The reality of life is that unforeseen events can occur that change our lives in an instant. If your own adult children are unable to raise their children, you may have to make the decision to assume responsibility for them. Even with all your love and good intentions, this can be a challenging and stressful transition, and you may need support.

You are in good company with almost 5.8 million children living in their grandparents’ homes, and almost 1 million living in grandparents’ homes without either parent present.¹ There are plenty of individuals in your situation, and you shouldn’t hesitate to use resources available to help you adjust.

You may have had plans that you need to rearrange, and if you are retired or on a limited budget, it is important to get help planning financially for your family’s short-term and long-term future. If you are 65 years of age or older, you probably have Medicare health care coverage and might need assistance finding health care coverage for your grandchildren. You may have to research pediatricians, schools, and might have to seek legal advice to resolve any outstanding legal issues pertaining to guardianship.

You may also be wondering how to deal with the high energy of young children or the stress involved with such a huge change in all of your lives. Making a schedule, setting routines and expectations, and communicating are all important in establishing household rules you can all live with. Most importantly, of course, is the love, kindness, and compassion you display for your grandchildren by providing them with a stable home. You just need to remember to take care of yourself, as well. They need healthy, happy grandparents to care for them in order to provide the safe and happy home they deserve.

Medicare has neither reviewed nor endorsed this information.

¹ AARP; www.aarp.org/relationships/friends-family/grandfacts-sheets/; Grandfacts

Society seems to portray aging as the “golden years” or the “sunset” of our lives. Instead, we should embrace aging as a series of sunrises, with each new day giving us the chance to create something meaningful or memorable. You are never too old to start fresh and explore the possibilities in the world around you.

Regardless of where you live, how much money you have, or what your resources are, you can make a difference in your life and in the lives of people around you. You can learn how to cook, or decide to use your talent in the kitchen to help feed some neighbors who might need a home-cooked meal. You might sign up for a class offered by a local community college or perhaps decide to teach your favorite hobby, like knitting or gardening, at your community center or library.

Starting fresh will mean something different to each person. For some, it might mean starting a business or committing to volunteer locally, while others will want to travel to a new destination or maybe even move out of the country. For others, it just might mean finding a way to move on from a loss, illness, or a difficult time in your life. No matter what your age is, you have the power to change your own direction. Sometimes you might help doing so, but it’s amazing what a little determination and a positive outlook can do!

Looking at your life from a new perspective can give you a sense of energy and enthusiasm that will be contagious to those around you. Finding a passion can be something you do for yourself or it could be an exciting adventure for you to enjoy with your spouse or loved ones. Whatever you do, just don’t let anyone tell you that the time for new beginnings has passed. You deserve to embrace each day in your own way and find happiness and fulfillment, no matter how old you are or what stage of life you are in.

Medicare has neither reviewed nor endorsed this information.

In 2012, once you reach a total of $2,930 spent on covered drugs (by both you and your insurance), you will enter the coverage gap. This year, once you reach this “hole” in your coverage, you will get a 50% discount on brand-name drugs and a 14% discount on generic drugs. Some Prescription Drug Plans (PDPs) offer additional coverage during the gap, like for generic drugs, but they may charge a higher monthly premium. Check with your plan first to see if your drugs would be covered during the gap.

Once you are in the gap, how do you get out of it? The following items all count toward you getting out of the coverage gap: your yearly deductible, coinsurance, and copayments
; the discount you get on brand-name drugs in the coverage gap; and what you pay in the coverage gap. Please note that your prescription drug plan premium and what you pay for drugs that are not covered by your PDP do not count toward getting you out of the coverage gap. When your total out-of-pocket expenses reach $4,700, you will qualify for “catastrophic coverage” and will only be responsible for 5% of your prescription drug costs for the remainder of the year.

It is important to plan ahead if your prescription drug costs look like they may lead you into the “doughnut hole” later this year, especially if you are on a limited budget. The good news is that the Affordable Care Act of 2010 called for the narrowing of the coverage gap each year until 2020, when it will disappear altogether.

Medicare has neither reviewed nor endorsed this information.

Some of the symptoms and signs may include “dizziness or vertigo (a spinning sensation); falling or feeling as if you are going to fall; lightheadedness, faintness, or a floating sensation; or blurred vision, confusion or disorientation. Other symptoms can include nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, changes in heart rate and blood pressure, and fear, anxiety, or panic. Some people also feel tired, depressed, or unable to concentrate. Symptoms may come and go over short time periods or last for longer periods of time.”¹ An inner ear infection or upper respiratory infection may be causing your dizziness and can be treated. You can help prevent viral infections that may cause balance problems by avoiding stress, fatigue, smoking, and alcohol.

Nearly 8 million American adults report having chronic problems with balance, and many are Medicare beneficiaries who are at risk of suffering severe injuries and loss of independence because of falls caused by a loss of balance.² It is so important to do what you can to prevent falls caused by a loss of balance. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “more than one-third of adults ages 65 years and older fall each year. Among older adults, falls are the leading cause of injury deaths.”³

Staying as strong and healthy as possible is a great start to preventing falls. There are fitness programs designed for Medicare beneficiaries that emphasize balance training, and many Medicare Advantage plans even include fitness memberships in their benefits. If you don’t know if your benefits include a fitness center membership, contact your plan or review your Evidence of Coverage. Medicare covers balance exams if your doctor or other health care provider orders them to see if you need medical treatment. You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible applies. In a hospital outpatient setting, you also pay the hospital a copayment.

Medicare has neither reviewed nor endorsed this information.

¹ www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/balance/pages/balance_disorders.aspx
² nihseniorhealth.gov/balanceproblems/aboutbalanceproblems/01.html ; About Balance Problems
^3 nihseniorhealth.gov/balanceproblems/aboutbalanceproblems/01.html ; About Balance Problems

Some hearing problems may be caused by a build-up of earwax or a punctured eardrum. Other problems, such as tinnitus, which is a ringing, hissing or roaring sound in the ears, can be caused by exposure to loud noises or even some medications. Many of these problems can be resolved through medication or minor medical procedures. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms before the hearing loss becomes a more severe problem.

Hearing difficulties can lead to feelings of isolation when it becomes frustrating to have conversations with friends and family members. Hearing loss can have more devastating effects than you may think. For instance, hearing loss may lead to misunderstanding doctors’ orders. You may also put yourself in danger if you are at risk of missing the sounds of doorbells or smoke alarms. Some hearing loss can be a symptom of a greater problem, such as allergies or cardiovascular problems.

With “roughly one-third of Americans 65 to 74 years of age” and “47 percent of those 75 and older” having some degree of hearing loss, this is an important topic for Medicare beneficiaries.1 Medicare helps cover the cost of hearing exams if your doctor or other health care provider orders them to see if you need medical treatment. You would pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible will apply. In a hospital outpatient setting, you would also pay the hospital a copayment. Although Original Medicare does not cover hearing aids or exams for fitting hearing aids, many Medicare Advantage Plans offer additional benefits. If you are currently enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan, like an HMO or PPO, you may want to review your plan’s Evidence of Coverage, or call the plan directly to find out what hearing exam benefits they offer. Working in partnership with your physician can help you determine the cause of your hearing loss, and help you find the treatment will best meet your specific medical needs.

Medicare has neither reviewed nor endorsed this information.

¹ nihseniorhealth.gov/hearingloss/hearinglossdefined/01.html; What is Hearing Loss?

Some of the symptoms and signs may include “dizziness or vertigo (a spinning sensation); falling or feeling as if you are going to fall; lightheadedness, faintness, or a floating sensation; or blurred vision, confusion or disorientation. Other symptoms can include nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, changes in heart rate and blood pressure, and fear, anxiety, or panic. Some people also feel tired, depressed, or unable to concentrate.  Symptoms may come and go over short time periods or last for longer periods of time.”¹ An inner ear infection or upper respiratory infection may be causing your dizziness and can be treated. You can help prevent viral infections that may cause balance problems by avoiding stress, fatigue, smoking, and alcohol.

Nearly 8 million American adults report having chronic problems with balance, and many are Medicare beneficiaries who are at risk of suffering severe injuries and loss of independence because of falls caused by a loss of balance.² It is so important to do what you can to prevent falls caused by a loss of balance.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “more than one-third of adults ages 65 years and older fall each year. Among older adults, falls are the leading cause of injury deaths.”³

Staying as strong and healthy as possible is a great start to preventing falls.  There are fitness programs designed for Medicare beneficiaries that emphasize balance training, and many Medicare Advantage plans even include fitness memberships in their benefits.  If you don’t know if your benefits include a fitness center membership, contact your plan or review your Evidence of Coverage.  Medicare covers balance exams if your doctor or other health care provider orders them to see if you need medical treatment. You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible applies. In a hospital outpatient setting, you also pay the hospital a copayment.

Medicare has neither reviewed nor endorsed this information.

1 www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/balance/pages/balance_disorders.aspx

2 nihseniorhealth.gov/balanceproblems/aboutbalanceproblems/01.html ; About Balance Problems

3 nihseniorhealth.gov/balanceproblems/aboutbalanceproblems/01.html ; About Balance Problems

Research has shown that “eating well may reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, bone loss, some kinds of cancer, and anemia.”¹ A healthy diet may help reduce high blood pressure, lower cholesterol, and manage diabetes.  Isn’t it worth finding out what you can do to live a healthier, longer life?  The Dietary Guidelines for Americans from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) can certainly help you get on the right path, but the importance of communicating with your own physician should not be underestimated.

As we age, we can experience unexpected nutrition issues, such as lactose intolerance, problems chewing, or a loss of taste or thirst.  It is crucial that you mention any issues to your physician. Thankfully, with a physician’s help, you can find simple solutions that will allow you to get back to a nutritious and healthy diet. For example, problems chewing may be solved by getting new dentures or by scheduling a visit to a dentist.  Your symptoms may also be a sign of a bigger medical problem that can be treated. If you need some assistance designing a healthy eating plan or overcoming obstacles to a nutritious diet, talk to your doctor about your concerns.

Your physician may suggest a specific diet if you have heart disease or diabetes, or you may need to be aware of certain interactions between foods you eat and medications you take.²  If you are a Medicare beneficiary, you may be covered for medical nutrition therapy and certain related services if you have diabetes or kidney disease, or you have had a kidney transplant in the last 36 months, and your doctor or other health care provider refers you for the service. You pay nothing for these services if the doctor or other health care provider accepts assignment.

Medicare has neither reviewed nor endorsed this information.

1 Benefits of Eating Well

2 Healthy Eating After 50

4.  You have reached this age through wisdom and experience and your birthday is a great time to reminisce about the successes in your life, and share your stories and life experience with others. You might be surprised to find that others, especially children and teenagers, can truly benefit from your history.

3. If you haven’t retired yet, this might be a good time to consider your plans. You might want to re-evaluate your long-term plans, including your goals, budget, and lifestyle. Discuss your concerns and hopes with your spouse or family, and enjoy the excitement of starting a new chapter in your life.

2. Take this birthday as an excuse to gather friends and family. What a great reason to get together with the people you love.  Meet for dinner, coffee, a trip to a museum, or just a movie. This is a great time to reconnect and celebrate the love and friendship you have in your life.

1. The number one reason you should celebrate turning 65 is Medicare! At 65 years of age, you reach Medicare eligibility and can enjoy Medicare health care coverage, including Part A, Part B, Part C, and/or Part D. You will have many choices to make, but you should take the opportunity Medicare gives you to find the benefits and plan that best fits your own personal needs. One of the best 65th birthday gifts you can give yourself is the time you will take to compare plans and options. Joppel.com can help you narrow down your choices with their on-line plan comparison tool, but you can also speak to a licensed sales agent who would be happy to assist you…and wish you a Happy Birthday!

As a Medicare beneficiary, how can you get involved in the efforts to help conserve our planet’s resources and make it a better place for our grandchildren? There are a variety of ways you can help make a difference. Many Medicare beneficiaries know that among the important paperwork and mail that arrives regarding health care coverage and social security, there is quite a bit of “junk” mail that piles up in the mailbox. Many people have chosen to recycle at home, but you can even start a recycling project in your nursing home or assisted living facility, your neighborhood, or even at a local community center.

Conserving utilities and fuel has become an economic choice as well as an eco-friendly one. In light of the rising gas prices, many people are looking for alternative options to driving their own cars.  Medicare beneficiaries are often living within a budget and have found that making “greener” choices can also save them money. Using less electricity by opening windows instead of turning on air conditioning, or carpooling to church or the grocery store are just small things that can make a big difference in the long run.

We are all aware of the importance of Medicare beneficiaries voicing their opinions on health care reform in light of the upcoming elections this November. Their political involvement is considerable, and should not be underestimated. The same can be said of their ability to make environmentally friendly reforms in our cities and states.  Medicare beneficiaries can make a difference in the public arena by calling, writing or emailing local and state representatives.  Letting your political representatives know you care about the current environmental concerns, as well as the future planet we are leaving to our grandchildren, can inspire them to take the charge and make a difference.

Here are some tips on how to choose your charities wisely:

• Do not give money to a company that contacts you first by telephone. If you are interested in giving based on what you are told over the phone, ask them to send you information by mail. This will give you time to research this particular organization, and confirm the authenticity of the charity.
• Never give your credit card or bank account information to someone who initiates contact with you.
• When charity information arrives by mail, try not to get overwhelmed by emotion as you review the sad photos or stories. Try to look at the charity as a business investment and ask questions: What exactly is the charity doing to help the people in need you want to help? Are your dollars going directly to fix a problem or provide much needed food or shelter, or will your donation be going toward administrative costs or overhead, with a very small percentage of the contribution ending up with those in need.
• Don’t let anyone pressure you to donate – there is no hurry to decide when or how much to contribute. Organizations with integrity do not have to resort to such unethical tactics.
• Save your records when you do make a donation. This will be important for tax purposes, but will also help you avoid fraud, or report it if the need arises.
• Please report any concerns about fraud or scams. Many seniors decide not to report their concerns out of embarrassment, but people of all ages can be deceived and by reporting your issues, you may be helping someone else in the future.
• To find out more about the reputation and work of a particular charity, you can start by contacting your local charity registration office, which is usually a division of your State Attorney General’s office. You can contact the Better Business Bureau’s charity information at www.bbb.org/us/charity.

Remember that charity does not have to include giving money – your time can be just as valuable. Many Medicare beneficiaries are on a very limited income, and if   you are not in a position to give money to your charity of choice, you might want to consider volunteering your time instead. There are many local organizations, schools, or churches that would have opportunities for you to give back to your community.