DOTHAN, Alabama – The American population is rapidly graying and how to adequately provide for older people’s healthcare is a complex issue that impacts everyone. In Alabama alone, there’s an estimated 806,499 people age 65 and older, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. At some point in their lifetime, many of these people will have to deal with Medicare or Medicaid for themselves or a loved one.

However, fully comprehending the ins and outs of these health coverage plans can be difficult. In order to help people gain more knowledge and understand their options and coverages, a Dothan nursing home is holding a special seminar about Medicare and Medicaid for the public. The free event will be held Thursday, Jan. 31 from 12-4 p.m. at Westside Terrace Healthcare and will feature an attorney and a Medicare/Medicaid expert. The seminar will cover Medicare laws, estate planning, tax information, signing up for Medicare and applying for Medicaid. There will also be door prizes and refreshments. The seminar is designed to help anyone eligible for Medicare or Medicaid — or who will soon be eligible — navigate the choices Medicare or Medicaid have to offer, and answer questions about health care coverage options.

We are pleased to offer this seminar to our community,” said Kristie Hughes, Westside Terrace administrator. “We want to offer the community easy access to information and professional advice to help make a decision.”