Sat, Jul 4 2009

FAQ

By: Age Care Association

These are examples of the kinds of questions our volunteers are ofen asked.

I need a wheelchair or Zimmer frame, where can I obtain one?

Age Care Association has a stock of medical aids, including wheelchairs, Zimmer frames, raised toilet seats, ripple beds, arm crutches, commodes, etc. Those in need can use the appropriate aid and return it when it is no longer required.

I think I have emotional and possibly psychological problems. Where can I get help?

You should consult your doctor, who will ascertain what your problem is and may refer you to a specialist. Individuals who do not want to see a doctor occasionally ask us whether we can recommend someone they could consult. For legal and other reasons we cannot recommend anyone. We suggest that if you attend a church, perhaps a priest or minister may be able to help. Alternatively, maybe a friend or acquaintance could recommend a professional from whom they have received adequate help.

We are having trouble with our bank. Can you give us advice?

The first thing is to see the manager (Director/a) about your problem. If an employee of the bank says that you cannot see the manager insist that you wish to have an appointment with him/her. If you are not satisfied change to another bank (or threaten to do so!). If your problem is about bank charges you should try to negotiate a reduction.

I don’t like my doctor at the health centre. How can I change to another one?

Go to the health centre and if they have interpreters ask them to help you fill out a form to change your doctor after finding out which doctors have vacancies. If there are no interpreters, perhaps someone at reception could help you. Failing that, find a friend who speaks Spanish to accompany you to the centre.

A friend of mine has been mugged. What does she do?

There are several things than can be done. Telephone 902102112 and ask for a person who speaks English. Give them a full description of what happened and they will advise you on what to do. The friend can also go as soon as possible to the local National Police Station (accompanied if possible by a Spanish speaker) where a denuncia will be made. Remember to cancel as soon as possible any credit cards, etc which have been stolen (this can be done by phone).

Is it really necessary to let the British Consulate know that I am living in Spain?

We feel that it is necessary to register. It is important that the Consulate know whom to contact in case of personal emergency, for example death, or a major catastrophe. Registration can be done in person at the Consulate. If you cannot attend the Consulate you can register online at www.fco.gov.uk/en/travelling-and-living-overseas/Locate/. If you cannot access the web site, ask someone to do it for you. Obviously, you will have to give them all your particulars.

I have heard of the Padron (census). What are the benefits of being on the Padron and how do I register?

First, registration is an indication that you wish to be a member of the local community. Second, you will be able to vote in local and European elections if you are on the Padron. Obtain a “certificado de empadronamiento” proving that you have registered. There may also be financial benefits from your municipality, for example a reduction in Impuesto sobre Bienes Inmuebles (IBI), and access to social services. Ask at your local Town hall about the amount of reductions.

My wife and I made wills in the UK. Is it absolutely necessary to have Spanish wills because we live in Spain?

The short answer is no; however, it is advisable. A British will is acceptable in Spain, but the process of proving it could be longer; therefore, we suggest that Spanish wills are made to cover your Spanish property and investments. Contact a lawyer or Gestor for further information about making wills in Spain.

I am having a holiday in the Far East and possibly South America. Do I need any special vaccinations?

Yes, you probably do, but what particular vaccinations will depend on which countries you are visiting. Visit your local GP and mention that you are intending to holiday in certain countries. You should receive information about where to get the vaccination in the Province of Malaga.

Recently, I had new spectacles that are not suitable for me. I can’t see properly with them. I have been back to the optician who will not replace them, or refund my money. What can I do?

We suggest that you visit your local Oficina Municipal de Informacion al Consumidor (Consumer’s advice centre) who should help you. Take a Spanish speaker with you to aid proper communication.

Is there domiciliary care which I can access?

Yes there is. First, there are a number of private caring agencies in the Province of Malaga. The local free newspapers often carry advertisements about their services. Remember, you will have to pay according to the level of care provided. Ring our telephone help lines for details of some of the Care Agencies. Access to State/Public care in the home can be difficult to obtain. Finance for this kind of care is limited and the demand is high. If you think you need this form of care, please ring us for up-to-date information.

Can I get Pension Credit if I live in Spain?

No. Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit separate from the State Pension and is not exportable. (This information is taken from that given at a British Consulate Open day)

How do I apply for a disabled permit to enable me to park in the places provided for disabled people?

Obtain a form from your local Social Services Department and visit your doctor for a personal medical health report. Some doctors may say that they cannot do so, but insist he/she completes the form, which you take back to the Social Services Department with a copy of your residencia or certificate of residence (plus the originals) and your passport. They will then rubber stamp everything and tell you that you will be called to the appropriate office in Malaga for confirmation of infirmity which may take up to a year to process. However, there may be differences according to where you live. We suggest that you check with your local Social Services Department to ascertain what is required to obtain a disabled permit.

If I haven’t an interpreter with me when I visit my doctor is there a way of communicating with the doctor so that he/she understands my problems?

Yes there is. Recently the Junta de Andalucia set up a service in which the doctor, yourself and an interpreter (in your language) have a three-way conversation so that your doctor understands your medical needs. The number to access this service is 902505060. Additionally, there is a very good publication titled “Tell the doctor . . .”, costing just 5 Euros. Please ask for details of how to order.

About Age Care Association

Age Care Association is a fully registered, non-profit making organisation staffed entirely by volunteers. Our Spanish registration number is 6282 – CIF – G92487602 (Registro de Asociaciones de Andalucia). The majority of our work is helping older British people living in the Province of Malaga, but we do not exclude other nationalities that speak English. We provide welfare information, practical support and two help lines (Telephones: 691761088, and 655903182). The Association also has a hospital and home visiting team. Other volunteers visit people in Care Homes when necessary. As part of our work we have repatriated some individuals to the UK, where there are more caring facilities and access to benefits unavailable in Spain. Some of our volunteers have had careers in nursing, education, psychology and other caring professions and are accustomed to listening in a sympathetic and kind manner. We work closely with the British Consulate, Royal British Legion, and branches of the International Lions.