Today I want to share information about a couple of educational programs I will be hosting during the month ahead. As more folks are nearing the magical age of 65 I find that questions related to Medicare are directed my way. We had a great response to a Medicare Basics program last month and I have a similar program set for Wednesday, Sept. 30, at noon at the Great Bend Activity Center, 2715 18th Street. Jamie Rathbun, who is the Family & Consumer Science Agent in the Midway Extension District, will share information for those who will be applying for Medicare in the coming months.
An excellent resource booklet describing Part A, B, Supplemental coverage and the Part D prescription plan will be shared with program participants. As you approach age 65 you may sign up for Part A and/or Part B during the 7 month period that begins 3 months before the month you turn 65, the month you turn 65, and ends 3 months after the month you turn 65. In most cases, if you do not sign up for Medicare when you are first eligible, you may have to pay a late enrollment penalty for as long as you have Part B.
Another educational program which is set for October will focus on how to distribute non-titled property. The program, “Who Gets Grandma’s Yellow Pie Plate?” was developed many years ago by Minnesota Extension Educators. The material has been updated and we have Linda Beech, the Ellis County Family and Consumer Science Agent, coming to present this information Friday, Oct. 16, at 1 p.m. at the Great Bend Senior Center. Whatever stage you are in life, this information will give you some useful ideas. Families use a variety of methods to distribute non-titled property. No method is “perfect” or “right” for all families. In order for families to find the best method for their situation they need to first identify goals and then keep these goals in mind as they select the distribution method they will use.
So mark your calendars for these great learning opportunities. I hope to see you there.
Donna Krug is the Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu