Every time I see the price of gasoline go up, I am really glad I don’t have that expense. I can only imagine the effect that will have on the cost of fuel this winter.

Just last week, I was convinced to switch the electricity supplier and although it’s not a huge savings, every little bit does help – especially when the price of a dozen eggs escalates 30 cents in one week.

Each year, Medicare beneficiaries have a chance to save a little money on their prescription drugs by reviewing the plan they’re using, what is covered and what the cost is. Companies change from time to time and unless you’re vigilant about comparison shopping, you could be missing out. Maybe the latest drug you’ve been prescribed isn’t covered – companies do change from time to time. But once a year, you have this period of time to look things over. Just like any other major purchase, you check around to get the best deal.

It’s called “open enrollment” and it begins Oct. 15 and ends Dec. 7 this year. I’ve done this comparison shopping in the past and it’s extremely confusing, but the experts at Southern Maine Agency on Aging can help – and they don’t sell insurance, so you know their advice is unbiased. And the best part? Their service is free. Donations are always welcome.

You do have to make an appointment (except at Bridgton Hospital) because this service is utilized by so many folks. Call 800-427-7411, ext. 524 or 396-6524 to set up an appointment at one of the following locations in Current Publishing’s readership area. Appointments can also be made at the agency’s office on Route 1 in Scarborough:

Bridgton Hospital – Tuesday, Oct. 16, 23, 30; Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27; Dec. 4 from 8:30 to 11 a.m. (No appointment necessary)

Bridgton Community Center – Thursday, Oct. 18, 25; Nov. 1, 8, 15, 29; Dec. 6 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Freeport Community Library – Thursday, Oct. 18, 25; Nov. 1, 8, 15, 29; Dec. 6 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Gorham, St. Anne’s Church – Thursday, Oct. 18, 25; Nov. 1, 15, 29; Dec. 6 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Naples Library – Tuesday, Oct. 15, 23, 30; Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27; Dec. 4 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Windham, Our Lady of Perpetual Help on Tuesday, Oct. 16, 23, 30; Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27; Dec. 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Westbrook Community Center on Wednesday, Oct. 17, 24, 31; Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28; Dec. 5 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Other locations and dates will be added to this schedule, but we recommend you save this column for reference and when you call SMAA you may find a closer location that will be available. They will also tell you what information you need to bring with you.

And don’t forget to ask those insurance experts about the program for low-income elderly people. Many in Maine qualify for this. Good luck.

Senior Expo ?coming Tuesday

Maine Senior Guide will be hosting the Southern Maine Senior Expo on Tuesday, Sept. 25, at the Hilton Garden Inn in Freeport. The expo features 18 different speakers, ranging from Secretary of State Charlie Summers (new state initiative for senior drivers) to talks on downsizing your home and senior sexuality.

Expo-goers can visit more than three-dozen vendor booths to learn about senior-related products, services and resources. AAA is providing a driving school from 8 a.m. -noon ($15), and CHANS Home Health Care will hold a free flu shot clinic all day. Afternoon activities include an antiques appraisal walk-in clinic ($5 per item to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association) and free carriage rides around the park.

Expo hours are from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Admission is free and free parking is provided. The expo site at the Hilton is only one block from downtown Freeport. For more information, see www.MaineSeniorGuide.com or call 232-7847.

Kay Soldier welcomes reader ideas for column topics of interest to seniors. She can be reached by email at kso48@aol.com, or write to 114 Tandberg Trail, Windham, ME 04062.

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