Where to Get Help

Americans over 65 face a bewildering set of problems as they try to adjust to old age, retirement, and often, financial shortage. Federal, state and local governments offer a wide variety of programs to help out. Among them:

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE. Almost every American over 65 and many over 62 can apply for Social Security through some 1,300 local Social Security offices, which are listed under "U.S. Government" in telephone directories. Those not eligible for railroad retirement, civil service or veterans' pensions probably qualify for state-administered Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI information is available through local welfare or social service agencies.

HEALTH CARE. Anyone eligible for Social Security benefits also qualifies for Medicare, which is financed through Social Security and covers most of the cost of any hospitalization that may be needed by those who are eligible. The medical portion of the program, which costs beneficiaries $6.70 a month, covers doctors' bills. Anyone who is eligible for welfare or old-age assistance is also eligible for Medicaid, which covers doctors' and some hospital services, as well as nursing-home care. Local welfare departments administer the program.

NUTRITION. The Federal Government has earmarked $125 million for nutrition programs for the elderly. These funds enable hundreds of communities to serve the aged one hot meal daily five days a week, mainly at communal eating places, but also at the homes of those unable to get out. Food stamps, worth more than their purchase price, can help stretch tight food budgets. Information on eligibility for the stamps and other nutritional aid is available from local commissions on the elderly and from welfare offices or agricultural extension services.

HOUSING. The National Council on the Aging in Washington, D.C., publishes a directory of special housing for the elderly. Other information on publicly sponsored low-and moderate-income housing, tax relief and rent grants is usually available from local housing authorities, tax collectors or agencies for the aged.

LEGAL SERVICES. Old people in need of legal services to protect their rights to housing, Social Security or medical benefits, safeguard their assets and guard against exploitation by the unscrupulous, can usually obtain them through local legal-aid societies, which provide free or low-cost legal guidance. More specialized help is available from the National Council of Senior Citizens, which has its headquarters in Washington, and local Gray Panthers' organizations.

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