Free Drug Discount Card Offered by NYS Hit hard by the economic downturn? Looking for relief from paying the full cost of your prescription drugs? New York State announces the New York Prescription Saver, a free prescription discount card that will help save on the cost of prescription drugs. The card is for New York State residents who are 50 to 64 years old, or persons with a disability regardless of age. Income eligibility limits are up to $35,000 single and $50,000 married. Those with Medica [...]

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The New York City Department for the Aging, Health Insurance Information, Counseling and Assistance Program (HIICAP) by calling (212) 333-5511, or visit their website [https://aging.ny.gov/healthbenefits/]. Assessing the Financial Situation Financial planning should begin soon after the diagnosis of dementia has been made. The first step is to take stock of the person's income and financial resources. If the person with dementia is not able to provide financial information, a properly executed [...]

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At the beginning of the planning process, three questions need to be answered: * Who will manage the person with dementia's financial affairs? * Who will make medical decisions on his or herbehalf? * Who will be a "back up" in the event that the primary caregiver becomes unable to act? The two legal instruments commonly used in New York State to implement these decisions are Durable Power of Attorney and Health Care Proxy. In New York State, a Health Care Proxy must be a separate documen [...]

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The Need for Legal Planning If not already done, legal planning should begin soon after a diagnosis of dementia has been made. People with dementia may be able to manage their own affairs at the beginning. As the disease advances, they will increasingly need to rely on others to act in their best interest. A good way for caregivers to get an introduction to Legal and Financial Planning is to attend a free Legal and Financial Webinar. It is recommended to attend an Understanding Dementia meetin [...]

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