Essex Jct, VT-  The Champlain Valley Agency on Aging(CVAA) is offering a series of informational sessions to help seniors and caregivers navigate the complexities of healthcare. Each year thousands of seniors and adults with disabilities call CVAA to talk with a State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) counselor to find out more information about their Medicare options and Medicare Part D plans. As the baby boom generation becomes eligible for Medicare, counselors are faced with increasing demand. The baby boom generation that begins eligibility (65) for Medicare will increase over 50% in the next 10 years.

According to Patricia Selsky, SHIP Counselor at CVAA, the increase demand has required that CVAA try a new approach to reach more seniors. "As a non-profit agency, we continue to face the challenge of balancing the needs of a growing population with the constraints of the struggling economy. That's why we have to change the way we respond to people by offering classes so that we can help more people take care of themselves." For Selsky these sessions are designed "to educate people, so that they are able to make informed choices and empower them to become their own advocate."

CVAA is a private nonprofit with no affiliation to insurance companies so it counsels people without bias. According to Selsky it is important for those approaching eligibility for Medicare "to understand their healthcare choices so they can make sound healthcare decisions. And ignoring Medicare eligibility by delaying a decision could cost them more in the future."

CVAA is offering informational sessions at its Essex Jct office. For those approaching Medicare Eligibility there is "New to Medicare" that looks at Medicare Part A & B, Part D Prescription Drug Coverage and Medicare Supplemental Insurance on Aug 18, Sept 15, Oct 13 and Nov 3 from 10-12. CVAA is also offering "Understanding Medicare Part D" a more in-depth look at the available drug plans, explaining the donut hole and finding out about eligibility for state or federal assistance. "Understanding Medicare Part D" will be held Aug 20, Sept 17, and October 15 from 9-noon. For more information or to register for either session call 1-800-642-5119 or 865-0360. Registration is required to attend either of these free information sessions regarding Medicare.

The Champlain Valley Agency on Aging is a private non-profit United Way organization dedicated to helping people age with independence and dignity. CVAA  is the resource on senior issues for the Champlain Valley. CVAA provides Case Management , Meals on Wheels, Successful Aging Programs and support to seniors age 60 and older in Addison, Chittenden, Franklin and Grand Isle counties and their caregivers. For information about services available for seniors 60 and older call the Senior Helpline at 1.800.642.5119