Understanding your health care rights, sorting through insurance policies and finding a way to pay your medical bills can be daunting tasks. But there are resources to help educate you about your rights and help you weigh your options.

You may be entitled, by law, to continued coverage under your employer’s group health insurance plan for a short period of time. In addition, some employers actually maintain health insurance for their retired employees. But obtaining private individual coverage as a senior can be expensive and difficult, particularly if you have a pre-existing condition.

As a senior you do have other options. Medicare, Medigap policies, health maintenance organizations (HMOs), long-term care insurance, AHCCCS or veterans’ benefits may help cover your medical and long-term care expenses.