Seniors are increasingly turning to generic equivalents of prescribed drugs to save costs. New data released by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) show that generic-drug utilization exceeds 60 percent in Medicare Part D.

Keeping costs down is good for seniors and it’s good for the program. For every percentage point increase in generic drug utilization, Part D drug spending falls by by an estimated $12 billion over the 2007 to 2015 period.

Keeping drug costs low helps to keep program costs low which in turn keeps Part D premiums from rising for participants. It will also help prevent seniors from falling into the “donut hole” coverage gap.

The Pharmaceutical Care Management Association believes these data should serve as a reminder to policymakers about the need to expand access to generic drugs. At least 14 name brand drugs commonly used by seniors are expected to be in generic form by 2009.

Pharmaceutical Care Management Association

Whether you or a loved one is facing the need for long-term care, the planning and choices of care services can make for some tough decisions. Since about 60% of people aged 65 and older will need some type of long-term care in their lifetimes, planning and being prepared are essential.

The US Department of Health and Human Services has announced a new website as a clearinghouse for information about long-term care. The site covers the definitions and costs of long-term care as well as tips on planning and the options available to pay for long-term care.

Visit the National Clearinghouse for Long-Term Care Information site and sign up to receive an “Own Your Future” planning kit. The kit is free and can be ordered or downloaded by following this link.

Who remembers Phil Hill, Formula 1 motor racing World Champion in 1961? Phil is one of the great characters of motor sport and is still taking an active part in historic events. His latest idea is a winner, I think.

The plan is to build a residential development in Georgia with a race track attached for the sole use of the residents. This will work in similar fashion to the existing developments centered on golf courses. Most residents of such schemes are retired, of course, and the availability of sporting facilities for their exclusive use is a strong attraction.

At first sight, one might think Phil’s idea a little optimistic; there aren’t all that many retired racing drivers around, after all. But think of how many people must have longed to have a go in their younger days but never had the time or the cash. I am prepared to bet that there will be plenty of takers for the chance to re-kindle old dreams on the race track.

And I love the way this blows apart all those stereotypes of retirement. Just because we have reached the age of retirement doesn’t mean we’re ready to give up on life and settle into the shadows. I can imagine how much fun races on such a track would be, fun for the oldies for a change!

If the idea succeeds and this kind of development spreads, there might even be races between the residential schemes across the country, perhaps even a championship for retirees. That would be our chance to show the youngsters how it’s done!

So I wish Phil every success in his venture. A brilliant idea that deserves to win, just as he did all those years ago.

Finally someone has noticed that today’s cellphones are not geared for older consumers and they have designed a cellphone specifically for older adults. As cellular technology went digital, cellphones themselves got smaller and smaller. The tiny displays and buttons are difficult to read and manipulate.

Great Call In has introduced the new Jitterbug phone. The phone comes in two styles and different plans are available to meet your individual needs.

The Jitterbug phones have big buttons and easy to read screens and text with loud, clear sound. If you prefer, calls can be placed for you by a Jitterbug operator. One phone is an “emergency only” phone with only three buttons that can be programmed for 911, the operator and one for reaching a family member.

If you have wanted the convenience and security of a cellphone but felt they were too complicated to use, then check out
the Jitterbug Phone.