Area Bloggers
Age Spots by Jackie Dover - Medicare, What do I do?
November 30th 2017 by Dee Loflin
So what exactly do you do?
What do you do? I get asked that question quite often when I tell people I help with Medicare issues. Navigating Medicare can be confusing and intimidating for some, one of my jobs is to make the entire Medicare process easier to understand and inform Medicare recipients of the choices they have and the time frames they have to make those choices.
So this Age Spots will attempt to shed a little light on the mystery that is Medicare. Medicare was signed into law by President Lyndon Johnson in 1965. The first Medicare card was assigned to Harry S. Truman, who had been one of the first to encourage the idea of a national healthcare program for seniors.
Original Medicare consists of Part A and Part B. Part A covers inpatient care in hospitals, home health care, hospice care and some skilled nursing care. Most people do not pay a premium for Part A and there is a Part A deductible which can vary by year.
Part B of Medicare covers outpatient services, things like doctor visits, lab work, x-rays and durable medical equipment. Most people do pay a monthly premium for Part B and that is withheld out of a Social Security check or paid directly to Medicare if no Social Security benefit is being paid. Part B also has a deductible and then pays about 80% of the Medicare approved amount.
Medicare Part D began in 2006 and is the prescription part of Medicare. The Med D plans vary from state to state but have to meet minimum requirements set by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Plans do have premiums that are paid monthly and there is usually a co-payment on medicines, some even have a yearly deductible. They can vary quite a bit and change from year to year.
If you are still reading this, I hope you are learning something or at least relearning something. So we have gone over Medicare Parts A, B and D. At this point many wonder, “What happened to Part C?” I am glad you asked. Medicare Part C also know as Medicare Advantage plans are Medicare health plans offered through a private company contracted with Medicare. These plans cover the Part A and Part B benefits and many also include prescription coverage. These plans vary by zip code and each plan’s premiums, co-pays and deductible vary by plan. Some include additional coverage for vision, dental and hearing.
So that’s a lot of information for one day and we are really just getting started. If you would like more information on anything Medicare related, please call Aging Matters 800-392-8771 or 573-335-3331. We can speak with you one-on-one or we could talk to your group. We also have Medicare Bootcamps where we cover all the ins and outs of Medicare, we schedule those in the spring and you can check with us to see when and where we will be having the Bootcamps.
A quick reminder as we close out 2017:
New Medicare cards will be sent out in 2018, starting in April. Make sure your address is up to date at Social Security. No one will call you to ask for your personal information. This rollout will take time, be patient. Your card might arrive at a different time than your spouse, neighbor or friend.
Last Updated on November 30th 2017 by Dee Loflin
https://showmetimes.com/Blogpost/v968/Age-Spots-by-Jackie-Dover--Medicare-What-do-I-do
Age Spots - The Blue Side of the Holidays by Jackie Dover
November 07th 2017 by Dee Loflin
The Blue Side of the Holidays
I want to offer a warning at the beginning that this is not my normal upbeat article. This is something I wanted to write last year, but I just couldn’t bring myself to do it. It was too hard and hurt too much.
I love the Holidays. I love the music, the family and friend gatherings, the decorations even the shopping! But last year was different for me. Last year my niece passed away and it was the first holidays without her. There were times then and still are, when I am doing routine daily things and a wave of grief and pain washes over me. It hurts so much and feels like a punch in the gut. I have at times even looked around to see if something this painful had knocked the breath out of those around me. I’m always surprised when they seem unaffected.
Most people want to comfort and offer support, but they don’t know how to and dealing with grief during the holidays is extra hard. The holidays are the time we spend with families and friends. When there is an empty seat at the table, we all feel it. It doesn’t go away even when we are having fun or doing those traditional things we do each year. That’s when we notice the absence the most.
So what do you do if you are grieving during the holidays? It is ok to take a step back from all of the celebrating. Scheduling quiet time if you need it or stepping away if you feel overwhelmed by your surroundings is normal. If you get comfort from doing all the traditional celebrating, then do that. Everyone grieves in their own way and you are completely normal. You get to choose how much or how little you do. My boys all find comfort in talking about and sharing stories about those we have lost. Sharing funny stories and being able to laugh or cry or just remind ourselves that we are all missing her helps them work through some of their hardest times. Do whatever you are comfortable with. Try a new tradition if the old ones bring you more sadness than joy, only you know what you can handle. Listen to yourself.
Loss and grief are not the only things that steal the joy out of the season. Many people suffer from depression during the holidays. Sometimes it is a long term ongoing battle. Sometimes it is triggered by financial strains, loneliness or the cold dark days of winter. Whatever the reason, the holidays can be difficult for many. Just know, you are not alone, many people struggle. There are no magic words that will make things better, but experts do say there are things you can try. Volunteering at a senior center or other location will give you a chance to interact with others and have a purpose. Plan a manageable celebration if you enjoy being the host. If you need help ask for it. Talk to your doctor if this is something you just can’t “shake”. Trust me nothing you tell them will shock them, they have heard it all before. Put yourself first, plan time to do what you want to do in all the hustle and bustle of the season.
As we approach the holiday season people say it will be easier this year, it isn’t the first without her. I’m not sure if I truly believe that, but I do know that last year showed me I can make it through. I can even find some joy in the holidays, and that has to be good enough. So this holiday season, be extra kind. Smile at the cashier and be polite to the other shoppers. Be understanding of the mother or father struggling with the crying child. Take the time to check on a neighbor or friend who has suffered a loss or who may be alone. Kindness and love are welcome at any season.
Happy Holidays to you all.
Contact Jackie Dover at Aging Matters for more information, 1-800-392-8771 or jdover@agingmatters2u.com
Last Updated on November 07th 2017 by Dee Loflin
https://showmetimes.com/Blogpost/v91e/Age-Spots--The-Blue-Side-of-the-Holidays-by-Jackie-Dover
Age Spots - Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes to Medicare Cards and Medicare Part D
September 18th 2017 by Dee Loflin
Age Spots by Jackie Dover
New Medicare cards are coming and they will have a new Medicare ID number, no longer will your Social Security Number be on the cards. Starting in April of 2018 the new cards will be mailed out to people with Medicare. The new Medicare cards will feature a new number that is unique to each individual; this number should be safeguarded as you do your current number. The cards with new numbers are a way to help stop fraud and identity theft by protecting your Social Security number.
Important things to know about the new Medicare cards:
Make sure your mailing address is up to date. If your address needs to be corrected, contact Social Security. The new cards will be mailed to the address Social Security has on file for you.
Beware of anyone who contacts you about your new Medicare card. Medicare will never ask you to give personal or private information to get your new Medicare number and card.
The new card does not cost you anything; no one will be calling asking for banking or credit information.
Understand that mailing everyone a new card will take some time. Your card might arrive at a different time than your friend’s or neighbor’s. Mailings will take place between April 2018 and April 2019.
The new Medicare numbers won’t change Medicare benefits. People with Medicare may start using their new Medicare cards as soon as they get them
Protect your identity by properly disposing of your old Medicare cards.
You may not have a choice in the new Medicare cards; you do however have a choice when it comes to your Medicare Part D plans. We are coming up on Medicare Part D Open Enrollment. October 15 through December 7 is the time to evaluate your Medicare prescription drug plans for 2018. This is your chance to compare plans to see what plan covers your medicine at the best cost to you. It allows someone with Medicare to see what your out of pocket costs will be for the coming year and make changes if needed.
Starting in September people with Medicare drug plans should receive an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) that will show the changes to their current plan for the following year. Please look this over Since Med D plans can change the premium, deductible, tier level of medicine and co-pay amounts every year. They can even change what medicines they cover.
I know change is hard for many, but the changes to the Medicare card will be a change that keeps you safer and changing your Part D plan could save you money. These changes are definitely worth the effort.
If you have questions or need assistance in reviewing your drug plan for 2018, please call Aging Matters at 1-800-392-8771, we are always happy to help.
Last Updated on September 18th 2017 by Dee Loflin
https://showmetimes.com/Blogpost/v8hd/Age-Spots--ChChChChanges-to-Medicare-Cards-and-Medicare-Part-D
Age Spots by Jackie Dover - Look Out Below
August 22nd 2017 by Dee Loflin
Look Out Below
Did you know that Missouri has the highest rate of injuries due to falls and the 4th highest prevalence of falls in the country? I didn’t and that news shocked me. This is certainly not a designation that we want here in Missouri. Luckily there is the Show Me Falls Free Missouri coalition which is dedicated to changing that statistic and educating Missourians on falls prevention. Their website is www.preventmofalls.org. Please check it for information and tips on how to avoid falls. Also, National Falls Prevention Awareness Day is September 22, this will be the 10th such day and the theme is 10 Years standing Together to Prevent Falls.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), each year millions of older people-those 65 and older-fall. In fact, 1 out of 4 older people falls each year, but less than half tell their doctor. Falling once doubles your chance of falling again.
Some quick facts about falls from the CDC:
One out of five falls causes a serious injury such as broken bones or a head injury.
Each year, 2.8 million older people are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries.
Over 800,000 patients a year are hospitalized because of a fall injury, most often because of a head injury or hip fracture. Each year at least 300,000 older people are hospitalized for hip fractures.
More than 95% of hip fractures are caused by falling, usually by falling sideways.
Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
Adjusted for inflation, the direct medical costs for fall injuries are $31 billion annually. Hospital costs account for two-thirds of the total.
There are things we can do to protect ourselves.
Talk to your doctor about your concerns and have them review your medication to see if anything you take might make you dizzy.
Also ask your doctor if taking Vitamin D supplement would be helpful.
Get exercise, specifically things that improve your balance or makes you stronger, such as Tai Chi.
Have your eyes checked at least once a year and update your glasses as needed.
Make your home as safe as possible. Remove rugs and other obstacles you can trip over.
Add grab bars inside and outside the tub or shower.
Add extra lighting in areas of your home that are too dark to see well.
Ask your doctor if an assistive device such as a cane, would benefit you.
Falls education is very important and prevention is key. As always if you need more information, please call Aging Matters at 1-800-392-8771.
Last Updated on August 22nd 2017 by Dee Loflin
https://showmetimes.com/Blogpost/v87u/Age-Spots-by-Jackie-Dover--Look-Out-Below
Age Spots by Jackie Dover - Medicare's Mental Health Benefit
August 09th 2017 by Dee Loflin
Medicare’s Mental Health Benefit
When we talk about mental health many people feel uncomfortable. It is easy in many cases to see if someone is sick physically, but it is harder to tell if they are suffering from a mental illness, and when they are we don’t know what to say or how to help.
Good mental health is as important as good physical health. Good mental health contributes greatly to an overall feeling of well-being. Untreated mental health disorders in older adults can lead to diminished functioning, substance abuse, poor quality of life, and increased mortality. Research shows mental illness can even slow healing from physical illnesses.
According to Mental Health America (MHA) approximately 1 in 5 adults have a mental health issue. With so many people in need it is good to know that Medicare covers many mental health services.
According to the Medicare and Your Mental Health handbook, Medicare Part A covers mental health services you receive while inpatient in a hospital. It can be a psychiatric hospital or a general hospital. While an inpatient Medicare will pay for room, meals, nursing services, therapy and lab tests. You are still subject to the Medicare Part A deductible which is $1316 for 2017.
Medicare Part B covers outpatient services, including visits to psychiatrist, psychologist and nurse practitioners. Part B also covers psychiatric evaluation and testing to determine if current treatment and services are helping, individual and group psychotherapy and family counseling if the main purpose is help with your treatment. You are subject to the Medicare Part B deductible ($183 for 2017) and coinsurance.
Medicare Part D plans cover antidepressant, anticonvulsant, and antipsychotic medications, which may be necessary to keep you mentally healthy. Each drug plan has a formulary of drugs they cover; it is a good idea to check that your medicine is covered by a plan before joining. We also recommend that you check every year during Open Enrollment to ensure the plan you are on will continue to be the best one for you.
Some signs to watch for if you are concerned about your or someone else’s mental health:
Memory loss
Change in personal appearance or cleanliness of person or home
Social withdrawal from friends and family
Mood changes or sadness or depression
Unexplained fatigue or sleep changes
Loss of weight or change in appetite
Feelings of helplessness
If you or someone you know needs immediate help call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Number at 1-800-273-8255. If it is not an immediate threat then speaking to your physician can get you started on the path to good mental health. Remember that you are not the only one, many people struggle and need help, all you have to do is ask.
Last Updated on August 09th 2017 by Dee Loflin
https://showmetimes.com/Blogpost/v83g/Age-Spots-by-Jackie-Dover--Medicares-Mental-Health-Benefit
