring oxygen to the brain.
Take the stairs Expose yourself to differing views. Avoid columnists and “talking heads.” Form your own opinion.
Stay current JANUARY 2020 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 11
12 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — JANUARY 2020
Senior calendars Voorheesville Public Library 51 School Road, Voorheesville (518) 765-2791 www.voorheesvillelibrary.org
Thursday Afternoon Movie Thursdays, Jan. 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30, at 1:30 p.m.
Join us Thursday to watch a classic movie on our giant screen. Check our website calendar or call for movie titles and descriptions. Light refreshments served.
Nimblefingers Craft Group Tuesdays, Jan. 7, 14, 21, & 28, at 1:30 p.m.
Bring your projects, socialize, and connect with other crafters every Tuesday. Share your own special talents or learn a new knitting, crocheting, embroidery or quilting skill. All crafters are welcome to join the group.
Beading Workshop
Tuesday, Jan. 7, from 6 to 8 p.m.
Learn easy beading techniques for making simple necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. The library provides tools and offers a variety of beads to choose from, or you are welcome to bring your own supplies and projects along. Check out our beading books and magazines for inspiration. You may arrive at any time during the workshop that fits your schedule. Adults and teens ages 14 and up. Please register.
Cutting Cable for Beginners Wednesday, Jan. 15, from 1 to 2 p.m. or 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Find out if cutting the cable cord is the right move for you! Participants will learn the basics of cord cutting including how to access broadcast television, what equipment you need and popular streaming services.
Talk & Taste Cookbook Club Thursday, Jan. 23, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Join us for a foodie journey. Every other month, we will talk and taste our way through ethnic foods, specialty methods and cuisines, and just plain good cooking. Read the latest choice, try out the recipes, and (best part!) bring a dish for everyone to sample on discussion night. Experienced foodies and newbies are welcome. A limited number of books are available to purchase for $5 or you can check out a library copy. Registration required.
Bridge Over Troubled Water Sunday, Jan. 26, from 2 to 3 p.m.
Meet up to listen to and talk about your favorite albums! This month we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Simon and Garfunkel’s fifth and final album, “Bridge Over Troubled Water.”
UPCOMING
Monthly Deadlines February Deadline:
March
Deadline:
6
FEB
3
MA
April
Deadline:
May
JAN
2
R
APR
Deadline:
6
To advertise in one or more of these issues please call:
Denice Mau at 518-439-4940 or email: maud@spotlightnews.com 110510_4
JANUARY 2020 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 13
Social Security Corner
Medicare Income Off?
When think your Medicare income-related premium is wrong?
S
ocial Security cares about accuracy and we want you to get the exact benefit amount you deserve. Changes in the law affect how we calculate monthly Medicare Part B (medical insurance) and Medicare prescription drug coverage premiums.
A small number of beneficiaries with higher incomes will pay a higher Part B premium based on their income.
Drug coverage
Medicare prescription drug coverage helps pay for prescription drugs. Plan costs vary depending on the plan, and on whether you get Extra Help with your portion of the MediMedicare Part B provides care prescription drug costs. A coverage for physician services, small number of beneficiaries outpatient hospital services, with higher incomes will pay a certain home health services, higher prescription drug predurable medical equipment, mium based on their income. and other items. Most benIf you’re a Medicare benefieficiaries will pay a standard ciary who must pay more for premium for Part B coverage. your Medicare Part B or MediSome beneficiaries may also pay a late enrollment surcharge. care prescription drug cover-
Medicare Part B
age premium because of your income, and you disagree with the decision, you may request an appeal.
File an appeal
The fastest and easiest way to file an appeal is by visiting www.socialsecurity.gov/disability/appeal. If your income has gone down due to certain specific
Elizabeth Pivonka
circumstances, or if you filed an amended tax return, you can ask for a new decision without having to file an appeal. See our fact sheet, Medicare Premiums: Rules for HigherIncome Beneficiaries (SSA Publication No. 05-10536) at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/ EN-05-10536.pdf. You don’t have to file an appeal to get a new decision.
MORE ONLINE: Income-related premium is incorrect? www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/EN-05-10125.pdf Medicare Premiums: Rules for Higher-Income Beneficiaries? www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/EN-05-10536.pdf
Who says there’s no such thing as
A Free Lunch? Thursday, Jan. 30th at 11:30 a.m. Topic: Hearing Aid Advances $500 COUPON RSVP 518-435-1250
110503_4
CRYPTO ANSWERS: A. charity B. fitness C. smoking D. money
Sponsored by:
Ear
All the latest
at your fingertips! cdseniorspotlight.com 110505_4
14 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — JANUARY 2020
H
W E N Y Y E P A P R! A
Keep the party going in
2020!
All the best from the staff at
110509_4
SHELTER PET & GLOBALLY RECOGNIZED PIANIST Amazing stories start in shelters and rescues. Adopt today to start yours. KEYBOARD CAT 8M+ YouTube Views
JANUARY 2020 — CDSENIORSPOTLIGHT.COM 15
CDPHP Makes Choosing the Right Medicare Plan Easy ®
CDPHP Medicare highlights: f Enjoy the flexibility of a PPO* plan and see any doctor in the United States that accepts Medicare. f Save on hearing coverage with plans that offer hearing aid copays as low as $199. f Take advantage of vision and dental benefits with some plans offering enhanced dental coverage. f Earn gift cards for participating in healthy activities through CaféWell.
We’ll help you find the plan that works best for you. Call 1-877-824-0605 (TTY 711)†
Visit CDPHP on the web at www.cdphp.com/medicare.
* Out-of-network/non-contracted providers are under no obligation to treat CDPHP Medicare Advantage members, except in emergency situations. Please call our customer service number or see your Evidence of Coverage for more information, including the cost-sharing that applies to out-of-network services. †
Our hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. seven days a week from October 1 - March 31. From April 1 - September 30, Monday – Friday, our hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. A voice messaging service is used weekends, after-hours, and federal holidays. Calls will be returned within one business day. CDPHP® refers to Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan, Inc. and CDPHP Universal Benefits,® Inc. CDPHP is an HMO and a PPO with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in CDPHP Medicare Advantage depends on contract renewal. This is an advertisement. Y0019_20_10762_M 111335_4
16 SENIOR SPOTLIGHT — JANUARY 2020