Help With Prescription Drug Costs

Historically, pharmaceutical drug companies have provided assistance programs to help consumers without medical insurance be able to get the medications they need.  These programs are called Patient Assistance Programs.

The Medicare Prescription Drug Program – Part D, changed how many older adults paid for prescription drugs.  Medicare Part D allows older adults to have coverage for many prescription drugs.  At the time of the start-up of this Medicare program, it was unclear how this would impact Patient Assistance Programs.  Medicare encouraged all pharmaceutical companies to continue to provide assistance.

Now, drug companies have made their decisions about the programs.  We have updated information on these programs – where to find them, what they might offer, how to access them.  Some of the companies have expanded their programs to include individuals who are experiencing temporary financial issues that make it difficult for them to afford prescription drugs or their insurance co-payments. Many offer the programs to all ages.

If your family is having a difficult time paying for prescription drugs or making your medical insurance co-payments, it would be worthwhile to investigate what programs are available to help.  We can help guide you in your search.

More information on pharmaceutical company  Patient Assistance Programs…
More information on other prescription drug resources…

Triangle J Area Agency on Aging
Your governmental non-profit source of information for older adults and family caregivers.
www.tjaaa.org
www.fullcirclecare.org

Surviving Extreme Heat

Extreme heat can be dangerous – especially to older adults and those taking medications.  Do you know the symptoms of heat stroke and what to do if it occurs?  Do you know what precautions to take to keep safe?

Let us give you the information you need to stay safe and to keep cool.

We also ask that, if you have neighbors who are elderly, please check on them to make sure they are safe during times of extreme heat.  They are more susceptible to heat than younger people.  If they are taking medications, it increases susceptibility substantially.

Understanding the consequences of extreme heat on seniors, several local utility companies in the Triangle donate money for the purchase of fans for older adults in need. The fans are offered at no cost. They are distributed by selected local aging services providers in each county, as determined by need and availability. Occasionally, window air conditioners are also made available. The effort is called Operation Fan/Heat Relief.

Find out more information, including contact information for Operation Fan/Heat Relief…

Triangle J Area Agency on Aging
Your governmental non-profit source of information for older adults and family caregivers.
www.tjaaa.org
www.fullcirclecare.org