With the life expectancy of the average American increasing, it is important to plan for retirement and beyond. The department offers resources and links to help seniors and their caregivers evaluate healthcare options, long-term care needs and address other financial needs.
Medicare is the federal health insurance program for people who are 65 or older, certain younger people with disabilities, and people with End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a transplant, sometimes called ESRD). Medigap (Medicare Supplement) is offered by private insurance companies to help fill the “gaps” Medicare doesn’t cover, such as copayments, coinsurance and deductibles. Generally, anyone with Medicare Parts A & B is eligible for Medigap.
Missouri SHIP has trained counselors who provide free, unbiased advocacy, education and assistance to people with Medicare and those who help them to make informed decisions about Medicare and related health insurance needs. Missouri SHIP is the Missouri State Health Insurance Assistance Program.
MORx provides prescription drug assistance to Missourians in need by coordinating benefits with Medicare’s (Part D) Prescription Drug Program. This is Missouri’s State Pharmacy Assistance Program.
Long-term care insurance helps cover the costs of a nursing home, an assisted living facility, home health care and other services to assist with daily activities like dressing, eating and bathing. Many Missourians believe Medicare covers long-term care costs, but Medicare offers very limited coverage for these services, generally for no more than a few months. Speak with a financial advisors about how to cover any needed long-term care, whether that’s paying those costs directly, buying long-term care coverage from a private insurance company or qualifying for Medicaid.
Missouri ombudsman program consists of volunteers serving residents of nursing homes and residential care facilities to provide support and assistance with any problems or complaints.
Annuities are investment products sold by insurance companies. Missourians can purchase annuities as way to generate interest on their savings, generate income, or both.
The Silver Haired Legislature, or SHL as it is often called, is a formally elected body of citizens 60 years of age and older that promote conscientious legislative advocacy for Missouri's older adults.
If you suspect a deceased loved one had a life insurance policy or annuity contract that you are having trouble locating, the department’s life policy locator service may be able to help.
Other Resources for Seniors and their Caregivers
Planning ahead and knowing what to expect are the best ways to avoid future financial difficulties. Use the tools below to help make a plan and facilitate a discussion with family.