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New Medicaid spousal resource allowance and penalty divisor figures for 2026

As 2026 begins, there are new guidelines issued for the Medicaid program that affect care for older adults in nursing homes or at home. There are several important Medicaid figures that changed as of Jan. 1, 2026. The first is the Spousal Resource Allowance. This figure represents the amount of resources that the spouse of a Medicaid applicant (sometimes referred to as the “community spouse”) can keep when the applicant is approved for Medicaid. Most of a married couple’s resources are counted when determining eligibility for Medicaid. There are some exempt resources, such as the ...

Making friends in your golden years

METRO — Aging and change go hand in hand. Physical changes associated with aging, such as graying hair or reduced muscle mass, may garner the most attention. But personal relationships also can change as people age. As a person ages, interests could change and home base may not be what it once was. People move after retirement, and friends you might once have seen with frequency may no longer be as close by. Children are older, and the friends you made from these early parenthood relationships may change as well. It is important to have a solid group of friends. Psychology Today ...

Covenant Cafe views fiber art, hears ghost stories in October

PHOTOS PROVIDED Covenant Cafe participants had the opportunity to view a quilt and fiber art exhibit at The Station Gallery during its meeting in October. Outside of the field trip to the gallery, the group also heard ghost stories from Lou Bernard to get into the Halloween spirit.

Medicare premiums rise for 2026

Medicare is the vital healthcare program that covers most older Americans. It is a complicated program. Medicare Overview Medicare is the federal health insurance program that covers people 65 and older and some younger adults with permanent disabilities and certain medical conditions. When Medicare was established in 1965 about half of American seniors had no health insurance. Today, virtually all Americans over age 65 have at least some health coverage through Medicare. Approximately 3 million Pennsylvania residents receive benefits through Medicare. Medicare does not cover all ...

Covenant Cafe learns about finches, enjoys fun games

PHOTOS PROVIDED It was a packed day for Covenant Cafe participants in their Oct. 7 meeting. The group heard from guest speaker Wayne Laubsher about finches and enjoyed a craft time with fall flower arrangements. The group also had the chance to take part in senior games, taught by guest ...