Council on Aging (FAQ)

• What services do you offer Senior citizens?

  Information and Referrals - Have a question? If we don't know the answer, we'll find someone who does or link you to an agency that will help you.	Legal Assistance - 60 years of age and up. Free Durable Power of Attorney, Living Will and Free Legal Advice.
  Assistance/Referral - Any client needing help filling out paperwork or needing help with anything: COA will assist or try an locate a resource for you..	Income Tax Preparation -We host AARP Tax Aide volunteers. They prepare simple returns during tax season.  We can provide you with information on other AARP tax preparation sites.
  Insurance Counseling - Medicare, Medicaid, supplemental insurance and Medicare Part D evaluations.	Ceramic Painting classes - Learn basic techniques, low cost. Contact us for day and time. Make new friends.
  Special Assistance Services - Provides assistance to doctor offices or grocery shopping to those unable to drive or ride BRATS. Limited service area.	Knitting and Crocheting class -  Bring your supplies and socialize. Contact us for day and time. Beginners and experts.
  Senior Nutritional Centers -    Six S.A.I.L. Centers in the county. Lunch is served Monday through Friday. Transportation can be arranged through BRATS . BRATS Nutritional Route Information.      A variety of activities are hosted each month.  Ask about our home bound meals. S.E.E.K - Senior Emergency Essentials Kit program.  Provides a means to have seniors think ahead in preparing for a Hurricane evacuation.  Seniors will be contacted at the beginning of Hurricane Season to be sure their information is up to date and they have a plan in place should a storm threaten our County. Consignment Senior Treasures Gift Shop - Handmade items made by seniors of Baldwin County. Client gets 80% & County gets 20%. Health Care Screenings - Blood pressure checks at most of the Senior Centers.	Prescription Assistance - Assistance with long term medications. You may qualify for free medication. This includes anyone 55 or older or (ANYONE, ANY AGE on disability). VIAL of LIFE - provides valuable medical history/information to first responders entering your home. A Vial of Life decal is placed on your front door.  First responders will then know to look for your Vial of Life information located on your fridge. YELLOW DOT - works the same at the above VIAL of Life program, except this is information for is kept in the glove compartment of your car providing quick access to first responders.  Supplies are limited. Yellow Dot Program information Telephone Reassurance - Friendly morning call to insure your okay. Charitable Pharmacy - Help with medications, without waiting for months. Must meet qualifications.
  Individual Case Management
  If you are in need of a service not listed here, contact us and ask to see if it may be available through another agency/department.

• I have low income, are there any programs I can benefit from?

  There are many programs you may qualify for and we can help you through the application process.  
  Medicare Savings Programs Information
  Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  Farmers Market Program
  Safelink Program
  Low Income Subsidy (Extra Help for Part D prescription drug program)
  
  Call us and schedule an appointment to have your situation assessed.  We can check to see what you qualify for and help ease the application process.  If you have any questions or would like an appointment, call 251-972-8506.

• How can I get home delivered meals?

  Homebound meal delivery areas are limited. Frozen meals may be an alternative for those living outside the homebound delivery areas.  Call the Council on Aging at 251.972.8506 or your local county courthouse for detailed information.
    
  251.937.9561 - North Baldwin County, Extension 4920
  251.943.5061 - South Baldwin County, Extension 4920
  251.928.3002 - Eastern Shore of Baldwin County, Extension 4920

• I'm concerned about fraud. I received a call/mail/knock at the door regarding insurance. Is this legitimate?

  No one should be selling insurance door to door or calling you, unless you initiated interest in their product first.  Whether it's insurance or anything else you are concerned about, call the Council on Aging, 251-927-8506 BEFORE giving out any of your personal information to someone.

• My friend/relative seems to be becoming frail. How will I know when he/she cannot live alone?

  Some signs may include: Weight loss, incoherent and/or confusion and poor hygiene. If you are concerned, give us a call at 251.972.8506

• I am worried about the possible exploitation of my friend/neighbor by their family. What should I do to help?

  Notify the Department of Human Resources (DHR)     
  Adult Protective Services at 251.945.2400.

• Where can I get help with my medications?

  The Council on Aging provides assistance for long term medications through our Prescription Assistance Program. You may also qualify for help if you are in "the Gap". Simply call and request an application. If you are on disability or applying for disability and need help with your medications, we may be able to help.  For immediate financial assistance with your medications, contact one of the following agencies: South Baldwin Ecumenical Ministries 251.943.3445 Eastern Shore Ecumenical Ministries 251.928.3430 Catholic Social Services 251.947.2293.

• Can I get help to pay for Assisted Living?

  Currently, there are no programs to help pay for Assisted Living. All Assisted Living facilities in Baldwin County are private pay. 

• I am turning 65. What do I need to do?

  Here are some of the questions you need to ask yourself one month PRIOR to turning 65.  
  1. Do you want to draw your Social Security now?
  2. When do you want your Medicare Parts A & B to start?
  3. What kind of supplemental insurance can you afford?
  4. What kind of supplemental insurance does your doctor accept?
  
  Each situation is different based on your individual circumstances.  Here at the Council on Aging, we will meet with you to review your situation so that you can make the best decision for you!

• Can you help me with Medicare Part D?

  We can review your information and provide you with a list of plans that fits your needs.  If you already have a plan, be sure to have it reviewed for changes EACH year during the Open Enrollment period, October 15th through December 7th. 

• I currently have Medicare Part D. Do I need to have it looked at every year?

  Definitely, each year from October 15th through December 7th, Medicare Part D holds an open enrollment; which means you can change plans without penalties. You can make an appointment to come in and have your information reviewed. Often times your existing plan may have changes for the next year you many not be aware of; such as premium increases or no longer covering the medication you are on. We urge everyone with a Part D plan to contact our office for a Part D assessment.