Election Day is fast approaching and the Area Agency on Aging District 7 (AAA7) encourages everyone to vote on Tuesday, Nov. 2. Voting is a privilege that everyone should exercise.

One of the big news items of 2010 has been the new healthcare law. How this law affects Medicare is something that is very important to older adults.

Medicare is the federal insurance program for those age 65 and older and certain younger individuals with disabilities. Being educated about the changes with healthcare reform and understanding how the law impacts Medicare and how it will be implemented are important factors for everyone.

Already, a number of changes have taken place that are of special interest to seniors with a number of benefits planned for the future. Information regarding these benefits is included at www.healthcare.gov.

Of special interest are:

· A $250 rebate check was presented this year to seniors who have fallen in the “doughnut hole.”

In 2011, when seniors fall in the doughnut hole, they will receive a 50 percent discount on brand-name drugs and government subsidies for generic drugs. By 2020, the doughnut hole will be eliminated.

· Your existing guaranteed Medicare-covered benefits will not be reduced or taken away. Neither will your ability to choose your own doctor.

· Starting in 2011, Medicare will cover certain preventative services without charging the Part B co-insurance or deductible. In addition, a free annual wellness exam will also be offered.

· The life of the Medicare Trust fund will be extended to at least 2029, a 12-year extension as a result of reducing waste, fraud and abuse, and slowing cost growth in Medicare, which will provide future cost savings on your premiums and co-insurance.

Information for seniors specifically concerning the new healthcare law is available at www.healthcare.gov/foryou/seniors. Information about Medicare or the Affordable Care Act is also available at www.medicare.gov or by phone at 1-800-MEDICARE.

The AAA7 encourages everyone to be informed and educated about the issues. Conduct your own research on issues for which you have questions or would like to learn more about.

Being knowledgeable about the issues is key in understanding how they will affect you and those you love.

For more information about the Area Agency on Aging District 7, that provides services to ten counties in Ohio including Adams, Brown, Gallia, Highland, Jackson, Lawrence, Pike, Ross, Scioto and Vinton, call 1-800-582-7277.

Our services make it possible for older adults and those with disabilities to live safely and independently in their own homes.

Call us today to learn more about these programs and how we can help.

Pamela K. Matura is executive director of the Area Agency on Aging District 7.