It’s never too late to stop smoking even if you’ve been smoking for decades. Older Americans who quit can see rapid improvements in their breathing and circulation. It is one of the most important things older adults can do to reduce their risk of heart disease, including heart attacks and stroke.

Even if you’ve tried to quit smoking before, you can succeed at quitting this time with some help. Many resources are available such as:(All links are Off Site)

If you are aged 65 years and older, have Medicare Part B fee-for-service coverage, and you live in Alabama, Florida, Missouri, Ohio, Oklahoma, Nebraska, or Wyoming you may be eligible to participate in the Medicare Stop Smoking Program. It is a demonstration project offering various types of smoking cessation services including information, counseling, and medications. Enrollment is voluntary. To enroll in the Medicare Stop Smoking Program call toll-free 1-866-652-3446. Enrollment ends September 30, 2003.