Healthy Habits:
Nutrition and Tips to Keep You in Shape
Seniors Turnout
SENIORcare 2024
Our yearly publication is SENIORcare is not only a resource for Medicare and Medicare/Medicaid dual enrollment but also a publication dedicated to lifelong learning and personal growth because we believe in the importance of keeping the mind sharp and engaged, even after retirement.
Retirement is often viewed as a time of relaxation, but maintaining mental agility is just as essential as physical well-being. With more time to focus on passions, interests, and new experiences, it’s the perfect stage of life to explore opportunities for intellectual stimulation and personal fulfillment. Our latest publication, Keeping Your Mind in Motion, Even After Retirement, is explicitly designed to help retirees embrace this next chapter, focusing on mental wellness and active engagement.
SENIORcare Keeping Your Mind in Motion, Even After Retirement, is a comprehensive guide that provides practical advice, insightful strategies, and engaging activities to help seniors stay mentally fit. From learning new skills to staying socially connected, SENIORcare offers various ways to keep the brain healthy, active, and inspired. We believe it will serve as an invaluable resource for those entering or already enjoying their retirement. We would be honored if you could take a moment to explore this publication. We are confident that it will resonate with individuals seeking to maintain a fulfilling and active lifestyle throughout their later years.
Your journey to lifelong learning and personal growth starts here.
Stay Positive and Active!
Hiram E. Jackson Publisher, Michigan Chronicle Chief Executive Officer, Real Times Media
Healthy Habits:
Nutrition
and Tips to Keep You in Shape
By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER
Growing up, my grandmother always said, “Your body is your temple; take care of it like it’s sacred.” That message feels even more urgent today as our communities are grappling with health disparities. Whether it’s diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure, these issues disproportionately affect Black people, and it’s not by accident. The truth is that the foods we eat, how much we move, and the lifestyle choices we make play a massive role in shaping our well-being. Creating healthy habits isn’t limited to fitting into a certain size or look; it’s much deeper, like reclaiming control over our health, our futures, and our communities.
Understanding how to nourish your body is the first step in that reclamation. Nutrient-rich foods have the power to heal, energize, and protect, while over-processed, sugar-laden options tend
to do the opposite. More than anything, though, it’s about education—knowing what to eat, how much, and why it matters.
The Power of Nutrition
Nutrition is the foundation of a healthy lifestyle. Food is fuel, plain and simple. But for many in the Black community, access to affordable, nutritious options is still a struggle. It’s no secret that areas with predominantly Black populations often experience food deserts—places where grocery stores offering fresh produce are few and far between. When you’re surrounded by fast food joints and corner stores filled with processed snacks, it’s no surprise that chronic illnesses skyrocket. But this isn’t just simplified to physical access. We must acknowledge the knowledge of how to fuel our bodies the right way when healthy options are available.
Foods like leafy greens, whole grains, lean proteins, and fresh fruits can do wonders for the body. Dark, leafy greens like spinach, collard greens, and kale are
packed with vitamins like A, C, and K, along with fiber and antioxidants that support immune health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and oats are excellent for heart health, keeping blood sugar levels stable while providing lasting energy throughout the day.
Protein is another pillar of balanced
nutrition, helping to build and repair muscles. However, not all protein sources are equal. Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel offer omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation and support heart health. Plant-based proteins like beans, lentils, and tofu are excellent options for those looking to reduce their meat consumption
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Seniors Turnout The Vote
Donald James
SENIOR WRITER, REAL TIMES MEDIA
For local, state, and national elections, it has always been paramount for eligible voters to consistently turn out the vote. While a broad range of voters represent numerous age demographics, senior citizens make up a significant bloc and are one of the fastest-growing and most influential segments of voters.
The senior population is defined as individuals aged 65 and older and are often referred to as Baby boomers. The group is considered the most engaged and dependable bloc of voters. It’s not difficult to understand why today’s senior citizens are critical and intricate to the overall voting process. In many cases, senior Black voters have much to voice their choice about, hav-
ing lived through the Jim Crow Era and Civil Rights Movement, producing a wide range of social and political issues. Voting rights were sometimes denied or made difficult to achieve.
“These voters, as a group, became politically aware during the civil rights movement, women’s rights, and Watergate,” said Bob Ward, a national pollster who has been polling older voters for the AARP for years. “Their politics were defined in an era that collectively can be seen as a little bit more center-left.”
Seniors are motivated to vote regularly, especially when issues such as Social Security, Medicare, prescription drug costs, and concerns over caregiving are topics frequently talked about by politicians who want to make cuts at the expense of the older population. Many senior voters live
process, especially for those who want to vote in person on the day of the elections, community and other organization volunteers have created driver programs to help transport seniors to and from the polls. Voting via absentee ballot has also been a preferred method of voting for many seniors who would rather not or could not go to the polls.
The opportunity to vote by mail or absentee ballots has been emphasized more, especially since the 2020 onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it should not be taken for granted that all senior citizens are familiar with the absentee and mailin voting procedures. Therefore, it should be incumbent on various community and civic organizations to conduct workshops –in-person and virtually - to explain, step-bystep, the necessary process for completing and returning absentee/mail-in ballots.
While all elections are important, most political pundits and pollsters believe that the November 5, 2024, presidential general election may be the most consequential in American history. Seniors will be counted on again to turn the vote on the many issues facing America, including the economy, illegal border crossings, women’s reproduction rights, and raging international wars, directly and indirectly impacting America and maintaining a firm grip on democracy on American soil. To meet these monumental moments, seniors and other voting demographics must vote by any legal means necessary.
on fixed incomes and know a different economic reality than younger voters. Seniors understand that elected officials make political decisions about almost everything in America and beyond, ranging from housing, healthcare, education, transportation, public safety, the environment, and more. Voting for the right or wrong person or issues can have profound consequences, and seniors, more than other segments of voters, understand the full dynamics of elections and the impact of turning out the vote.
While many senior citizens have the right to vote, casting the actual ballot can sometimes be problematic. Sometimes, obstacles factor into the equation of seniors refraining from voting at the polls because of transportation issues. Nevertheless, to keep senior citizens engaged in the voting
The Pew Research Center believes seniors will do just that. The Center has consistently reported that American senior citizens are the most reliable voters to turnout in primaries, midterms, and general elections. In the 2020 presidential general election, Pew reported that 74 percent of eligible voter aged 65 and older voted. In 2016, 71 percent of those voters aged 65 and older voted in the presidential general election.
“They are the stability of the American electorate,” said an AARP writer. “They are the only group that I believe looks out not only for their own well-being but the well-being of their children and grandchildren. If candidates want to win, they better pay attention to the issues that matter to American seniors because they can be counted on to turnout the vote.”
For more information about voting in Michigan, including how to vote in the state, registering to vote, registering to vote on election day, how to request absentee ballots and return them, early voting, ID requirements on election day, voting with a disability, deadlines, and more, visit https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/.
Lifelong Learning: How to Keep Your Brain Sharp Through Online Classes and Workshops
By Ebony JJ Curry SENIOR REPORTER
Lifelong learning has long been a core value within the Black community. Our ancestors understood that knowledge is not only power but also the key to liberation and empowerment. Today, the idea of education as a tool for personal and communal growth continues to shape our lives, particularly as we face the challenges of a rapidly changing world. Yet, learning doesn’t stop when we leave the classroom or earn a degree. It must be an ongoing process, one that evolves as we do. And with the expansion of technology, staying mentally sharp has never been more accessible.
For many, online courses and workshops are opening new doors to knowledge and personal development, making lifelong learning a reality for anyone with an internet connection. As we consider how to keep our brains sharp and engaged, these digital platforms offer an opportunity that speaks directly to the times. But beyond that, they offer pathways to strengthen our collective future—whether it’s through financial literacy, understanding climate change, or exploring new technology fields like AI or cybersecurity. The importance of continuing education is bigger than individual success. It shines a light on contributing to the progress of our communities, staying informed, and ensuring that the gaps—whether technological, economic, or educational—don’t widen.
The Cognitive Benefits of Lifelong Learning
Research shows that lifelong learning significantly benefits brain health, especially as we age. Regular intellectual engagement helps prevent cognitive decline, keeping the brain active and sharp. This doesn’t mean returning to the rigors of formal education. Instead, it’s about fostering curiosity and creating habits of learning that help the brain create new pathways and connections.
Dr. Carol Barnes, a leading neuroscientist, explains that “the brain is like a muscle—the more you use it, the stronger it gets.” Engaging in mental exercises such as reading, problem-solving, and learning new skills allows the brain to grow more resilient against the effects of aging. What’s powerful about this is that it reminds us we are in control of our mental well-being. The digital age has handed us the tools; now, it’s up to us to decide how we will use them to build our mental stamina.
Workshops on critical thinking, art, coding, or even mental health can be just as valuable as traditional academic courses. In fact, they often address the holistic aspects of life that formal education doesn’t always cover. That’s why it’s important to explore these platforms, not just for career advancement but for the well-being of our entire being.
Accessible Education for Black Communities
In Detroit, where disparities in access to quality education and technology persist, lifelong learning via online platforms offers a meaningful way to bridge that divide.
Programs designed to uplift and empower Black communities are critical in a landscape where the digital divide continues to present a barrier for so many. Detroit has seen significant strides in tech development, but there’s still work to be done to ensure that Black Detroiters can fully access and benefit from these advances.
Bertha Washington, a 78-year-old Detroiter, embodies the spirit of lifelong learning. After retiring, she found herself eager to keep her mind and body active, enrolling in various online and community-based classes ranging from Pilates to social media and even pottery. Her excitement for learning is palpable.
“I always tell people, just because you’re older doesn’t mean you have to stop growing. I take Pilates to keep my body strong, social media classes to keep up with my grandkids, and pottery because it feeds my soul. These classes make me feel alive, connected, and sharp,” Washington shares.
Her words echo the importance of staying engaged at any age, proving that lifelong learning is a powerful tool for not just personal fulfillment but also intergenerational connection.
Local organizations and institutions have begun to offer free or low-cost courses and workshops in partnership with national educational platforms. This creates a space for Black learners, young and old, to engage with subjects that may not have been readily available before. For example, the Detroit Public Library offers a range of online learning resources, including courses on basic computing, digital literacy, and even entrepreneurship. These resources equip people with the skills to navigate the evolving job market and allow for creative and intellectual growth.
Financial Literacy and Economic Empowerment
One area where online learning is making a real difference is financial literacy. Black communities have long been disproportionately impacted by economic disparities. By offering courses that teach financial management, investment, and entrepreneurship, online learning platforms can help Black families build generational wealth and foster economic empowerment.
Online financial literacy courses not only teach budgeting and credit management but also cover investments, real estate, and entrepreneurship, which can serve as vehicles for upward mobility. This access to education is especially important for Black communities in Michigan, where economic inequality remains a significant barrier. Lifelong learning in this area can equip us with the tools to advocate for our economic futures, whether that’s securing better-paying jobs or building successful businesses.
Local community-based organizations are already leading in this area. For example, Detroit’s TechTown, a business incubator and accelerator, offers workshops and training for Black entrepreneurs who are looking to grow their businesses. These resources are critical, ensuring that Black Detroiters can thrive in a modern, technology-driven economy.
Mental Wellness Through Education
Learning is not limited to just the brain; it’s for the soul. Lifelong learning can contribute to emotional well-being, especially through workshops centered around mindfulness, mental health, and emotional intelligence. We often talk about mental wellness in relation to therapy or exercise, but education also plays a role. Classes on emotional intelligence or even yoga and meditation can be an antidote to the stresses of daily life.
In Black communities where mental health is often stigmatized, learning how to navigate these emotional waters through online workshops can be life-changing. These platforms provide spaces for personal growth, where mental wellness is treated as an integral part of overall health.
Workshops focused on the Black experience—such as healing from racial trauma or building resilience—are particularly vital. They offer culturally relevant tools to help people manage stress and trauma, ensuring that mental health becomes a priority.
A Future of Collective Growth
Lifelong learning, especially through accessible online classes and workshops, is essential to fostering a community that thrives in all aspects. From cognitive health to economic empowerment, the impact is clear. By engaging in ongoing education, we invest in our futures and ensure that our minds, bodies, and communities stay strong and resilient.
The time is now to embrace these opportunities and shift the narrative of who has access to education and growth. Yes, it’s about personal development, but it’s also about shaping the future of the Black community in ways that are informed, empowered, and capable of overcoming any challenge. Detroit and other Black communities across the nation can continue to rise by making sure we are intellectually prepared for whatever comes our way.
Lifelong learning is a personal journey and a community imperative, and with the wealth of online tools at our fingertips, it’s easier than ever to keep our brains sharp and our spirits strong.
Growing Better and Gracefully in Metro Detroit
A ging is everybody’s business -- and that’s the message from Ron Taylor, President & CEO, Detroit Area Agency on Aging (DAAA). This new grandfather is focused on improving the quality of life for approximately 150,000 adults age 60+ in Detroit, Highland Park, Hamtramck, Harper Woods and the five Grosse Pointes –and all the generations to follow. He knows most older adults want to stay in their own homes, even when they are challenged by stairs or overdue home repairs. Much of the work by the DAAA Team is to better prepare people of all ages for the challenges of family caregiving, retirement planning, and building and sustaining healthy lifestyles.
As Ron Taylor explains, “Most people know us for Meals on Wheels, yet our portfolio of services, beginning with basic information and referrals, covers everything from telehealth and in-home primary care assistance to senior employment opportunities and evidence-based health and wellness programs, including the prevention and management of chronic illnesses, like diabetes.”
Taylor adds, “The years creep up on all of us. We may have successfully raised our children without manuals, but too often, we have neglected our own changing needs over the years. This includes our need for better health care, housing, transportation and more. These are societal challenges for individuals, families, and communities in the U.S. and around the world, especially as the senior population grows.”
The World Health Organization reports that between 2015 and 2050, the proportion of the world’s population over the age of 60 will nearly double from 12% to 22%. In 2020, the number of people age 60+ outnumbered children younger than age five. Between 2010 and 2020, America’s senior population, 65 and over, grew at nearly twice the rate (39%) of the prior decade, while the youth population under age18 declined.
America’s Baby Boomers, those born between 1946 and 1964, are the largest generation in the U.S. -- 76 million Americans. The youngest of them, at age 60, are often caregivers to aging parents, grandchildren, or their own adult children with special needs. According to 2021 data from the Michigan Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, approximately 21.4% of Michigan adults, or 1.4 million people, provide care to family or friends. This includes people of all ages who provide a range of assistance, such as transportation, feeding, and bathing.
To meet the changing needs of caregivers, DAAA provides classes and webinars, caregiving training, selfcare strategies, and tailored assessments to address everything from caregiver burnout to assistance in developing care plans. According to Taylor, “Family caregivers often put their own lives on hold while they care for others. In the process, they play a big role in keeping loved ones in their homes and communities. It’s what we call aging in place, and it is the preference
for most older adults.”
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines aging in place as “the ability to live in one’s own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level.” For many, nursing homes and assisted living options can be avoided with the delivery of in-home services. Some 4000 individuals in DAAA’s service area are the recipients of income-based long-term care clinical services, managed by the agency’s team of nurses and social workers. However, meeting the needs of older adults at all income levels remains a challenge throughout the country – and meeting those needs is part of the transformation at the Detroit Area Agency on Aging.
“As a country, we are experiencing significant changes to improve coordination in the delivery of health and social services,” Taylor explains. “I’m proud that our agency is a major player in making this happen locally. The COVID-19 pandemic called attention to the already premature deaths of people of color, and federal mandates now assure more coordination nation-wide. I believe a better future is ahead, with access to quality health care for every generation. Better health will ultimately extend longevity, and that’s the future I want for the people we serve at the Detroit Area Agency on Aging.”
For more information about the Detroit Area Agency on Aging, visit www.DetroitSeniorSolution.com or call 313/446-4444.
Mindful Aging: The Benefits of Meditation and Mindfulness for Seniors
By Amber Ogden STAFF WRITER
Focusing on mindful aging, seniors can find profound benefits in meditation and mindfulness practices. These techniques help reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and foster a sense of peace. By engaging in regular meditation, older adults can experience better sleep, lower blood pressure, and an overall enhanced sense of well-being. Incorporating mindfulness into daily routines, such as during meals or even a walk, can also help seniors stay present and appreciate the simple things and joys in life.
One key benefit of meditation for seniors is its positive impact on mental clarity and cognitive health. As we age, the brain’s cognitive functions, such as memory and attention, may decline.
By focusing on the now, mindfulness exercises stimulate the brain, fostering the brain’s ability to form new connections. This practice has been shown to improve memory, enhance attention span, and reduce the risk of cognitive decline, including conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s.
As people age, they often experience different sources of stress, such as health issues and significant life adjustments. Meditation and mindfulness offer a reliable and beneficial method for handling stress
and anxiety. These practices promote a sense of calm and relaxation while encouraging a focused and present mindset, ultimately reducing the body’s production of cortisol, the stress hormone. Consistent meditation can also help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, which are common among older adults, leading to a more serene and emotionally balanced state.
As many seniors struggle with sleep-related issues such as insomnia or disrupted sleep, mindfulness-based practices offer a natural solution to relax.
Meditation has been shown to improve sleep quality by relaxing the mind and body, reducing nighttime anxiety, and promoting a sense of inner peace. Techniques such as body scan meditation or mindful breathing can help seniors fall asleep more easily and enjoy deeper, more restorative rest.
Chronic pain is common in the process, often due to conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis. Meditation, particularly Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), has been shown to help seniors manage pain more effectively. By teaching seniors to focus on their breath and body sensations, mindfulness practices can reduce the perception of pain and discomfort.
According to Frontiers in Psychology, seniors who participate in Tai Chi exercises can help improve their mem-
ory and make it easier to control their emotions. This is especially helpful for seniors who struggle with symptoms like sundowning and managing their emotions. It could really help them feel better emotionally.
In addition to pain management, mindfulness practices incorporating gentle movements, such as yoga or Tai Chi, can enhance physical mobility and balance. These exercises help seniors maintain flexibility, improve posture, and reduce the risk of falls, one of the most common health risks for the elderly.
Mindfulness encourages seniors to stay present in the moment and engage with their surroundings, leading to greater emotional well-being. By fostering a sense of gratitude, acceptance, and self-compassion, meditation can help seniors combat feelings of loneliness or sadness that often accompany aging. Many seniors also find that participating in group meditation or mindfulness classes provides a sense of community and social connection, which is essential for emotional health.
Incorporating the regular practice of meditation and mindfulness into seniors’ daily routines can provide them with a powerful tool for navigating the aging process with grace, peace, and vitality. These practices have been found to nurture the mind and body and foster a deeper sense of purpose and self-awareness, leading to a more fulfilling and enriching experience of life.
As more is learned about the benefits of mindfulness for seniors, it becomes clear that these practices hold tremendous promise for enhancing the overall quality of life during the golden years.
Caregivers will find support and resources at the Alzheimer’s Association
When a person is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, life changes very quickly for all involved. The role of caregiver can be an overwhelming task. According to the 2024 Alzheimer’s Association Facts and Figures Report, there are 380,000 individuals providing unpaid care to someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia in Michigan. They are providing 872 million hours of work – the highest average amount of hours per caregiver in the U.S. -- estimated at a value of more than $17 billion.
As people go through the journey of caregiving, it can be isolating and emotional. Depending on the family structure of the patient and caregiver, some people may feel hesitant, guilty or embarrassed to ask for help or even talk about their experience as a caregiver.
“It is crucial that caregivers receive assistance, resources, and support,” said Jennifer Lepard, president and CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association Michigan Chapter. “Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia can be an overwhelming responsibility. It is important they know that they are not alone. The Alzheimer’s Association is there for caregivers with free educational programs, support groups and other resources.”
Some of the programs that the Association provides for caregivers include:
• Virtual or in-person support groups across the state.
• Educational programs that provide information on what to expect as a caregiver during each stage of Alzheimer’s, communication strategies, behavioral changes, financial and legal information and more.
• Consultations with counselors to create a care plan and discuss common concerns like wandering, safety, communication issues and driving.
• Social engagement activities for those in the early stages of the disease and their caregiver, including museum tours, classes, and concerts.
Along with educational and social support, there is also financial support available. The Association offers respite care scholarships, providing financial assistance for those in need of caregiving assistance.
“We are a phone call or email away,” said Lepard. “Please don’t hesitate, we are here to help and support you.”
To learn more about all of the programs and resources the Alzheimer’s Association offers, visit www.alz.org/gmc or reach out to our helpline at helplinegmc@alz.org or 800.292.3900.
Healthy Habits
From page 3
while still getting the nutrients they need.
April Perry, a nutritionist who has worked with numerous diabetes patients, emphasizes the importance of making consistent, manageable changes. “It’s not about making a complete overhaul overnight. Start with simple swaps—choose water instead of sugary drinks, or add more greens to your meals. These small changes over time can have a lasting impact on managing blood sugar and overall health,” she says.
The key to healthy nutrition is balance. It’s not about restrictive diets but making sure that your body gets the right variety of foods. It’s also crucial to be mindful of portion sizes and how much you’re consuming, even with healthier foods. Eating large portions of anything, even whole grains and proteins can lead to overconsumption, ultimately causing weight gain and other health issues.
Hydration: The Unsung Hero
Water is a game-changer when it comes to maintaining health. It flushes out toxins, keeps our organs functioning correctly, and can even help control hunger by making us feel fuller. Many of us underestimate the importance of staying hydrated. Dehydration often mimics hunger, leading to unnecessary snacking when all our bodies need is water. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and if you struggle with this, try flavoring your water with fresh fruits or herbs to make it more enjoyable.
Sugary drinks, like sodas and storebought juices, may seem harmless, but they add unnecessary calories and spike blood sugar. Replacing them with water or herbal teas can make a huge difference in overall health.
Movement Matters
Eating well is only one piece of the puzzle. Physical activity is equally important to keep your body functioning at its best. Exercise strengthens muscles, improves cardiovascular health, and boosts mood by releasing endorphins. But often, people associate exercise with rigid gym routines or unattainable fitness goals, which can be discouraging.
For our community, it’s important to reframe what physical activity means. It doesn’t have to be about spending hours in the gym or lifting weights. Walking, dancing, biking, and even gardening are all forms of exercise that can help keep the body active and healthy. Start small, especially if you haven’t been physically active in a while. Even 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day can significantly impact your health. That could mean a brisk walk
around the block, a quick yoga session, or a dance-off with your kids.
Sleep: The Overlooked Necessity
We can’t talk about healthy habits without acknowledging sleep. It’s often pushed to the back burner in the hustle and grind of daily life. However, lack of sleep can increase stress levels, lower immunity, and even affect our ability to make healthy food choices. Aiming for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night helps your body
recover, supports brain function, and keeps your immune system strong. If sleep is a challenge, establish a nighttime routine that helps you unwind—maybe that’s reading a book, drinking chamomile tea, or taking a warm bath.
Redefining Health as Self-Care
There is power in seeing health as selfcare. It’s about loving yourself enough to fuel your body with good food, move your body regularly, stay hydrated, and rest
when you need it. In the Black community, there is a cultural history of perseverance and pushing through—often at the cost of our health. But this isn’t sustainable. Prioritizing health means understanding that you can’t pour from an empty cup. When you take care of yourself, you’re also taking care of your family, your community, and your future.
Making Change Accessible
Building healthy habits might sound overwhelming, but small changes make a big difference. Start by swapping out one unhealthy meal a day for something more nutritious, or commit to walking for 10 minutes each day. Gradually, those small changes will become second nature, and you’ll notice the benefits.
It’s also essential for our communities to push for better access to nutritious food and health education. Advocating for community gardens, supporting Black-owned grocery stores, and creating wellness programs within churches and community centers are ways we can take health into our own hands.
Our health is our wealth. The more we understand that, the more we can build stronger, healthier futures for ourselves and our communities. The journey to better health doesn’t have to be drastic or fast, but it does need to start today. Our lives depend on it.
Get Ready for Medicare Open Enrollment Season: What you should know.
By Donald James SENIOR WRITER, REAL TIMES MEDIA
Between Tuesday, Oct. 15 and Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, is a crucial time for more than 67 million people receiving health insurance through Medicare. The annual period represents a window of time when Medicare enrollees can review their coverage options and make changes related to health plans and prescription drugs. Changes made during Medicare Open Enrollment go in effect on January 1, 2025. This annual enrollment period is for anyone enrolled in Medicare Parts A and/or B, including those who may already be enrolled in a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan. One of the most prevalent questions asked about Open Enrollment is, How do people know if they need to change their plan?
People in a Medicare health or prescription drug plan should always review the materials their plans send them, like the “Evidence of Coverage” (EOC) and “Annual Notice of Change” (ANOC). When reviewing your ANOC, there are some key components to consider about how any changes could affect you, including Premium - Are you going to pay more, less, or the same amount each month for your current plan? Deductible – Is the amount you have to pay
out of pocket before your plan covers your claim going to increase, decrease, or stay the same? Network – Are there any changes to your network’s providers, facilities, and pharmacies?
During the Open Enrollment Period, weighing the pros and cons of coverage through the federally run original Medicare program or a private Medicare Advantage plan is advisable, and understanding the benefits of each is important.
When weighing whether to change coverage or keep it the same, there is much to consider. Listed are some tips to consider during the Medicare Open Enrollment Season.
Don’t allow Open Enrollment to come and go without checking to make sure that your current coverage is sufficient enough to meet medical needs and the coverage is the best financial option possible. Even if your current medical plan works for you, shopping around to see what’s available and affordable won’t hurt.
Keep in mind if you miss this year’s Open Enrollment, it is highly possible that you cannot enroll or make changes to your coverage until the following year’s Open Enrollment. However, if you do miss the open enrollment period (Oct. 15 to Dec.7), there
Imagine Life Without Joint Pain
are ways you can make changes during the year if your circumstances change.
Review the Medicare & You handbook and think about your healthcare needs. Compare your existing plans to alternatives.
Know the Open Enrollment rules and understand what you can and can’t change. You can switch from original Medicare to Medicare Advantage (or vice versa), change your Medicare Advantage plan, and join or switch to a different Medicare prescription drug plan.
Talk with your doctors’ offices and speak with personnel who can tell you which plans the respective doctors will accept next year. If they are dropping your existing plan, you will want to check if other plans are financially feasible.
Look out for Medicare scams. Don’t believe all the ads you’ll see during Open Enrollment. It is illegal for any licensed Medicare agent to contact you unsolicited. Never give your personal information about Medicare when contacted “unsolicited” via text, phone, or email.
If you have questions and need assistance navigating through the Medicare Open Enrollment Season or to compare plans, call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE or
log on to www.Medicare.gov. In addition, there are State Health Insurance Assistance Programs in every state, and they provide free one-on-one insurance counseling and assistance from trained counselors. In Michigan, call 1.800.803.7174 for more information.
Once you have identified a plan or plans that may fit your particular health needs, you can look up how well those plans rate. Medicare.gov lets you research plan quality and performance ratings. U.S. News and World Report is also a reliable source. They evaluate all insurance companies and the plans offered in each state. Nevertheless, keep in mind you do not have to make any changes during Open Enrollment if you are satisfied with the Medicare health insurance coverage and feel that it will be sufficient throughout 2025.
“Most people don’t pay much attention to the open enrollment period, and that can come at a cost,” says Tricia Neuman, Kaiser Family Foundation’s senior vice president and executive director of the nonpartisan nonprofit’s Program on Medicare Policy. “Beneficiaries can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars by finding a prescription drug or Medicare Advantage plan that better meets their needs.”
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