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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SENIOR ISSUES

FAQ - ACCESSIBLE HOMES FOR SENIORS SPECIAL LOAN AND GRANT PROGRAM

What is the Accessible Homes for Seniors Special Loan program?
This is a program to promote accessibility related improvements to the homes of seniors.  These types of home improvements can offer many older persons the key to remaining in their home and maintaining their independence.

This program is a partnership of the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development with the Maryland Department of Aging.

Locally, the Calvert County Office on Aging and the Housing Authority of Calvert will be working with Calvert residents to enable them to make their homes more accessible through this project.

What types of home improvements will these loans cover?
Improvements may include, but are not limited to, installation of grab bars and railings, widening of doorways, installation of ramps, accessible showers, and lever handles.  Additions to accommodate first floor bathrooms and laundry rooms will be considered on a case by case basis.

What is special about these loans?
The program provides zero percent interest, deferred loans for a term of 30 years.  Loans must be repaid upon sale, transfer, or refinance of the property.  All closing costs will be included in the loan.

What are the eligibility requirements for the Program? 
Applicants must:
     Be Maryland residents with a least one resident age 55 or older 
     Own and occupy the home to be renovated as their principal residence. 
     Reside in a home that is structurally sound and free of health and safety hazards
     Not have any outstanding federal or state tax liens, open bankruptcy or foreclosure
     Meet income requirements
          1 person household:  $57,960 maximum annual income
          2 person household:  $66,240 maximum annual income

Seniors living with relatives will be considered on a case by case basis.

How do I apply for a loan or get more information?
Call the Calvert County Office on Aging at 410-535-4606 or 301-855-1170.

FAQ - MEDICARE PART D

What is the Medicare Prescription Drug Program or Medicare Part D?
This program provides prescription drug coverage for all persons with Medicare Part A and/or Medicare Part B.  Coverage may help lower prescription drug costs and help protect against higher costs in the future.  The Prescription Drug Program is offered by private plans and participation is voluntary.

When can I enroll in this program?
You may join a Medicare Part D Plan when you first become eligible for Medicare, during the period that starts three months before the month you turn 65 and ends three months after the month you turn 65.  If you get Medicare due to a disability, you can join three months before to three months after your 25^th month of cash disability benefits.

You can join, switch, or drop a Medicare Drug Plan from November 15 to December 31 of each year, or at any time you qualify for extra help.

Can I still apply for extra help to pay for prescription drugs?
Yes, you may still apply for extra help to help pay for your monthly premium, deductibles, and co-pays for medication.  Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213, visit their website at www.socialsecurity.gov, or call the Calvert County Office on Aging for more information or to apply.

I don't qualify for extra help.  Is there another program to help with prescription expenses?
The Maryland Senior Prescription Drug Assistance Program will help pay up to $25 a month toward the cost of the monthly prescription drug premium for persons with annual income under $30,630 for a one person household and $41,070 for a two person household.  Call this program at 1-800-551-5995, visit their website at www.marylandspdap.com, or contact the Calvert County Office on Aging for an application and more information.

What if I choose a drug plan and then my doctor changes my prescription?  What if my prescription is not covered by my plan?
Call your prescription drug company to determine what medications are covered to treat your medical needs.  You may request an exception from your plan for your medication and you may also appeal their decision.

For more information about the Medicare Prescription Drug Program, contact Medicare at 1-800-633-4227, visit their website at www.medicare.gov, review the Medicare and You handbook, or call the Calvert County Office on Aging Senior Health Insurance Program, 410-535-4606 or 301-855-1170.

FAQ - OTHER TOPICS

What is a senior center?

Senior centers offer recreational, leisure, physical fitness, educational and nutritional activities for senior citizens (50 and over) for the continual development of full and meaningful lives.  A range of supportive services is also available for seniors and their families.  In summary, it is a place to meet other seniors, have a good time and have good food.

What senior housing is available in Calvert County?

Calvert County offers senior housing for both independent seniors and for those in need of assisted living services.  Costs will vary and some housing may have waiting lists.  You may call for Information and Assistance at the Office on Aging, 410-535-4606 or 301-855-1170.

When does Social Security come to Calvert Pines Senior Center?

The Social Security Administration no longer comes to Calvert Pines Senior Center.  Their new office is located at 30071 Business Center, Charlotte Hall, MD.  Hours are 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.  Appointments are required to file for disability or retirement.  For general inquiries and appointments, contact their office at 1-888-866-5181.  Their main office is in Suitland, at 6110 Allentown Road.  Social Security also has an office in Annapolis, at 180 Adm. Cochrane Dr., Suite 210.  You can also obtain information on their website at www.ssa.gov. 

Where can I find programming and support for a senior with developmental disabilities who is able to function relatively independently in a senior center?

Click  CREATE! for Seniors to learn more about this program for seniors with developmental disabilities.

What legal services are available to seniors?

Sixty Plus Legal Program - Seniors 60+ may qualify for low cost legal services to include small estate management, deed changes, advance directives/living wills, powers of attorney, and wills.  Contact the Office on Aging, 410-535-4606 or 301-855-1170, for a current list of participating attorneys.  *, **

Office on Aging - A contract between the Office on Aging and the Legal Aid Bureau, Inc., allows seniors 60+ to receive legal assistance at the three senior sites in Calvert County.  Topics addressed include: consumer issues, landlord/tenant disputes, Advance Directives, obtaining health insurance and other public benefits, and Social Security/SSI benefits.  Call 410-535-4606 or 301-855-1170 to schedule an appointment.**

Maryland Senior Legal Hotline - Seniors 60+ have access to free legal information via telephone.  The number to call is 1-800-999-8904.  Hotline hours are 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.  Telephonic translation is available in 140 different languages.**

Nursing Home Program - Free legal assistance is available to nursing home residents statewide.  Family members and friends may also request assistance on behalf of the residents.  The following concerns may be addressed: abuse/neglect, residents rights, discharges/transfers, Medicare/Medicaid eligibility, and admission contracts.  The contact number is 1-800-367-7563.**

Assisted Living Project - By meeting the financial eligibility requirements, certain residents of assisted living facilities are entitled to free legal assistance.  Issues addressed include: residents rights, admission contracts, billing disputes, and understanding the regulations. 
Call 1-800-367-7563 for more information.**

  * In association with the Maryland State Bar Association's Elder Law Section
** In association with the Legal Aid Bureau, Inc.