sponsored by Friendship Manor

---

Social Security expands compassionate allowances conditions

[November 10, 2011]  Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security, today announced 13 new Compassionate Allowances conditions involving the immune system and neurological disorders. The Compassionate Allowances program fast-tracks disability decisions to ensure that Americans with the most serious disabilities receive their benefit decisions within days instead of months or years. Commissioner Astrue made the announcement during his remarks at the U.S. Conference on Rare Diseases and Orphan Products in Washington, D.C. (Click here for the rest of the story.)

---

Veterans Day reminder: military service and Social Security 

[November 10, 2011]  Each year, on November 11, America observes Veterans Day and honors the men and women who have served in our nation’s Armed Forces. Many of our Vietnam era veterans are now nearing retirement age, or already there. It is important that they — and other American service personnel — know just what retirement benefits they can count on from Social Security as they make their future financial plans. (Click here for the rest of the story.)

---

Autumn offers lessons for retirement 

[November 10, 2011]  In autumn, animals know winter is coming and take the steps to prepare. Bears grow thicker fur and settle in for peaceful hibernation. Squirrels collect and store acorns and other nuts. Birds, favoring warmer weather and having the means to make it possible, fly south for the winter. (Click here for the rest of the story.)

---

Oct. questions and answers from Social Security

[November 10, 2011]  GENERAL: Question:  How do I update or correct the name on my Social Security card? 
 

Answer:

To update or correct the name on your Social Security card:

• Complete an Application for A Social Security Card (Form SS-5), available at www.socialsecurity.gov/online/ss-5.pdf;

• Show us original documents proving your legal name change, identity, and U.S. citizenship (if you have not already established your citizenship with us), or immigration status if you are not a U.S. citizen; and

• Take or mail your completed application and original documents to your local Social Security office. Note that we must see originals and cannot use photocopies. We will return any original document you mail to us. (Click here for the rest of the story)

---

Are you retirement ready? What you need to consider
 

[November 10, 2011]  (ARA) - The idea of retirement is both exciting and daunting. After leaving the workforce, you'll have the opportunity to pursue dreams that you have envisioned for your retirement. But you'll need to have the financial wherewithal to fund those dreams and cover your day-to-day living expenses.

It is clear from everything we read in the news that many Americans likely aren't saving enough. While many people might rely on Social Security to help cover their costs during retirement, it may not be enough and those who want to live a full life in their later years should focus now on saving more. (Click here for the rest of the story)

---

Some tricks can be horrifying to your SSN record

[November 10, 2011]  You’ll probably be passing out treats to costumed hobgoblins and ghosts in your neighborhood this Halloween night. But be cautious that you’re not tricked by a different kind of trickster looking for a handout, such as your personal information.

You should always safeguard your personal information such as date of birth, mother’s maiden name, and your Social Security number. Why? Because it’s that type of information identity thieves are after. (Click here for the rest of the story)

---

Seasons aren't the only things that change

[November 10, 2011]  Many people enjoy watching the changing seasons, and in many parts of the country we find ourselves at that time of the year when the shifting from one season to another seems most enjoyable. In many parts of the country, the lush green foliage gradually fades to an autumn rainbow of yellow-orange-red-brown. Cool air brings light jackets out of closets. Pumpkins and decorative corn begin to appear on porches and doorsteps. (Click here for the rest of the story)

---

New dates for Medicare open enrollment this year

[November 10, 2011]  WASHINGTON (AP) -- Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius is reminding seniors and their families that the open enrollment period is moving up this year for Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans. (Click here for the rest of the story)

---

Hunting for a prescription drug plan is no game

[November 10, 2011]  It’s that time of year again. 

“Open season” is right around the corner for the Medicare Part D prescription drug plan. Hunting down the best plan for you is no game. Newly eligible Medicare beneficiaries, and current beneficiaries who are considering changes to their Medicare Part D plan, should mark their calendars for October 15. The “open season” will run from October 15 to December 7. (Click here for the rest of the story)

---

Good nutrition important for eye health as you age

[November 10, 2011]  (ARA) - Poor vision has many causes and treatments, and as you grow older, you will likely experience some type of vision loss or reduction in visual performance.

For older adults, bright lights, glare while driving at night and even blindness can dramatically affect quality of life, but the treatment isn't just glasses or a stronger prescription - it's also nutrition and supplementation. (Click here for the rest of the story)

---

100 disability conditions fast-tracked by Social Security 

[November 10, 2011]  Here’s some important news if you’re applying for Social Security disability benefits for yourself or a loved one.  There are 100 conditions which qualify for an expedited process known as Compassionate Allowances.

Compassionate Allowances, which began in December 2007, are a way to quickly identify diseases and other medical conditions that, by definition, meet Social Security’s standards for disability benefits. (Click here for the rest of the story)

---

Nothing to fear at Social Security's website 

[November 10, 2011]  Different people have different fears, and often Halloween seems to be a time to talk about them. Children may be afraid of monsters in the closet or creatures lurking beneath the bed. Teenagers may fear not fitting in with the popular crowd. (Click here for the rest of the story)

---

Archived articles