March 06, 2007

Recent Letter to the Editor in the Bangor Daily News

The tragic suicide of one of our community’s cherished elders seemed so needless and preventable.  While we don’t know all the details of this terrible incident, it was clear from the news stories that this person needed help paying for his prescriptions and fuel, and that he clearly felt desperate and hopeless.

Eastern Agency on Aging works very hard to provide programs that help our senior citizens.  We offer nutritious meals, help in getting fuel assistance, and now thanks to Medicare D, help with paying for prescription medications.  Sadly, there are still many of our areas seniors who think they must suffer in solitude.  But there is so much help available if they just give us a call.

If you know of someone who may be going without fuel, food or prescription medication because they just don’t have enough money, please let them know they should call their local agency on aging.  Our services are free and confidential and we are eager to assist seniors with any and all their concerns.

From providing free legal services, respite for Alzheimer’s and dementia caregivers, to providing home delivery of meals, area agencies on aging stand at the ready to take calls and improve seniors’ quality of life. It is our mission.  We also recommend a “Benefits Check-Up” which will be done free of charge and will ensure that the senior is receiving every benefit for which he of she is eligible.

Eastern Agency on Aging covers eastern

Maine

but there are five agencies on aging in the state. To find the one in your area call, toll-free 1-877-353-3771.

Noëlle L. Merrill

Executive Director

Eastern Agency on Aging

January 31, 2007

Medicare D concerns

Eastern Agency on Aging wants to know how you are doing with the new Medicare Part D plan year! Is anyone having any issues, problems or concerns you'd like to share? Post your comments and let us know!

--Val Sauda, Director of Community Services