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Medicare Fraud is on the Rise

Author: Esther Epstein, H.E.L.P.’s Director of Legal Programs

Question: The Medicare Summary Notice I just received shows the name of a doctor I’ve never heard of, and certainly never met. Should I be concerned? Read more »

Older woman should be careful about giving up her independence

Author: Helen Dennis, Specialist on Aging

Question: I am a 68-year-old widow, fit and leading a full life. For one year, I have been dating a man living in a retirement community who is now recovering from a broken hip. That means he no longer can drive to my apartment. He wants me to move in with him, believes I need him and has spoken of marriage. I am resisting since I am not a retirement-community person and not sure about marriage. Any thoughts on how to resolve this? Read more »

Strive for Successful Aging

Author: Helen Dennis, Specialist on Aging

It’s time to celebrate.  Although aging can present risks of illness, limitation and loss, we are living in a time of increasing opportunity to age successfully.  Read more »

Community Support Services for Seniors Who Hoard

Author: Esther Epstein, H.E.L.P.’s Director of Legal Programs

Question: My grandmother’s landlord has threatened to evict her because her apartment is so cluttered. Can he evict her for this?

Answer: If a tenant’s cluttering becomes an issue, the landlord’s legal responsibility to maintain rentals that are safe and secure warrants his concern. Read more »

Consider ‘Age In Place’ As a Housing Option

Author: Helen Dennis, Specialist on Aging

Question: I am 84 years old, a widow and live in my own two-story home.  I am healthy, walk 2 miles a day, garden, cook, have my grandchildren over for dinner, attend adult education classes, as well as go to movies and theater.  My children worry about me and are “helping me” by taking me for tours to assisted living facilities.  They are planning for a “what if” moment.  Am I being selfish by wanting to remain in my own home?  Read more »

Living with purpose is valued more than money, studies show

Author: Helen Dennis, Specialist on Aging

Question: The current economic condition is creating a bottomless pit it in my belly.  I am one of those who did all of the right things – saved, invested and lived reasonably. Yet, even though I still have savings and investments, I worry about my future and am developing a dim world view.  Is there any upside to our retirement dilemmas?  I am a widow.    Read more »

Reverse Mortgage: What’s It Really All About?

Author: Esther Epstein, H.E.L.P.’s Director of Legal Programs

These days, because the costs of living seem to be higher than ever before, a record number of senior homeowners are considering reverse mortgage loans that convert their home equity into available income. Although reverse mortgages may provide an affordable way to obtain needed funds, they can sometimes turn out to be much more expensive than standard home loans. Read more »

Steps to Jump-Start Your Energy Level

Author: Helen Dennis, Specialist on Aging

There is good news.  As we age, fatigue and energy loss is not life sentences.  A Harvard Medical School Special Health Report on “Boosting Your Energy,” describes “A 7-Step Plan to Jump-Start Your Natural Energy” for all ages.   Read more »

There’s a reason you may be feeling tired all the time

Author: Helen Dennis, Specialist on Aging

During the recent Easter and Passover holidays, I spoke to several women in their late 60s about the wonderful times we had with family and friends.  Aside from enjoying the grandchildren and their parents, all had the same comment.  “I’m exhausted.”  Read more »

Property Tax Relief for Parents, Children and Certain Grandchildren

Author: Esther Epstein, H.E.L.P.’s Director of Legal Programs

Question: When I pass away, I want my son to inherit the family home. Is there any way for him to maintain the property tax protections that have allowed me to pay much lower taxes than my next-door neighbors who haven’t lived here as long? Read more »