Finances 50+

If you are gravely ill and unable to speak for yourself, who will make medical decisions for you? Who will handle your estate when you die?

Kansans who receive Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income, public housing or other kinds of government benefits may be eligible for the state’s Lifeline program, which makes it more affordable to have a landline telephone. Savings can be as much as $17.02 a month.

The Magnolia State is home to about 500,000 family caregivers who provide unpaid services to help aging loved ones continue to live at home. AARP Mississippi is recruiting advocacy volunteers to help pass legislation in 2018 that could help caregiving families.

More than 545,000 Oklahomans could see their electric bills increase an average of $14 a month if regulators approve a $156 million rate hike proposed by the Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO). The utility said it needs to recover more than $625 million already spent on infrastructure and equipment, including about 530,000 smart meters.

According to an AARP survey, entitled “ California Dreaming…or Struggling: Gen X and Boomer Financial Security,” which reveals that for the most part Californians are not ready for retirement and it is largely due to housing related expenses. AARP California wants to help you take control of your finances. We are sharing DIY tips and tools bi-weekly on social media that can help you turn things around and begin to save. Here is a summary of what was shared in September!

Un evento de Zócalo y AARP

In the aftermath of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, and Maria, charity scams are coming at us by text, email, phone and social media. Scammers look to take advantage of our desire to help victims. If you plan to donate, make sure your money is going to the right place. Check Charity Navigator (www.charitynavigator.org), Charity Watch (www.charitywatch.org) and Give.org to verify names and organizations before opening your heart – and wallet.

Sunshine Home Share Colorado (Sunshine) is a nonprofit that uses geriatric social workers to safely and thoughtfully bring together seniors with available space in their homes and others needing an affordable place to live.

By Elissa McCool

By Elissa McCool