What should I consider before taking Social Security?

As the population ages, more families in Colorado Springs are exploring options to secure their future care needs. One of the most important tools in this planning process is long-term care insurance. With the rising cost of senior services, from assisted living to skilled nursing, having a plan in place is essential for both financial stability and peace of mind.If youre a senior or family caregiver in Colorado Springs looking to understand long-term care insurance, this guide is for you. What Is Long-Term Care Insurance?Long-term care insurance (LTC insurance) is a policy designed to help cover the costs associated with extended care services that arent typically covered by Medicare. These services may include:Assisted livingMemory careIn-home careSkilled nursingAdult day careThese types of care are essential for those who may need help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, and medication management due to aging, chronic illness, or disability. Why Is Long-Term Care Insurance Important?Colorado Springs is home to a growing senior population, and the cost of long-term care continues to rise across the state. Long-term care insurance helps protect your assets, reduces the burden on family caregivers, and gives you more choices when it comes to care options.Some key benefits include:Coverage flexibility: Policies often include a range of services, from in-home care to residential communities.Financial security: Helps manage out-of-pocket expenses so retirement savings arent quickly depleted.Family support: Reduces stress and financial strain on loved ones who might otherwise provide unpaid care. Colorado Springs: A City with Senior Support in MindKnown for its scenic beauty and active lifestyle, Colorado Springs is also a hub for senior-focused services. From top-rated medical facilities to a variety of aging care resources, the city is well-equipped to support older adults through all stages of aging.Local residents can take advantage of:A growing number of senior resource providersAccess to trusted elder law advisorsEducational seminars and workshops about long-term care planningCommunity support through local nonprofits and government agenciesBrowse a wide range of senior resources in Colorado Springs Learn more about insurance and financial support services When Should You Consider Buying Long-Term Care Insurance?The best time to purchase a long-term care policy is before you need it. Ideally, individuals in their 50s or early 60s begin exploring policy options, as premiums tend to be lower and approval more likely when you're in good health.Keep in mind:Some policies have waiting periods before benefits kick inPremiums can increase over time depending on the insurerNot all providers offer the same featuresreview the fine print carefullyWork with a qualified advisor to compare policies and find the best fit for your anticipated needs. Questions to Ask When Exploring LTC InsuranceIf youre shopping for long-term care insurance in Colorado Springs, ask the following:What services are covered under the policy?Are there daily or lifetime benefit limits?Is the policy tax-qualified in Colorado?How long is the elimination (waiting) period?Does the policy cover Alzheimers or dementia care?Understanding the answers to these questions will help you make a confident and informed choice. Final Thoughts: Planning Today for Peace of Mind Tomorrow Navigating the future of aging isnt always easy, but long-term care insurance can make a world of difference. In a city like Colorado Springs, where seniors have access to excellent care options and resources, having a policy in place allows you to take full advantage of whats availablewithout the financial worry.

It was a momentous occasion in Bradenton on May 1, 2025, as we welcomed a very special guest  Ellie Hollander, President & CEO of Meals on Wheels America. Her visit was more than ceremonial; it was a heartfelt celebration of community, service, and the vital work being done across Florida to nourish and support our seniors.Ellie flew in from the Washington, D.C. area as the keynote speaker for the Meals on Wheels Florida annual conference, proudly hosted this year by Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee. Ellies schedule was packed, but that did not stop her from doing an interview with MySuncoast ABC-7 telling viewers how critical the meal program is to our homebound seniors. Next, Ellie hit the road and delivered meals to some of our senior clients and talked with our volunteers. Ellie also stopped by our Friendship Dining Center program, and participated in a music game the clients love.The Members of the Florida Chapter of Meals on Wheels America named Maribeth Phillips, our President & CEO, as their Board President earlier this year. Maribeth invited Ellie to attend and kickoff the conference. Ellie shared valuable insights with the members in attendance, and her words reenergized the room!The conference included meal providers from across the state, with over 20 different organizations attending. Attendees also heard from Bob Blancato, Executive Director of NANASP, also from Washington, D.C.; Bradenton Police Detective, Jim Curulla on senior scams; Sandra Tapfumaneyi, Chief of Emergency Management Sarasota; Louise Gallagher on Senior Mental Health; and Jennifer Huber from FPL. Chef2Home provided a delicious breakfast and lunch.We are proud to be part of the national network of Meals on Wheels America and grateful to be a part of the state-wide chapter, Meals on Wheels Florida, both working every day to ensure no senior goes hungry.

As summer approaches, many children in our community are looking forward to sunshine, fun, and time with friends. But for far too many, summer brings something else-hunger.When school cafeterias close for the summer, thousands of local children lose access to the nutritious meals they depend on. Families already struggling to make ends meet are faced with even more pressure. The emotional toll is real. No parent should have to worry if they can feed their child, and no child should go to bed with an empty stomach.At The Food Bank of Manatee, we are stepping up to meet the need. We partner with over 100 local food pantries across Manatee County to reach the families who need us mostbut we cant do it alone.This summer, our goal is to provide: 22,500 meals each week across the 9-week summer break. Thats more than 200,000 meals for children and familiesand every dollar makes a difference.Just $15 provides 10 meals; $30 provides 20 meals; a gift of $150 will provide 100 meals!We know that many in our community want to make a difference. With your support, we can ensure no child goes hungry during the summer months.Please consider making a gift today and sharing this message with others who want to help too. A link to our page is below. A $25,000 Matching Gift to feed children this summer has been offered by an anonymous fund at Manatee Community Foundation. Gifts will be matched $1 for $1 up to $25,000.The Food Bank of Manatee is the only food bank based in our county. We anticipate continued need as families look for nutritional support. Your help matters now more than ever! Please give today!Together, we can bring relief, peace of mind, and full bellies to those who need it most.