Since 1963, May has been designated as Older Americans Month (OAM) to recognize older adults and highlight their impact in our community. As 2026’s theme is “Champion Your Health”, this May we have been spotlighting older adults volunteering with our organization who are committed to aging well, healthily, and on their own terms.     

One of the largest challenges facing older adults everywhere is the digital divide. In Santa Clara County, technological innovation surrounds us, and yet increasingly, older adults find themselves lost in the digital landscape. To empower the older members of our community, Sourcewise, in partnership with the San Jose Public Library Foundation and the City of San Jose Parks & Recreation Neighborhood Services, launched the Digital Ambassador Program (DAP) in 2025. DAP is a “Seniors Empowering Seniors” initiative. Program participants receive training from the Sourcewise Digital Link team while demonstrating mastery in at least one specific technology topic. Digital Ambassadors are committed to sharing their time and knowledge with fellow older adults, truly embodying the mission and values of Sourcewise.  

For Cuong Le, one of our Digital Ambassadors, volunteering with DAP has brought a greater sense of happiness and fulfillment to his life, in particular the opportunity to share with and learn from other participants.  

He initially encountered the Digital Link team by chance at the Roosevelt Community Center. Since retiring in November 2025, Cuong became a regular fixture at the community center and enjoyed playing ping-pong with other members and visitors to the center. Over time, he became acquainted with Vivian, one of the members of the Digital Link team. He learned that they were launching DAP, and that they were looking for older adults like himself who had not only a background using technology, but a passion for empowering others. As Cuong had a BFA in Graphic Design and had taught classes about video editing throughout the course of his career, he felt being a Digital Ambassador was a natural extension of his interests and experience.  

From his own personal relationships, Cuong observed that many of his peers liked to use their smart phones to capture photos and videos to preserve memories and share them with their relatives. He realized that there was a real opportunity to teach other older adults how to digitally edit videos so that they could fully document, preserve, and share their memories for themselves and others. So as Cuong embarked upon the process of becoming a Digital Ambassador, he specifically requested to teach digital video editing on the iPhone and iPad to fellow older adults.  

Upon reflecting on his time being a Digital Ambassador, one experience in particularly has stood out to Cuong:  

“I will never forget a moment in class when a shy senior woman, with a big smile, proudly showed me a short video clip she had created using AI technology that I taught her. It captured her youthful high school memories from long ago. In that moment, I felt even happier than she did. It reminded me that our fellow seniors can face new technology with ‘no fear.’” 

An older adult himself, Cuong firmly believes in the power of technology and wants to encourage others around him to embrace it, rather than fear it:  

“Whether we like it or not, technology is part of our lives. Learning to live with it – and overcoming the fear of new, emerging technologies – is possible with the Digital Access Program at Sourcewise. Thanks to my work experience, I am aware of many helpful programs available to seniors in the community. However, many people do not know about programs like Sourcewise Digital Access or activities like ping pong at Roosevelt. Hopefully, programs can be better advertised and reach more communities, so seniors like me, especially retirees and those with low incomes, can have access to technology.” 

For many, healthy aging looks like being involved, active, and engaged with their local community. For Cuong, it meant utilizing the skills and passions he’d cultivated over a lifetime to empower others to take charge of their health. Being a champion of health looks different for everyone. This Older Americans Month, discover and define what that means for you.  

As we continue to celebrate Older Americans Month (OAM) this May, we’re recognizing older adults and highlighting their impact in our community. With 2026’s theme as “Champion Your Health”, we will be spotlighting some of the older adults volunteering with our organization who are committed to aging well, healthily, and on their own terms. Some of the most visible older adults volunteering their time with us are the members of the Sourcewise Advisory Council.  

The Sourcewise Advisory Council serves Santa Clara County by advising Sourcewise and its Board of Directors on the needs of older adults and people with disabilities, through advocating for our most vulnerable residents and raising awareness about available resources. Members represent the county’s diverse communities, sharing local needs and bringing back critical information to improve access and equity. Through engagement with community groups, public officials, and other advocacy organizations, the Council strengthens programs and policies that enhance quality of life for older adults across Santa Clara County.

Each Advisory Council member has their own reason for joining Sourcewise. For Tom Picraux, joining Sourcewise was a deeply personal decision rooted in his childhood. He was raised on a small farm in Missouri, where they lived off the land and were part of a close-knit community. Just down the road from his home, and a core member of the community, was his grandmother – the matriarch of the family. From his grandmother and others, it was instilled in Tom from an early age to appreciate the value of the stories and lived experience of older adults. After a career as a research scientist and executive at a national laboratory, when it came time for him to retire and consider how he wanted to use the next chapter of his life, he knew he wanted to give back to the older adult community.  

Advocating for older adults and healthy aging is deeply important and personal to Tom.  

“From growing up in a rural community, I saw the tremendous importance of people reaching out to help older adults and the positive impact this had on the functioning of the entire community.” 

First, he joined the Los Gatos Community and the Senior Services Commission and was tasked with finding membership opportunities to help support the Commission. Following some research, he found Sourcewise. Once he joined the Advisory Council, this is what he shared about his observations on how Sourcewise makes an impact in the lives of older adults in the community: 

“So many lives are changed for the better by the things that Sourcewise does. In our dual suburban and urban environment of Santa Clara County, people don’t always know who to turn or how to get help. Through contacting Sourcewise, they can learn about important services we support such as home-delivered and congregate meals, community center operations, day care centers, information on available resources, etc. Sourcewise provides critical help for people to age in place and is of vital importance.” 

As a member of the Sourcewise Advisory Council, Tom has become fluent in existing resources for older adults and helps shape new resources to address institutional gaps and unmet needs. Council members spread the word about existing support services and organizations dedicated to older adults in Santa Clara County, and it is a role that brings a strong personal sense of contribution and greater sense of belonging to the community.  

As many of the Sourcewise Advisory Council members are older adults, there is no one better to advocate for the needs of the aging population in Santa Clara County than them. We are thankful for all their knowledge, lived experience, and heart for the community. The passion and work of members like Tom enable Sourcewise to continually improve our services and coordination with other community-based organizations, to ensure that everyone in Santa Clara County can be a champion of their own health.  

What Is Medicare Home Health Care?

Medicare may cover medical care you receive in your home if you meet certain rules. This care is meant to help you recover from illness or injury and stay safely at home.

Coverage is available through Original Medicare (Part A and/or Part B).

Who Can Get Medicare Home Health Care?

You may qualify if ALL of the following apply:

1. 1. You have Medicare Part A or Part B (or both)
   2. Your doctor orders home health care
   3. You need skilled care (nursing or therapy)
   4. Care is part-time or intermittent
   5. You are considered homebound
   6. Care is provided by a Medicare-certified home health agency

Homebound means leaving home is difficult and requires effort or help. You can still leave home occasionally for:

• Medical appointments
• Religious services
• Short family or personal events

What Services Does Medicare Cover?

If medically necessary, Medicare may cover:

• Skilled nursing care
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Speech therapy (speech language pathology)
• Home health aide services
  (only if you’re also receiving skilled care)
• Medical social services (if ordered)
• Medical supplies (such as wound care supplies)

Wheelchairs, walkers, and other medical equipment are covered separately.

What Is NOT Covered?

Medicare does not cover:

• 24-hour or live-in care
• Meals delivered to your home
• Housekeeping or shopping only
• Personal care alone (bathing or dressing) without skilled care

What Will I Pay?

Most people pay $0 for covered home health services. You may pay some costs for medical equipment or non-covered items. Medicare pays the home health agency directly

How Does Care Work?

1. 1. Your doctor creates a plan of care
   2. Care is provided in 30-day periods
   3. Services must be reviewed and approved regularly
   4. Care continues only if it remains medically necessary

Choosing a Home Health Agency

You may choose any Medicare-certified agency in your area if you have Original Medicare. Agencies must meet federal quality standards. Medicare Advantage plans may limit which agencies you can use.

Know Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Be informed about your care and costs
• Help make decisions about your care
• Receive respectful and private treatment
• File complaints or appeals

Call our Appointment Hotline at (408) 350-3288, or visit our Appointments page to view available in-person counseling sites throughout Santa Clara County.

This project was 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 $432,451.00 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. Support provided by the California Department of Aging.

CA Health Insurance Counseling & Advocacy Program (HICAP) 1.800.434.0222

Sourcewise 3100 De La Cruz Blvd, Suite 310, Santa Clara, CA 95054

When major sporting events, such as the Super Bowl, take place in Santa Clara County, they may bring increased traffic, travel, and large crowds. These changes can affect daily routines, transportation, and access to services.

Sourcewise supports older adults, caregivers, and community members by sharing information and resources to help people stay informed, prepared, and connected.

If you are currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, there is a special window each year that gives you a chance to make changes if your plan is not meeting your needs. This period is called the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MAOEP).

• When is MAOEP?
  • MAOEP runs January 1 through March 31 each year.
• Who Can Use MAOEP?
  • You can use MAOEP only if you are already enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan.

What Changes Can You Make?

During MAOEP, you may:

• Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
• Drop your Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare (Parts A & B) – but it’s important to check whether you can secure a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy first, since Medigap enrollment is not guaranteed and may require medical underwriting.
• If you return to Original Medicare, you can also enroll in a stand-alone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan

What You Cannot Do During MAOEP

• You cannot enroll in Medicare Advantage for the first time
• You cannot switch stand-alone Part D plans unless you first leave Medicare Advantage
• You can only make one change during this period

Why This Matters

Many people discover after January 1 that:

• Their doctors are no longer in-network
• Prescription drug costs are higher than expected
• Referrals or prior authorizations are more restrictive

MAOEP is designed to give you a second chance to adjust if your plan is not a good fit.

Get Free, Unbiased Help

If you live in Santa Clara County, HICAP offers free and confidential Medicare counseling. Our trained counselors can help you:

• Compare Medicare Advantage plans
• Understand costs, networks, and drug coverage
• Decide whether Original Medicare may be a better option for you

Contact HICAP today to schedule an appointment and make an informed decision about your Medicare coverage.

Call our Appointment Hotline at (408) 350-3288, or visit our Appointments page to view available in-person counseling sites throughout Santa Clara County.

This project was 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 $432,451.00 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. Support provided by the California Department of Aging.

If you did not sign up for Medicare Part A and/or Part B when you were first eligible, you may still have another opportunity. This is called the Medicare General Enrollment Period (GEP).

When is the General Enrollment Period?

The GEP takes place January 1 through March 31 each year. Coverage begins the first day of the month after you enroll.

Who Is GEP For?

GEP is for people who:

1. Did not sign up for Medicare Part A and/or Part B when first eligible and
2. Do not qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

What Can You Enroll In During GEP?

During GEP, you can:

• Enroll in Medicare Part A (if you must pay a premium)
• Enroll in Medicare Part B

After enrolling in Parts A and B, you can also:

• Join a Medicare Advantage plan, or
• Enroll in a stand-alone Medicare Part D prescription drug plan

Important Things to Know

• Late enrollment penalties may apply
• Penalties usually last for as long as you have Medicare
• Coverage does not start immediately, so timing is important

Why Counseling Is Important

Medicare enrollment rules can be confusing, and mistakes can be costly. Before enrolling, it’s important to understand:

• Whether you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period instead
• How penalties may affect your long-term costs
• Which coverage option best fits your health and budget

Free Medicare Help in Santa Clara County

HICAP provides free, unbiased Medicare counseling to Santa Clara County residents. Our counselors can:

• Explain your enrollment options
• Help you avoid unnecessary penalties
• Assist with plan comparisons after you enroll

Contact HICAP today to schedule an appointment and make an informed decision about your Medicare coverage.

Call our Appointment Hotline at (408) 350-3288, or visit our Appointments page to view available in-person counseling sites throughout Santa Clara County.

This project was 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 $432,451.00 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. Support provided by the California Department of Aging.