School bells will be ringing in a few days and that means pre-schoolers through college aged kids will be adapting to their new schedules. What about the rest of you; those of you reading this column who may not be formally enrolled in a school but who consider yourself a life-long learner? I love adult learners. That is probably what has kept me excited and energized to continue in my Extension career. No matter what your age there are opportunities everywhere to learn something new and apply it in your daily life.
As our population of “baby boomers” continues to reach retirement age more and more questions are directed my way related to Medicare. Last year, my husband John, and I, along with Pat Brown from the Hoisington community worked with Medicare recipients to enroll them in a Plan D drug plan that would best suit their needs. This year two additional ladies, Linda Hogg and Trella Berscheidt, have been trained to provide this valuable counseling.
If you are nearing age 65 and want to learn more about Medicare mark your calendar for Wednesday, Aug. 12th. The free educational program, “Medicare Basics” will be presented at the Front Door facility located at 1615 10th Street at noon. Rick Schaffer and Michael Johnston, representing the South West Area Agency on Aging, will be the presenters at this program. The sessions cover Medicare A, B, C, D, Supplemental Plans and will also include a discussion about Extra Help and the Medicare Savings Plan. Coming to a presentation such as this will help you set a timeline as you become Medicare eligible either by age or due to a disability.        
At next Wednesdays meeting you will have an opportunity to meet our newest counselors and learn about how to schedule an appointment during the open enrollment season. Light refreshments will be served.
Donna Krug is the Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research & Extension. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu