BINGO about bucks: Finances and Medicare Part D

APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Bruce W. Bornmann, MBA¹, Julie Becker, PhD, MPH², and Christine Arenson, MD². (1) Department of Family and Community Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, 1015 Walnut Street, Suite 401, Philadelphia, PA 19107, 215-745-5714, bwbornmann@comcast.net, (2) JMC Department of Family and Community Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, 1015 Walnut Street, Suite 401, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Financial issues and programs of benefit to older adults as consumers are often overlooked or misunderstood, and underutilized. It was determined via a needs assessment that programs addressing financial issues for older adults were lacking in content and availability, and should be delivered in an entertaining manner. “BINGO about Bucks: Finances and Medicare Part D” was delivered to 42 seniors, 55 and above, in three locations, over a one-week period. Program topics identified “Hidden Treasures”, including unknown benefits available to seniors, basic budgeting and finances, and topical insurance issues. Based on considerations like program setting (senior center vs. low-income subsidized senior housing) and language of participants (English vs. Chinese), the program's content was tailored to meet the perceived needs of participants. Through playing BINGO with incentives, concepts were reinforced for older adults in low-income settings. To assess the program, pre- and post-tests measuring knowledge and attitude about common financial terms and programs available were given. Participants reported an increased awareness and understanding of these programs and issues after the session. While many agreed that financial issues do cause stress in their lives, few reported being concerned about outliving their resources. When comparing the three settings, differences in comfort level with financial issues and the ability to pay for healthcare were apparent, including Medicare Part D. The need for financial programs including insurance options that address concerns of low-income older adults is crucial.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

Identify three topics covered in “BINGO about bucks
- Define and use the term edutainment.
- Identify two results from program.
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Not Answered

Older Adults as Consumers and Acess to Care
The 134th Annual Meeting & Exposition (November 4-8, 2006) of APHA