Author: Miller Jim Miller, Special to The Gazette
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How to appeal a Medicare coverage denial
Dear Savvy Senior, What steps do I need to take to appeal a denied Medicare claim? — Frustrated Retiree Dear Frustrated, If you disagree with a coverage or payment decision made by Medicare, you can appeal, and you’ll be happy to know that many appeals are successful, so it’s definitely worth your time. But before…
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Tips and tools for adapting to vision loss
Dear Savvy Senior, Can you recommend some good resources or products that can help seniors with severe vision loss? My wife has diabetic retinopathy, and it’s gotten worse over the past year. — Need Help Dear Need, I’m very sorry about your wife’s vision loss, but you’ll be pleased to know that there are many…
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How to prepare your online accounts before you die
Dear Savvy Senior, I recently had an estate plan drafted, including a will, power of attorney and advance directive, but I’m not sure what to do about all my online accounts – email, banking, and social media. What can I do to make sure my family can access what they need and protect my digital information…
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Savvy Senior: How to locate an age-friendly doctor
Dear Savvy Senior, My husband and I are relocating to a nearby state to be closer to our daughter and will need to find a new primary care physician when we arrive. We are both in our late 70s and are interested in getting a geriatrician to oversee our health care going forward. Any suggestions…
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Savvy Senior: What are the early signs of Parkinson’s disease?
Dear Savvy Senior, What are the early signs of Parkinson’s disease? My husband was recently diagnosed after noticing a slight thumb tremor but we’re wondering if we missed any other early warning signs. — Curious Wife Dear Curious, Recognizing the early signs of Parkinson’s disease is challenging because the symptoms are often subtle and/or similar…
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Savvy Senior: Understanding Social Security spousal benefits
Dear Savvy Senior, How do Social Security spousal benefits work? My wife, who’s approaching age 62, has had a few small-paying jobs over the years, but spent most of her time as a homemaker. What is she entitled to? — Primary Breadwinner Dear Breadwinner, Spousal benefit questions are among the most frequently asked and confusing…
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Savvy Senior: Here are the best online will makers
Dear Savvy Senior, Can you recommend some good online resources for writing a simple will? I’m 70 and divorced and want to get my affairs organized, but I hate paying a high-priced attorney fee if I can do it myself. — Don’t Have Much Dear Don’t, Having a last will and testament is an important…