Someone once said that life is change, implying I guess that the moment changes stop, so do you. Probably could be argued in a variety of ways, but not here. The point is, change happens while we’re going through this experience called life, and even if not negative, it’s still very much, well, a change.

Services, which often take on a life of their own, also experience change – sometimes good, sometimes bad, sometimes just a change. Anyone with an eye toward social services witnessed several changes within the last year. Eligibility requirements, program availability and similar factors change so rapidly at times that it’s difficult to keep up – which is why you might want to put Sr I & A on speed-dial!

The face of the Medicare prescription program is one example. We’ve seen its initiation, complete with the whole discount card, credit and so forth, and have guided many folks through that particular maze. And it will be changing again in 2006, so stay posted and we’ll keep you informed as we gather the information. Currently, there is not only the Meidcare Prescription Discount, but also a $600 credit for those eligible. If you aren’t already working with us on this, give us a call for an appointment. Remember also, free or reduced prescriptions may also be available to you if you do not already have some form of prescription assistance in place.

Another area of change we saw in 2003-2004 is eligibility for Medicaid in-home care programs and available services. And, it seems, there are always additions, reductions and alterations in other existing community resources, and we do our best to remain current with all of this and more. As has been mentioned many previous times in this space, we strive to become your “one stop shopping” spot for this type of information.

And speaking of remaining current, a change is coming our way regarding home-delivered meals in our area – which, by the way, PACE Nutrition has been providing for 28 years! Beginning Jan. 1, frozen meals will replace delivered hot meals twice a week. (For those unfamiliar with this service, hot meals have been delivered to homebound seniors Monday through Friday, with two frozen meals provided for the weekend.) After the first of the year, frozen meals will be substituted for hot meals on Tuesdays and Thursdays in addition to the weekends. The congregate meal sites will continue to provide hot meals – and good company – Monday through Friday for those who attend.

So as we said in the beginning, change is life; and whether we’re running to keep up, running to catch up, or being run over by it, it continues. And we keep apace – give us a call.

Senior Information & Assistance

Long Beach: 642-3634/(888) 571-6558

Raymond: 942-2177/(888) 571-6557