Senior Savvy

Scamming seniors? Not on our watch!

Seniors: Don’t let con artists and telemarketers scam you out of money! Guest speaker Shelley Bernhardt, director of Consumer Protection for Western Union, will talk about the “Grandparent Scam” and other swindles in which seniors are asked to send money. Senior citizens, family members, and caregivers are invited to attend this free event.

Join us for either (or both!) sessions of this wonderful program at the Schaumburg Township District Library on Wednesday, May 16 at 7 p.m., or attend the earlier session at Schaumburg’s Prairie Center for the Arts at 11 a.m.

For more information, visit the Village of Schaumburg’s website: http://www.ci.schaumburg.il.us/Docs/Press/Pages/FraudPreventionPresentationForSeniorCitizens.aspx

Circuit Breaker – Illinois Cares Rx

Here is some information from the Schaumburg Township Disability Services you or your loved ones may greatly benefit from:

The Illinois Cares Rx Circuit Breaker program provides assistance for income-eligible senior citizens and persons with disabilities based on their earnings/income for the 2011 tax year. The program consists of a circuit breaker grant, prescription drug coverage, license plate discount, and “people with disabilities ride free” transit card.

Appointments will not be taken until the first week in February. Please call 847-884-0030 to schedule your appointment the first week in February.

Eligibility Requirements:

1. Age 65 or over
2. 16 years of age or older before January 1, 2012 and permanently disabled
3. Must live in Illinois at the time you file the claim
4. Income Based: Please see income limits below

2012 Income Limits:

$21,780 for one-person household
$29,420 for two-person household
$37,060 for three or more-person household

In 2012 you will pay:

• $5 for generic drugs
• $15 for preferred brand name drugs
• $20 for non-preferred brand name drugs
• 25% of the cost of each prescription, plus the appropriate co-pays after $2,930 in drug benefits have been paid on your behalf.

You must re-apply every year. Internet filing is the fastest way to receive your benefits. If you do not have Internet access, we can assist you in filing your application.

Mattingly Mouse

Have you heard about Mattingly Mouse yet? The Mattingly Mouse is a low-cost alternative to a desktop video magnifier. The wired or wireless mouse connects to any TV or computer monitor with video input, making it easy to read newspapers, magazines, recipes, and much more! The Mattingly Mouse has three viewing modes, seven levels of magnification, and a freeze-frame function. Stop in to see this lightweight ergonomic reading aid at the *Guild’s Consumer Product Center. Call (312-236-8569) or email (brian@guildfortheblind.org) Brian Hollandsworth for a personal demonstration.

* Guild for the Blind Consumer Product Center is located at 65 E. Wacker Place, Suite 1010 in Chicago.