Have you ever wished you had resources right at your fingertips when you needed them rather than having to search endlessly on the Internet? You know the feeling – you’re moving, and you need to change your address, or you’re thinking about looking for a new insurance provider but don’t know where to start. Well, FirstLantic is here to help. We have created a downloadable guide of services ranging from how to get your Internet service set up to where to get information about healthy eating. And we have categorized the services into four main areas including home, health, finances and ongoing education. While we won’t claim that this list has everything you need, it’s a least a good start!
Home Services:
1. Updater – Change of Address Tool
Updater knows all the utilities in your area, as well as all the credit card companies, subscription-based services, and just about anyone else you’d ever need to notify of an address change. After you enter in all the accounts that you wish to notify, Updater acts like an authorized agent and will submit change of address notifications on your behalf to any businesses you select. There is also additional support available through Take Care Move Assistance which is an excellent resource for seniors planning a move.
2. Allconnect – Connects you with the best TV and Internet Providers
Allconnect has a patented ZIP code mapping technology that matches your location to a comprehensive list of internet providers and TV plans near you.
3. Lifeline – Low cost phone and Internet Service
Lifeline is a service from the federal government that helps seniors get phone and internet service at a low cost.
4. Utilities – Provides assistance with utilities for low income seniors
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which provides assistance with heating and cooling costs for lower-income individuals. This is a federally funded program available in all states. The Weatherization Assistance Program offers help with reducing energy costs for those who live in low-income households.
5. Transportation
Eldercare Locator provides support to help seniors find transportation in their area as well as other resources. It is a free public service tool provided by the US Administration on Aging.
6. Home care support
FirstLantic provides home care services as well as assisted living options through their subsidiary LiveWell Placements.
Health and Well-Being
1. National Institute on Aging (NIA) – Health living tips and advice
NIA is actively dedicated to conducting research on aging as well as the health and well-being of older individuals. The NIA also runs a program called Go4Life, which is a great tool for seniors at home in starting an exercise and physical activity routine.
2. Health Finder – Links to helpful resources for seniors
Health Finder is a service under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This website provides links to helpful health-related websites, support, and self-help groups, in addition to as government agencies and nonprofit organizations that assist seniors.
3. Veteran’s Benefits – Guide to Long-Term Care for Veterans
For senior veterans living at home and enrolled in the VHA health care system, the website provides helpful guidance to resources and information about long-term care.
4. SafeHome.org – Home security and alert systems
This resource compares pricing and features for most systems that are available.
Financial Resources
1. Nerd Wallet – Helps you get more for your money
Nerd Wallet allows you to easily review and compare all the best options for credit cards, savings accounts, mortgages, insurance etc. Through their content, advice and tools, they ensure that you get the most for your money.
2. Tax Assistance
Free Tax Return Preparation from the IRS’s Volunteer Tax Assistance Program. It is available to seniors who make under $54,000 a year. Local providers are available for federal and state tax help. The AARP Foundation offers a Tax-Aide program for seniors. It helps seniors with preparing their tax returns on an annual basis. It’s available to seniors with low to moderate income levels.
3. Employment Opportunities
SeniorJobBank.org is a resource for those seeking jobs as a senior. You can also find opportunities through the Senior Community Service Employment program from the National Council on Aging.
4. Estate Planning
The American Bar Association offers a Serving Our Seniors resource to help with planning healthcare and financial decisions for later in life. The Legal Counsel for the Elderly from AARP can also provide support through volunteer attorneys.
Educational Tools
1. Oasisnet.org – Resource for ongoing education
Oasis is a non-profit educational organization that is active in over 250 communities and has a mission to promote healthy aging through lifelong learning, active lifestyles and volunteer engagement.
2. SeniorNet – Computer and Internet Classes
SeniorNet is a nonprofit organization that provides computer and internet education to adults over age 55, veterans and disabled adults. The organization has 30 learning centers across the United States.
3. The Senior Learning Network – Online courses for seniors
The SLN developes online educational programming designed specifically for seniors.
Other Resources:
Networking opportunities
Fraud Protection
Best senior websites
Career Resources
Technology
Free and Discounted Services
Travel and shopping