Part D in 2026: What the New $2,100 Limit Means—And What To Do This Fall
Big Part D changes kicked in for 2025, and they keep evolving for 2026. Use September to review your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) (arrives by Sept 30) and prep for the fall shopping season. The headline numbers How the redesigned benefit works What to do in September Why this matters even if you don’t…
Important SSA Update: No More Paper Benefit Checks Starting September 30, 2025
If you currently receive your Social Security benefits by paper check, you’ll need to take action soon. Starting September 30, 2025, federal benefit payments will switch almost entirely to electronic payments. This change is happening to make payments safer, faster, and easier for everyone. What This Means for You How to Get Your Benefits Electronically…
Stay on Your Feet: Fall-Proof Your Home Before Autumn
September is prime time to tidy up tripping hazards and get ready for Falls Prevention Awareness Week (Sept 22–26, 2025)—a national push to help older adults stay independent and injury-free. Why this matters: Falls are the leading cause of injury in adults 65+; about 1 in 4 older adults reports falling each year. In 2023…
Reading Your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC)
Every August/September, your Medicare Advantage (MA) or Part D drug plan drops a thick envelope in your mailbox titled “Plan Annual Notice of Change (ANOC).” It’s the plan’s yearly “heads-up” on what will look different starting January 1, and by rule it has to reach you no later than September 30. Why the deadline? CMS…
Vaccinations: What Medicare Covers At No Charge
August might still feel like pool-weather, but it’s the perfect month to lock in the vaccines that will carry you safely through flu-season and the winter COVID-wave—and, new this year for many of us, RSV protection. Here’s the quick low-down for Medicare beneficiaries 65-plus (and younger friends with certain conditions). Why Book in August? 1….
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…