
12/26/2020
Best wishes for a very merry Christmas and a safe and happy holiday season from the Golden Buckeye Program!
Our office is closed today. We will reopen Monday, Dec. 28, at 8 a.m.
The Golden Buckeye program has been helping older Ohioans and other eligible adults make community connections for more than four decades. More than two million Ohioans are eligible for the Golden Buckeye card, honored at 20,000 businesses statewide.
Golden Buckeye cardholders have saved an estimated $2 billion since 1976. All Ohioans age 60 or older, as well as adults age 18-59 who have disabilities as defined by Social Security, are eligible for a free Golden Buckeye card.
Operating as usual
Best wishes for a very merry Christmas and a safe and happy holiday season from the Golden Buckeye Program!
Our office is closed today. We will reopen Monday, Dec. 28, at 8 a.m.
This time of year, and with everything going on, it's okay to not be okay.
Ohio's CareLine is a toll-free and confidential emotional support call service available 24/7.
📞 Call 1-800-720-9616.
The Ohio CareLine is a toll-free emotional support call service. Behavioral health professionals staff the CareLine 24 hours a day, 7 days/week. They offer c...
Your mouth needs a little extra care this time of year. Here are some tips for healthy lips from our friends at the Cleveland Clinic.
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/6-tips-to-protect-your-lips-from-the-cold/
Consumer Alert: Certain Lean Cuisine baked chicken entrees have been recalled due to possible plastic contamination. Check your freezer and be safe.
Approximately 92,206 pounds of baked chicken frozen meals were recalled because they may contain pieces of hard white plastic, the USDA announced.
Rise to the task: Wear a mask, Ohio! Do it for those at highest risk from #COVID19, including your older friends and loved ones. #InThisTogetherOhio #MasksOnOhio #StaySafeOhio
When we all wear masks, it lowers the chance that we get sick from COVID-19. It's that simple. #InThisTogetherOhio
10 Million Mask Mailer to Reach Every Older Ohioan Over the Holidays - https://aging.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/aging/see-news-and-events/news/10-million-mask-mailer
#InThisTogetherOhio #MasksOnOhio #BeSafeOhio
Let's have a little fun! What are some retailers you used to love to shop for the holidays that are no longer around? And why? Please tell us in the comments.
Holiday shopping isn't the same without these stores - via AARP.
https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/history/info-2020/holiday-shopping-iconic-stores.html
It’s Q&A Tuesday!
Q: Didn’t the eligibility age for a Golden Buckeye Card used to be 55 (or 50)?
A: We’re flattered that so many Ohioans are anxious to get their Golden Buckeye cards! Unfortunately, the age for eligibility has never been lower than 60. In 1976, when the program launched, the minimum age of eligibility for a Golden Buckeye Card was 65. It was lowered to 60 in 1985, where it has remained.
Learn more at www.goldenbuckeye.com.
The Ohio Department of Aging's Staying Connected service can help keep you safe. ℹ The system will call you every day during the time slot of your choice. If you do not respond, they will notify an alternate contact (if provided) or your local Sheriff’s office’s non-emergency line.
Learn more and register:
💻 www.aging.ohio.gov/stayingconnected
☎ 1-833-ODA-CHAT
#InThisTogetherOhio #StaySafeOhio #StayingConnectedOhio
If your holiday plans include gathering with people you don't see regularly, please be safe.
🍽 Avoid large groups
🍽 Wash your hands often
🍽 Keep your distance
🍽 Cover your mouth and nose
🍽 Gather virtually, if possible
We're in this together, Ohio. We can celebrate with our loved ones while we control community spread of COVID-19.
#InThisTogetherOhio #StaySafeOhio
Are you interested in an opportunity to put your time and talents to work for a good cause without leaving home? Consider becoming a Citizen Archivist for the US National Archives. https://www.archives.gov/citizen-archivist
As you make the final preparations for your holiday celebrations, Please consider supporting your locally owned and operated retailers. Your support makes a difference, especially this year. #InThisTogetherOhio
Gift cards are a great last-minute gift and time saver. In fact, AARP reports that nearly 2 out of 3 consumers plan to buy gift cards this holiday season. Unfortunately, some scammers have figured out how to literally cash in on their popularity. Here's what to look for so you can give without being taken.
Gift cards are popular with con artists and fraudsters. Learn how they use them to steal from you.
What are "superspreader events" and why should you avoid them? An infectious disease expert at the Cleveland Clinic explains:
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/coronavirus-covid-19-superspreaders-pandemic/
#InThisTogetherOhio #MasksOnOhio #StaySafeOhio #CelebrateSafely
The Ohio Department of Aging's Staying Connected check-in service can help you or an older loved one 🔗 connect to your area agency on aging to learn about senior supports and services in your community.
Learn more and register:
💻 www.aging.ohio.gov/stayingconnected
☎ 1-833-ODA-CHAT
#InThisTogetherOhio #StaySafeOhio #StayingConnectedOhio
Check out 16 prime stops in the Buckeye State for spectacular holiday light displays, courtesy of our friends at Ohio. Find It Here.
https://ohio.org/static/uploads/pdfs/HolidayLight_Map_Drivable_Dec_12032020.pdf
Ohio's 12 area agencies on aging are THE go-to sources of information and support for seniors and their families in your community. They can help you connect with:
🤝 Long-term services and supports;
🤝 Meals and transportation;
🤝 Caregiver support;
🤝 Health and safety programs;
🤝 Benefits and assistance;
🤝 And much more!
Call 1-866-243-5678 or visit www.aging.ohio.gov/findservices to connect to the area agency on aging serving your community.
Learn more: https://aging.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/aging/about-us/who-we-are/area-agencies-on-aging/area-agencies-on-aging
If you've hit a bump in your holiday shopping and just don't know what to get a certain someone, check out this list of 50 great gift ideas you can find right here in Ohio. Thanks, Ohio. Find It Here.
https://ohio.org/wps/portal/gov/tourism/travel-inspiration/articles/holiday-shopping-in-ohio
Please welcome the latest addition to the #GoldenBuckeye business family: UpCycle Ohio Thrift Store in Athens. Show your card to save 20% off your purchase.
Find more businesses that have recently joined our program or updated their information: https://aging.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/aging/about-us/learn-about-golden-buckeye/recently-added-updated-golden-buckeye-businesses-1
The UpCycle Ohio Thrift turns what could be waste into valuable assets. We sell electronics, clothing, shoes, kitchen ware and furniture. Stop in and shop UpCycle Ohio for all your needs.
If you receive Social Security, here are changes for 2021 that you should be aware of.
A rundown of Social Security monthly benefit increases for retired and SSI beneficiaries, Medicare premiums and payroll taxes effective Jan. 1.
It’s Q&A Tuesday!
Q: I am under age 60 but I qualify for Golden Buckeye because of a disability. How do I get a card?
A: You will need to apply for a card at a sign-up site near you. These are senior centers and public libraries. Call ahead of time to make sure they are open and have applications on-hand.
You will also need to take a state-issued ID and proof of your disability, such as a Medicare (not Medicaid) card, SSI or SSDI acceptance document, or a copy of a document certifying permanent and total disability issued by any state department, Ohio public employee retirement system (STRS, PERS, etc), or any federal retirement system.
Learn more at www.goldenbuckeye.com.
A friendly chat 💬, even with a relative stranger, can help someone feel less isolated and more connected to the world around them. The Ohio Department of Aging's Staying Connected service for older Ohioans offers the option each weekday to connect with someone to talk about virtually anything.
Learn more and register:
💻 www.aging.ohio.gov/stayingconnected
☎ 1-833-ODA-CHAT
#InThisTogetherOhio #StaySafeOhio #StayingConnectedOhio
If you can't physically touch your friends and loved ones this holiday season, a gift made with your own two hands might just be the personal touch they need. Many folks are considering giving homemade gifts this year. Here is some inspiration from our friends at AARP.
Here are 10 homemade gift ideas, including knitted hats, photo albums and scented candles, that let you express your creativity this holiday.
Help your loved ones get out and about in 2021. Our friends at Ohio. Find It Here. have compiled links to Ohio attractions and destinations offering online gift cards and memberships.
https://ohio.org/wps/portal/gov/tourism/home/seasons/holidays/gift-certificates-memberships
If you're giving gift cards to friends and loved ones this holiday season, be sure the only strings attached are the beautiful ribbons you wrapped them with. Here are some tips from Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost:
https://www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov/Media/Newsletters/Consumer-Advocate/December-2020/What-To-Know-About-Giving-Gift-Cards
Many of us are spending more time in our homes these days, so now is the perfect time to find smarter, easier, and more effective ways to keep it clean. Our friends at AARP have some suggestions.
And, if you're buying cleaning or crafting supplies from a local small business or hiring a cleaning service to help out, be sure to ask about a Golden Buckeye discount or other savings that you might qualify for.
Here are a few tips to help you master the cleaning of your home, from what household cleaners to use to environmentally friendly cleaning hacks.
Check out this great list of virtual holiday events from our friends at Ohio. Find It Here.
https://ohio.org/wps/portal/gov/tourism/travel-inspiration/articles/cant-miss-holiday-events
One in four Ohioans age 65 and older will fall this year, and the snow and ice of an Ohio winter increase those odds. Here are some tips from the Ohio Department of Aging's #STEADYUOhio initiative to #WinWinter and #Prevent Falls: https://aging.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/aging/care-and-living/health-and-safety/fall-prevention/fall-prevention-for-winter
Your Golden Buckeye Card includes the Ohio's Best Rx prescription drug discount program. If you lack prescription drug insurance, have coverage limits, or have a prescription that isn't covered by your insurance, your Golden Buckeye/Ohio's Best Rx card could offer significant savings over regular retail prices. In November, #GoldeBuckeye cardholders saved an average of $46.63 per prescription. www.ohiobestrx.org
Give the gift of the outdoors! Check out the great gift selection available online from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, including ornaments, posters, a Park Passport, gift cards, hunting and fishing licenses and much more.
https://ohiodnr.gov/wps/portal/gov/odnr/buy-and-apply/gifts-and-mechandise/browse-gifts-merchandise
Energy Assistance Programs sponsored by @OhioDevelopment help low-income Ohioans of all ages deal with the costs of heating or cooling their homes. Your area agency on aging can help you or an older loved one access these programs. Call 1-866-243-5678. https://aging.ohio.gov/wps/portal/gov/aging/care-and-living/health-and-safety/Health-and-safety-resources/utility-assistance
Attention #GoldenBuckeyes with #SocialSecurity: The Social Security Administration has announced the availability of a new standardized benefit verification letter that you can access online.
https://blog.ssa.gov/get-your-new-standardized-benefit-verification-letter-online/
Our friends at AARP remind us to only use gift cards as gifts to people we know. If someone asks or instructs you to buy gift cards and send the card information as a form of payment for a product, service, job, debt, fee, or fine, it's probably a scam.
As gift cards appear to be commonly used in more fraud schemes, retailers and government officials are warning consumers to be on the lookout.
Feel like you're in a food rut? Our friends at the Cleveland Clinic have a few creative suggestions for getting out of it. This would also be a great time to support your locally owned restaurants and groceries with your carry-out and delivery orders!
A dietitian’s tips for switching it up in the kitchen
It’s Q&A Tuesday!
Q: Do you track my shopping habits?
A: Absolutely not! The Golden Buckeye program respects your privacy. The Golden Buckeye program does not track where you shop or what you buy using your card.
Learn more at www.goldenbuckeye.com.
Merchants of all types (e.g., restaurants, retail, auto care, medical and more) voluntarily offer special savings or deals for older Ohioans who carry the Golden Buckeye card. Most participating merchants display the Golden Buckeye logo on their door, in their window or at the checkout. Businesses that honor the Golden Buckeye card receive no compensation from the State of Ohio for their participation, and the savings they offer will vary. Some offer a percentage off a total purchase, others offer special deals on certain products or services. Please repay their kindness with your patronage (and save some money in the process). Disclaimer of Endorsement: Business information shared on the Golden Buckeye and Ohio Department of Aging webpages and social media channels is self-reported by the listed businesses. Listings are intended as examples of the types of businesses that participate in the program and are not inclusive of all participating businesses. Businesses that honor the Golden Buckeye Card do so voluntarily, pay no fee to participate and receive no compensation from the State of Ohio for their participation. No other business relationship between the business and the Ohio Department of Aging exists or should be inferred. The Ohio Department of Aging does not recommend or endorse any listed business or any products or services offered by a listed business. Any correspondence or business dealing between any user of this webpage and any listed business are solely between the user and the listed business. The Ohio Department of Aging shall not be responsible for any loss or damage of any kind as a result of any such business dealings or the listing of a business on the Golden Buckeye and Ohio Department of Aging webpages and social media channels.
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Our #GoldenBuckeye partners and businesses around Ohio are working hard to serve you. You can show your support by being safe when you interact with them. Wear a mask, keep your distance, and wash your hands often. We're in this together, Ohio! #InThisTogetherOhio #MasksOnOhio #StaySafeOhio
Did you know that the same things you do to prepare for storms and other disasters can help if viruses like flu and COVID-19 (coronavirus) mean you have to stay home for an extended period? Holly Welch, the Ohio Emergency Management Agency's administrative officer for preparedness, shares tips especially for older adults to be ready for any kind of emergency. * Make an emergency plan and organize a disaster preparedness kit. * Create a support network and make sure they can access your home and emergency supplies. * Ask doctors' offices and clinics about their emergency plans and identify backup service providers. * Switch to electronic payments for Social Security and other benefits. More tips at http://ema.ohio.gov.
Scammers are increasingly targeting older adults with scams to steal money or get personal information they can use to open accounts and access other benefits. Similarly, some businesses may not have your best interest in mind when doing business with you. Ohio Department of Aging Director Ursel McElroy and Ohio Department of Commerce Director Sheryl Maxfield discuss the impact of scams on individuals and families and offer tips to avoid some of the most common scams that target older adults. https://aging.ohio.gov/News/consumer-protection-week-2020
Today is #NationalCaregiversDay. Ohio Department of Aging Director Ursel McElroy has a special message for all caregivers – paid and unpaid, formal and family: Thank you for all you do! https://aging.ohio.gov/News/celebrating-and-supporting-ohios-caregivers #CaregiverSupport
Ursel McElroy, director of the Ohio Department of Aging, and Jeff McClain, Ohio's Tax Commissioner, offer a few important tips and reminders for older Ohioans as they prepare to complete their personal income tax returns. They point out benefits that are not taxed, items you may be able to deduct, and credits for which you may qualify. They also share local resources that can help you prepare your return. https://aging.ohio.gov/News/tax-season-tips-and-reminders-for-older-ohioans #IncomeTaxes #TaxSeason #TaxReturn #FraudWatch
The Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame honors native-born or long-time Ohio residents age 60 and older who are defined by their actions, not their age. We are currently soliciting nominations of older adults to be considered for 2020 induction. Visit www.aging.ohio.gov/halloffame to nominate an outstanding older Ohioan in your community.
A message for older Ohioans about Medicare Open Enrollment from Department of Aging Director Ursel McElroy and Ohio Department of Insurance Director Jillian Froment : https://aging.ohio.gov/News/medicare-open-enrollment-2019 #Medicare #OpenEnrollment #OSHIIP
September is National Preparedness Month. Ohio Department of Aging Director Ursel McElroy urges older Ohioans to be ready for severe weather and acts of violence by preparing a "go-bag" that will help them get to safety if they have to leave their homes. https://aging.ohio.gov/News/national-preparedness-month-20192 #BeReady #PreparedNotScared #CheckYourNeighbor #ShopLocal #ShopSmall #PrepOnABudget
Sept. 8-14 is National Suicide Prevention Week. View a special message about suicide and older Ohioans from our director @UrselMcElroy. #PreventSuicide #ShowYouCare #MentalHealth www.aging.ohio.gov/news/national-suicide-prevention-week-2019
The fifth-annual "10 Million Steps to Prevent Falls" is Monday, Sept. 23. You can help Ohio Department of Aging reach this goal by hosting a walking event or organizing a walking group in your community. The list is growing every day! Learn more at www.aging.ohio.gov/steadyu/10MillionSteps #10MStepsOH #PreventFalls #FPAD2019 #FPAD19 #STEADYUOhio Falls are the leading cause of injury-related ER visits, hospitalizations, and deaths among older Ohioans. Yet, falls are not a normal part of aging, and most falls can be prevented.
Senior Day at the Ohio State Fair is Tuesday, July 30, 2019. Join us as we once again present the Well Beyond 60! EXPO. The expo features nearly 3,000 square feet of health screenings, information, and demonstrations provided by community partners. Learn more: www.aging.ohio.gov/wellbeyond60expo #WellBeyond60 #OhioStateFair #OSF2019 #OhioFindItHere #OlderOhioans
Well Beyond 60! EXPO, July 30th, Ohio State fairgrounds in Columbus. Join us between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. in Central Park and fair admission is only $4 for those 60 and older. Heads up! Hot weather is moving in starting tomorrow through the weekend, in the 90s with a heat index of over 100. Hot weather is severe weather. Take proper precautions, stay hydrated. Remember to check on your neighbor and loved ones. We'll see you at the fair on July 30th.
A special message for older Ohioans from Mary Mertz, Director of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Director Mertz talks about the special role that older Ohioans have in protecting and promoting our state's natural heritage and volunteer opportunities. Learn more about Ohio DNR at www.dnr.ohio.gov.
A special message for older Ohioans from Matthew MacClaren, Esq., Director of Ohio. Find It Here. Director MacClaren describes the many ways older Ohioans find joy, happiness, and excitement at Ohio's many travel destinations. And many of those travel destinations participate in the Golden Buckeye Card program including @The Toledo Museum of Art, The Museum of Ceramics in East Liverpool and Ohio State Parks. Remember to ask for discount details. #ShopLocal #ShopSmall Learn more about Older Americans Month at www.aging.ohio.gov/oam
Relax and enjoy shopping during off-peak times. Here’s a safe shopping tip from Steady U Ohio and Ohio Department of Aging. Thanks Oakland Nursery in Central Ohio, a Golden Buckeye participating business. You can learn more safe shopping and falls prevention tips at SteadyU.ohio.gov. #PreventFalls #ShopSmall #ShopLocal
Ohio is already reporting patients who have been hospitalized with the flu. If you haven't gotten your shot, consider getting it sooner rather than later.
We've watched this past week as families had to evacuate due to Hurricane Florence and the aftermath of the storm. Do you have a "Go Bag" ready in case you need to evacuate? Stephanie from the Ohio Department of Health goes over what you and your loved ones should have in your emergency "GO BAG" with Director Laubert. #PlanAhead #NatlPrep #WellBeyond60
Friday, June 15, is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Elder Abuse can happen anywhere, anytime, to anyone. The more people who understand the types of abuse and the situations that lead to them, the more capable we can be to stop the abuse before it happens. Exploitation includes the improper or unauthorized use of a person’s property or identity for personal gain. Neglect is the failure, though action or inaction of the individual or another person, to meet the individual’s basic needs for safety and well-being. Abuse can be physical, emotional or sexual. The more people who understand the types of abuse and the situations that lead to them, the more capable we can be to stop the abuse before it happens. Changes in physical and mental health, isolation and loss of loved ones and social connections are just some of the factors that increase an older adult’s risk of being abused or exploited. If you feel that someone is in immediate danger of harm from abuse, neglect or exploitation, call local law enforcement or the statewide, toll-free help line at 1-855-644-6277. To learn more, visit http://aging.ohio.gov/elderabuse #WEAAD
As National Volunteer Week comes to a close, we want to take a moment to recognize a special group of volunteers. Ombudsman Associates are one of the most valued resources of the Ohio Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman. They are volunteer advocates who provide a voice for the concerns of long-term care consumers who are living in their own homes, nursing homes or assisted living. #ThankYou! To learn more, visit http://aging.ohio.gov/VolunteerOmbudsman. #NVW2018 #ValueOfVolunteering
We are starting to get a bit of a warmup and getting out of the house. Take a few minutes and check on your neighbors and loved ones today. #CheckYourNeighbor #OHWx
Steady U Ohio tells us one of the biggest risks from #WinterWeather is falling, particularly among older adults. #PreventFalls and Be Winter #STEADY with these tips to stay on your feet this winter. You can learn more falls prevention tips at SteadyU.ohio.gov. #OHWx
All of Ohio will feel the impact of #WinterStormHunter today. When freezing rain, #ice and #snow pile up, power lines and trees come down. It's not too late to make #weather #emergency plans. Ohio Department of Aging has some tips for you to get your emergency plan together. #OHWx
Ohio is getting a break from the weather, for now. Please check on older loved ones, neighbors and friends after severe weather to ensure that they are okay and have the resources they need to remain safe and healthy. #CheckYourNeighbor #OHWx
Ohio Department of Aging Interim Director Beverley Laubert had the opportunity to discuss the importance of checking on older loved ones and neighbors during cold weather on HLN with Michaela Pereira. Take a look. Ohio's weather will be presenting many opportunities for us to check in on older loved ones, friends and neighbors to ensure that they are okay and have the resources they need to remain warm, safe and healthy. #CheckYourNeighbor #OHWx
Relax and enjoy shopping during off-peak times. Here’s a safe shopping tip from Steady U Ohio and Ohio Department of Aging. Thanks Oakland Nursery in Central Ohio, a Golden Buckeye participating business. You can learn more safe shopping and falls prevention tips at SteadyU.ohio.gov. #PreventFalls
Big or bulky packages? Ask a store associate for help in getting it to your car. Here’s a safe shopping tip from Steady U Ohio and Ohio Department of Aging. Thanks BikeSource Columbus, a Golden Buckeye participating business. You can learn more safe shopping and falls prevention tips at SteadyU.ohio.gov. #PreventFalls
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