In May, we recognize Older Americans Month to acknowledge older Americans and their contributions to the nation.
More than 40 million people in the United States are 65 or older. The Census Bureau projects that by 2035, this number will double, which makes improving the quality of life for older Americans even more important as we look to the future. It is Social Security’s priority to provide a safety net for older Americans.
The main reason Social Security was established 80 years ago was to help older Americans. For many, Social Security benefits are their only source of retirement income. Social Security payments continue for life and are adjusted to keep pace with inflation. The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) estimates that these benefits help keep 35 percent of older Americans out of poverty.
A great tool for people of all ages is the my Social Security account. With a personalized my Social Security account, you can:
• Get an estimate of future benefits, if you still work;
• Get an instant letter with proof of current benefits; and
• Manage your benefits.
Visit www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount and join the millions of people who have already created accounts to help them plan for retirement.
This May also marks the 50th anniversary of the Older Americans Act. Congress passed the Act in 1965 in response to a lack of community social services for older persons. Medicare, in effect since July 1, 1966, will also celebrate its 50th anniversary soon. Medicare provides health insurance to more than 42 million Americans age 65 and older. If you aren’t familiar with the four parts of Medicare, they are:
• Part A (hospital insurance). Helps pay for inpatient care in a hospital or skilled nursing facility (following a hospital stay), some home healthcare, and hospice care.
• Part B (medical insurance). Helps pay for doctors’ services and many other medical services and supplies that hospital insurance doesn’t cover.
• Part C (Medicare Advantage): If you have Parts A and B, you can join a Medicare Advantage plan. Private companies offer plans that generally help pay the medical costs not covered by Parts A and B.
• Part D (prescription drug coverage). Helps pay for medications doctors prescribe.
To learn more about applying for Medicare, read our publication “Applying For Medicare Only—Before You Decide.” To learn more about Social Security, read “Understanding the Benefits.” Both are available at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs.

Kirk Larson, who wrote this article, is a public affairs specialist for Social Security in western Washington.