More than 9 million older adults in Wyoming and across the U.S. are missing out on $58 billion in benefits which could help them pay for necessities, according to the latest data published by the National Council on Aging and the Urban Institute.

Nearly 30,000 eligible Wyomingites are not enrolled in three key federal programs to help them make ends meet.

Jessica Johnston, senior strategist for economic well-being for the council, pointed to the Medicare Savings Program, which can be used to help pay for insurance premiums.

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“Healthcare is one of the largest expenses for older adults," Johnston pointed out. "Having some extra help to pay for health care is a really critical benefit and we encourage people to apply for these Medicare savings programs.”

Wyoming has the lowest participation rate in the nation in the Medicare Savings Program, SNAP food assistance and Supplemental Security Income, which provides extra cash each month for qualifying seniors. The average monthly benefit for the three programs combined is just over $900.

Older adults are the only demographic in the nation to see a rise in poverty over the last several years. Johnston acknowledged many people do not know the programs exist, while others incorrectly assume they will not qualify. She added stigma around asking for help also remains a major barrier.

“There are many older adults who often say, ‘I think there’s probably someone who needs it more than I do,’” Johnston observed. “These benefits are part of tax dollars that you have paid for. This is a system that you have paid into.”

Applications for federal programs can be confusing and burdensome, especially for people managing health conditions, caregiving responsibilities or limited internet access. Johnston noted people who need help applying, or who know someone who does, can call toll-free at 800-794-6559.

“We have people across the country who can help older adults navigate these often very complex benefit programs,” Johnston emphasized. “They’re not alone, they don’t have to do this all online by themselves.”