Life Changes? Here’s How to Use a Mid‑Year Special Enrollment Period (SEP)

July is the halfway point in the Medicare calendar—smack between last fall’s Annual Election Period (AEP) and this October’s next round. If you’ve had a big life change since January, you don’t have to wait until October 15 to tweak your coverage. Medicare gives you a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) so you can pivot mid‑year and still keep costs (and stress) under control. What Exactly Is a SEP? When certain events happen—think moving, losing other insurance, or […]

Beat the Heat: Hydration & Safety Tips for Older Adults

Summer is here, and forecasters are calling for another stretch of above‑average temperatures across much of the country. That’s more than just an inconvenience if you’re 65 or older: heat‑related deaths in our age group jumped 85 percent between 2000 and 2021—a reminder that hot weather deserves real respect. Below are quick, actionable steps to stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay out of the ER this July. 1. Hydrate Before You’re Thirsty Aim for a glass of water […]

Medicare and Dental

Why Doesn’t Medicare Cover Dental? Plus Options for Seniors When it comes to healthcare in retirement, many seniors are surprised to learn that Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not cover most dental services. This means routine exams, cleanings, fillings, dentures, and other essential dental care are out-of-pocket expenses for most beneficiaries. Why Isn’t Dental Covered by Medicare? Medicare was designed in 1965 primarily to cover hospital and medical insurance, focusing on urgent […]

National Nutrition Month

How Medicare Supports Your Nutrition Journey to Better Health March marks National Nutrition Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of healthy eating and making informed food choices. This year’s theme encourages us to “Fuel for the Future,” reminding us that good nutrition plays a key role in maintaining health and well-being, especially as we age. Why Nutrition Matters for Seniors Good nutrition is essential for everyone, but as we get older, […]

Honoring Family Caregivers: Understanding Medicare Coverage and Exploring Alternative Care Solutions

National Caregivers Day, observed on the third Friday of February, is a time to recognize the dedication of those who care for aging loved ones while balancing their own careers and personal responsibilities. Many step into this role due to gaps in Medicare coverage, often seeking alternative care options to meet their family’s needs. Gaining a clear understanding of what Medicare does and does not cover—and exploring available support options—can help ease the challenges of […]

How Medicare and In-Home Care Support Aging in Place

February is Senior Independence Month, a time to highlight the importance of tools and services that help older adults maintain their independence. For seniors recovering from an injury, surgery, or illness, access to therapy, rehabilitation services, durable medical equipment (DME), and in-home care services can be critical for a successful recovery and long-term health. Medicare Coverage: Therapy, Rehabilitation, and Durable Medical Equipment Therapy and Rehabilitation Services Covered by Medicare Part B Medicare Part B plays […]

Understanding Seasonal Depression (S.A.D) & How your Medicare Coverage Benefits Can Support You

As the days get shorter and the weather grows colder, many people notice changes in their mood and energy levels. For some, these changes may develop into a condition known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that typically occurs during the fall and winter months. If you’re a Medicare beneficiary, it’s important to know how to recognize the signs of seasonal depression and learn how telehealth services can help manage your mental […]

Understanding Medicare’s Support for Diabetes: Benefits, Supplies, and Healthy Living Tips

Over 37 million Americans are living with diabetes, and nearly half of them are over the age of 65. For seniors, managing diabetes is crucial, and Medicare plays a key role in providing access to life-saving supplies and treatments. November is American Diabetes Month, a time to raise awareness about diabetes, its risk factors, and how to manage it. For Medicare beneficiaries, understanding diabetes and how Medicare helps cover treatment is especially important. What is […]

CMS Releases 2025 Medicare Parts A & B Premiums and Deductibles

On November 8, 2024, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the 2025 premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance amounts for the Medicare Part A and Part B programs, and the 2025 Medicare Part D income-related monthly adjustment amounts.  CMS Full Press Release HERE 2025 At A Glance: The standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B enrollees will be $185.00 for 2025, an increase of $10.30 from $174.70 in 2024. The annual deductible for all […]

November is Home Care, Hospice, and Palliative Care Awareness Month: Understanding Your Options When Planning for In-Home Care

November is Home Care, Hospice, and Palliative Care Month, making it a great time to educate our readers on the various options available to help individuals remain in their homes as they age, while receiving quality care when needed. Whether it’s assistance with daily tasks or specialized medical care, there are several services available that can help people live comfortably and independently for as long as possible. But what do these services include, and how […]