DEAR SUN SPOTS: For the person asking about vision and dental benefits (Feb. 7 Sun Spots), I suggest she call Wellcare and ask about its Advantage program. I have been with them for over four years and have great coverage, including the items she needs plus a CVS over-the-counter allowance every three months and a monthly allowance for food/co-pays/etc. I have a flex card for dental, vision or hearing aids.

I am 79 and receive Social Security and work part time, yet I still have full coverage with Wellcare. They are in direct contact with your primary care doctors also. I think it’s the best plan out there. I’m happy, healthy, and well-covered! — No name, no town

ANSWER: This sounds like a great recommendation to me! I hope our reader sees it and calls Wellcare at 1-866-907-2518 to find out if this health care coverage is right for her. Some of their benefits are based on income but they have several plan choices. The website is https://www.wellcarenow.com/.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Regarding grapefruit, grapefruit juice and certain heart medications (Feb. 7 Sun Spots), might I add that some common blood pressure-lowering drugs such as hydrochlorothiazide and Lisinopril do not require grapefruit avoidance. Statin drugs, such as Zocor do. A pharmacist will have the complete list. An internet search is not always a good source unless one knows the credible sites. Thank you, Sun Spots. This is my favorite column! — No name, Auburn

ANSWER: I agree, definitely rely on your health care provider and pharmacist when it comes to information about medication and any foods you should be avoiding while taking certain drugs. Also be cautious about any over-the-counter substances that you shouldn’t be pairing with prescription medicines.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I have hunted high and low to find a vegan black bean burger as delicious as the Olive Branch Cafe in Lewiston had on its menu. I’ve tried to experiment with recipes from different cookbooks and none measure up. I’m hoping a former café employee will come to the rescue, or perhaps another Sun Spotter has a good recipe. It must be vegan and soy-free. — No name, no town

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ANSWER: Somewhere in my older files, I have the contact information for the owner of Olive Branch and will look for it. In the meantime, if any Sun Spotters who frequented this wonderful eatery, or worked there, know the formula for these special burgers, please write in.

DEAR SUN SPOTS: I want to sound the alarm for Sun Spots readers, especially our senior citizens. I received a scam call yesterday and almost fell for it. The male voice (very polite and official sounding) on the line said he was from Social Security and there was “an issue with my account and could I please verify my information.” He said he wanted me to confirm my address and the second was to confirm my birth date. I almost blurted it out!

Instead, I told him that it wasn’t a good time and quickly hung up. I reported the incident to Social Security. Of course, the call was not from them. Everyone, please be careful! — Maria, no town

ANSWER: Remember, friends, Social Security does not make these calls. If you get one, hang up.

This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name. We won’t use it if you ask us not to. Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be emailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.


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