When I used to say to my older friends that I’d soon be 65 and couldn’t wait to retire, they’d give me a knowing look and say, “Wait and see.” And I had no idea what they meant. Now that I’m a few years past that mark, I understand that there are a multitude of issues to deal with as one gets older.

These include finances, health, home repairs, housing, shopping and mobility. There are legal questions from time to time and questions about taxes.

Where does one turn for help?

One source is the senior advocate program provided by Southern Maine Agency on Aging. If you are about to retire and have questions about Medicare, Social Security or other issues, the senior advocate may be able to assist you – and the service is free.

A couple of years ago, I was curious about food stamps, taxes and other issues. Knowing the agency on aging’s senior advocate came to the Windham Senior Meal Site on a regular basis, I made an appointment to visit with her.

The advocate I talked with had all the information I needed and even provided several charts of income variations so I could easily determine if this was a program I might be able to use. She was very helpful and we met and talked in a quiet area where I didn’t feel embarrassed.

On that day, there were four other people who also had appointments, and their questions were about Social Security, living wills and other senior-specific issues.

For more than 25 years, the Southern Maine Agency on Aging, a private, nonprofit corporation, has been meeting the needs of seniors and their families for personal assistance through information and guidance. The agency offers a wide range of programs designed to foster independence, reduce the burden on family and caregivers, and promote an active and healthy lifestyle.

Each year, the agency receives thousands of calls for information and assistance.

One of their skilled Elder Advocates, all licensed social workers, can talk with you on the phone or in person to discuss your needs and provide you with necessary information, advice and referrals.

The Elder Advocates of Southern Maine Agency on Aging can be reached by phone each business day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at (207) 396-6500 or in state toll free, 1-800-427-7411, TTY: 883-0532.

If you prefer a face-to-face visit you can call and schedule an office appointment. They can answer questions you might have about a wide range of issues such as housing options, home care resources, finances, nutrition and health insurance.

Sometimes, needs cannot be met with a one-time phone call. For these situations, the agency can assign an elder advocate to work with you personally and provide outreach and advocacy services in the home, to help connect you and keep you connected with needed programs.

In Windham, staff from Senior Solutions of Southern Maine Agency on Aging are available the first Wednesday of each month from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Unity Gardens, Tandberg Trail in North Windham. Appointments can be made by calling Virginia Billings at 892-3891.