The Senior Companion Program pairs individuals 60 and over with seniors and other people who have difficulty with daily living tasks. Through their assistance and friendship, Senior Companions help others live independently in their homes rather than having to move to expensive, institutional care.

Senior Companions assist clients with paying bills, grocery shopping ,and finding transportation to medical appointments. They offer contact with the outside world and help make the lives of the people they serve less lonely. Today, approximately 12,000 Senior Companions are serving 37,000 individuals in communities across the United States.

Senior Companions are at least 60 years old, meet income eligibility requirements and serve two to four clients during their twenty hours of service each week. They must participate in pre-service orientation and in training workshops throughout their service. In exchange for their service, Senior Companions receive modest, tax-free stipends, reimbursement for transportation, meals during service, annual physical examinations, and accident and liability insurance while on duty. Senior Companions begin serving once they have completed 40 hours of pre-service orientation training. Another four hours of training each month is required.
If you are interested in becoming a Senior Companion, or would like more information, contact Melanie at Bugbee Senior Center (295-9068)

We were alerted by Geoffrey Peppinger, Constituent Advocate/Outreach Assistant to Rep. Bernie Sanders, that some seniors have reported that people have come to their doors or called on the phone trying to sell them a "Medicare prescription drug card".
Please be aware that Medicare prescription drug cards are not available from telemarketers or door to door sales people. Also, if anyone tried to pressure you into buying something "right now", you should always say no. If an offer is genuine, it will still be there after you have had a chance to think it over and talk it over with someone you trust.
If you have any questions about Medicare, Melanie or Eleanor may be able to help. Call them at 295-9068.