By Zach Hester, Reporter • zach@southerntorch.com

DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — At a time when people across the world are adjusting to a new normal, the DeKalb County Council on Aging is still diligently working on behalf of the seniors in our community. 

“Our SenioRx Program is still working on your medication applications, working with your doctors, and trying to keep your medicine flowing to you just as before,” stated DeKalb County Council on Aging Director Emily McCamy in a press release. “We are even seeing new clients, but in a non-face-to-face way.” 

In a separate release, the Council on Aging reported NovoNordisk will waive its $1,000 out-of-pocket requirement for Medicare Part D seniors. You will be provided with free medication from NovoNordisk if you receive any product made by them, and have NOT spent this amount yourself. 

Lilly Cares has also ended its $1,100 out-of-pocket requirement for Medicare Part D seniors. This is the same as NovoNordisk regarding free medications. For those who have become unemployed due to COVID-19, Lilly Cares has a call center set up at (833) 808-1234.

Also, Sanofi has lowered its spend-down requirements from five percent to the total gross household income to two percent. Some companies have not changed their requirements, but the SenioRx Program from the DeKalb County Council on Aging will continue to update. If you qualify for any of the above programs, please contact Dianne at (256) 845-8590. 

Here are specific notes for area seniors: 

• Farmers Market Vouchers: People, age 60 and older, who meet the income requirements may contact the Council on Aging via telephone to be registered for the vouchers. Your monthly household income cannot exceed the following guidelines: $1,718 for one (1) person, $2,327 for two (2) people, $2,934 for three (3) people, $3,541 for four (4) people, $4,150 for five (5) people, and $4,756 for six (6) people.
• Meals: The Council on Aging is still providing meals to DeKalb County residents ages 60 and older that need them. There are no income guidelines. Please call to apply.
• Transportation: The Council on Aging will not be able to provide transportation until it is safe for people to be within three feet of each other. 
• Ship: The Council on Aging are working from home every day to help seniors in any way they can with questions about Medicare, Medicaid, and social security. 

The Council on Aging is available for assistance by phone, email, text, regular mail or any other way that does not involve personal contact. If you need assistance with any of our programs, please call (256) 845-8590 and you will be connected with a staff member.