Aging independently is about having access to the right resources and support systems. In Citrus County, FL, many programs and services are available to help seniors live fulfilling, independent lives. Whether you’re exploring Medicare Advantage plans, mental health resources, a will or advanced medical directives, or seeking food and home care assistance, Citrus County has you covered. Let’s dive into the specific resources available to you or your loved ones.
Medicare Advantage Plans: Comprehensive support within Medicare Advantage plans in Citrus County go beyond basic health coverage, offering a range of benefits designed to enhance your quality of life. Providers like Humana, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, and Optimum Health offer plans that include additional perks such as dental, vision, and hearing services and wellness programs like SilverSneakers® or Renew Active®. These plans often include transportation to medical appointments, which can benefit seniors who no longer drive.
Medicare Savings Program
Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans (DSNPs) provide even more comprehensive coverage by coordinating benefits between Medicare and Medicaid for those income-eligible. These plans often include personalized care management and little to no cost-sharing. You can explore DSNP options through local insurance agents or by contacting Access Florida through the Elder Options agency in Lecanto.
Citrus County Community Senior Programs
They offer essential social services, such as community centers, Meals on Wheels and pet meals, an Emergency Response System, shopping assistance, and more.
Citrus County Senior Programs
2804 W. Marc Knighton Ct.
Lecanto, FL 34461
Office Hours: Monday – Friday | 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Home Health Care: Staying Independent at Home
For many seniors, aging in place is the preferred choice. Home health care services in Citrus County allow you to receive the care you need while remaining in the comfort of your own home. Medicare, Medigap, and Medicare Advantage Plans cover home health services. They make getting the care you need more manageable and affordable without leaving your house. This can be a game-changer for seniors who want to live independently in their homes.
Comfort Keepers of Citrus County: Located in Inverness, Comfort Keepers provides in-home services, including assistance with companionship, medication reminders, daily living activities, and Alzheimer’s and dementia care.
Hernando-Pasco Hospice (HPH Hospice): Offering services in Citrus County, HPH Hospice provides in-home care for those with chronic conditions or those needing end-of-life care. Their services include nursing care, personal care, and emotional support for patients and their families.
Legal Assistance
Advanced care planning can help ensure your loved ones and healthcare team honor your wishes. This involves having meaningful conversations with your family about your medical care if you become seriously ill or unable to communicate your desires. Communicating your preferences in writing is valuable when completing legal documents like a will or medical and financial power of attorney. The Florida Bar offers self-help DIY forms and lawyer-match programs, including Pro Bono services.
Florida Bar: 850-561-5600
Living Wills, Health Care Surrogates, and Advanced Directives
Health and Nutrition
VidaEats is an online and phone program. Its team of dietitians specializes in diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, heart disease, and chronic kidney disease. Their dietitians are up to date on the latest nutrition research. Currently, they accept Original Medicare and Medigap plans. While they do not accept Medicare Advantage plans, they offer a discount plan to help afford their valuable services.
VidaEats: 813-421-9216
Veterans: Living Independently
This program is available to Veterans who need nursing home-level care but want to remain in their own home environment. The program is available to Veterans through their local Area Agency on Aging and Elder Options, regardless of service connection or wartime era.
Elder Options: 800-262-2243
Catholic Charities of Citrus County: A Lifeline for Seniors
Catholic Charities, known for its compassionate care, serves as a critical resource for aging adults in Citrus County. Catholic Charities offers services for immediate needs and long-term support. Contacting the Diocese of St. Petersburg will direct you to its extensive list of programs, including St. Vincent de Paul food pantries, assistance with utilities, mental health support, and more.
Locations: Hudson – (727) 861-4840 – Dade City – (352) 521-1218
By leveraging these resources, you can navigate the challenges of aging with confidence and dignity. Whether taking advantage of the comprehensive benefits of Medicare Advantage plans, receiving compassionate support from Catholic Charities, or accessing vital services like home health care and food assistance. Citrus County is committed to supporting its senior population. You’re not alone on this journey. You’re part of a community that cares. Don’t hesitate to use these resources to ensure a happy, healthy, and secure future.
About Dayna Schafer
Dayna is a Certified Medicare Insurance Planner™, a member of the Rise Community, and founding member at Bayside Health Benefits. Her agency is located in Homosassa, FL, and concentrates throughout Florida, where she guides Medicare beneficiaries in navigating the complexities of Medicare insurance options. In addition to certifying with 10 insurers, Dayna focuses on the quality and integrity that comes with relentlessly seeking the right fit for her client’s healthcare needs.
