Considering all the shifts this year with healthcare many providers, including Medicare Advantage programs, are looking to increase health and well-being benefits. Medicare Advantage typically covers:
Some states have already or are considering enhancing these benefits further to include:
Specific benefits vary plan to plan and state to state so be sure to check what is covered in your area and plan.
According to a report from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMMI) Medicare those who participated in wellness programs reported improved fitness levels, were less likely to be injured in a fall, and were able to maintain their physical health better. In addition, the study found that participation in chronic disease management, fall prevention, and physical activity programs led to positive mental health effects like improved overall confidence.
Highlighted in the study was the fact that
“All three program types were associated with small positive effects in different areas of mental health. . . . An important secondary benefit of participation appears to be enhanced mental well-being, which may result from both lifestyle changes and knowledge gained from programs, or from the social aspects of program participation.”
Another study from PLOS Medicine found that the strength and availability of social relationships are a strong predictor of mortality - People with stronger social relationships had a 50% increased likelihood of survival than those with weaker social relationships.
Mortality risk factors like smoking and alcohol consumption are comparable to that of loneliness and it is considered worse than risk factors such as physical inactivity and obesity.
These results show that loneliness and social isolation among older adults likely have a quantifiable and critical health impact. So now healthcare providers are seeking to find ways to address wellbeing needs through socialization and learning since clear overall health advantages for those who participate have been shown.
Do you know if you qualify for Medicare or when you qualify? Learning some of the basics is an important way to not miss out on important dates and resources.
Medicare is the USA’s health insurance program for people age 65 or older. Some people younger than 65 may also qualify for Medicare like those with disabilities and those who have permanent kidney failure.
Medicare helps offset the cost of health care. It DOES NOT COVER all medical expenses and it DOES NOT COVER most long-term care.
Those eligible at age 65 have worked or had a spouse work and pay Medicare taxes for 10 years or more. Your initial enrollment period begins three months before your 65th birthday includes the month you turn age 65, and ends three months after that birthday.
There are many different pieces to Medicare coverage. Depending on your situation it is important to know what is available so you can pick the best coverage available to you.
Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) coverage - Social Security allows you to enroll in this.
If you choose not to enroll in Medicare Part B initially:
Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) these are policies from private insurance companies that follow rules set by Medicare.
Signing up is as simple as filling out an Online Application. Be prepared with your current or most recent healthcare information, social security information, and any health documents you think may help you get started.
Come to one of GetSetUp’s live informational classes to learn more and ask questions.
If you already are squared away with your Medicare plans, explore other GetSetUp classes!
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