Senior Corner

By Sue Hardy

I don’t know about you, but I’m tired of articles aimed at seniors that promise helpful advice on living on Social Security, only to offer the same worn-out tips we’ve seen countless times: free senior coffee, 15% off on a certain day at a retailer, or a “free” bathroom inspection that turns into a $10,000 remodel pitch.

I want to share information that can provide real help. I have saved hundreds of dollars a month by turning to the Ohio Department of Aging at 800-266-4346. Locally, the Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio is located at 2155 Arlington Ave., Toledo, Ohio, and can be reached at 419-382-0624. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

The agency includes several departments, each focused on a specific service. Its staff supports programs for older adults, people with disabilities, and their families.

1. Help older adults become and stay healthy through better nutrition, classes, coordinated meals, fall prevention, and chronic condition management.

2. Provide and coordinate transportation to medical appointments, errands, shopping, and other activities.

3. Help older adults remain in their homes and communities by connecting them with home maintenance, repair, modification services, and programs that may help with heating or cooling costs.

4. Help older adults access needed care through free long-term care consultations and, for those on Medicaid, connect them with home- and community-based long-term care services.

5. Assist with finding public and private programs that help cover the cost of medications and expensive prescriptions.

6. Offer nutrition grants that help qualifying seniors buy fresh, local fruits and vegetables.

In the coming months, I plan to explore these services in greater depth. My goal is to reduce barriers to local assistance and help make our senior years a little easier to navigate.