Senior Living Guide Fall 2024 10-10-24

C M SQ page 17 - SLG page 1 Y K Page Page 117QUEENS QUEENSCHRONICLE CHRONICLE, • Thursday, SENIOR LIVING October GUIDE, 10, 2024 Thursday, October 10, 2024

FALL 2024

• Time to enroll in Medicare • Preventing elder abuse • Feds lowering drug costs

QUEENS

SAPR-079083

• Five-Star Nursing & Rehabilitation Facility awarded by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

• Administrator member of American College of Health Administrators • Administrator recipient of CMS Outstanding Achievement award for Reducing Hospitalizations • Administrator is 2016 Recipient of Lily Leadership Award

Sapphire Center For Rehabilitation & Nursing of Central Queens

For theSENIOR latest L news qchron.com IVINGvisit GUIDE • FALL 2024

AWARDS:

QUEENS CHRONICLE • SENIOR QUEENSLIVING CHRONICLE, GUIDE,Thursday, Thursday,October October10, 10,2024 2024Page Page182

C M SQ page 18 - SLG page 2 Y K

Family Care Connections, LLC PARTICIPATING ADVERTISERS Catholic Cemeteries Devito Fuel Corp Donna Furey, Esq. Family Care Connections

• Geriatric Nurse Care Management • Assistance with Aging at Home • Assisted Living & Nursing Home Placement • Elder Care Consulting and Counseling • Medicaid Application & Consulting Services • Housing Options for Aging

Nassau (516) 248-9323

CONTENTS Time to enroll in Medicare . . . . .Page 4 Preventing elder abuse . . . . . . . . . .Page 6 Feds lowering drug costs. . . . . . . .Page 8

Flushing House JJ’s Roofing Margaret Tietz Nursing & Rehab MJHS-Elderplan Parker Jewish Institute Queens LI Renal Institute

Queens (718) 470-6300

Sapphire Center for Rehabilitation St. Michael’s Cemetery VNS Health

Dr. Ann Marie D’AngeIo, DNP, CNS Dr. Frank G. D’Angelo, JD, PhD

Publisher: Mark Weidler Section Editor: Peter C. Mastrosimone Marketing Director: Debrah Gordon Layout and Design: Gregg Cohen

901 Stewart Ave., Ste. 230 • Garden City, NY 11530 www.FamilyCareConnections.com

35,9$7( 678',2 $3$570(17 67$57,1* $7

3(5 0217+

For the L latest qchron.com SENIOR IVINGnews GUIDEvisit • FALL 2024

$OO ,QFOXVLYH

5(7,5(0(17 5(6,'(1&( ,1'(3(1'(17 /,9,1* )25 2/'(5 $'8/76 6833257,9( 6(59,&(6 21 6,7(

ZZZ IOXVKLQJKRXVH FRP %RZQH 6WUHHW )OXVKLQJ 1<

127 )25 352),7 25*$1,=$7,21

&$// 72'$<

C M SQ page 19 - SLG page 3 Y K Page 319QUEENS QUEENSCHRONICLE CHRONICLE,• Thursday, SENIOR LIVING October GUIDE, 10, 2024 Thursday, October 10, 2024

Have MEDICARE & MEDICAID and want great benefits? We’re here for you, neighbor.

0

$ As low as

Up to

Plan Premium

375 $ 3500 $

Up to

0

$

0

$ Copays

for Prescription Drugs

/ month for OTC Health Items, Groceries, Home Utilities & More / year for Dental

vnshealthplans.org Benefits and costs depend on your level of LIS or Medicaid eligibility and the plan you enroll in. Grocery and utility benefits are part of special supplemental benefits for the chronically ill and not all members qualify. Chronic illnesses include dementia, heart failure, lung disorders, stroke, diabetes, and other conditions. Eligibility for this benefit cannot be guaranteed based solely on your condition. All applicable eligibility requirements must be met before the benefit is provided. For details, please contact us. VNS Health Medicare is a Medicare Advantage organization with Medicare and Medicaid contracts, offering HMO D-SNP and HMO plans. Enrollment in VNS Health Medicare depends on contract renewal. ©2024 VNS Health

H5549_25PR2_M Accepted 09152024

For theSENIOR latest L news qchron.com IVINGvisit GUIDE • FALL 2024

VNS Health Medicare: 1-866-414-6715 (TTY: 711) 7 days a week, 8 am – 8 pm

QUEENS CHRONICLE • SENIOR QUEENSLIVING CHRONICLE, GUIDE,Thursday, Thursday,October October10, 10,2024 2024Page Page204

C M SQ page 20 - SLG page 4 Y K

SENIOR LIVING GUIDE

Things to note during Medicare’s AEP

by Kristen Guglielmo

it is important to understand that the private plans replace Original Medicare, the agency said. All medical care must be received from As the leaves start to turn and the air gets a providers in the plan’s network. little crisper, it’s also time to make some If you have health insurance through a forimportant healthcare decisions. mer employer or union, the agency said it’s Medicare is the federal health insurance best to check with your benefits administrator program for people 65 or older and for certain before joining a plan to avoid jeopardizing younger people with disabilities. Most people retiree health benefits. are first eligible to register three months Susie Stewart, a licensed insurance spebefore turning 65. cialized in Medicare and working with the During Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Senior Citizens League, told the Chronicle in Period, one can make some changes to their an email that people should be cautious about plan. The AEP is just a few days away, spanwhere they get their insurance advice from. ning from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. During that win“I’ve seen clients take Medicare advice dow, people can make adjustments to their from the receptionist at the doctor’s office, a overall plan. person at the SSA, their home healthcare To know what changes can be made, it’s aides, and their neighbors,” Stewart said. important to know about the different plans, She continued, “The advice I offer is to which medicare.gov outlines. speak with a licensed insurance agent that Part A helps cover inpatient care in hospispecializes in Medicare. I’ve been in sales for tals, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care decades, and Medicare is the most complicatand home health care. It’s often referred to as ed and ever-changing of all. Beneficiaries “hospital insurance.” need to use wisdom about where they take Part A is premium-free for most people, advice.” who qualify because they paid Medicare Stewart added that the best place to go for taxes for at least 10 years while working. Peoinformation is medicare.gov. ple might be able to buy it if they do not When deciding if changes to your plan are qualify.

The Medicare annual enrollment period begins on Oct. 15, when beneficiaries have the option to necessary, according to an article by Stewart Part B, also commonly referred to as make changes to existing coverage. on seniorsleague.org, people should read all “medical insurance,” helps cover services from doctors and other healthcare providers, company that offers an alternative to Orginal Dec. 7 will carry into the new year starting information sent to them from their carrier. outpatient care, home healthcare, durable Medicare (Parts A and B). Part C plans usual- Jan. 1. Typically, a new plan kicks in on the When visiting with an insurance agent, have a medical equipment such as wheelchairs or ly include Parts A, B and D, and often have first day of the following month, according to Medicare ID card and Medicaid card, if appliwalkers, as well as many preventive services different out-of-pocket costs than Original the Senior Citizens League. However, that’s cable, on hand.

It’s also important to think carefully about not the case during the AEP. Only in certain Medicare or supplemental coverage. such as screenings or yearly wellness visits.

Part D, also known as drug coverage, helps cases, such as if one has just moved or is new which plan is needed.

The Part B premium is currently $174.70 “Some people say, ‘I just want the best each month, or higher depending on income. cover the cost of prescription medications, to Medicare, coverage might start as early as plan,’” Stewart wrote. “What you and someThe amount can change on a yearly basis, including many recommended shots and Nov. or Dec. 1. one else need is comThe AEP is not the time vaccines. according to medicare.gov. pletely different, so Plans that offer Medicare drug coverage to enroll in Medicare Parts Medicare Advantage, also known as Part there is no ‘best plan.’”

C, is a Medicare-approved plan from a private are run by private insurance companies that A and B. That would xperts say a trusted Thin k about you r follow rules set by Medicare, according occur during the initial doctors, dental needs, to medicare.gov. And, new in 2025, enrollment period (when insurance agent and copay concerns and necout-of-pocket costs for covered drugs one is first eligible upon medicare.gov are the essa r y med icat ions, under Part D plans are capped at turning 65), or during the said. Have a list General Enrollment Period $2,000. best sources for older Stewart of those on hand, too, If people’s out-of-pocket spending between Jan. 1 and March when meeting with an on covered drugs reaches $2,000, they 31. Alternatively, if one is adults who want to insurance agent so you would automatically get “catastrophic eligible due to certain situbetter understand can be sure they are coverage” — meaning they won’t have ations such as losi ng covered u nder you r to pay out-of-pocket for covered Part D employer coverage, one Medicare coverage. plan. may apply outside of the drugs for the rest of the calendar year.

Stewart also said it’s And, according to AARP, while GEP window.

Asked about Medicare enrollment, a repre- important to take down your insurance Medicare is prohibited from covering dr ugs prescribed specif ically for sentative for the city Department for the agent’s name and phone number, because a weight loss, Part D plans can cover Aging told the Chronicle in an email, “Com- good agent will be available to you even after weight loss drugs when ordered for parison information for Medicare Advantage you pick a plan.

The Medicare and You handbook, a comother purposes, such as Ozempic for and Part D plans is available at medicare.gov.

“You can also enroll in a plan on this site prehensive guide, also be found at either type 2 diabetes.

Premiums for Part C and Part D or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (available medicare.gov or nyc.gov/site/dfta. Medicare 24/7) during the Annual Election Period beneficiaries in September should have plans vary.

During the AEP, one can switch (October 15 – December 7) for coverage received a copy in the mail, the DFTA said.

New Yorkers can visit the agency’s webfrom Original Medicare to a Part C starting January 1.

“If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advan- site, at nyc.gov/site/dfta, for help and more Medicare Advantage Plan, which often includes extra benefits such as vision, tage plan at the start of the year, you’ll have information on Medicare.

The agency also offers a Health Insurance dental or prescription drug coverage. another opportunity to switch plans (or return One could also go back to Original to Original Medicare) during the Open Information, Counseling and Assistance ProMedicare from a Medicare Advantage Enrollment Period (January – March), with gram, in which those with questions can The Medicare and You handbook is a comprehensive Plan, or drop or change Medicare Part coverage starting the first of the following speak with a trained expert to discuss Medicare. For more information, call Aging Conmonth.” guide for beneficiaries, who should have received a D plans.

Q Before joining a Medicare Advantage plan, nect at (212) 244-6469.

Whichever choice is in place by MEDICARE.GOV copy in the mail last month.

Editor

For the L latest qchron.com SENIOR IVINGnews GUIDEvisit • FALL 2024

E

C M SQ page 21 - SLG page 5 Y K

Page 521QUEENS QUEENSCHRONICLE CHRONICLE,• Thursday, SENIOR LIVING October GUIDE, 10, 2024 Thursday, October 10, 2024

For theSENIOR latest L news qchron.com IVINGvisit GUIDE • FALL 2024

SENIOR LIVING GUIDE

Recognizing elder abuse, and what to do

by Naeisha Rose

“Elder abuse is the most shameful form of ageism,” said Department for the Aging An African proverb says, “Those who Commissioner Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez via respect the elderly pave their own road email. “That is why our Elderly Crime Victims Resource Center and Elder Justice Nettoward success.”

Unfortunately, in New York City elder work, in partnership with the NYPD, work abuse led to 7,722 older adults having to tirelessly every day to support victims. To reach out to the Department for the Aging’s build an age-inclusive city, we are raising awareness about elder Elderly Crime Victims abuse so victims know Resource Center for supthey are not alone and port in 2023, and 35,741 lder abuse is the how to get help.” having to access its Elder Elder abuse may be Justice Network in 2024. most shameful committed by a trusted Both the center and the form of ageism.” family member or friend, network provide counseland anyone experiencing ing and crisis — Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez, it may reach out to the intervention.

Commissioner, agency’s center or justice The ECVRC also proNYC Department for the Aging network by calling (212) vides cr iminal justice 244-6469 or using its sersupport. The justice network also provides shelter referrals, virtual vice finder at nyc.gov/aging, according to or in-home assessments and assistance navi- DFTA. The office of Queens District Attorney gating the family, criminal and housing court system, and it helped train 37,481 Melinda Katz said elder abuse comes in difpolice officers to recognize the signs of ferent forms. There can be physical, sexual elder abuse during their patrols so they can and emotional abuse, and the elderly may also become victims of fraud and financial make referrals to the justice network.

Two years ago, DFTA announced that a exploitation.

People 60 or older, across all racial, ethpolice older adult liaison officer had been assigned for every precinct and NYCHA nic and socioeconomic groups and sexual orientations, are victims of elder abuse, service area in the city.

Editor

“E

Beneficiary Confusion and Tax Consequences

For the L latest qchron.com SENIOR IVINGnews GUIDEvisit • FALL 2024

By Donna Furey, Esq.

There is a lot of confusion around how to pass your assets to your beneficiaries and avoid going to Court. A beneficiary is the person or organization that you would like to receive your assets after you pass away. For most assets, you can fill out a form and add the beneficiaries’ names to the asset and avoid going to Court. If your assets do not have beneficiaries named, your Will would need to be filed in Court to be probated. If you do not have a Will or beneficiaries on your assets, someone will have to be appointed as the Administrator of your estate and the laws of New York set forth who will receive your assets.

as a co-owner. After you pass away, the beneficiary receives the asset at your tax basis or purchase price.

For example, if you purchased stock for $10.00 a share and the stock is now worth $100.00 a share, the beneficiary would pay capital gains taxes on $90.00.

Beneficiaries can be added to most assets including bank accounts, IRAs, annuities, life insurance, stock and even houses by using a life estate deed or transfer on death deed. The beneficiary does not receive the asset until you pass away and they receive the asset at the date of death value and do not have If you give assets to your benefi- to pay capital gains taxes. On July 19, ciaries while you are alive, there may 2024, the Transfer on Death Deed be tax consequences when the ben- Law was adopted in New York.

Any day you and your beneficiaeficiary sells the asset. This mainly happens when you transfer stock ries can avoid Court, is a great day or a house to someone or add them and saves money!

– ADVERTORIAL –

Seniors at an Elder Abuse Awareness Month event, and Dr. Isabella Park of Northwell LIJ Forest Hills, who noted that mistreatment can be emotional as well as physical. PHOTOS COURTESY DFTA, LEFT; AND NORTHWELL LIJ added the QDA’s Office.

To protect older adults, her office will hold a Senior Safety Summit at the Rochdale Village Community Center’s Grand Ballroom, at 169-65 137 Ave., on Oct. 22, from 12 to 2 p.m.

“My office is committed to ensuring that our elderly population enjoys their golden years in safety and in good health — free from abuse, scams and other types of criminal activity,” Katz said via email. “My Elder Fraud Unit and the Elder Abuse Project are staffed with representatives who can help.”

The summit will include presentations on elder abuse, fraud and scams, and representatives will provide resources on how to avoid becoming a victim.

If you or someone you know is seeking free supportive resources now, call (718) 286-6562.

Dr. Isabella Park, associate medical director at Northwell’s Long Island Jewish Forest Hills Hospital and its director of geriatrics and palliative medicine, as well as an assistant professor at the Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, said elder abuse can also be an inappropriate or lack of appropriate action, such as psychological, medical abuse and neglect.

The hospital is located at 102-01 66th Road.

“It’s not just about incurring abuse, like physical abuse, where you are hitting, burning, or pushing around or being ver y rough,” said Park. “It’s also emotional and psychological abuse, like yelling, threatening and isolating type of scenarios.”

Park said the hospital has sometimes seen patients come in and they look like they have been uncared for and like they are not getting the medication they need for diabetes or heart disease.

“Sometimes there is self-abuse,” Park added. “They socially isolate ... it could be behavioral; there are people with personality disorders like schizophrenia, and they age. Family members and those in the community might not know what is going on behind closed doors.”

Park says the hospital utilizes standard screening questions conducted by nurses and doctors, along with social workers, to assess is there is any type of abuse.

“If we do suspect any type of abuse we try to ask more questions and have our social workers more involved.”

Park said that if you or a loved one needs help, reach out to Adult Protective Services at (718) 883-8254.

“If they need more help, and they do not know who to ask, they can always come to Q the [emergency room],” she said.

F. DeVito Fuel Corp. • #2 Oil & Diesel Fuel Residential & Commercial Full Heating Service SENIOR CITIZEN !

IS D COUNTS

• Oil Burners & Boilers Installed & Serviced • Vacuum Cleaning of Boilers • Prompt & Courteous Service • Same Day Delivery Service contracts and budget payment plans available.

718-274-1940

©2013 M1P • FDEV-062520 EDEV-083676

QUEENS CHRONICLE • SENIOR QUEENSLIVING CHRONICLE, GUIDE,Thursday, Thursday,October October10, 10,2024 2024Page Page226

C M SQ page 22 - SLG page 6 Y K

All Major Credit Cards Accepted

Over 100 Years of Dependable Service

Se Habla Español • Si Parla Italiano • Omiloume Ellhnhka • Mowimy Po Polsku

C M SQ page 23 - SLG page 7 Y K Page 723QUEENS QUEENSCHRONICLE CHRONICLE,• Thursday, SENIOR LIVING October GUIDE, 10, 2024 Thursday, October 10, 2024

I love that Elderplan’s OTC includes groceries and lots more

Exceptional Medicare Advantage plans. No monthly premium.

We’re a not-for-profit that supports and guides our members, ensuring they have access to high-quality, affordable health care.

If you are new to Medicare or have Medicare and Medicaid, you may be eligible to enroll year-round.

Elderplan offers great benefits, including1: • NEW! Up to $900 per quarter in OTC to help with rent/mortgage, utilities, internet, groceries, meals, community rides and traditional OTC2 • NEW! Up to $750 Flex Card per year. Now covers copays on certain services plus out-of-pocket dental, hearing, vision, and fitness expenses

Call 1-866-394-4912 [TTY: 711] or visit ElderplanBenefits.org to learn more.

Scan to learn more or make an appointment.

• Enjoy the freedom to choose any specialist or dentist in and out-of-network

Leading the way to great care.

SM

1

Elderplan Inc. offers Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans; these plans may differ in coverage, monthly premiums, and cost-sharing amounts.

Eligibility is determined by whether you have a chronic condition associated with SSBCI benefit (expanded OTC). Examples of SSBCI conditions include, but are not limited to, cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, arthritis, chronic lung disorders and cancer. There are other eligible conditions not listed.

Standards may vary for this benefit.

Elderplan is an HMO plan with Medicare and Medicaid contracts. Enrollment in Elderplan depends on contract renewal. Elderplan, Inc. complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. ATTENTION: If you speak a non-English language or require assistance in ASL, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-800-353-3765 (TTY: 711).

Elderplan, Inc. cumple con las leyes federales de derechos civiles aplicables y no discrimina por motivos de raza, color, nacionalidad, edad, discapacidad o sexo. Elderplan, Inc. 㱤鸶榫氳绢黆妨垵嫎 䏱釨㲊┘㍔牊仌յ腍荇յ妨仌轑礴յ䇗룸յ壂 ꤃䡝䓪⮯縡 塢♳⛰☔ն 嫰䙫㞜冽 䖺✳榫냇╈乃䖺⺎♓⩦鞝暠䐂鏤銧 Ⲃ僜ⳉն舙꧅ 1-800-353-3765 [TTY: 711] H3347_EP17800_M

2

MJHS-3646-Elderplan-QuoteAd-QueensChronicle-FullPg-ENG-FNL.indd 1

8/27/24 1:08 PM

For theSENIOR latest L news qchron.com IVINGvisit GUIDE • FALL 2024

• $0 premium plans

For the L latest qchron.com SENIOR IVINGnews GUIDEvisit • FALL 2024

QUEENS CHRONICLE • SENIOR QUEENSLIVING CHRONICLE, GUIDE,Thursday, Thursday,October October10, 10,2024 2024Page Page248

C M SQ page 24 - SLG page 8 Y K

SENIOR LIVING GUIDE

Prescription drugs will be getting cheaper

by Michael Gannon Associate Editor

When the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law in 2022, it authorized a number of initiatives aimed at reducing the cost of prescr iption d r ugs for senior citizens.

Back in August, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service announced a negotiated agreement with pharmaceutical companies that will reduce the price of 10 widely prescribed and expensive medications for millions of Medicare recipients.

The reductions will go into effect in January 2026, with future negotiations for other drugs already planned.

That comes on top of a $2,000 annual cap on out-of pocket costs for drugs covered under Medicare Part D that will go into effect this coming January.

“HHS, for the first time ever, negotiated directly with pharmaceutical manufacturers to lower drug prices for Medicare,” U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra said Oct. 2 in a press release about the second cycle of negotiations.

“The new, lower prices for the first 10 drugs will save billions for the American people,” Becerra added. “Today, we lay the groundwork for the second round of negotiations. This is the latest action by the BidenHarris Administration to improve access to affordable, life-saving prescriptions.”

The drugs in the first round include Januvia, produced by Merck Sharp Dohme (diabetes); NovoLog and Fiasp insulin systems

by Novo Nordisk (diabetes); Farxiga by AstraZeneca AB (diabetes, heart failure, chronic kidney disease); Enbrel by Immunex Corp. (rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis); Jardiance by Boehringer Ingelheim (diabetes, heart failure, chronic kidney disease); Stelara by Janssen Biotech (psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, Crohn’s disease, ulcer-

Beginning in January, Medicare Part D recipients will have their annual out-of-pocket expenses capped at $2,000 per year. In January 2026, 10 drugs used by millions of Medicare recipients will be available at greatly reduced costs following negotiations with the federal government. ative colitis); Xarelto by Janssen Pharms (blood clots, coronary or peripheral artery disease); Eliquis by Bristol-Myers Squibb (blood clots), Entresto by Novartis Pharms Corp. (heart failure); and Imbruvica by Pharmacyclics LLC by Janssen Biotech (blood cancers).

HHS said about nine million people use at least one of the dr ugs that will be covered.

“These negotiated prices range from 38 to 79 percent discounts off of list prices,”

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and other senior prescription reform advocates are hailing pending changes to Medicare Part D coverage as victories. But insurance companies could seek to offset increasing costs with reductions in other services, while some are eliminating or cutting back their participation in the program.

HHS said.

The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services estimates the negotiated prices will save people enrolled in Medicare prescription drug coverage $1.5 billion in out-of-pocket costs in 2026 when they go into effect.

A list provided by CMS states that at present, the list price for a 30-day supply of Januvia 2026 is $527, while the negotiated price come January will be $113. A 30-daysupply of Entresto is slated to go from $628 to $295.

At the other end of the spectrum, a 30-day supply of Imbruvica would fall from nearly $15,000 to $9,319.

The list prices do not include savings f rom i nsu r a nce or ser v ices such as GoodRX. The statement from HHS said up to 15 additional drugs covered by Medicare Part D that will be subject of the second round of negotiations are expected to be announced in February.

“While saving Medicare and taxpayers billions of dollars, the negotiated prices will also provide people with Medicare a better deal on some of Medicare’s costliest prescription drugs, promoting necessary competition in the market, and ensuring Medicare is strong today and into the future,” s a i d C M S Ad m i n i s t r a t o r C h i q u i t a Brooks-LaSure.

CMS said the drug companies, as part of the negotiations, are required to make sure the negotiated price is made available to pharmacies, mail-order drug services and “other entities that dispense the selected drug to such individuals.”

The law requires that all Medicare prescription drug plans including Part D and Medicare Advantage plans include the negotiated drugs; and they must have agreed to the negotiated price.

The new Medicare Prescription plan, which also starts in 2025, will allow those with Part D coverage the option of stretching their payments for out-of-pocket costs in monthly installments spread out over the year, rather than having to pay the entire amount at a pharmacy each time a prescription is filled.

“No one should have to choose between paying for medicine or putting food on the table,” Becerra said in statement last February. “Thanks to President Biden’s lower cost prescription law ... fewer seniors and people with disabilities are making that difficult decision.”

AARP, the prominent advocacy group for people over 50, applauded the drug negotiations back in a statement on Aug. 15.

“Today’s announcement marks a significant step forward in our long-standing efforts to lower prescription drug prices,” said Nancy LeaMond, AARP’s executive vice president and chief advocacy and engagement officer.

“AARP members from across the political spectrum overwhelmingly called for lowering prescription drug prices,” she added. “And this first round of Medicarenegotiated prices will bring financial relief to millions of older Americans.”

HHS this summer said the $2,000 annual cap will save seniors even more, and apply to everyone enrolled in Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage.

“By April 1, 2023, more than 1.7 million people had already reached $2,000 in outof-pocket cost on their prescription drugs,” the agency said in an Aug. 16 press release.

The government, for now, will subsidize recipients in order to offset expected premium increases. Multiple published reports have said many insurance carriers are considering hikes in rates and deductibles.

Some of those same reports state that Mutual of Omaha will end its standalone prescription coverage, while Humana is expected to pull out of several regional markets. Other companies are expected to consider reductions in their other Medicare offerings to offset increased costs.

New York City’s Office of Citywide Health Insurance Access which comes under the Human Resources Administration, has a number of tips and links for those seeking more information on all Medicare programs at tinyurl.com/8ncyvb7.

There also is information on how to apply for additional assistance to pay for medications for low-income residents who might need help.

The city Department for the Aging also offers free health insurance help, both in person and over the phone, for older adults.

The official website for Medicare is medicare.gov, while the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services can be found at

C M SQ page 25 - SLG page 9 Y K

THEY GAVE YOU THE BEST

NOW IT’S YOUR CHANCE TO GIVE THEM THE BEST

3RVW $FXWH &DUH _ 6XE $FXWH &DUH _ 6KRUW 7HUP 5HKDELOLWDWLRQ _ /RQJ 7HUP &DUH _ +RVSLFH &DUH _ 3DOOLDWLYH &DUH ,QSDWLHQW 2XWSDWLHQW 'LDO\VLV _ +RPH +HDOWK &DUH _ 0HGLFDO +RXVH &DOOV _ 6HQLRU &DUH 0DQDJHPHQW &HQWHU )RU 5HVHDUFK DQG *UDQWV

271-11 76th Avenue

Page 925QUEENS QUEENSCHRONICLE CHRONICLE,• Thursday, SENIOR LIVING October GUIDE, 10, 2024 Thursday, October 10, 2024

PARKER CARE. THE BEST. FOR THE BEST.

New Hyde Park, NY 11040 | 877-727-5373 | parkerinstitute.org

DESIGNED FOR THE COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE OF

Dialysis Patients QLIRI provides:

• ,Ãʢ Ãã Ø ¨ØÊë ) ÂÊ « ¼úÜ«Ü

• ZÊ « ¼ rÊع Z Øó« Ü

• )ÊÂ « ¼úÜ«Ü

• BèãØ«ã«Êà ÊèÃÜ ¼«Ã¢

• ùÕ Ø« à B Õ¨Øʼʢ«ÜãÜ Ã « ¼úÜ«Ü V ¢«Üã Ø BèØÜ Ü

• ,à «ó« è ¼ à " «¼ú ) ¼ã¨ è ã«ÊÃ

• Ê¡ÊØã ¼ ʃ Zã ã ʢÊ¡ʢ㨠ʢ Øãʃ SØ«ó ã aØ ã Ãã Zã ã«ÊÃÜ

• ZãØ ã ¨ Ø Õ «¼«ãú

• S ØÜÊà ¼ aqʏ q à "Ø r«Ø ¼ ÜÜ ÜÜ

• q ¼ ã S ع«Ã¢ à A « ¼ aØ ÃÜÕÊØã ã«ÊÃ ó «¼ ¼

• )Ê ¼«¹ V Õã«Êà Ø

• Uè ¼«ãú Zã Øã

271-11 76th Avenue | New Hyde Park, NY QLIRI.ORG | 718-289-2600

LOCATED ON THE LOBBY LEVEL OF

Parker Jewish Institute FOR HEALTH CARE AND REHABILITATION

For theSENIOR latest L news qchron.com IVINGvisit GUIDE • FALL 2024

The Queens-Long Island Renal Institute, Inc., Êė ØÜ ã¨ ăà Üã ×è ¼«ãú Ê¡ Ø ʃ Üã ã ʢÊ¡ʢ㨠ʢ Øã ã ¨Ãʼʢú à èà ÊÂÕØÊÂ«Ü «¢Ã«ãúʃ «Ã Ø«¢¨ãʃ è¼ãØ ʢÂÊ ØÃ Ü ãã«Ã¢ʈ

QUEENS CHRONICLE • SENIOR QUEENS LIVING CHRONICLE, GUIDE, Thursday, October 10, 2024 Page 26 10

C M SQ page 26 - SLG page 10 Y K

159 monthly credit for healthy food, OTC products and utility bills

$

Get more benefits for a $0 monthly premium

Click. Call. Connect.

Dual Complete® plans include credits to buy OTC Ģ Ģ Ģ ġ

ġ uhcdualplans.com

1-855-694-9229, TTY 711 Chat online

ď Ģ ġ ĭ ġ ď Ģ ĸ ĸ ġ Ģ ĸ ġ Řŝ ł Ńġ Ģ ď ġ ł Ń ġ ĸ ġ Ŕ şŝşš Ģ ġ ġ ŝŝţţŏşšŝŤşşŏŝŦŞšŝŦ ťšŝťţŏ ŏ ŠŠťŤĿŝŞšĿŝŝş

CORE_NEWSPAPER_DSNP_BNF_NY_NYC_MEDIASPACE_0995.indd 1

19/09/24 1:08 AM

Pre-Plan with Faith and Love.

E PR

E A PLA CE PAR

AC T NOW !

UP TO

$500

F O

R U YO

I GO

TO

Pre-planning begins with educating yourself to the choices available to you and your family.

V IS A CA

For the L latest qchron.com SENIOR IVINGnews GUIDEvisit • FALL 2024

STARTS OCTOBER 18 TH - NOVEMBER 9 TH, 2024

CATHOLIC A CEMETERIES 3T *OHN s -T 3T -ARY s (OLY #ROSS 3T #HARLES 2ESURRECTIOn

0% INTEREST FINANCING FOR UP TO 10 YEARS ON SELECT PRE-NEED OPTIONS

RD *W it h select cremat ion Niche & M au Cry pt purc soleum hases only.

PRE-ARR A ANGING A G G YOUR O FINAL A RESTING S G PLACE AC ENSURES S S YOUR O LAST WISHES WILL BE FULFILLED! INSTALLMENT PAYMENTS AVAILABLE FOR AS LOW AS $60 PER MONTH *Visa Card provided within 6 weeks of purchase.

Offer valid only at: Blessed Virgin Mary / Holy Family / St. Joseph / Sacred Heart Mausoleums and select niche areas at St. Charles / Resurrection Cemeteries; Christ the Redeemer Mausoleum and select niche areas at St. John Cemetery; and select niche areas at Mount St. Mary and Holy Cross Cemeteries.

ST. CHARLES/RESURRECTION CEMETERIES 2015 WELLWOOD AVENUE FARMINGDALE, NY 11735 (631) 249-8700

ST. JOHN CEMETERY 80-01 METROPOLITAN AVENUE MIDDLE VILLAGE, NY 11379 (718) 894-4888

MOUNT ST. MARY CEMETERY 172-00 BOOTH MEMORIAL AVE. FLUSHING, NY 11365 (718) 353-1560

W W W.CCBKLYN.ORG

QCHRON

HOLY CROSS CEMETERY 3620 TILDEN AVENUE BROOKLYN, NY 11203 (718) 284-4520

C M SQ page 27 - SLG page 11 Y K

LAW OFFICES OF

DONNA FUREY ELDER LAW WILLS and TRUSTS ESTATE PLANNING MEDICAID PLANNING PROBATE ADMINISTRATION OF ESTATES SPECIAL NEEDS REAL ESTATE Donna received her law degree from St. John’s University of Law.

St. Mary’s Community Mausoleum II

OFFER AVAILABLE:

$1,000 PER SPACE PRE-CONSTRUCTION DISCOUNT

Co-Chair of the Elder Law Section of the Queens County Bar Assn. 2012-2019

Legal Proactive Care For Your Most Sensitive Life Planning Matters 44-14 Broadway, Astoria, New York 11103 Tel: 347-448-2549 Fax: 718-721-0851 E: dfurey@fureylaw.net Web: fureylaw.net

7202 Astoria Boulevard, East Elmhurst, NY 11370 718-278-3240

For theSENIOR latest L news qchron.com IVINGvisit GUIDE • FALL 2024

She is currently the Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Catholic Lawyers Guild of Queens and was past President of the Queens County Women’s Bar Association, past President of the Astoria Kiwanis Club, past President of the East River Kiwanis Club, and past President of the Catholic Lawyers Guild of Queens.

One of the greatest gifts you can give to those you love is a sense of security – the knowledge that you have taken care of everything.

St. Michael’s is a religious Cemetery open to people of all faiths. For more information including a free Resource Guide call 718-278-3240 or visit us at www.stmichaelscemetery.com.

Page 11 27 QUEENS CHRONICLE CHRONICLE,•Thursday, SENIOROctober LIVING10, GUIDE, 2024 Thursday, October 10, 2024

Established 1852

QUEENS CHRONICLE • SENIOR QUEENS LIVING CHRONICLE, GUIDE, Thursday, October 10, 2024 Page 28 12

C M SQ page 28 - SLG page 12 Y K

Serving all of Queens and surrounding g areas for 30+ years

For the L latest qchron.com SENIOR IVINGnews GUIDEvisit • FALL 2024

• New Roofs of all Types • Roofing Repairs • Chimney Caps • Waterproofing • Seamless Gutters • Leaf Guards • Roof Coatings • Silicone Sealers • Tuckpointing • Brickwork

FULLY LICENSED

SPECIAL

10% OFF Check out our reviews online 5 Star Rating

Call Today For A Free Full Roof Inspection & Estimate!

917-407-1141 718-713-8020 www.jjroofingnyc.com ©2024 M1P • JJSR-083208

HIC Lic. #1443031

Senior Discount