721 Oxford Avenue Suite 1130
Eau Claire WI 54703
Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
(715) 839-4735
1-888-338-4636
tty: use Relay (711)
Website and Email
www.eauclaireadrc.org
adrc@eauclairecounty.gov
Social Media
www.facebook.com/ ECC.ADRC
www.instagram.com/ adrceauclaire/
The Meals on Wheels Kitchen has successfully been relocated to our new location in the Eau Claire County Highway Facility located at 5061 U.S. Hwy 53, Eau Claire.
ADRC and county facilities staff, along with volunteers completed the move during the middle of June from the kitchen which was located in the former nursing home in Fall Creek.
The new MOW kitchen will offer more storage for fresh and frozen foods, larger ovens and prep space. There is a convenient cover for the volunteer drivers to load meals for delivery around the county. All of these features will increase the effciency of the prep, packing and loading of around 600 meals for individuals who count on MOW’s each weekday.
An exciting bonus of the new kitchen is the outside space that is available for raised garden beds to grow fresh vegetables and fruits on-site. Earlier this past spring volunteers prepped and planted for harvest this summer and fall, which can supplement our recipes with healthy, local produce.
A huge THANK YOU to all of our volunteers and participants for your patience during the disruption of hours during our transition. This has been a long journey, we are grateful to be in the new location – We look forward to serving the Eau Claire community for many years to come.
To help people age 60+ and adults living with disabilities secure needed services or benefts, live with dignity and security, and achieve maximum independence and quality of life.
Kelli Weiss
ADRC VAN DRIVER
Dave Okas
COOKS
Aaron Pritzl
Gilda Halbleib
Rodney McRae
Karen Mittag
Penny Parkinson
DEMENTIA CARE SPECIALIST
Lisa Wells
ELDER BENEFIT SPECIALISTS
Jessica Smith
Leda Welke
DISABILITY BENEFIT SPECIALISTS
Jim Coldwell
Melissa Wendtland
Linda Struck, Director
Betsy Henck, ADRC Manager
Lisa Riley, ADRC Manager
Sheryl Sadzewicz, Kitchen Manager
MEAL DELIVERY DRIVERS
Doug Salter
Gordy Geurink
Kris Bertrand
Norm Brunkow
Sue Klauck
MEAL SITE WORKER
Jon Samolinski
Barb McRae
Brianna Werner
Jenna Belter
Jennifer Solfest
Liz Nett
Maddie Kettner
Molly Yang
Sue O’Branovich
COORDINATOR
Deb Bruning
RESOURCE SPECIALISTS
Carmelita Hogan
Heather Craker
RESOURCE SPECIALISTS II
Karen Hauck
Katie Telschow
Lindi Engedal
Saturday, July 29, at Warner Park in Madison, 12-5 PM.
The Disability Pride Festival builds on a long tradition of disability pride celebrations around the world. They proudly showcase the arts, creativity, and talents of disabled people in Madison and beyond!
Recently the ADRC teamed up with the Chippewa Valley Cat Club to bring pet food to Meals on Wheels participants. This program is possible through a grant from the Eau Claire Community Foundation’s “It’s the Little Things Fund.”
While this program will not serve all the nutritional needs of a pet for a month, it will help offset the expense for those who are living on a fxed income.
Stella Pagonis, County Board (Chair)
Sue Miller, Citzen Member (Vice Chair)
Heather Deluka, County Board
Tami Schraufnagel, County Board
Amanda Babb, County Board
Allen Myren, County Board
Jean Doty, Citzen Member
Ron Hon, Citzen Member
Sandra Romey, Citzen Member
Terri Stanley, Citzen Member
Bill Libberton, Citzen Member
The Aging & Disability Resource Center of Eau Claire County is welcoming and safe for all. We are committed to serving with equity in mind. No judgement, assumptions or shame.
There are no income requirements to utilize the services of the ADRC. ADRC's assist anyone age 60 and over, as well as adults age18-59 living with disabilities.
ADRC services are also available to family members, friends, caregivers and professionals working with these populations.
It happens all the time, your phone rings, or a piece of mail arrives in your mailbox; it seems offcial and urgent. The message is that you are able to save money or receive money from the government, Medicare, Social Security, or maybe even send money to a family member in need. Take a moment before taking any action and reference a few of these tips from the National Council on Aging.
• Do not do business with door-to-door or telephone salespeople who promise free medical equipment or services.
• Only give your insurance/Medicare identifcation to those who are providing you with medical services.
• Review your Medicare Summary Notices to check that you received the services that are being billed.
• Always ask for written material from a caller who is offering a “deal” or a charity.
• Ask for the callers name, name of business, phone number and address, then read it back to them, but change the phone number or address. If they don’t catch the mistake, it might be a scam.
• Take your time in making a decision.
• If there is a link in a text message or email, don’t click the link directly from there. Open a new internet window and look up the business separately to make sure it’s legitimate, and has a matching phone number or other information to what you see in the text or email.
• Look closely at the email address that emails come from. If there are spelling errors, it’s not from the true company. Don’t click further into it or follow links.
Here are a couple of resources to fnd out more information on scams.
• Medicare Scams/Fraud -Wisconsin Senior Medicare Patrol 888-818-2611
• Wisconsin Bureau of Consumer Protection 800-422-7128
The advertisements in this newsletter are obtained from the printing company LPI, not the ADRC. The ADRC provides unbiased information and assistance to those we serve.
The primary purpose of the ADRC is to provide the customer with unbiased information about services that will meet their needs. This includes sharing information with customers about agencies that provide needed services. The ADRC may operate programs that provide direct services to customers.
The ADRC Specialist:
• Cannot attempt to influence customers for fnancial gain or other self-interests.
• Cannot attempt to influence customers in the interest of any service or program provider, including the ADRC itself. The ADRC is prohibited from using revenue generated from direct service programs to support the ADRC Specialist program.
Attention gardeners, do you wish there were a place you could donate your extra garden produce?
The Senior Nutrition Program kitchen would love to have it. Please drop off your clean fruits, vegetables and herbs to the Meals on Wheels Kitchen
5061 U.S. Hwy 53 Eau Claire, right next to the State Patrol offce, or ADRC Offce
721 Oxford Ave Rm 1130
Eau Claire, Monday-Friday 8:00-3:00 PM.
The beautiful produce will be used in menus for Senior Dining and Meals on Wheels and would be a great addition to our own fresh produce. Thank you and happy gardening!
The impact of falls among older adults can lead to serious consequences.
Falls are common and costly, both to the individual and our health care system. The psychological effects can be severe and place us at greater risk of more falls. The encouraging news is that falls are not a normal part of aging and can often be prevented.
Tuesday, August 29, 2023 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Oakwood Home Apartments
3802 Damon Street, Eau Claire
In this presentation we will explore normal aging, research-based strategies to address challenges, and action steps you can take to reduce YOUR fall risk.
To register: Call 715-839-4735, 888-338-4636 or at
www.adrcevents.org
All meals are served with 1% milk and subject to change without notice due to diffculty with supply chain.
Home Delivered Participants: Make any cancellations or changes by 1pm, one business day before.
Congregate Dining Site Participants: Make your meal reservations by 1pm, one business day before.
3
Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday
Breaded Chicken Sandwich*, W/G Bun*, Mayo, Sweet Potato Puffs*, Steamed Corn*, Fruit^
10
Honey Baked Ham, Baked Yukon Potatoes*
w/Sour Cream, Green Bean Casserole*, W/G Bun*, Fruit
17
Sliced Turkey w/Provolone & Fried Onions*, W/G Bun*, Baby Potatoes w/Parsley*, Green & Wax Beans, Fresh Fruit^
24
Mushroom and Swiss Burger, W/G Bun*, Pickles, Wedge Fries*, Applesauce^, Fruit Juice^
31
Bratwurst with Kraut, W/G Brat Bun*, Potato Fries*, BBQ Beans, Fruit Cup*
4
5 Ham and Potato Casserole*, Baked Beans*, Coleslaw, Rhubarb Crisp*, W/ G Bun*
11
Salmon Burger w/Tartar Sauce, Romaine, Tomato, W/G Bun*, Wild Rice Blend*, Brussel Sprouts^
18
Meatloaf w/Gravy^, Cheesy Mashed Potatoes* w/Spinach, Mixed Veggies*, Donut Holes*
25
Shrimp Stir Fry, Brown Rice*, Broccoli, Carrots*, Red Pepper, Onion, Mushroom & Chestnuts
Veggie Egg Rolls*, Cinnamon Cookie*
Wednesday Salads*
7/5 Fresh Fruit & Cottage Cheese
7/12 Chef Salad
7/19 BLT Salad
7/26 Waldorf Salad
12 Chicken Nuggets*, Mashed Potatoes w/Gravy*, Carrots*, W/G Dinner Roll*, Yogurt w/Berries
19 Tuna Casserole w/ Shell Pasta* & Peas*, Potato Chip Topping*, Steamed Broccoli, Fruited Cake*
26
Beef Stew, Red Potato*, Onion, Celery, Carrot*, Mushroom & Peas*, Crusty Bread*
Frosted Brownie*
Note: The signs indicate the number of carbs in a meal.
^ = ½ carb
* = 1 carb
*^ = 1 ½ carb
W/G = wholegrain
6 Cod w/Lemon Caper Sauce, Scallop Potatoes*, Roasted Veggies^, W/G Dinner Roll*, Cookie*
13 Polish Sausage, Potatoes* & Kraut, Warm Applesauce^, Baked Beans*, W/G Dinner Roll*, Carrot Cake*
20
Frank and Bean* w/Bacon Casserole, Corn Bread Muffns*, Macaroni and Apple Salad*
27
Baked Chicken, Mashed Yukon Potato*, Steamed Spinach, W/G Bread*, Cottage Cheese
7 Roasted Turkey w/Gravy*, Mashed Yukon Potatoes*, Steamed Broccoli, W/G Dinner Roll*, Cherry Cheesecake*
14
Ground Beef & Spinach Baked Ziti*,
Garlic Bread*, Romaine Salad w/Italian Dressing, Fruit^
21 French Toast* w/Syrup, Sausage Patties, Asparagus^, Strawberries
28
Beef Chili with Beans*, Cheddar and Sour Cream, Mac and Cheese*, Green Beans, Fresh Fruit*
Augusta Senior Center
Monday-Friday at 12:00 p.m. Call 715-286-2953 to make your reservation by noon the day before.
St. John’s Apartments
Monday-Friday at 11:15 a.m.
Call 715-839-4886 to make your reservation by 1:00 the day before.
Fairchild Community Center
Every Wednesday at 12:15 p.m.
Call 715-839-4886 to make your reservation by the Tuesday before at 1:00 p.m.
Suggested contribution for Home Delivered Meals & at Congregate (group) Sites is $5 a meal.
The Wednesday salads listed on the menu are only available at the above Congregate Dining Sites.
LE Phillips Senior Center
Meals are available on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday July 11th
BBQ Ribs, Baked Potato, Steamed Corn, Coleslaw, Cheddar Biscuits, Dessert
Tuesday July 25th
Hero Sandwich (Salami, Bologna, Turkey, Ham), Cottage Cheese
Fresh Veggies, Dessert
Suggested Contribution for the Evening Meal is $6
Please call the ADRC Meals on Wheels line 715-839-4886 by the Friday before at 3:00 p.m. to make your reservation.
The Meals on Wheels program is crucial to our homebound individuals in Eau Claire County and we rely on many volunteers to ensure timely delivery.
We are recruiting for volunteers who are willing to deliver on a regular basis, or to substitute as needed. There are convenient pick-up locations all around town with varied pick-up times for meals. No assembly required, only delivering a hot nutritious lunchtime meal to homebound individuals who need them! A fun and easy activity to do alone, or with co-workers, friends or family!
If you’re interested in learning more, contact Betsy Henck, ADRC Manager at Betsy.Henck@eauclairecou nty.gov or at 715-839-6259.
The Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law July 26th1990. In commemoration, July is designated as Disability Pride Month. Here at 2-1-1, we proudly offer equitable services to all. We maintain a database with resources that can be narrowed down to specific needs or certain populations. This includes resources such as advocacy groups, legal aid services, and information and referral services and programs for those with disabilities and their families. If you or someone you know needs information or resources in these areas, please contact us so we can help you find support that may be available in your area. We want to help you meet your needs. If you are not sure where to start, start with dialing 2-1-1-!
Simply Dial 2-1-1 * Get Connected, Get Answers column is provided by Great Rivers 2-1-1, an information & referral and crisis line service. Professionally trained staff can answer your questions about local, statewide, and national resources and can assist you with all kinds of life situations and challenges.
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week Free and Confidential
Simply dial the three-digit telephone number 2-1-1 or (800) 362-8255 to learn more
Language Interpretation is available Chat with us at our website www.greatrivers211.org Or text your zip code to 898211
on Wheels is always in search of volunteers!
Thursday, July 20, 2023
Create and learn about the importance of having bird feeders!
When summer comes, and bird populations begin to nest and reproduce, this only becomes a more signifcate part of life. Giving wild bird’s access to reliable, clean food sources actually helps the next generations of birds thrive!
3rd Thursday of the Month
1:00 - 3:00 pm
Hands-on, nature inspired experiences that provide opportunities to stimulate the senses, enjoy social interactions, and provide physical activity while imparting a sense of purpose.
-All supplies, materials, and refreshments provided.
Registration required for each session. Register online at www.adrcevents.org or call the ADRC at 715-839-4735
One of the many things adaptive equipment can be great for is assisting post-stroke patients. Adaptive equipment can be used to help these patients have greater independence with everyday life activities. There is a great variety of assistive devices in the ADRC loan closet for all areas of self-care including dressing, bathing, grooming, cooking, feeding, toileting, and mobilizing.
A hemi-walker is a mobile aide designed for individuals with the use of only one hand or arm. It is ideal for individuals who do not require a walker but need a wider base for support. This product is lighter than a walker and is more stable than a cane, ensuring user safety.
Whether you are thinking about purchasing an item but want to try it out frst, or just needing something for a short time, the loan program can be a useful service. All adaptive equipment items can be borrowed up to three months for a small rental fee. See staff in case of fnancial hardship.
To check availability or for more information call the Aging and Disability Resource Center
715-839-4735
The ADRC van has room for one wheelchair and 3 additional individuals for no cost nonmedical trips. The van is available for seniors 60+ and adults living with a disability in Eau Claire County. Contact Dave, Transportation Coordinator to schedule at 715-225-0975. Priority given to individuals who live rurally.
Aging & Disability Resource Center
Elder Beneft Specialists present free seminars open to anyone new to Medicare OR currently on Medicare. Caregivers and family members welcome.
July 2023 presentations
L.E. Phillips Senior Center
Wednesday, July 12, 2023 at 10 a.m.
Wednesday, August 2, 2023 at 1 p.m.
Register at www.adrcevents.org or call The Aging & Disability Resource Center of Eau Claire County
715-839-4735 • 1-888-338-4636
tty: use Relay (711) adrc@eauclairecounty.gov
Why call Coffee Talk?
Are you, or someone you know, an older adult who might need a little more interaction or someone to talk with sometimes? Join us for Coffee Talk, a drop in line that instantly connects older adult callers with caring “Coffee Talkers” for friendly one-on-one conversation.
You are invited to dial in and start your day with a friendly chat with your favorite morning beverage and the guarantee of good company. Coffee Talk is FREE and confdential. All you do is pick up and dial: 715-406-4871 or 877-238-2282 (toll free) Monday – Friday 8:00 am to Noon.
REGISTER at least one week prior: Call the ADRC at 715-839-4735 or go to www.adrcevents.org.
Walk With Ease (In person and self-directed)
Six-week walking program is developed by the Arthritis Foundation. While walking is the central activity, it also includes education to ease arthritis symptoms, stretching and strengthening exercises, and motivational strategies.
Choose in person classes meeting outdoors three time weekly for one hour or complete the self -directed program on your own. Proven benefts include:
Reduce pain and discomfort of arthritis Increase your balance, strength and walking pace
Build confdence in your ability to be physically active Improve your overall health
All participants receive the Arthritis Foundation Walk With Ease guidebook.
WHEN: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, 9:30 - 10:30 am/ July 10 - August 17, 2023
WHERE: Downtown Eau Claire rotating to Carson, Owen, and Phoenix Parks
Mind Over Matter: Healthy Bowels, Healthy Bladder (in person)
Three-session workshop designed to give women the tools they need to take control of symptoms. It provides information and group activities along with simple exercises and dietary changes to practice at home. Even if you do not have leakage symptoms now, it is never too early or too late to think about bladder and bowel health.
WHEN: Tuesdays, 1:00 - 3:00 pm/ July 18, August 1 & 15, 2023
WHERE: Eau Claire County Courthouse, 721 Oxford Avenue, Eau Claire
Stepping On fall prevention program (in person)
Are you feeling unsteady on your feet? Stepping On can help you avoid a dangerous and costly fall so you can keep doing the things you love to do.
In just 7 weeks, you will learn: Strength and balance exercises you can adapt to your individual level. To identify and remove or avoid fall hazards both inside and outside your home. How vision, hearing, medication, and footwear affect your risk of falling. To get back on your feet the right way if you do fall.
WHEN: Tuesdays, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm/ September 12 - October 24, 2023
WHERE: Grace Lutheran Church, 202 W Grand Avenue, Eau Claire
Congratulations to the recent Stepping On workshop graduates in May 2023.
Thank you to volunteer facilitators Mary Lange and Barb Haag, OTR, HSHS Sacred Heart Hospital.
Guest presenters: Karissa Paulsrud, PT, Marshfeld Clinic Eau Claire Physical Therapy; Dr Kelli Herrin, Mayo Clinic Pharmacy; and Al Thompson, Offce for the Blind & Visually Impaired.
And host facility Grace Lutheran Church.
Caregiving is rewarding. But it can be challenging too.
Caring for someone with an injury or illness such as dementia, cancer, Parkinson’s disease, stroke or others—can be physically, emotionally and fnancially demanding.
Taking care of yourself is important also.
Powerful Tools for Caregivers (PTC) can show you the way!
Powerful Tools focuses on your well-being. The class meets once a week for six weeks and has been studied and shown to help caregivers:
• Reduce stress
• Improve self-confdence
• Manage time, set goals, and solve problems
• Better communicate feelings
• Increase ability to make tough decisions
• Locate helpful resources
The ADRC will be offering a local Powerful Tools for Caregivers workshop starting in September 2023! Class dates and location will be announced in the August ADRC newsletter!
Eau Claire County Real Estate Taxes are due July 31st.
Eau Claire County Treasurer, Glenda Lyons, would like to remind all Eau Claire County property owners that the fnal installment of the 2023 real estate taxes are due to the Eau Claire County Treasurer by July 31, 2023. Please include your payment stub(s) or indicate the parcel number(s) you are paying on your check, or in a separate memo, so your payment is applied correctly.
In Person: Payments of cash, checks, money orders, debit cards or credit cards*, may be made at the Eau Claire County Treasurer’s Offce at the Courthouse located at 721 Oxford Avenue, Eau Claire. Offce hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday – Friday.
By Mail: Make checks or money orders payable to “Eau Claire County Treasurer” and mail to 721 Oxford Ave. Suite 1250, Eau Claire, WI 54703. Late payments are subject to 1% interest and .5% penalty fees per month retroactive to February 1, 2023 (for example 10.5% would be added to your payment if made in August). If you want a receipt, you must include a self-addressed stamped envelope. You can print a receipt from our online software at any time for any year.
Online: https://ascent.co.eau-claire.wi.us/LandRecords for credit and debit card transactions or an e-check*. From our online software you can also reprint a tax statement or receipt.
Dropbox: There is a black drop box outside the main doors of the courthouse at 721 Oxford Avenue. Please place payment stubs and check or money order inside an envelope clearly marked for the Treasurer’s Offce. If you want a receipt, you must include a self-addressed stamped envelope. You can print a receipt from our online software at any time for any year back to 2008.
*There is a fee for using the electronic payments option. Credit and Debit card is 2.35% with $1 minimum. E-check is a flat fee of $0.50. This is charged by the credit card processor directly to the taxpayer. Please note online tax payments need to be made by July 31st to be considered timely.
Tax amount due and tax history can be found at https://ascent.co.eau-claire.wi.us/LandRecords
The Aging & Disability Resource Center began distributing a limited supply of Senior Farmer’s Market vouchers in June 2023 at local Farmer’s Markets. Eligible seniors can receive $35 in vouchers to be used at any approved Farmer’s Market vendor in the state of Wisconsin. The vouchers can be used to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables grown in Wisconsin. One $35 voucher packet per person. To be eligible to receive the vouchers in Eau Claire County you must be:
A resident of Eau Claire County
60 years of age or older or 55 years of age or older if Native American
Meet the below income guidelines
A limited number of Farmer’s Market vouchers may be available at the ADRC offce, these are distributed on a frst come frst serve basis.
The caregiver café is an informal gathering place where caregivers can drop in, relax and connect with others while enjoying a cup of coffee/tea and delicious pastries. An ADRC staff person is available to provide information and assistance regarding resources available in our community. Everything is provided, just show up!
What Can You Expect?
• Social connection with others
• Peer Support
• An informal and relaxed environment
• Reduced Stress
• Contact the ADRC if respite is needed
Tuesday, July 11, 2023
9 – 10:30 a.m.
Location: The French Press
2823 London Rd, Eau Claire
Do you have a vehicle that needs modifications for accessibility?
The Vehicle Modification Grant has money available, up to $5,000, to make a vehicle accessible for caregivers, adults 60 and over, or adults living with a disability. This may also help with the purchase of a new/used modified vehicle.
Applications are reviewed and granted based on funding availability. Must be an Eau Claire County Resident to qualify.
Examples of possible modifications: lifts, ramps, left foot accelerator, right hand turn signal, modified-effort steering, swivel seat and so much more!
Contact the ADRC at 715-839-4735, we may be able to help pay for those modifications.
For more information and program flyers, check out the ADRC calendar events at www.adrcevents.org
Coffee Group for Men
Connections and coffee for men caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or other type of dementia.
Wednesdays, 7/5 and 7/19, 11:00 am - Noon
Peace Lutheran Church, 501 E. Fillmore, Eau Claire. Contact Bob at 414-378-2114 or beevee6610@gmail.com
Lewy Body Dementia Virtual Support Group
This virtual support group is for people caring for a person living with Lewy Body Dementia.
Wednesday, 7/12, 6:00 - 8:00 pm
For more information and to receive the link for the meeting, contact Janell at romatowskij@comcast.net or Amy at amy@mudmodular.com
Memory Loss and Caregiver Support Group
This support group is for people with memory loss and caregivers.
Wednesday, 7/26, 1:30 - 3:00 pm Lake St. Methodist Church, 337 Lake Street, Eau Claire. For more information, contact Lisa at 715-839-4750 or lisa.wells@eauclairecounty.gov
Savvy Caregiver Support Group
This virtual support group meeting is for family caregivers caring for a person living with dementia. The group provides information, support, and resources.
NO SUPPORT GROUP IN JULY DUE TO HOLIDAY
For more information contact Lisa Wells at 715-8394750 or lisa.wells@eauclairecounty.gov
Virtual Support Group for Working Caregivers
Monday, 7/3, 7:00 - 8:00 pm Contact Scott at 715-261-6066 scott.seeger@adrc-cw.org
Memory Café
If your body ready for summer activities? Let’s get started with some movement and try some YOGA! Easy movements on the body that can help us stay active and independent. Chippewa Valley Museum, 1204 Half Moon, Carson Park
Tuesday, 7/11 at 10:00 am
For more information, contact Lisa at 715-839-4750 or lisa.wells@eauclairecounty.gov
Hobby Hands & Healing Hearts
A monthly support group for older adults who are experiencing any type of grief and loss.
Monday, 7/17, 1:00 - 3:00 pm
Trinity Lutheran Church 1314 E. Lexington Blvd, Eau Claire
Questions about brain health, dementia, and/or caring for a person with dementia? Contact Lisa Wells, Dementia Care Specialist, Aging & Disability Resource Center 715-839-4750 Lisa Wells@eauclairecounty.gov
Answers to the word scramble on page 23, listed in ALPHBETICAL ORDER, NOT ANSWER ORDER. America, anthem, celebrate, cookout, declaration, freworks, freedom, hamburgers, holiday, liberty, parade, picnic, red white and blue, sparklers, stars, stripes, summer, united
If you are planning a vacation, there is a lot to do before you leave. Before you pack your suitcases, you should take a look at your health insurance coverage.
If you have Original Medicare, Medicare will cover your health care services when you’re in the United States, which includes Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands. However, if you travel outside of the U.S., including to Canada or Mexico, Medicare will not pay for any health care services or supplies you receive outside the U.S., except in very limited situations.
Medicare supplement plans, or Medigap plans, allow you to see any provider who accepts Medicare. That means that if you are traveling within the U.S. and you have Original Medicare and a supplement plan, you will have coverage for any health care services or supplies you receive from providers who accept Medicare. If you are planning to travel outside the U.S., check your supplement policy to see if it includes coverage for any services received outside the U.S. Medicare Advantage plans, on the other hand, often only operate within a specific network.
If you have an Advantage plan, check with your plan to see whether out-of-network services are covered. Out-of-network emergency care will generally be covered. Some Medicare Advantage plans may provide additional coverage when you are traveling outside of the United States. Check with your plan for more information. If you will need to refill your prescriptions while traveling, check with your prescription drug plan to see whether there are any network pharmacies at your destination. If you will not be able to use a network pharmacy while traveling, you may have to pay the full cost of your drugs when you fill your prescription. Check with your drug plan for information about how the plan reimburses out-of-network pharmacy purchases. Make sure you save your receipts!
Please be aware that Medicare drug plans will not cover prescription drugs you buy outside the U.S. If you are concerned about not having coverage for medical care while you travel, don’t panic! Consider buying a travel insurance policy that includes health coverage. To purchase travel insurance, talk to an insurance agent. Be sure to ask about coverage for pre-existing conditions. Taking the time to figure out your health care coverage before you travel will help you to have a relaxing trip. Enjoy your travels!
Jean Jirovac, Retired Marriage and Family Therapist
What is the difference between anxiety, obsessive thoughts, and depression? What is overthinking? Learn how anxiety affects our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and learn effective strategies to change our thoughts, set goals, and create new habits in our thinking.
Pam VanKampen, RDN, CD, Greater Wisconsin Agency on Aging Resources (GWAAR)
What we eat directly affects the structure and function of our brain. Join Pam as she helps us become more aware of what refined sugars do to our brain and body. She will share practical recipes and tips to help satisfy your “sweet tooth” with options that taste great, help you think more clearly, and boost your energy and mood!
In celebration of the 33rd Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities
UW-Eau Claire Foundation is hosting a panel & reception on Writing
You will hear short pieces by folks living with various disabilities including: brain injury, blindness and hearing loss.
Come learn from these writers and celebrate the inclusive community the ADA fosters. Sign language interpretation & captioning will be provided.
July 26, 2023 2:30-4p.m.
Chippewa River Room, Flesch Family Welcome Center
127 Roosevelt Avenue, *Park in Visitor Lot B*
The event is free & open to the public
Co-Sponsored By: Services for Students with Disabilities, Services for Multicultural Students, Chippewa Valley Writers Guild, Center for EDI Training, Development & Education. & UW-Eau Claire Foundation.
Answer key on page 18
721 Oxford Avenue Room 1130
Eau Claire WI 54703
Address Service Requested
