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For Seniors

The Florida Department of Elder Affairs assists seniors with Medicare, health insurance questions, and prescription assistance options through their SHINE volunteers program. If you are not yet eligible for Medicare, these healthcare resources may be helpful.

 

Speak with a SHINE volunteer

  • By Phone:  (800) 963-5337
  • In Person:
    • Jacaranda Library, Venice - call 861-5000 for times and dates
    • North Port Library, North Port - call 861-5000 for times and dates
    • Senior Friendship Centers, Sarasota - call 955-2122 for times and dates
    • Senior Friendship Centers, Venice - call 493-3065 for times and dates

Prescription Drug Assistance

  • Prescription Medicine
  • Florida Discount Drug Card
    For people age 60 or older without prescription drug coverage or for those in a Medicare Part D coverage gap.  This is also available to people under age 60 without prescription coverage and with qualifying incomes.  Use at any participating pharmacy.  Discounts apply to almost all prescriptions although the size of the discount varies.  You can enroll by phone or online.
  • Sunshine for Seniors
    Free and unbiased consultation from SHINE volunteers about free and discounted prescription programs for eligible seniors.  To speak with a SHINE volunteer:
    • By phone:  (800) 963-5337
    • In person
      Jacaranda Library, Venice: 861-5000 for times and dates
      North Port Library, North Port: Tuesday 9:30am - 1:30pm
      Senior Friendship Centers, Sarasota: 955-2122 for times and dates
      Senior Friendship Centers, Venice: 493-3065 for times and dates
  • Medicare Part D Prescription Coverage

    Medicare is a Federal program that provides health insurance and drug coverage for people age 65 and older. Part D plans are sold by insurance companies and may be obtained directly from them or through independent health insurance agents and brokers.

  • Additional Benefits
    You many qualify for other programs that help pay for prescription drugs, utility bills, meals, healthcare and other basic needs.  The National Council on Aging has an online BenefitCheckUps service to screen benefit programs for seniors with limited income and resources. 
  • Pharmacy Chains
    Some pharmacies offer discounts to people over 50.  Kmart's GoldK program offers prescription discounts for people over 50 without drug coverage.  The CVS Health Savings Pass program (requires a membership fee) offers prescription discounts, while Walgreen's will charge the same rate as your Medicare Part D plan when you reach your coverage gap.