OVERVIEW OF ANNUITIES

Although they do not fit within the strict definition of insurance, annuity policies are now widely viewed as a form of insurance. However, the insurance aspect of an annuity basically goes to the fact that the annuitant will receive a guaranteed income payment (usually for the rest of his or her life). Annuities were not regarded as insurance at common law, but commercially issued annuity policies are now largely regulated by state insurance statutes. Some types of annuities such as variable annuities are securities that are regulated by the Securities Exchange Commission. Fixed annuities are not securities and are not regulated as such.

Grandparent Rights - Visitation

In the past, extended families played larger parts in the lives of children. Family members often lived in close proximity to one another, and parents tended to stay together. With increased technology and transportation, however, today's families are often separated by physical distance, if not emotional distance stemming from divorce.

Employment - Senior Corps Programs

One of the programs administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service, a federal agency, is Senior Corps. Senior Corps actually consists of three programs: Foster Grandparents, Senior Companions, and the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program.

Using Medicines Safely

Despite advances in medical knowledge and technology, an increased number of adverse health conditions often come with age. Tracking appointments with specialists and all of the medicines prescribed to treat health conditions can be taxing, at best. Worse, mistakes in taking medicines can be costly, especially as more Americans are combining over-the-counter medicines and supplements with prescription drugs. However, asking the right questions and proceeding cautiously can help ensure that medicines provide their full benefit, can help prevent the risk of taking the medicines incorrectly, and can help prevent an adverse reaction with other medicines.

QUALIFYING FOR NURSING HOME MEDICAID BENEFITS

Medicaid pays most of the costs of nursing home care for needy persons. Eligibility to receive Medicaid benefits is based on federal and state guidelines governing the applicant's income and available resources.