Massachusetts programs for seniors
By Governor Deval Patrick
Older adults play a vital role in helping to rebuild our statewide community. In Berkshire County and around the Commonwealth, seniors built the economic strength and social foundation on which we seek to build today.
Because of all that they gave and continue to give, I believe it’s our shared responsibility to ensure elder residents of Massachusetts get the resources and help they need to continue living healthy and productive lives.
In state government, there are a couple of ways we can help. This year’s budget, which I was proud to sign, includes funding for programs and services that give seniors more flexibility and information about prescription drugs and health care.
Prescription Advantage, our pharmacy assistance program, lowers prescription drug costs of many seniors and individuals with disabilities by wrapping around their Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage. There is no monthly premium, and it supplements Medicare prescription benefits by helping with co-payments and other gaps in coverage.
Individuals with limited income may be eligible to receive help paying for their Medicare Part D plan premiums. Seniors who are not eligible for Medicare or do not have Medicare Part D, but have prescription drug coverage through an employer or union, may also be eligible for benefits through Prescription Advantage. And with our new on-going open enrollment, Massachusetts residents shall be eligible to enroll in the program at any time after reaching age 65.
Berkshire seniors and their caregivers should also be aware of an outstanding free service provided by the Commonwealth. Our SHINE Program (Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders) is a free state health insurance assistance program that provides health care information, assistance and counseling to Medicare beneficiaries of all ages. The Executive Office of Elder Affairs administers the SHINE Program in partnership with elder service agencies, social service agencies and Councils on Aging.
SHINE counselors can help compare costs and benefits of various health plans and they can explain Medicare rights and protections and how Medicare works with Medigap insurance, HMOs and other health insurance plans, including Prescription Advantage. SHINE counselors work at senior centers, elder service agencies, hospitals, and other community locations.
Our Executive Office of Elder Affairs offers these and many other services for elders and their caregivers. I encourage you to visit Elder Affairs at www.mass.gov/elder.
Finally, we are all working hard to deliver on the promise of new legislation to enable more seniors who need it to receive long-term care at home or in a community setting. More news to come on that.
Editor’s note: For information about services for seniors in Berkshire County including the Berkshire County SHINE program, contact Elder Services of Berkshire County, Inc. at 499-0524 or 1- 800-544-5242 or visit the website at www.esbci.org.
