Medicare covers a lot. But it doesn’t cover everything seniors need to live well — and that gap is where most families get caught off guard.
If you live in Pace, Milton, or Pensacola, there’s a strong local network of services built specifically to help older adults stay independent, stay connected, and stay safe at home. From transportation and meal delivery to caregiver support, these resources fill in exactly where Medicare leaves off.
My name is Mark Garrett, and I’m a licensed independent Medicare broker with AJ Health and Wealth. For years, I’ve helped seniors across the Florida Panhandle sort through their Medicare options — and just as often, I get asked about the local resources that support healthy aging outside of insurance altogether. Here’s a rundown of what’s available, with the contact details so you can reach out directly.
Medicare Doesn’t Cover Everything
A common assumption I hear is: “Now that I have Medicare, I’m all set.” Original Medicare generally does not cover:
- Long-term custodial care
- Routine transportation
- Meal delivery
- Adult day care
- Most in-home caregiver assistance
- Homemaker services
- Social and wellness programs
That’s why knowing your local resources matters just as much as knowing your Medicare plan.
Transportation Assistance
Getting to appointments and the pharmacy gets harder once driving becomes a challenge. A few local options:
Santa Rosa Transportation (Tri-County Community Council) — serves Pace and Milton residents with door-to-door rides to medical appointments, dialysis, and shopping for those who qualify through the Transportation Disadvantaged Program.
7255 East Hwy 90, Milton, FL 32583 • (850) 626-6806
ECAT (Escambia County Area Transit) — fixed-route bus and ADA paratransit service for Pensacola and Escambia County residents.
1515 West Fairfield Drive, Pensacola, FL 32501 • (850) 595-3228
Meals and Nutrition Support
Cooking every meal isn’t always realistic, especially for homebound seniors or those recovering from illness.
Council on Aging of West Florida — Meals on Wheels — home-delivered meals plus a wellness check at the door, serving Escambia and Santa Rosa counties. The organization also runs senior dining sites for those who’d rather eat and socialize in a group setting.
875 Royce Street, Pensacola, FL 32503 • (850) 432-1475
Adult Day Programs and Staying Socially Connected
Isolation is one of the most overlooked risks to a senior’s health. Staying socially engaged supports memory, mood, and physical activity.
Council on Aging of West Florida — The Retreat Adult Day Health Care — structured daytime activities, meals, and supervision for seniors who need extra support, with respite time for family caregivers.
875 Royce Street, Pensacola, FL 32503 • (850) 432-1475
Caregiver Support
If you’re caring for a spouse or parent while also working or raising a family, you don’t have to do it without backup. Asking for help is one of the most protective things a caregiver can do for their own health.
Council on Aging of West Florida — Caregiver Support Program — support groups, respite care, and educational workshops for caregivers throughout Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.
875 Royce Street, Pensacola, FL 32503 • (850) 432-1475
Aging in Place at Home
Most seniors tell me the same thing: they want to stay in their own home as long as possible. Companion care, homemaker services, medication reminders, and home safety evaluations all support that goal — and Council on Aging’s Homemaker and Companion program (same contact info above) is a good starting point for residents in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.
Medicare Advantage and Annual Reviews
Some Medicare Advantage plans build in extra benefits beyond standard medical coverage — things like transportation, fitness memberships, dental, vision, or an over-the-counter allowance. But benefits vary widely by plan and by county, and a plan available in Pensacola may look nothing like one available in Pace or Milton.
That’s also why an annual review matters, even if you’ve had the same plan for years. Drug formularies, provider networks, premiums, and supplemental benefits all change from year to year, and a quick yearly check-in can confirm your coverage still fits your needs and your budget.
Local Knowledge Matters
After years of working with seniors across Northwest Florida, I’ve learned that healthcare decisions are personal and local — the doctors you see, the hospitals you trust, the pharmacy down the street. Knowing what community resources exist outside the healthcare system is just as important as picking the right plan.
Retirement isn’t just about insurance. It’s about staying independent, staying active, and staying connected to the people and community around you. If you’re in Pace, Milton, or Pensacola, I’d encourage you to explore these resources — and if you ever want a no-cost, no-obligation review of your Medicare coverage, I’m happy to help.
Have Questions About Your Medicare Coverage?
Mark Garrett is a licensed independent Medicare broker serving seniors throughout Escambia and Santa Rosa counties, including Pace, Milton, Pensacola, and the surrounding Florida Panhandle. As an independent broker, Mark works across multiple carriers — not just one company — so you get an honest look at the options available to you. Reach out anytime for a no-cost, no-obligation Medicare review.
AJ Health and Wealth is not connected with the Federal Medicare program. By contacting this number, you will be connected with a licensed insurance agent. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE or your local State Health Insurance Program to get information on all of your options.