Flu vs. Cold: Guide to Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments for Older Adults

The flu and the common cold are both upper respiratory infections that tend to pop up throughout the year (but especially in the colder months). Respiratory illnesses are infections of the body’s respiratory system, which includes the nose, sinuses, mouth, throat, voicebox, windpipe, and lungs. The cold and flu affect the upper respiratory system (nose, sinuses, and throat).

Since these illnesses can be common, it’s easy to ignore the symptoms and to avoid taking preventative measures. It’s also easy to not know whether you have a cold or flu! However, both can have some serious ramifications if not taken seriously! What have you done to protect yourself from the flu and the common cold?

How to Tell the Difference Between Cold and Flu

Colds can share symptoms with the flu, making it hard to tell which one you have. It’s important to find out early on whether you have the flu or a cold,  because the treatment path may be different. Additionally, the flu can lead to more complications, so it’s better to know as soon as possible if there are other symptoms you need to watch for.

The CDC says that you should see a doctor to be tested for the flu within your first few days of experiencing symptoms. However, there are a few symptom differences you can look for on your own to start with. Mainly, if you have a fever or are experiencing chills, you should definitely see the doctor and find out if you have the flu. Both colds and the flu often come with headaches, fatigue, nasal congestion (runny or stuffy nose), and sometimes body aches or feverish symptoms. 

The flu tends to be much more abrupt than a cold; you might feel great one day and awful the next. Most people will also have a fever and chills that last for multiple days with the flu, while a fever is more rare with a cold. 

Colds tend to be much milder, so there’s a good chance that once you’ve had a few, you’ll know whether you have the flu or a cold. It’s still always a good idea to check with your doctor if you aren’t sure. 

Common Cold Symptoms

The common cold can manifest slightly differently in each person. However, common symptoms of a cold are:

• Runny nose
• Stuffy nose
• Sneezing
• Nasal congestion
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Mild headaches and body aches
• Fatigue
• Low-grade fever

You should see a doctor if you aren’t sure whether you have a cold or the flu, but you should definitely see a doctor (visit an urgent care facility if necessary) if you experience shortness of breath, wheezing, severe pain, a fever that lasts more than one day, or any fever that reaches over 101.3 degrees.

Common Cold Virus Name & Causes

The common cold virus is most often caused by either coronaviruses or rhinoviruses. It is uncommon, but possible, for these viruses to cause further damage, such as pneumonia and bronchitis. Further damage is more common with the flu than with the common cold, and is more common in people who already have immune disorders or are affected by other conditions.

Coronaviruses and rhinoviruses can spread through the air when someone who has a virus coughs, sneezes, or even talks. The viruses can enter your body through your mouth, eyes, or nose. 

Common Cold Prevention

Since the cold virus spreads through air particles, it can be anywhere. It’s best to always avoid touching your mouth, eyes, or nose without thoroughly washing your hands first. You should also avoid sharing bath towels, food, drinks, and even everyday objects like computer keyboards with someone who is sick.

Sometimes, you may not know that people are sick. That’s why it’s also best to always be cautious in public areas. For example, airports and planes carry a lot of germs, which may be why you find yourself getting sick whenever you travel for the holidays. Believe it or not, USA Today reported that security bins are the most germ-ridden objects in airports. Think about it – is anybody cleaning those trays? Probably not, or at least not very often, yet thousands of travelers touch them and put their objects in them every day.

Always wash your hands after touching public objects, and avoid touching them when you can! Carry hand sanitizer with you for moments when you can’t get to a sink.

You can help keep the cold virus from spreading through your home, office, and any other public area by:

• Staying home when you’re sick, if possible
• Avoiding hugs, kisses, and handshakes
• Coughing into your arm, not your hands
• Sneezing into a tissue
• Washing your hands immediately after blowing your nose
• Using cleaning products to disinfect surfaces

Can the Cold Virus be Transmitted Through Food?

The cold virus can absolutely be transmitted through food. Whether you’re sharing a disk with someone or coughing over the food you’re serving, your germs can live on your food. In fact, one hospital reported that cold viruses could remain on a surface for as long as seven days.

Head Cold vs. Cold

Some people use the terms “head cold” and “common cold” interchangeably. Realistically, a head cold is a form of the common cold. You could either have a head cold or a chest cold, it just depends on the location of your symptoms. A head cold probably means that you have either a stuffy or runny nose and some congestion along with a fever or a headache. If you have a chest cold, you’re more likely to feel that in your throat, and you might even experience some chest discomfort or wheezing. 

Common Cold vs. Sinus Infection

It may be hard to tell whether you have a cold or a sinus infection because the symptoms are generally the same. The only difference is what caused the illness in the first place. While the common cold is a viral infection, a sinus infection is a bacterial infection. You can cure a sinus infection with antibiotics, but antibiotics won’t do much for you if what you have is the common cold. Antibiotics cannot treat a viral infection. 

Common Cold Treatment

There is currently no known cure for the common cold because it is a viral infection and not a bacterial one. You should always see a doctor if your symptoms don’t improve or if you don’t know how to treat your illness. Healthline recommends the following treatment plan for the common cold:

• Get lots of rest and sleep
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially water and natural fruit juices 
  • Certain teas can also be great for a cold
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol
• Eat soup or soup broth
• Use lozenges or cough drops to cure a sore throat
• Use a decongestant or saline spray to loosen up your nasal passages
• Sleep with a humidifier to ease congestion
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen for headaches and fevers

Common Cold Treatment at Home

As long as you are sure that you have a cold and not the flu or a sinus infection, you can treat your cold symptoms at home. Using the suggestions provided by Healthline above and avoiding too much energy exertion may be all you need. 

Be sure to stay hydrated and eat healthy foods while you’re recovering (and all the time). If it’s possible to stay home, let yourself relax for a few days.

Common Cold Medicine

Since the common cold is a viral infection, it cannot be treated with antibiotics. However, there are several different medications on the market that can be purchased over-the-counter and can help cure your symptoms.

There may be a better option on your pharmacy shelf, but after researching common cold medicines, we found the following options: 

• Vicks DayQuil and NyQuil: Relieves headache, fever, sore throat, minor aches and pains, nasal congestion, and cough. The “DayQuil” product is non-drowsy, while the “NyQuil” product may help you sleep at night. Generic versions of these products may be available at your pharmacy.
• Mucinex Sinus-Max: Relieves headache, fever, cough, and nasal congestion. Mucinex has a variety of products that you may find in your pharmacy that offer different types of cold symptom relief. Read each box before you make a decision, or ask your pharmacist for help.
• Robitussin: Controls and relieves cough and chest congestion and thins and loosens mucus. Has a non-drowsy effect. 
• Tylenol Cold + Head: Controls and relieves headache, body aches, fever, sore throat, nasal congestion, chest congestion, and mucus. Tylenol also has a series of products that you may want to look at before making a decision.

Did you know that some Medicare Advantage plans include an over-the-counter pharmacy benefit? Click here to get in touch with a licensed agent.

Ibuprofen for Cold

Some people swear by using ibuprofen products (such as Advil) for treating cold symptoms like headaches and fevers. However, one British study found that ibuprofen is ineffective for sinus pain. You may want to try ibuprofen when you have a cold, but if it doesn’t work and you want to try something else, be sure to wait the appropriate amount of time labeled on the box before putting another medication in your body.  

Common Cold Menthol

Menthol is a cooling ingredient found in plants like mint (it even has a mint-like smell). Menthol is used in Vicks VapoRub and in certain cough drops. Menthol can ease breathing and reduce coughs and throat pain.

How to get rid of a Cold in 24 Hours with Quick Common Cold Remedies

Depending on the severity of your cold, you may not be able to completely get rid of it in 24 hours. However, there are certain steps you can take to speed up your recovery time. The more time you spend sleeping and relaxing, the quicker you are likely to recover.

You should also be sure to eat healthy meals like soups and salads, even if you don’t feel hungry. Only drink water, tea, and all-natural juices that are high in antioxidants, like orange juice and cranberry juice.

Flu Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Influenza, most commonly referred to as “the flu,” can be catastrophic when not handled properly. The flu is different from a cold and is often more severe and abrupt. For instance, most people who have influenza experience a fever. Other symptoms include:

• Fever/feverish chills
• Cough and sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Even if you do not experience all of those symptoms, it does not mean you don’t have the flu. It’s always a good idea to see your doctor if you aren’t sure.

Flu symptoms in elderly people are generally the same as those in the younger population, but they may be more severe.

Your doctor may or may not perform an official flu test to diagnose you, because whether or not you have the flu may not change your treatment plan. Since the flu (like the common cold) is a viral infection, it cannot be treated with antibiotics. 

However, unlike the common cold, the flu can lead to life-threatening illnesses and complications such as pneumonia, sinus infections, ear infections, heart inflammation, muscle inflammation, brain inflammation, and even organ failure. People who have other preexisting conditions such as asthma or heart disease are at a much higher risk of complications.

If you experience any of these more severe symptoms, it is crucial that you get to an urgent care facility or emergency room right away: 

• Difficulty breathing
• Severe chest or abdomen pain
• Dizziness or confusion
• Seizures
• Inability to urinate
• Severe muscle or body pain
• Severe weakness
• High fever
• Severe dehydration
• Other worsening of chronic conditions

There are technically three different types of the flu virus. Types A and B are what cause the annual influenza outbreak that your doctors want you to get vaccinated for. Type C is generally much less severe. Additionally, type A can affect animals as well as humans (though it is highly unlikely that you and your pets will trade the virus back and forth). 

Stages of the Flu

A typical case of influenza will appear as follows:

• Days 1-3: Headache, muscle pain, fatigue, cough, sore throat, fever, stuffy nose
• Day 4: Fever and muscle aches disappear or decrease, while chest discomfort may increase. Fatigue and congestion may continue.
• Day 8: Symptoms overall decline, but fatigue and cough may continue for 1-2 weeks.

When to See a Doctor for the Flu

Without knowing your state of health, we cannot say whether or not you should see a doctor. Some people say that healthy adults really don’t have to see a doctor for the flu at all. However, the earlier you are able to test to find out if you have the flu or a cold, the sooner you can start the appropriate treatment. Plus, if you do have the flu, you can’t get an antiviral prescription without seeing your doctor – and antiviral medications are only effective if you take them within 48 hours of experiencing symptoms.

Flu Treatment for Adults

Similar to the common cold, there is no known cure for the flu. The best way to treat the flu is to treat the symptoms.

Treating flu symptoms in elderly people is not much different than in younger adults or even kids (though kids may need more rest).

The CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone (except to seek medical care). You should stay away from others, wash your hands often, cover coughs and sneezes, and even consider wearing a face mask to avoid infecting others. 

You should care for yourself by: 

• Getting plenty of bed rest
• Drinking lots of fluids, especially water, tea, and natural fruit juice
• Eating only healthy foods and soup/broth
• Using cough drops to soothe a sore throat or cough
• Using a humidifier and nasal sprays to open your passages
• Using over-the-counter cold medicines to reduce pain and discomfort

Prescription Flu Medicine

Unlike treatment for the common cold, a doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication for flu treatment. These drugs work best when you begin treatment early. They can shorten your illness by about a day and can lessen your symptoms, also reducing the chance of further complications.

Tamiflu

Your doctor might prescribe the antiviral medication called Tamiflu for influenza treatment. Tamiflu is available in both liquid and capsule form and is FDA-approved for all ages (two weeks and older).

Make sure to pay attention to your doctor’s instructions when taking Tamiflu.

Tamiflu is most effective when taken within 48 hours of experiencing flu symptoms. You should take it with food according to your doctor’s instructions. The Tamiflu website suggests that anyone over the age of 13 should take 75mg twice daily for five days. Those under the age of 13 should take one dose based on weight twice daily for five days.

Technically, the Tamiflu website advertises that you can take Tamiflu even without experiencing influenza symptoms if you know you’ve been exposed to the flu (for up to six weeks). That might be a good option for couples living together or parents taking care of a child with the flu virus. In this case, you should only take one dose once daily as long as prescribed.

If you are taking any other medications, be sure to disclose that information to your doctor to make sure there won’t be any negative interactions.

Additionally, make sure that if you do have to take liquid Tamiflu for more than days, it should be stored in the refrigerator. All forms of Tamiflu (liquid or capsule form) should be discarded once you stop needing it.

Flu Medicine OTC

Antiviral medications cannot be purchased over-the-counter, but some OTC cold medicines can treat your flu symptoms the same way that they treat cold symptoms. Look for OTC medications labeled “cold & flu” at your local pharmacy, and ask the pharmacist for help.

How Long Does the Flu Last in the Elderly?

The flu virus typically hangs around for about a week, but symptoms can remain for as long as two weeks. People ages 65 and older are more likely to experience complications from the flu than younger adults. 

How to Cure Flu Fast

The fastest way to cure the flu is to take care of yourself and take your doctor’s advice. If your doctor prescribes an antiviral medication, be sure to take it as directed. Regardless, be sure to get plenty of sleep and drink extra water to help cure the flu as quickly as possible.

Getting Your Flu Shot

Since people over the age of 65 are more likely to suffer complications from the flu virus, it is very important that you get your flu shot every year. 

Flu Shot Dangers in Elderly People

The flu shot has been known to cause some minor side effects such as pain, swelling, or soreness at the injection site, as well as muscle aches and headaches. However, the side effects typically only last for one or two days and are much better than contracting the flu and any resounding complications. Additionally, some people may be allergic to the flu shot. Those who are allergic should speak to their doctor about alternatives and ways to prevent infection.

Does Medicare Cover Flu Shots?

Even if your health insurance doesn’t cover your flu shot, many clinics and pharmacies offer free flu shots or give incentives like $5 gift cards when you get your flu shot.

Regardless, if you have Medicare, Medicare Part B will cover your flu shot as a preventative service.

Original Medicare may be all you need to treat the flu, but a Medicare Supplement plan can help you cover your copayments, and a Medicare Advantage plan can add additional benefits such as non-emergency medical transportation to get you to the doctor and over-the-counter drug coverage to fund your cold medicine.

To speak to a licensed agent about adding Medicare coverage, call 844-431-1832, or start searching for plans. 

Healthy Soups for Seniors

There are thousands of unique soup recipes out there on the internet. While soup may only be as healthy as the ingredients inside it, Eatingwell.com reports that soup-eaters have “higher intakes of fiber, vitamin A, magnesium, iron, and potassium, which are all important for a healthy diet, especially for aging seniors! Soups also tend to be relatively low in calories!

Granted, like everything else, you should enjoy soup in moderation. Soups also tend to be high in sodium, which can raise your blood pressure. The potassium content in many soups can even the sodium out, but it’s still not something you want to over-indulge in. 

Healthiest Soups for Seniors

The way you prepare and consume a soup can determine whether or not it’s healthy for you. “Healthy” can also depend on your specific dietary needs.

However, the following soups can be deliciously healthy when prepared correctly!

Broth-based Soups

Broth is made of bones and tissue usually derived from chicken, cows, or even fish. Broth can be rich in vitamins and minerals like calcium, magnesium, and phosphorous. MedicalNewsToday says that broth can strengthen your joints, fight osteoarthritis, reduce inflammation, support weight loss, and even aid sleep.

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common forms of arthritis, affecting millions each year. Arthritis can become a legitimate concern. Arthritis happens when your bones wear down from overuse, which can become more possible as you age.

Tomato-based Soups

Tomatoes are loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants and are sometimes considered a superfood. Uniquely, they also contain lycopene, a plant compound that gives tomatoes their red color and has been linked to prostate cancer prevention. Tomatoes are one of the few sources of lycopene. Tomatoes have also been proven to help maintain blood pressure, support heart health, improve insulin levels in diabetic people, reduce constipation, and improve skin and eye health.

Lentil-based Soups

Lentils are high in fiber and nutrients like vitamin B, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. They also contain phytochemicals, which protect against chronic diseases like heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Again, like everything, it’s important to only enjoy lentils in moderation. Uniquely, they contain “antinutrients,” which can reduce your intake of other nutrients. Thankfully, you would have to eat a lot of lentils for this to pose a real problem!

Healthy Canned Soup

In many cases, canned soups are not going to be nearly as healthy as a fresh, home-made batch. However, sometimes, you just don’t have the time or energy to make yourself some fresh soup! Canned soup can be very cheap at your local grocery store (and even online), and it’s not always terrible for you. 

When looking for healthy canned soups, look at the nutrition label and look for low sodium content, less calories, and more vitamins and minerals. Additionally, canned soups tend to have high levels of BPA. Consider looking for soups packaged in “Tetra Pak” or other cardboard/BPA-free solutions.

Here are a few examples we found online: 

1. Health Valley Organic (No Salt Added) Minestrone: 
   • Only 100mg of sodium in the whole container
   • Only 180 calories in the whole container
   • Only 4g of fat in the whole container
   • A serving is about half of the container. Each serving contains 40% of your daily vitamin A intake, 15% vitamin C, 4% calcium, and 8% iron
2. Dr. McDougall’s Organic Split Pea Soup
   • Verified non-GMO, gluten-free, and USDA organic
   • Comes in BPA-free packaging
   • Entire container has only 250 calories and only 1g of fat and 1g sugar
   • No cholesterol 
   • Entire container contains 590mg sodium
   • Entire container has 15g of protein 
   • Also includes vitamin D, calcium, iron, and potassium
3. Pacific Foods Creamy Tomato Soup
   • Verified gluten-free, kosher, vegetarian, and USDA organic
   • BPA-free packaging
   • There is quite a bit of sodium in this one, with 3,000mg in the entire container
   • Entire package contains 8g fat and 400 calories
   • Good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron

Easiest Soups to Make at Home

Each of the healthy canned soup options we listed above can be made at home! We searched the internet and found three great recipes to share.

1. Easy Home-made Minestrone

We found this minestrone recipe from the Food Network!

You might have a lot of these ingredients in your pantry already, and you can use them to make six servings of minestrone!

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 large diced onion
• 4 minced garlic cloves
• 2 diced celery stalks
• 1 diced large carrot
• 1 1/2 cups of trimmed green beans (cut into ½ inch pieces)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt & pepper
• 1 28oz can no-salt-added diced tomatoes
• 1 14oz can crushed tomatoes
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (drained & rinsed) 15oz can low-sodium kidney brains
• 1 cup elbow pasta
• ⅓ cup finely grated parmesan
• 2 tbsp chopped basil

Directions: 

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat
2. Add onion, cook about four minutes or until translucent
3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds
4. Add celery and carrot and cook until soft, about five minutes
5. Stir in green beans, dried oregano and basil, ¾ tsp salt, and pepper to taste; cook for three minutes
6. Add diced and crushed tomatoes and chicken broth; bring to boil
7. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for ten minutes
8. Stir in kidney beans and pasta, cook until tender (about ten minutes)
9. Season with salt
10. Serve topped with parmesan and chopped basil

Thank you, Food Network, for this recipe! Head over there to print this recipe and to leave a comment about what you think about it!

2. Easy Home-made Split-pea Soup

We found this recipe for split-pea soup that serves six people from Epicurious! You could probably substitute out a different cut of pork (for example, if you have some leftover ham from Thanksgiving, throw that in there)!

Ingredients: 

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 chopped large onion
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped peeled carrots
• 1 ½ pounds smoked pork hocks
• 2 tsp dried leaf marjoram
• 1 ½ cups green split peas
• 8 cups water

Directions: 

1. Melt butter in large pot or dutch oven over medium-high heat
2. Add onion, celery, and carrots
3. Saute until vegetables soften (about eight minutes)
4. Add pork and marjoram; stir for one minute
5. Add peas, then water; bring to boil
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and partially cover pot
7. Simmer until pork and vegetables are tender and peas are falling apart; stir often (about 70 minutes)
8. Transfer hocks to a bowl
9. Puree five cups soup in batches in a blender; return to pot
10. Cut pork off bones, dice and return to soup
11. Season with salt and pepper, serve warm!

Thank you, Epicurious, for this recipe! Head over there to leave a comment about the recipe.

3. Easy Home-made Tomato Soup

We found this recipe for “Easy Three-Ingredient Tomato Soup” by Adam and Joanne Gallagher at Inspired Taste! It contains half the ingredients (or less) and half the sodium of a canned tomato soup!

Ingredients: 

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• ½ large onion cut into wedges
• 1 28oz can peeled or crushed tomatoes (or 10-12 medium fresh tomatoes)
• 1 ½ cups water, low sodium vegetable stock, or chicken stock
• ½ tsp sea salt

Directions: 

• Melt butter in dutch oven or saucepan over medium heat
• Add onions, water, tomatoes, and ½ tsp salt
• Bring to simmer and cook uncovered for about 40 minutes
• Stir occasionally; add salt as needed
• Pour into a blender and blend to taste (it can be as smooth or as textured as you’d like)
• Add basil if desired!

A note from Medicare Plan Finder: we love a little parmesan in our tomato soup!

Thank you, Inspired Taste, for this recipe! Head over to their site to watch a video of how this soup is made and to leave a comment with your thoughts on the recipe.

$0 Premium Humana Honor Plans for Veterans

Humana is one of the biggest Medicare Advantage carriers, with over 8.4 million members across all 50 states (plus D.C. and Puerto Rico). They’ve been active for over three decades! New this year, Humana is providing a “Humana Honor” Medicare Advantage plan. 

Uniquely, though it is “available to anyone eligible for Medicare” who lives in the service area, this Medicare Advantage plan is designed to complement VA (Veteran’s Affairs) coverage. Many veterans think they have no use for Medicare Advantage (or even Medicare at all) due to their VA coverage, but a plan like this could be a game-changer. 

Do you Need Medicare if you have VA Coverage?

For some people, the VA may provide all the coverage you need. But, if you can get additional coverage at no extra cost, why not take it?

Plus, even though there are 1,921 VA facilities across the country, wait times can be a problem. You can use this tool to find out what your local wait times are, but you might not need to if you have additional coverage. If you also have Medicare (and if you have Medicare Advantage), your network can be expanded to many more local doctors and other medical facilities, where you may have an easier time getting an appointment. 

Plus, the VA does not automatically provide dental coverage to all veterans. You can purchase it through the VADIP (VA Dental Insurance Program), but you might not need to. If it makes sense for you and if it is available in your area, you can instead enroll in a Humana Honor or other Medicare Advantage plan that includes a dental benefit. 

What’s Great About Humana Honor?

Humana’s new Honor plan includes: 

• $0 premiums + a Part B give back (Part B premium reduction)
• Closing VA coverage gaps
• Broad network, including urgent care facilities
• Dental coverage

Humana Honor is available as 17 different plans available in 28 states: 

• Alabama 
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Kansas
• Louisiana
• Maryland
• Michigan
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Nevada
• New Mexico
• New York
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• South Carolina
• Tennessee
• Utah
• Washington

How to get Humana Honor Medicare Advantage

There are a few ways you can enroll in Humana plans, but we recommend speaking with a licensed agent. An agent can help you sort through all your options and make sure that the plan you like is truly the best plan for you. It is free to speak with a licensed agent regarding your healthcare, so it can only help! 

You can speak to a MedicarePlanFinder.com agent by calling 844-431-1832 during business hours or clicking here. 

Humana Taking Care of Veterans

Humana has strong relationships with (and is the national Medicare plan carrier for) the VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) and AMVETS (American Veterans). Infact, Humana partnered with the VWF’s “Uniting to Combat Hunger” campaign and helped raise money for over 500,000 veteran meals. 

Humana has also contributed over one million dollars to the Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans with Disabilities, an organization that serves post-9/11 veterans. They also sponsor the Washington, D.C. Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Run during Memorial Day weekend, as well as the Wounded Warrior’s “Warrior Games.”

Additionally, Humana’s administration has hired over 4,500 veterans and veteran spouses since 2011. 

Whether you like Humana’s Medicare Advantage plans or not, you have to give them props for their work with veterans and veteran families!

We’re proud to offer Humana plans through our insurance brokers and are excited to be a part of providing veterans with the care they deserve.

What is Medicare Part B Buy Back/Give Back?

Are Medicare Buy Back plans too good to be true?

No!

Can they really put money back into your social security check?

Yes, it’s offered through SOME Medicare Advantage plans but not all.

Here is how it works.

Some Medicare Advantage plans out there that can “buy back” your monthly Part B premiums, ultimately putting money back into your pocket. You’ve likely seen this on TV, but unfortunately it’s misleading as this specific benefit is narrowly used by a few plans across the country.

These plans are effectively paying you instead of the other way around! Let me explain. 

Medicare Part B Premiums in 2022

In 2022, the standard Medicare Part B premium will be $148.50. Your premium may be a bit higher if you have a higher income. Below is a snap shot directly from Centers for Medicare and Medicaid about the current Part B premium scale. 

The reason you have to keep paying this premium is because Medicare Part B is a paid program, unlike Medicare Part A which you earned during your working years by paying social security taxes. By default, everyone has to pay for Medicare Part B unless they get some kind of financial assistance.

While Medicare Part B is a part of original Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans are privately owned and offer additional benefits beyond original Medicare. In particular, Part B buy back is an additional benefit offered by some plans. This is sometimes confusing to many people, so bear with me.

To have Medicare Advantage, you must be enrolled in original Medicare Parts A and Parts B. In order to be enrolled in original Medicare, you must have worked 40 quarters (or 10 years) paying into social security to earn Part A, and then pay a monthly premium for Part B. To stay enrolled, you have to continue paying your premiums!

You can’t get a Medicare Advantage plan without having original Medicare.

What are Medicare Advantage Part B Buy Back Plans?

Medicare Advantage plans are additions to your existing Medicare coverage. They can vary greatly in coverage amounts and premium prices. Some Medicare Advantage plans can come with a $0 premium or a low premium in addition to a Part B buy back (or give back, as some plans call it). 

If you pay your Part B premium automatically out of your Social Security check, this could feel like a bonus added to your monthly checks! You’ll start seeing a bit more coming in, which is nice, assuming the plan you choose has the buy back option.

Premium Give Back Plan? What’s the Catch? 

You’re probably skeptical about the idea of an insurance company wanting to give YOU money.

However, there’s not really a catch. According to Quality Health Plans of New York, Medicare Advantage plans “may choose to use some of the funding it receives” to “reduce its members Medicare Part B premium.”

So, what these plans are doing is providing you an incentive to sign up for their plans.

Even if they give you some of that money back for your Part B premiums, they still get paid from your copayments, deductibles, etc.

As you’re looking into available Medicare Advantage plans that offer Part B buy back benefits in your area, be sure to consider what you might be giving up.

Remember, all plans are different, but it is possible that a plan with a Part B buy back option will have higher copayments and deductibles – which may not matter to you if you don’t spend a lot of time in the doctor’s office! The devil is in the details.

I guess you could say the only true “catch” to these plans is that you have to stay enrolled in Medicare parts A and B – but that’s true of any Medicare Advantage plan. You’ll have to continue paying your A and B premiums, even if you do get some of that money back. 

Additionally, it may be a few months after you sign up for your premium give back plan before you receive your first Part B reimbursement. 

How do I Get a Part B Buy Back (Give Back) Plan?

Great question! As you can imagine, these plans might be harder to find than more standard Medicare Advantage plans, and there may or may not be one available in your area. 

Unfortunately, CMS (Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services) does have certain rules in place that forbid us from sharing the plan details with you publically. However, we have licensed agents across the nation who can meet with you either in person or by phone to help you choose a plan. 

If you’re interested, call us at 800-691-1832. Let us know that you’re interested in Part B buy back plans, and we’ll do all we can to help!
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7 Best Teas for Healthy Seniors

The health benefits of tea are seemingly endless. Teas are usually full of antioxidants and important nutrients that can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke, assist with weight loss, protect your bones, soothe your digestive system, keep you hydrated, and more. 

Different types of tea can provide different benefits. Today, we’ll share the seven teas that you should keep in your pantry to help relieve different symptoms.

#1 – Green Tea: Best Tea for Energy and Focus

Even though green tea has about half the amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee, it has been proven to improve energy and focus as well as improve sleep quality. Plus, a Japanese study proved that L-theanine, which is found in green teas, can improve focus and reduce anxiety.

Aging can bring a natural decrease in energy, and coffee might not be the best way to supplement it. While coffee can provide energy by keeping you alert, green tea can provide a more calming energy and keep you relaxed throughout the day.

Plus, green tea contains about 30% polyphenols, substances that can protect your cells from damage, reducing the risk of certain diseases, and the effects of aging.

Best Green Tea for Energy

While all green teas should be made the same way, some are more processed than others. The best green tea for energy and focus will be natural and fresh. 

It’s also best to use loose leaves instead of tea bags. Even though tea bags may be easier to use, they also typically contain broken, low-quality tea leaves and are more likely to gather dust. 

Lose leaves will often have a stronger, fresher flavor and are less likely to have lost nutrients during production. 

Check your local organic or healthy food store for fresh green tea leaves.

#2 – Peppermint Tea: Best Tea for a Cold

There’s a reason why cough drops are commonly peppermint flavored, and why you might feel clean and refreshed after enjoying a peppermint candy or gum: menthol. Menthol is an alcohol naturally derived from peppermint or mint oils. It creates a peppermint flavor, but it also is a counterirritant for skin and mucous membranes. 

Menthol also creates a local anesthetic effect. That’s why while enjoying a cough drop (and for the moments after), you might notice that you can’t feel the irritation in the back of your throat anymore. 

Peppermint tea can have a similar effect to a menthol cough drop when you have a cold. It can help break up any mucus in your throat that is causing a cough or itchiness. 

At the same time, peppermint itself has antibacterial properties that can fight off disease and boost your immunity – making peppermint tea a great option for when you’re fighting off a cold.

Peppermint Tea for Caffeine

Like other herbal teas, natural peppermint tea does not contain any caffeine! That means peppermint tea is also a great option for those who are actively trying to avoid caffeine. 

Peppermint Tea for Nausea

Though ginger may be what people more commonly reach for when it comes to nausea and digestion solutions, peppermint tea can work wonders for that as well. Peppermint can relax the stomach muscles and make it easier for bile to break down fats. 

#3 – Chamomile Tea: Best Herbal Tea for Sore Throats

Chamomile tea has natural anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and astringent properties. Similar to peppermint tea, drinking chamomile tea when you have a cold can help soothe a sore throat! 

The main difference in whether you choose chamomile or peppermint (other than flavor) is what kind of illness you are trying to cure. If you have a lot of phlegm build up in your throat, peppermint tea might do a better job of breaking that up. However, if you have strep throat or another condition that leaves you with an itchy, dry throat, chamomile might be the better option. 

Another great option available at grocery stores is a product called “Throat Coat.” Throat Coat has a distinct licorice taste that some people love, and some people hate. Throat Coat, produced by Traditional Medicinals, is known for being a useful tool for vocalists who have a scratchy throat but have a performance coming up. The product can cause major temporary relief from an itchy or scratchy throat! It includes organic ingredients such as licorice root, slippery elm bark, marshmallow root, and traces of cherry bark, fennel fruit, cinnamon bark, and orange peel.

Cinnamon Tea: Best Tea for Weight Loss

While cinnamon tea has not been directly tied for weight loss, cinnamon itself does have certain properties that can contribute to weight loss. 

For starters, cinnamon is loaded with fiber, which can make you feel full and prevent you from overeating. Additionally, cinnamon has been said to boost your metabolism due to the amount of energy it takes your body to process the spice. 

Similarly, cinnamon can reduce bloating – which doubles as a remedy for indigestion!

Cinnamon Tea for Diabetes

Cinnamon tea is also “said to increase insulin sensitivity and decrease blood sugar,” which can help control type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 is the most common type of diabetes but is also the most preventable and treatable. People with type 2 diabetes frequently begin with “prediabetes.” If you’re prediabetic, that likely means you have high blood sugar and your body is starting to reject insulin. Healthy eating, exercise, and weight loss can help prevent your prediabetes from turning into type 2 diabetes. Cinnamon tea and other cinnamon products may help you keep your blood sugar down (but that doesn’t mean you can eat all the sugary cinnamon rolls you want)!

#5 – Ginger Tea: Best Tea for Nausea

You probably already know that ginger ale can be a fantastic remedy for an upset stomach, but ginger ale products can be loaded with sugar! Ginger tea is a healthier option for curing nausea. 

Healthline.com recommends drinking about four cups of ginger tea to reduce nausea. If you don’t have ginger tea, you can use freshly grated (or store-bought grated) ginger by steeping it in hot water the same way you would tea leaves. Be sure to sip your ginger tea slowly if you already have an upset stomach! 

If your ginger tea is too bitter, try sweetening it with natural honey before turning to granulated sugar.

Ginger Tea Health Benefits

Other than relieving nausea and an upset stomach, ginger tea has other health benefits as well. Ginger is naturally anti-inflammatory, so regular ginger tea drinking can be a home remedy for muscle and joint aches (soaking in ginger can have the same effect).

Ginger can also improve your blood circulation, relieve menstrual discomfort, relieve stress, strengthen your immune system, and fight respiratory problems. 

Ginger Tea Side Effects

Like anything else, ginger is only good in moderation! Some people may experience diarrhea or abdominal discomfort after drinking too much ginger tea or consuming too much ginger. Some people also experience heartburn and lightheadedness. 

If you notice strong side effects or sudden discomfort after drinking ginger tea, stop use, and call your doctor if symptoms worsen. 

#6 – Jasmine Tea: Best Tea for Stress

Jasmine tea is a combination of tea leaves and jasmine blossoms. Jasmine’s aroma has been called a stress reducer for years, with a variety of perfumes, lotions, and candles carrying the jasmine scent. The scent triggers a “parasympathetic” response, which releases chemicals that allow you to relax.

Like everything else, stress can become more dangerous as you age, so it’s important to stay on top of it. Dr. Michelle Dossett from the Institute for Mind Body Medicine says, “Our cells are aging. Heart fitness and lung capacity decline, especially if you’re sedentary.” When your heart fitness and lung capacity decline, your body’s natural stress response can sort of take over more than it did in the past. 

If your stress gets particularly bad, it may be time to speak to a counselor. Make yourself some jasmine tea and find a counselor near you. Stress, anxiety, and depression are nothing to wait on: get help now!

#7 – Lemon Verbena: Best Tea for Inflammation

A lot of different teas have anti-inflammatory properties, but lemon verbena tea has been used for centuries to treat colds, fevers, anxiety, indigestion, spasms, insomnia, immunity, weight loss, etc. Lemon verbena is all around a great tea to keep in your house. 

In regards to inflammation, lemon verbena is a plant with natural anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is not always obvious. When you think of inflammation, you probably think of your skin turning red, blotchy, or even bumpy, like in the case of an allergic reaction. While that’s certainly one type of inflammation, inflammation can also occur in your muscles and joints. It can be the result of an infection or a physical injury. Inflammation can be the result of a large number of illnesses, so an anti-inflammatory product like lemon verbena tea is certainly multi-use. 

Electric Tea Kettles for Seniors

Ready to give some of these tea suggestions a try? How will you try them at home?

Whether you have arthritis, weak muscles, or dementia…or you’re just a little bit worried, there are safe tea kettle options out there designed with seniors in mind. When you’re choosing a tea kettle for yourself or a senior relative, you should keep the following six factors in mind:

Weight: Weak or arthritic hands will find a heavy tea kettle cumbersome. Dropping a steaming hot tea kettle can be a disaster! Look for tea kettles that are small to begin with so that they aren’t incredibly heavy when full of water.

Automatic shut-off: Regardless of how old you are, it’s easy to pour your tea but forget to turn off the kettle. Forgetful seniors will benefit from an electric kettle that automatically turns off when the water is boiling. 

Cool handle: Make sure the kettle you purchase has a cool handle, so you don’t have to worry about remembering to wear your oven mitts! The same goes for other heating elements. Sometimes you’ll notice in toasters and other devices that certain elements turn red when they heat up. Those are exposed heating elements and can be a burn hazard. 

BPA-free: Read the packaging to look for BPA-free kettles. BPA is a chemical found in plastic that can be harmful if ingested. 

Cordless: A cordless kettle reduces tripping hazards and is easier to carry.

Durable Medical Equipment: What Medicare Beneficiaries Should Know

According to the American Association for Homecare, about 15.5 million people use Durable Medical Equipment (DME) every day. Not every piece of medical equipment is considered DME, however. Did you know that in most cases, for Medicare to cover your medical equipment, the equipment has to be considered DME?

What is Durable Medical Equipment?

Durable Medical Equipment is any medical device that can be used repeatedly (for a duration of at least three years), can be used at home, and is medically necessary for the patient.

Examples of Durable Medical Equipment

• Hospital beds
• Canes, walkers, crutches, wheelchairs, etc.
• Oxygen equipment
• Nebulizers and the related medications
• Sleep apnea devices
• Infusion pumps and related supplies
• Catheters and commode chairs
• Glucose monitors and diabetes test strips
• Some Medicare Advantage plans can now cover home modifications like handrails and wheelchair ramps. However, they are not normally considered DME.

Click here for a more comprehensive list.

Home Medical Equipment

Plans may not necessarily cover these items, but you may see them referred to as durable medical equipment:

• Bedding protection and adult diapers
• Cleansers and cloths
• Bath lifts, shower seats, and grab bars
• Ostomy supplies
• Mobility tools

Something to keep in mind about durable medical equipment is that it does not necessarily refer to items used in nursing homes, hospitals, and doctors office – it actually more commonly refers to common home medical equipment.

Medicare Medical Supplies in Stores

If you’re looking for Medicare durable medical equipment or other home medical supplies, you should check with your plan details to see if there are any requirements for where you buy your materials if you want coverage.

You can probably buy a lot of these items from Amazon, Target, or Walmart, but a pharmacy like CVS, Walgreens, or other form of Medicare medical supplies store may be the best way to go so you can make sure you are receiving coverage. If you’re unsure what stores carry DME in your area, Google “DME near me.”

You may need to start by getting a prescription from your in-network doctor.

DME Medicare Coverage

Hospitalized clients will receive DME coverage through Medicare Part A, but others will fall under Part B. Under Part B, Medicare will pay 80% of the cost (after you’ve met your deductible).

If you need special items like blood testers and oxygen equipment, you’ll need to purchase them outright. Some equipment, like wheelchairs and other large items that you may not need forever, can be rented.

The first step to purchasing or renting DME with Medicare coverage is seeing a doctor. Most DME will require a prescription to prove that the DME is medically necessary. You must get this prescription or official doctor’s note within six months of the day that you rent or purchase your equipment.

How to Get Medicare DME Coverage

Some Medicare plans will have their own DME suppliers. Check with your plan’s website to see if there’s a special place where you can buy your equipment to make sure you get coverage for it. If you need help, your agent can help you figure it out. If you don’t currently have an agent, we can set you up with a free appointment.

We’ll send a licensed agent in your area to your home to help you find the coverage you need. Click here to set up an appointment or call 1-844-431-1832.

This post was originally published on April 12, 2018, and updated on November 8, 2019. 

How to Switch From Medicare Advantage to Medigap

Medicare Advantage and Medigap are similar in some ways but very different in others. If you’ve enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan and you don’t like it, you may think switching Medicare plans and enrolling in Medigap is a great idea. It’s important to understand the differences between the two, so you can make the best choice. 

What is Medicare Advantage?

Medicare Advantage, also called Medicare Part C, is a type of private Medicare plan. When you first enroll in Medicare, you’ll start with Medicare Part A (the part that covers hospital care), and then most people will enroll in Medicare Part B (the part that covers doctor’s appointments). 

Medicare parts A and B are limited, so adding Part C can give you additional benefits like:

• Long-term care
• Specialized care
• Dental
• Vision
• Hearing
• Physical fitness
• Prescription drugs

No two Medicare Advantage plans are the same. In fact, there are several different types. You’ll have to look at what you’re eligible for and decide which benefits you need most and how much you’re willing to spend.

Medicare Part C doesn’t always mean spending more money, though. Some plans might even have $0 premiums!*

*Even with a $0 Medicare Advantage premium, you’d have to continue paying your Part B premium.

What is a Medigap plan?

Medicare Advantage plans sound fantastic, but some people will find that Medigap plans work best for them. Medigap coverage is what can “fill the gap” between what Medicare covers and what you owe out of pocket. These plans are also called “Medicare Supplement” plans because they supplement your existing Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B coverage.

Some Medigap plans may provide a few extra “perks,” but generally speaking, they do not provide additional health benefits in the same way that Medicare Advantage plans do. Instead, supplemental insurance covers your Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, etc.

You’re probably thinking, “great!” I’ll just go ahead and get Medigap and Medicare Advantage. However, you can’t have both. That decision can be tough, but it all comes down to how much you’re able to spend each month and whether or not you can afford a medical emergency. For example, Medigap premiums tend to be a bit higher than Medicare Advantage, but if you’re in the hospital all the time, it might pay off. 

Can I switch from Medicare Advantage to Medigap?

If you enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan and decide that a Medigap plan might be better, you can switch – but there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind.

Mainly, Medigap plans come with medical underwriting. In other words, you can be denied for pre-existing conditions. Meanwhile, you will never be denied or charged more for a Medicare Advantage plan based on your preexisting conditions. There are two times when your preexisting conditions won’t affect your Medigap enrollment: when you’re enrolling in Medicare for the first time, and if you are forced out of your current plan and need to find a new one quickly. That rule is called “guaranteed issue rights.”

You’ll also have to keep in mind that if you had a Medicare Advantage plan with prescription drug coverage and you want to switch to Medigap, you will lose your prescription drug coverage. The only way to have a prescription benefit with Medicare Supplements is to also invest in a Part D (prescription drug) plan. 

One of the many benefits to Medicare Advantage is that most of your benefits will be rolled into one plan, whereas if you have Medigap, you may have to seek alternative plans for your prescription drugs, dental, vision, etc. 

Can I switch from a Medigap plan to an Advantage plan?

Just like switching from Medicare Advantage to Medigap, switching from Medigap to Medicare Advantage is possible, but there are some things to be aware of. 

One of the first things you’ll notice when you switch plans from Medigap to Medicare Advantage is that your copayments might rise. This will all depend on what plans you have. For example, if you had Medigap Plan G (which covers Part B copayments), and then you switched to a Medicare Advantage PPO plan that had a $20 copayment for doctor visits, you might feel like your costs are rising. However, your Medicare Advantage plan might have a lower premium than your Medigap plan did, making your overall costs lower.

Confused? Your insurance agent can walk through these numbers with you before you switch plans to help you decide which type of plan is truly best for you. 

Is it better to have Medicare Advantage or Medigap?

The question should read, “Is it better for ME to have Medicare Advantage or Medigap?” That may not be the answer you were looking for, but it is different for every person. What you may see as disadvantages of Medicare Advantage might be great for someone else. Common Medicare Advantage disenrollment reasons, like trouble finding a doctor in-network or the lack of one very specific benefit, may not apply to you. 

While Medicare Advantage usually provides more covered benefits, Medigap can result in lower hospital bills and lower overall out-of-pocket costs.

Your decision should be based on your health history, your budget, and the quality of plans available in your area. Try sitting down and writing a pros/cons list for Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap, like this: 

Medicare Advantage: 

Pros: Prescription drug coverage can be included

Cons: Stricter network

Medicare Supplements:

Pros: Copayments can be covered

Cons: Higher premiums

Add in any items specific to you, like a specific benefit that you need or a specific cost that you are worried about. Then, circle the items that are most important to you. Whichever column has the most circled items is likely the best option for you. 

Why should I switch Medicare plans?

There are plenty of reasons to switch Medicare plans. Everything from network size to costs and benefits can be a factor. 

You may want to switch Medicare plans if:

• Your plan doesn’t cover all of your healthcare needs.
• The premiums are too high.
• Your favorite doctors are not in-network.
• The costs are not worth the benefits you’re receiving.
• A better plan becomes available in your area.
• You become eligible for a cheaper or more specialized plan.

When can I switch from Medicare Advantage to Medicare Supplement?

Unfortunately, switching Medicare plans is not always easy. If you have a Medigap plan, you can switch to another Medigap plan at any time. However, if you already have Medicare Advantage and want a new Medicare Advantage plan, or if you have Medigap but want to switch to Medicare Advantage, you’ll have to wait for one of three* Medicare Advantage enrollment periods:

• Annual Enrollment Period: October 15 – December 7 of every year, applies to all Medicare beneficiaries, any change is allowed
• Special Enrollment Period: Applies only to those with specific circumstances, such as a special medical or financial need, and allows enrollments at specific times outside of AEP and OEP
• Open Enrollment Period: January 1 – March 31 of every year, allows those with Medicare Advantage to make one switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan or drop coverage

*The fourth Medicare Advantage enrollment period is when you first become eligible for Medicare and is called the Initial Enrollment Period. This is when you would enroll in Medicare Part A and Part B for the first time and can choose to also enroll in Medicare Advantage (or Medicare Supplements and Part D). 

When can I switch from Medicare Advantage to Medigap without losing guaranteed issue rights?

The guaranteed-issue rights for Medigap state that you cannot be denied coverage based on a preexisting condition if you enroll:

1. When you first become eligible for Medicare, or
2. When you lose your current coverage for reasons beyond your control

Additionally, Medicare.gov identifies a few specific circumstances that can grant you guaranteed issue rights, including:

1. Your Medicare Advantage plan leaves your service area, or you move out of the plan’s service area.
2. You have Part A and Part B, and now your employer coverage is ending.
3. You joined either a Medicare Advantage plan of PACE (Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) upon turning 65 and decided to switch within the first year.
4. You switched from Medigap to Medicare Advantage and want to switch back within less than one year.
5. Your policy’s company mislead you or broke a rule.

When You Can Change Medicare Advantage Plans

If you don’t want to switch between Medigap and Medicare Advantage and you simply want to disenroll from a Medicare Advantage plan or switch to another, you can do that during one of the Medicare Advantage enrollment periods. 

CMS added the Medicare Advantage disenrollment period in 2020 to give beneficiaries another chance to switch without having to wait a full calendar year. This Medicare disenrollment period is actually the “Open Enrollment Period” lasting from January 1 through March 31. You are only eligible if you already have Medicare Advantage.

If you’d prefer to switch from Medigap to Medicare Advantage or make any other types of changes, you can do that during the annual election period in the fall, which is sometimes referred to as “Medicare open enrollment,” though it should not be confused with the Open Enrollment Period. 

If you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), you can make changes outside of the traditional enrollment periods. Common reasons that you might qualify are if you moved to a new plan service area (or your plan leaves your service area, you move into or out of a long-term care facility, you are also eligible for Medicaid, or you have a medical condition that qualifies you for a Special Needs Plan.

Can I Change my Medicare Advantage Plan If I Move?

You can (and may have to) change your Medicare Advantage plan if you move. Medicare Advantage plans are confined to specific service areas. Some are confined to specific counties or zip codes, while others are state-wide. If you leave that service area, you will need to change plans. 

Additionally, moving to a new service area grants you a Special Enrollment Period. That means that from the date that you are officially living in the new area, you will have 60 days to switch Medicare Advantage plans. If you wait too long, you will have to wait until the Annual Enrollment Period rolls around again. 

Switching Medicare Advantage Plans with Pre-existing Conditions

If you have preexisting conditions and want to switch into a new Medicare Advantage plan, you do not have to worry about medical underwriting. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans are the only type of Medicare plan that may require medical underwriting. Original Medicare (parts A and B), Prescription Drug Plans (Part D), and Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) all cannot deny you coverage based on your health history. 

How to Switch Medicare Plans: Step by Step

When you think you’re ready to switch Medicare plans, follow these steps to ensure a successful switch: 

1. Review your current benefits and make notes about what you like and what you don’t like about your current plan.
2. Find out if you qualify for Medicaid, Social Security Disability Income, Medicare Savings Programs, or Low-Income Subsidies (all things that can help you save money on your Medicare coverage).
3. Use this Medicare plan finder tool to find out what plans are available in your area that meet what you’re looking for.
4. Meet with an insurance agent who can help you fill out your application correctly and answer all your questions (for no additional fees).

Tips for choosing a Medicare plan

Choosing a Medicare plan is a very personal process. Your Medicare coverage goes beyond copayments and deductibles. It can determine how prepared you are for emergencies, it can affect the quality of care you receive, and it can alter your lifestyle based on the benefits included.

Some people might find that traditional Medicare (parts A and B alone) is all they need, but most people will likely want to look for a prescription drug plan or some other benefits as well. No two health plans are the same. Some are very simple, covering basic needs and prevention, and others are complex, offering unique benefits like gym memberships and meal delivery. 

When choosing your Medicare coverage, keep the following tips in mind:

1. What works for your spouse or friend may not work for you.
2. Always make sure your favorite doctors are in the plan network before you enroll.
3. Before selecting a prescription drug plan, verify that the prescriptions you need are covered.
4. Remember to look at all costs: premiums, copayments, deductibles, and coinsurance. It’s easy to get excited when you see one low number, but everything together can add up.
5. It doesn’t cost you anything to meet with an insurance agent who already understands the plans. They might even be able to help you save money.

We Can Help You Decide Which Coverage You Need

Changing your Medicare plan from Medicare Advantage to a Medicare Supplement is a big decision. Our licensed agents are highly trained, and they can help you find the plans available in your area. Your agent can discuss the pros and cons of MA and Medigap and help you make the decision that best fits your needs. To set up a no-cost, no-obligation meeting with an agent, call 1-844-431-1832 or contact us here today. 

7 Types of Exercises for Seniors (with Pictures!)

Exercising is not just for weight loss. As you get older, it becomes increasingly important to keep your body active in order to keep your strength and stability. However, it also becomes harder to exercise as you age. 

Your exercise routine doesn’t have to be intense. You’re not expected to run marathons at 80 years old (though some have done it), but your doctor might recommend that you spend some time on your feet. Exercise for you can mean something as simple as taking a walk around the block.

The following are seven different types of safe exercises for seniors with pictures included. 

Senior Swimming Workouts

If you have a pool available to you, either at home or at a local fitness center, swimming exercises can be kind to older bodies. Experts especially recommend swimming exercises for those with joint pain or arthritis. 

Some fitness centers may offer swimming classes that you can join. If there aren’t any available, consider taking the time yourself to jog through the water, swim laps, or use the resistance of the water to practice leg lifts. 

In fact, certain private Medicare plans might come with a fitness program benefit. These benefits often include memberships to local fitness centers that can allow you access to free or very low-cost exercise classes. 

Simple Yoga for Seniors

Yoga can help improve your balance, stability, and flexibility and can even reduce stress. Yoga poses don’t have to be complicated, either. 

Check out these examples of gentle yoga poses: 

You also might be able to find yoga classes offered at your local fitness center. Look for beginner-level classes or classes specifically designed for senior groups (unless you think you’re ready for advanced yoga – do what you feel comfortable with!). 

Pilates for the Elderly

Pilates exercises focus on your core strength, which can also improve your balance and stability. Pilates exercises can be easily performed at home. It includes poses like planks and sit-ups.

You can do Pilates from a mat in your local gym, or you can set up on your carpet or on your personal yoga mat at home. It does not require additional equipment!

Senior Walking & Biking Exercises

Walking or biking for as little as 30 minutes per day can result in weight loss, improved cardiovascular health, reduced blood pressure, stronger bones, better balance, and more!

If you feel safe walking around your neighborhood, you don’t even have to go anywhere. Otherwise, you can find a pretty park, a school running track, or even a shopping mall to get your steps in. 

You could also get your daily walk in by walking your dog or strolling with your grandkids! 

If you feel comfortable, you can also try running – but don’t push yourself. 

Chair Exercises for Seniors

Sometimes standing up for long periods of time is NOT healthy. Some people can’t walk or move too much, and that’s ok. There are still ways to exercise and safely keep your body moving.

For example, try the “seated row.” Sit in a dining chair or any chair without arms, and repeat a “rowing” motion with your arms at least 8-10 times. Repeat as many times as you feel comfortable. This repeated motion will work your upper back and chest muscles. 

You could also do knee lifts from a chair. Simply lift your knees one at a time towards your chest. Lift each leg individually at least 8-10 times. As you get stronger, you can increase the number of lifts and work on bringing your legs higher.

Prefer an even more sedentary routine? These yoga poses can be done from your chair: 

Stretching Exercises for Seniors

Regular stretches are important as your joints age. As you age, your muscles gradually shorten and lose elasticity. While you can’t necessarily stop the aging process, you can certainly make yourself more comfortable by performing daily stretches. 

“Static” stretching lengthens your muscles and improves your range of motion. Static stretching means holding a position for 10 to 30 seconds (or even longer, if you have the patience). Static stretches can be as simple as sitting down and touching your toes for 30 seconds straight. 

Try to remember to spend a few minutes on static stretching exercises at least three to five times per week. 

Keep in mind that you should feel the stretch a little, but it shouldn’t hurt. If you find yourself in pain after a stretch, you may have pushed yourself too far, or something could be wrong. Always see your doctor if you find yourself in pain.

Senior Dance Classes

Not only are dance workouts more fun, but they usually work several different areas of the body. If you feel comfortable with it, finding a local dance class for seniors is a great way to move your body. 

You can join a “Zumba” class, a dance class designed for full-body workouts, or you can join a class that teaches you how to dance, like a salsa class. Even though a salsa class may not be designed as an exercise program, it certainly keeps your body moving and can still result in positive fitness results.

Medicare Fitness Coverage

If you’d like to do your workouts in group settings or would prefer to use the equipment at a gym, you might actually be able to get insurance for that. 

That’s right – private Medicare plans (Medicare Advantage) can sometimes include Medicare fitness programs. These programs can pay for your gym membership and can provide unique classes designed just for the Medicare-eligible population.

Some programs even include home fitness products, like workout DVDs and small exercise equipment.

To find out what plans in your area include a Medicare fitness benefit, call Medicare Plan Finder at 844-431-1832 or click here to send us a message. 

We can’t wait to help you!

2020 Medicare Plan Finder: How to Find the Best Medicare Plan in 2020

It’s time to start thinking about what you want your Medicare coverage to look like next year. Did your current plan change? Did you develop a new health condition and need more coverage? Are you enrolling in Medicare for the first time? 

No matter your situation, the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) runs from October 15 through December 7. If you used AEP to enroll, your plan became effective on January 1, 2020.

By now, you may have realized that there are hundreds of Medicare plans out there, all offering slightly different benefits at different costs. So how do you choose?

Contents:

• Which Medicare plan is best for me?
• Start by choosing a type of plan
• What is the best Medicare plan in 2020?
• Medicare Plan Finder tool
• Scour the internet
• Meet with a licensed agent
• When can you enroll in Medicare in 2020?

Which Medicare Plan is Best for me?

The best Medicare plan for 2020 is the one that fulfills your needs. To figure out which Medicare plan is best for you, ask yourself the following questions: 

1. What specific medical services do I need coverage for (ex: lab tests, blood work, surgery, chemotherapy, dental, etc.)
2. How much room do I have in my budget? Am I able to pay a little more to have more benefits?
3. Do I qualify for savings (apply for Medicaid, Medicare Savings Programs, and LIS)?
4. Would I rather pay more on a monthly basis and pay very little when I visit the doctor, or is it better to pay a small amount every month but risk having higher copayments?
5. Who are the doctors and other providers who I want to be covered in my plan?
6. What prescriptions do I need coverage for?

Start by Choosing a Type of Plan

There are four main types of Medicare plans to consider when you begin your Medicare plan search. Start by comparing Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Prescription Drug Plans, and Medicare Supplements. 

Keep in mind that you cannot have Medicare Advantage and a Prescription Drug Plan at the same time. You also cannot have Medicare Advantage and a Medicare Supplement plan at the same time.

Which plan or combination of plans works best for you?

• Original Medicare: The original Medicare program. Comprises of Part A (hospital coverage) and Part B (medical coverage). 
• Medicare Advantage: A private plan that you can purchase once you have Original Medicare. Can add additional benefits such as hearing, vision, dental, fitness, etc. Can include a prescription benefit.
• Prescription Drug Plans: Another type of private plan that you can purchase once you have Original Medicare. Usually only includes a prescription benefit.
• Medicare Supplements (Medigap): Another type of private plan that you can have in addition to Original Medicare. Adds more financial coverage, like for copayments and deductibles.

You can choose from the following combinations: 

• Original Medicare only
• Original Medicare and a Prescription Drug Plan
• Medicare Advantage
• Medicare Advantage with Prescription Drug Coverage
• Medicare Supplement
• Medicare Supplement AND standalone Prescription Drug Plan

Original Medicare Only

Having Original Medicare only means you’ve enrolled in the government program, Medicare Part A and Part B, but you have not enrolled in an additional (private) plan. Parts A and B can cover some of your hospital and medical costs, but they do not cover prescription drugs and other additional benefits such as dental and vision. 

Original Medicare and a Prescription Drug Plan

If you don’t think you need any other medical benefits aside from what parts A and B cover, but you do need prescription drug coverage, you can enroll in a standalone prescription drug plan in addition to your Original Medicare.

Medicare Advantage

With a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan, you’ll still have to pay your Part B premium, but you can get other benefits. MA plans can include additional health benefits such as fitness program memberships, dental care, vision, and more. 

Choosing a Medicare Advantage Plan

So, did you decide to go with Medicare Advantage? Great! Now, there are a few types of Medicare Advantage plans that may be available for you. First, ask yourself whether or not you need a large network and whether the freedom to see any doctor is important to you. Then, read through these important differences:

• HMO Plans (Health Maintenance Organization) – You’ll select one primary physician. In some cases, you may only receive coverage for that one doctor (unless he or she refers you to a specialist). Requirements may vary based on your plan.
• HMO-POS Plans (Point-Of-Service) – You’ll select one primary physician, but you’ll have the freedom to visit any specialist in your network for your other needs. You will be charged a fee for visiting specialists.
• PPO Plans (Preferred Provider Organization) – You can see any doctor, but your costs will usually be lower if you choose one that is in your network.
• PFFS Plans (Private Fee-For-Service) – You will not need referrals or a primary physician, but you’ll have to pick a doctor that accepts your PFFS plan.
• SNP (Special Needs Plans) – Designed for those who are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid, live in a nursing home, or have a chronic illness or disability.
• MSA (Medical Savings Account) – Works like a tax-free savings account for your medical bills. Medicare will deposit money into your HSA. You can use that account to pay for medical expenses.

Medicare Advantage with Prescription Drug Coverage

Some select Medicare Advantage plans come with a prescription drug benefit. This is important because you can’t have BOTH a Medicare Advantage plan and a standalone prescription drug plan. If you like the idea of Medicare Advantage but need prescription coverage, a “MAPD” or Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plan may be right for you. 

Medicare Supplement

Sometimes called “Medigap,” Medicare Supplement plans bridge the gap between your Part A and B costs and your out of pocket costs. For example, Medigap Plan A covers Part A* coinsurance and hospital costs, Part B coinsurance and copayments, up to three pints of blood, and hospice coinsurance and copayments. It does not offer additional health benefits, but it eliminates many of the costs that come with Part A and B. 

The best Medicare Supplement plan is the one that fits your needs at the time. For example, you might not need skilled nursing care when you first sign up for Medicare, so Plan A might work best for you. Eventually, your health condition may require more inpatient services and skilled nursing services, so Plan D may be a better fit.

*Be careful not to confuse Part A with Plan A

Medicare Supplement AND a Prescription Drug Plan

Medicare supplements do not offer any prescription coverage, but you are able to enroll in both a Medicare Supplement plan and a standalone Prescription Drug Plan at the same time. 

What is the Best Medicare Plan in 2020?

Everyone wants to know what the “best” Medicare plan is, but just like shopping for anything else, “best” can be subjective. If you were shopping for a vacuum cleaner, you’d probably search “best vacuum cleaners,” too, but what would you find?

We did that part for you, and we got about 228,000,000 results. You’re never going to sort through all those options, right?

When you really want to narrow down the best vacuum for your needs, you’re probably going to filter your search by price, capabilities, maybe even the size of the vacuum…any number of things that are going to narrow down your choices to what you really want to purchase.

While there probably aren’t 124,000,000 Medicare plans available to you, there are far too many for this to be a quick Google search! Like choosing the “best” vacuum, choosing the “best” Medicare plan for you requires some research.

Medicare Plan Finder Tool