Ask Our Experts
By: Source: AARP Bulletin Today Date Posted: 2003-10-23 11:11:33
The AARP Bulletin's Ask Our Experts column provides answers to important questions affecting older Americans. Read below for this month's column, or review our archive of previously published questions and answers sorted by topic. (Note: Recent news or changes to regulations may affect the guidance offered in this previously published column.)
Submit your own question to the Ask Our Experts column via our easy-to-use online form.
Q. I've been working part time since I started to collect Social Security benefits two years ago, at age 65. Will these recent earnings make me eligible for a higher Social Security benefit?
Possibly—it depends on your past earnings and work record. Social Security calculates retirement benefits based on a person's highest 35 years of earnings. If your current earnings exceed past earnings, your benefit will be recalculated and possibly increased. The Social Security Administration (SSA) automatically recalculates earnings—you do not need to take any action. This process can be particularly advantageous for people who had previous years with little or no earnings. The formula SSA uses to compute benefits is complex, but you can learn about it on the SSA website. You can also request a statement showing your lifetime earnings and estimated benefits online or by calling (800) 772-1213.—Expertise provided by Laurel Beedon
Q. My mother is 88 years old and needs assistance with bathing, dressing and other tasks. My sister and I take turns helping, but it's getting so we can't handle everything. Where can we turn for assistance?
This kind of non-medical help with daily activities is generally known as long-term care. Most long-term care services are not covered by health insurance or Medicare, although people with low incomes and few savings may be able to get help through the federal-state Medicaid program.
Some help is also provided through programs funded by states or the federal Older Americans Act. Visit the AARP website at www.aarp.org/indexes/life.html for more information. In addition, the federal Eldercare Locator can direct you to help in your community. Go to www.eldercare.gov, or call (800) 677-1116 between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. ET.—Expertise provided by Enid Kassner
Q. My grandchildren live across the country from me. What can I do to keep up my relationship with them?
Authorities say it is very important to let your grandchildren know you are interested in them. Fortunately there are many ways you can do this, even from a distance. To begin collecting ideas, go to the AARP website at www.aarp.org/confacts/grandparents/
ldistance.html. Among the suggestions you'll find there: Even babies like pictures and sending them your photo in a soft, safe, cloth frame can foster familiarity. For older children, you can do things like tape yourself reading their favorite books or plan a vacation together.—Expertise provided by Amy Goyer
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