Assisted Living Facilities promote independence and socialization. Most often Assisted Living communities include private apartments, restaurant style dining, activities, day trips, and clubs for the residents to participate. Services such as assistance with bathing, medication management, physical therapy are available if needed. Skilled Nursing Facilities (aka nursing homes) take care of people of all ages who do not need to be in a hospital but are in-need of 24-hour skilled nursing care.

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people in the U.S. who are 65 and older as well as some younger people with disabilities. Medicare Part A covers inpatient care in a hospital or skilled nursing facility, helps pay for hospice care and some home health care. Medicare Part A has a deductible and coinsurance, which means patients pay a portion of the bill. Medicare Part B covers doctor visits, preventive services or health care to prevent illness, ambulance services, durable medical equipment, mental health coverage and a few types of outpatient prescription drugs. Medicare Part B requires a monthly premium and an annual deductible, after the deductible you typically pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for the services and supplies.

SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) is a free program offered by the Florida Department of Elder Affairs and your local Area Agency on Aging. Specially trained volunteers can assist you with your Medicare, Medicaid, and health insurance questions by providing one-on-one counseling and information. SHINE services are free, unbiased, and confidential.

1-800-96-ELDER the Elder Helpline will provide you with information and referral assistance on programs and services available to meet your needs or the needs of your elder loved ones.

There are five types of elder abuse:
Physical abuse, emotional/psychological abuse, financial/material exploitation, sexual abuse, and neglect. If you suspect elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation, call the Florida Elder Abuse hotline at 1-800-96-ABUSE, 24 hours a day.
Reports are confidential and can be made anonymously.

Downloadable PDF coming soon