When a health crisis strikes, the last thing anyone wants to worry about is whether their care will be covered. Medicare has clear rules that protect you in emergencies and in situations where you need care right away, even if you’re far from home or outside your plan’s network.
According to the Medicare Rights Center, an emergency medical condition is one in which symptoms are “severe enough that someone with an average knowledge of health and medicine could reasonably expect your health to be in serious danger if you don’t get medical attention right away.” Urgently needed care, on the other hand, is medically necessary care that cannot reasonably wait.
These definitions matter for everyone with Medicare, but they are especially important for people enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans. Here’s what you should know.
Emergency Room Care Is Covered Nationwide
Both Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage must cover emergency room services anywhere in the United States. You do not need to use an in‑network provider, and you do not need a referral.
If you’re stabilized after an emergency but still need follow‑up care that cannot safely be delayed, your Medicare Advantage plan must also cover that care. And if your plan denies coverage, you have the right to appeal.
Importantly, Medicare rules protect you even when a situation appears to be an emergency. As the handout explains, “If your condition was not an emergency but appeared to be an emergency, your care must still be covered.”
Ambulance Coverage: What’s Included
Medicare covers emergency ambulance transportation when your health is in serious danger and you cannot be transported safely by other means. Coverage applies only when the ambulance takes you to certain approved locations, such as the nearest appropriate hospital.
Be alert for potential ambulance fraud or billing errors. Red flags include being transported in an unapproved vehicle, being billed for more miles than you traveled, or being taken to a non‑covered destination like a doctor’s office.
Emergency Care Outside the U.S.
Medicare generally does not cover care outside the country, but there are a few exceptions. You may be covered if:
- You are traveling a direct route between Alaska and another U.S. state and the closest hospital is in Canada.
- You receive emergency care on a cruise ship within U.S. territorial waters.
- A foreign hospital is closer to your home than the nearest U.S. hospital (common near the Canadian or Mexican borders).
Where to Turn for Help
If you have questions about your Medicare coverage, need help appealing a denial, or want to report potential fraud, you have trusted local resources:
- State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) – unbiased Medicare counseling
- Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) – help identifying and reporting Medicare fraud, errors, or abuse
You can find a convenient handout with all the details here.
Call us toll-free at 866-413-5337 or email shineinfo@aaaswfl.org for local support.
The Medicare Rights Center is the author of portions of the content in these materials but is not responsible for any content not authored by the Medicare Rights Center. This document is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $3,000,000 with 100 percent funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. government.
Posted: April 10, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Join AAASWFL as a Front Desk Support Volunteer and Help Create a Welcoming First Impression
We are excited to share a meaningful new way to get involved: the Front Desk Support Volunteer role. This opportunity allows caring individuals to help ensure that visitors and callers feel “seen, heard, and welcomed” as they seek information, resources, or support.
Why This Role Matters
The front desk is more than a reception area — it’s the heart of our daily operations. As a Front Desk Support Volunteer, you’ll be the friendly presence that greets guests, answers general questions, and directs individuals to the right programs or staff members. During midday hours, you’ll also help cover our Customer Service Representatives while they take their lunch break, ensuring that no visitor is left without support.
No specialized knowledge is required. As the opportunity notes, volunteers simply need “a genuine willingness to be present and helpful.” Our team provides a brief orientation so you feel confident and prepared.
Flexible Midday Schedule
This volunteer role is available Monday through Friday between 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., offering a consistent yet flexible two‑ to three‑hour commitment. Whether you can join us every day or only select days, your presence makes a meaningful impact. The agency welcomes conversations about what works best for your schedule.
Who This Opportunity Is Perfect For
This role is a great fit for:
As the description highlights, this opportunity is ideal for those who want to be part of something greater — to be the first face someone sees when they reach out for help.
Ready to Make a Difference?
If you’re looking for a way to give back, stay engaged, or build experience in a supportive environment, we would be honored to welcome you to our volunteer team.
📩 To learn more or express your interest, email: ea@aaaswfl.org
📍 Location: 2830 Winkler Avenue, Suite 112, Fort Myers, FL 33916
Posted: April 6, 2026 by Leave a Comment
How to Avoid Fake Prize, Sweepstakes and Lottery Scams
You get a call, email, or letter saying you won a sweepstakes, lottery, or prize — like an iPad, a new car, or something else. But you know it’s a scam because of what they do next: they ask you to pay money or give them your account information to get the prize. If you pay, you’ll lose your money and find out there is no prize.
Three Signs of a Prize Scam
Who doesn’t dream of winning a lot of money or a big prize? That’s why scammers still use the promise of a prize to get your money or personal information. The good news is that there are ways to tell you’re dealing with a scam.
Here are three signs of a prize scam:
How Scammers Try to Trick You
Scammers will say anything to get your money. Here are ways they try to convince you that you really won a prize.
If you’re not sure about a contest or the company sending you a prize notification, search online to see if you find anything about them. Type the name with terms like “review,” “complaint” or “scam.”
What To Know About Real Contests and Prizes
Plenty of contests are run by reputable marketers and non-profit organizations. But there are some things to know before you drop in a quick entry or follow instructions to claim a prize.
A special note about skills contests. A skills contest — where you do things like solve problems or answer questions correctly to earn prizes — can ask you to pay to play. But you might end up paying repeatedly, with each round getting more difficult and expensive, before you realize it’s impossible to win or just a scam. Skills contests can leave contestants with nothing to show for their money and effort.
What To Do if You Paid a Scammer
Scammers often ask you to pay in ways that make it hard to get your money back. No matter how you paid a scammer, the sooner you act, the better. Learn more about how to get your money back.
Report Prize Winnings and Lottery Scams
Here’s what to do if you think you’ve been targeted by a prize scam:
For local updates on scams and to connect to resources for older adults and adults with disabilities, visit the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida’s (AAASWFL) website (https://aaaswfl.org) or call the AAASWFL Helpline at 866-413-5337.
Last Updated: March 31, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Introducing Linking Lives: A Journey to Wellness
Strengthening Social Connections for Healthier Aging in Southwest Florida
AAASWFL is excited to introduce Linking Lives: A Journey to Wellness, a new three‑session workshop designed to help older adults build stronger social connections and improve their overall well‑being. Developed in partnership with the Humana Foundation and supported by the National Council on Aging, this program brings together education, reflection, and practical tools to support healthier, more connected aging.
Social connections are essential to aging well, yet many older adults face barriers that make it difficult to maintain meaningful relationships. Whether due to life transitions, mobility challenges, caregiving responsibilities, or simply not knowing where to start, these obstacles can have a real impact on mental and physical health. Linking Lives creates a welcoming space to explore these challenges and learn strategies to overcome them.
Throughout the workshop series, participants will:
Each session is designed to empower older adults with knowledge and actionable steps they can use right away — whether they want to expand their social circle, reconnect with their community, or simply feel more supported in daily life.
Linking Lives: A Journey to Wellness reflects AAASWFL’s ongoing commitment to promoting independence, health, and quality of life for older adults across Southwest Florida. By helping individuals build stronger social connections, we strengthen the fabric of our communities as a whole.
Visit our website calendar for upcoming dates near you!
Posted: March 30, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Medicare Minute: Understanding Emergency & Urgently Needed Care Under Medicare
When a health crisis strikes, the last thing anyone wants to worry about is whether their care will be covered. Medicare has clear rules that protect you in emergencies and in situations where you need care right away, even if you’re far from home or outside your plan’s network.
According to the Medicare Rights Center, an emergency medical condition is one in which symptoms are “severe enough that someone with an average knowledge of health and medicine could reasonably expect your health to be in serious danger if you don’t get medical attention right away.” Urgently needed care, on the other hand, is medically necessary care that cannot reasonably wait.
These definitions matter for everyone with Medicare, but they are especially important for people enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans. Here’s what you should know.
Emergency Room Care Is Covered Nationwide
Both Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage must cover emergency room services anywhere in the United States. You do not need to use an in‑network provider, and you do not need a referral.
If you’re stabilized after an emergency but still need follow‑up care that cannot safely be delayed, your Medicare Advantage plan must also cover that care. And if your plan denies coverage, you have the right to appeal.
Importantly, Medicare rules protect you even when a situation appears to be an emergency. As the handout explains, “If your condition was not an emergency but appeared to be an emergency, your care must still be covered.”
Ambulance Coverage: What’s Included
Medicare covers emergency ambulance transportation when your health is in serious danger and you cannot be transported safely by other means. Coverage applies only when the ambulance takes you to certain approved locations, such as the nearest appropriate hospital.
Be alert for potential ambulance fraud or billing errors. Red flags include being transported in an unapproved vehicle, being billed for more miles than you traveled, or being taken to a non‑covered destination like a doctor’s office.
Emergency Care Outside the U.S.
Medicare generally does not cover care outside the country, but there are a few exceptions. You may be covered if:
Where to Turn for Help
If you have questions about your Medicare coverage, need help appealing a denial, or want to report potential fraud, you have trusted local resources:
You can find a convenient handout with all the details here.
Call us toll-free at 866-413-5337 or email shineinfo@aaaswfl.org for local support.
The Medicare Rights Center is the author of portions of the content in these materials but is not responsible for any content not authored by the Medicare Rights Center. This document is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $3,000,000 with 100 percent funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. government.
Posted: February 20, 2026 by Leave a Comment
AAASWFL Partners with the Florida Everblades for a Community Fundraising Night on April 17
The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) is excited to announce a special community event that brings together local fun and meaningful impact. We’ve partnered with the Florida Everblades for a Fundraising Night during one of the final home games of the season—an opportunity for families, friends, and supporters across our region to enjoy an exciting night of hockey while giving back to a mission that strengthens Southwest Florida.
📅 Friday, April 17, 2026
🕢 7:30 p.m.
📍 Hertz Arena, Estero, FL
When you purchase tickets through our exclusive event link, a portion of each ticket sale is donated directly back to AAASWFL, Inc. This support helps us continue providing vital services, resources, and programs for older adults, adults with disabilities, and caregivers across our seven‑county region. The Everblades’ community fundraising program is designed to help local nonprofits raise funds through special ticket packages, with $5 from every ticket purchased through the AAASWFL link going back to support our work.
As the state‑designated Aging and Disability Resource Center for Southwest Florida, AAASWFL connects individuals and families to essential services—from home‑delivered meals and transportation assistance to caregiver support, long‑term care resources, and more . Community partnerships like this one help us expand our reach and deepen our impact.
Whether you’re a lifelong hockey fan or simply looking for a fun night out, this is a wonderful way to enjoy a great game while supporting a cause that matters.
🎟️ Purchase Tickets: www.bladestix.com/aaaswfl (Only tickets purchased through this link count toward the fundraiser.)
We encourage you to invite your friends, family, coworkers, and neighbors—and feel free to share the event within your personal networks to help us maximize participation and support.
We can’t wait to see you at Hertz Arena on April 17 for a night of community, connection, and Everblades hockey.
Posted: February 3, 2026 by Leave a Comment
A Request for Proposals for a CCE Lead Agency in Hendry & Glades Counties To Be Announced Soon
We will be officially posting this opportunity later this month and are seeking a qualified Case Management agency to determine eligibility and coordinate supportive services under the Community Care for the Elderly (CCE), Home Care for the Elderly (HCE), and Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative (ADI) state-funded programs.
The selected provider will manage case management and care coordination for these programs during the annual July 1–June 30 contracting period.
Visit AAASWFL’s social media accounts and website’s Document Center for updates and contact sarah.gualco@aaaswfl.org with any questions.
Posted: January 21, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Don’t Miss Your Chance to Be Part of Something New and Meaningful
The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida has never had an event quite like this. Our first‑ever Wave of Compassion Volunteer Awards Luncheon is more than a gathering — it’s the launch of a new annual tradition honoring the volunteers who lift up older adults and adults with disabilities across our seven‑county region.
If you believe in community…
If you value service…
If you want to celebrate the quiet heroes who make Southwest Florida stronger…
This is your moment to show up.
Seats are limited for this inaugural event.
Get your tickets today and celebrate our volunteers!
Your presence helps honor extraordinary volunteers, supports AAASWFL’s mission, and ensures this new tradition begins with the energy, gratitude and community spirit it deserves.
Join us. Celebrate with us. Help us say thank you in the biggest way possible.
Posted: January 21, 2026 by Leave a Comment
New Program Launch: Adult Mental Health First Aid Training
Multiple Dates Now Available Beginning February 2026
The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida is proud to introduce a new training opportunity designed to strengthen mental health support across our communities. The Adult Mental Health First Aid Training is an evidence-based public education program that teaches adults how to recognize signs of mental health challenges, respond with empathy, and connect individuals to appropriate care.
Whether you’re a caregiver, service provider, community leader, or simply someone who wants to help, this course equips you with practical tools to make a difference.
What You’ll Learn
Participants will gain skills in:
By the end of the course, attendees will be able to describe the role of a Mental Health First Aider, understand the impact of mental health challenges on adults in the U.S., and apply the ALGEE Action Plan in a variety of scenarios.
Course Format
Upcoming Training Dates
We’re offering multiple opportunities to participate throughout the spring:
All sessions will be held virtually via Zoom, making it easy to join from anywhere.
How to Register
To sign up or learn more, contact:
tiah.thompson@aaaswfl.org
239-652-6941
Posted: December 23, 2025 by Leave a Comment
Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida Temporarily Pauses Senior HomeShare Project
The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) announces that the SWFL Senior HomeShare Project has been temporarily paused effective immediately due to unforeseen circumstances affecting project implementation. The organization remains deeply committed to this innovative housing solution and plans to revamp and relaunch the program when conditions allow.
The Senior HomeShare Project was designed to address an urgent crisis in Lee and Collier counties, where senior homelessness has reached alarming levels. According to local Continuum of Care data, senior homelessness in Lee County rose from 85 individuals in 2019 to 260 in 2024—an increase of more than 200 percent. Collier County experienced a dramatic spike in 2023, when senior homelessness more than quadrupled in a single year. These trends reflect mounting housing affordability pressures, with fixed incomes failing to keep pace with rising rents, taxes, and insurance costs, compounded by the lasting impacts of COVID-19 and Hurricane Ian.
The program, modeled after the successful Pinellas Home Share which has operated for over 19 years, was designed to match Home Providers (homeowners age 55+) with Home Seekers (renters age 55+) to create safe, affordable, and mutually beneficial living arrangements. Beyond addressing housing affordability, the program aimed to reduce social isolation and enhance safety for participants through companionship and shared living support.
“While we are disappointed to pause this critical initiative, we believe taking time to reassess and strengthen the program’s foundation will ultimately lead to more successful outcomes for our seniors,” said Maricela Morado, President & CEO of AAASWFL. “The data shows that older adults are entering homelessness for the first time at unprecedented rates, making preventative, cost-effective solutions like Senior HomeShare more essential than ever. Our commitment to addressing this crisis remains unwavering.”
The AAASWFL had developed comprehensive safety protocols for the program in partnership with other community organizations, including national criminal background checks, reference verification, home safety visit, and quarterly check-ins in the first year to ensure participant wellbeing. The organization will use this pause to further refine these processes and strengthen partnerships with community organizations, some including Baker Senior Center Naples, and the Lee and Collier Continuum of Care Committees to name a couple.
The organization appreciates the support and interest shown by community members, partner organizations, and potential participants who have inquired about the program. The AAASWFL will continue to provide its comprehensive range of services to older adults and adults with disabilities across its seven-county service area while working diligently to reimagine the HomeShare Project’s structure and implementation strategy.
For more information about AAASWFL’s current services and programs, please visit www.aaaswfl.org or call the Elder Helpline at 1-866-413-5337.
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