Elder Benefit Specialists are standing by to help

In this changing and difficult time of COVID-19, senior citizens should know that the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Chippewa County, is available to help. The ADRC is an agency that specializes in connecting older adults and adults with disabilities, to information, assistance and advocacy.

The ADRC’s mission is to link them with the resources and services, which help them live independently and with dignity.

One of the programs at the ADRC is the Elder Benefit Specialist (EBS) program. The free EBS program serves adults 60 years or older, who live in Chippewa County. There is also an EBS in each of the 72 counties in Wisconsin.

A benefit specialist is an advocate who receives ongoing training from attorneys who specialize in elder law. The EBS provides unbiased information, can advocate on behalf with other parties, and explain legal action of public and private benefits.

Programs the ADRC can help with, include the following:

• Medicare (all parts), Medical Assistance (or Medicaid), BadgerCare, SeniorCare, private health insurance coverage issues and denials, help with prescription drug costs and income support

• FoodShare, Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) overpayment issues, benefit checkup, housing/ utilities/other

• Energy assistance, subsidized housing access/tenant rights, utility shutoffs, landlord/tennant evictions or security deposit return, Property Tax Deferral Program and debt Collection practices, and telephone connection services For information or to make a referral, call the office at 715-726-7777, or visit co.chippewa.wi.us/adrc.