Medicare News | Medigap Life

AARP Bulletin: Retail Loyalty Programs, Clean Energy Scams, and Where We Are Now with COVID-19

September 3, 2024/in Medicare News /by mgl

AARP Bulletin: Retail Loyalty Programs, Clean Energy Scams, and Where We Are Now with COVID-19

WASHINGTON—The September issue of AARP Bulletin guides readers through the latest science when it comes to long COVID, the best tips to spot and avoid home energy scams, and a bevy of ways to help save money.

Highlights from the September issue of the Bulletin:

Should You Pay to Save? Retailer loyalty programs are becoming increasingly popular, promising instant savings and exclusive perks. But are they truly worth the investment? AARP Bulletin contributor Lisa Lee Freeman offers a comprehensive analysis of the most popular retailer management programs, helping readers weigh the benefits against the costs.

Clean Energy Scams: As the demand for clean and renewable energy solutions grows, so does the risk of falling victim to scams. AARP Bulletin uncovers the latest tactics used by fraudsters to exploit consumers seeking green energy options. From deceptive solar panel offers to fraudulent renewable energy schemes, this report provides readers with the tools they need to identify and avoid scams that could cost them thousands of dollars.

Cover Story: The Untold Impact of Long COVID The lingering effects of long COVID are becoming increasingly evident, yet much remains unknown about the disease’s aftermath. In this eye-opening cover story, AARP Bulletin delves into the untold impact of long COVID, exploring the physical, emotional, and financial challenges it presents.

###

About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

Exclusives From AARP The Magazine: Kevin Costner Enters His Fifth Decade of Making Movies, Jewel on Exploring Her Family’s Artistic Legacy, and Easy Tech Tips for Everybody

July 25, 2024/in Medicare News /by mgl

Exclusives From AARP The Magazine: Kevin Costner Enters His Fifth Decade of Making Movies, Jewel on Exploring Her Family’s Artistic Legacy, and Easy Tech Tips for Everybody

Plus: Philippe Petit on Balancing Life On and Off The Tightrope; Planning For Retirement at 62 Years Old; and a Sneak Peek at Latest High-Tech Products and Services For Couponing, Social Media Connections, and Staying Informed

WASHINGTON—The August/September 2024 issue of AARP The Magazine (ATM) gives readers a closer look into the lives of their favorite celebrities and reveals some of the biggest trends of 2024.

Hollywood’s iconic actor-director Kevin Costner is on the cover and delves into some of the unique experiences he’s had as he enters his fifth decade in filmmaking. The issue’s Upfront series showcases eleven remarkable things about multifaceted artist Jewel, by exploring how her musical journey is intertwined with her family’s artistic legacy, while also candidly discussing her hardest lived times like being homeless and having a near-death experience.

Tightrope performer Philippe Petit, at 74, reflects on the 50th anniversary of his famed World Trade Center high-wire walk while revealing how he maintains balance in his profession and way of life.

Plus, this issue addresses the critical factors for older Americans contemplating retirement at age 62; recounts financial professionals’ toughest client challenges and their solutions, including advice on preparing for the business aspects of divorce; and how to utilize high-tech products and services for easier living and staying informed on current events.

In this issue of AARP The Magazine:

Kevin Costner Goes His Own Way

As he enters his fifth decade in filmmaking, Kevin Costner reflects on a remarkable period in his career when he starred in six major films over a course of six years. He dives into his enduring passion for the craft, while reminiscing about the special moments with his children and the projects they’ve worked together on.

Tech Made Easy: Your Life Simplified

For this year’s AARP The Magazine annual tech guide, our top tech experts delve into useful high-tech products and services that will make life easier for everybody and offer some knowledge when it comes to couponing and transportation, while using secure payment apps. Including social media do’s and don’ts of safely connecting with friends and family and tips on how to stay informed on current events.

The A-List: 6 Surprising Things About Jewel

Multiplatinum singer-songwriter, actress and poet Jewel dives into her musical journey, sharing how art is in her family’s DNA and the significant impact yodeling played in shaping her singing technique. She additionally reveals to ATM the hardships she faced with her finances and family at times, and how her definition of beauty is rooted in authenticity.

Real/People: Up in the Air with Philippe Petit
Tightrope artist and performer Philippe Petit, looks back on his famed illegal high-wire walk between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City 50 years ago. Now at 74, Philippe discusses his next bold pursuit and the role of balancing, not only his profession, but also his way of life. He explains with ATM how he is keeping his mind and body energized.

Big Money Woes? When to Call in the Pros

ATM shares some of the most challenging situations financial professionals have encountered with their clients and the solutions they devised. AARP’s financial experts provide advice on preparing for the business side of divorce by maintaining detailed expense records and a clear financial overview.

Could You Retire at 62?

In a recent study, only 46% of American workers under age 62 said they plan to work full-time once they have reached that age. ATM provides a checklist of factors to consider before making the retirement leap, including cost of health insurance, timing Social Security claims, and adjusting retirement plans to account for inflation.

# # #

About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

Inside AARP Bulletin’s June Issue: Mitigating Chronic Pain, Avoiding Election Scammers and Buying a Newly Built Home

June 6, 2024/in Medicare News /by mgl

Inside AARP Bulletin’s June Issue: Mitigating Chronic Pain, Avoiding Election Scammers and Buying a Newly Built Home

WASHINGTON—AARP Bulletin’s June cover story offers insight that could be a relief to those experiencing chronic pain — which afflicts over a quarter of the population age 45 and older. Instead of a single cure, researchers are now looking for a multipronged approach to managing everyday aches. The story details the latest news on the science of pain.

PLUS: a layperson’s guide to common painkillers and how the pros build a pain management plan.

Also in the June issue of the Bulletin:

What you need to know before purchasing a recently built home: Newly built homes may have safer, stronger construction standards and the latest safety features for older home buyers. But buying new or not-yet-built can pose specific challenges. Read how to help protect yourself in the process — and how to read the fine print while getting the best price — in this month’s issue.

Protect your home against rising waters: With June marking the start of the Atlantic hurricane season, the Bulletin has rounded up the best professional insight into how to flood-proof your home. Not doing so could be costly; a single inch of water flooding your home could cause $25,000 worth of damage. In this month’s issue, we offer nine critical tips to minimize the threat of water.

This story is part of a larger AARP series. For an in-depth look at the toll of rising sea levels and more severe weather events, visit https://www.aarp.org/home-family/your-home/info-2024/washed-away/?cmp=RDRCT-CON-WASHEDAWAY-05232024.

2024 election scams: Crooks often target older adults during voting cycles — simply because they’re so politically engaged. The latest issue of the Bulletin details the three most popular election-related schemes: bogus political action committees (PACs), voter registration scams and fraudulent surveys. Learn how these election scams work — and how to outsmart them — in this month’s Fraud Watch.

###

About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest-circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

Many Family Caregivers Avoid Personal Travel, New AARP Report Shows

June 3, 2024/in Medicare News /by mgl

WASHINGTON—A new report from AARP reveals that half (50%) of adult caregivers have avoided personal trips with their care recipient. The primary reason preventing caregiver travel is the physical health of their care recipients (37%). Among caregivers who traveled, their biggest concern was the fear of being unable to access medical assistance when needed (33%).

Conversely, about half of traveling caregivers reported improved emotional well-being and social connectedness on account of taking a personal trip; nearly half also reported improved emotional or mental health for their care recipient.

“Caregiving can be difficult even in familiar surroundings,” says Amy Goyer, AARP Family and Caregiving Expert. “So it can feel daunting to take loved ones on the road. However, taking a trip with them can create wonderful, lifelong memories. By planning ahead, it is possible for many family caregivers to get away with those they care for and enjoy the positive aspects of travel.”

More major findings from the survey:

Over half of caregivers 50 or older express a desire to travel to visit family or friends (51%) or simply for a change of scenery (49%).
Nine in 10 (90%) of travel destinations for caregivers and their care recipients were domestic.
Modes of transportation used in trips with care recipients range from personal vehicles (53%), airplanes (30%), to rental vehicles (14%).
For more than one-third (38%) of caregivers, part of their last trip’s cost included paying additional fees for accessibility.

To read the full report, visit AARP.org/travelwithcare. Find more caregiving resources here and at AARP.org/caregiving.

###

About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

Exclusives From AARP The Magazine: Diane Lane on Acting at Her Own Pace, Guidance for Couples on How to Understand Personal Finances Together, and Navigating Conversations About Menopause in the Workplace, and Jon Bon Jovi on Writing Songs About Aging

May 29, 2024/in Medicare News /by mgl

Exclusives From AARP The Magazine: Diane Lane on Acting at Her Own Pace, Guidance for Couples on How to Understand Personal Finances Together, and Navigating Conversations About Menopause in the Workplace, and Jon Bon Jovi on Writing Songs About Aging

Plus: Bobby Cannavale on the Power of Hypnotism; How Your Hands Can Reveal Surprising Health Problems; and a Special Report on Severe Weather Conditions Affecting Elderly Residents in Coastal Regions

WASHINGTON—The June/July 2024 issue of AARP The Magazine (ATM) gives readers a closer look into the lives of favorite celebrities and reveals some of 2024’s biggest trends.

Legendary rock star Jon Bon Jovi, on the cover of ATM’s June/July 2024 issue, shares details about his upcoming album and how aging is influencing the next stage in his musical career. This issue’s Upfront series showcases six surprising insights about actress Diane Lane, including her acclaimed resurgence in the entertainment industry.

Emmy Award–winning actor Bobby Cannavale reveals how fatherhood with his younger sons sparked a change of his workaholic tendencies. Additionally, ATM delves into the distressing living conditions faced by older Americans along the coasts of New Jersey and Florida, while AARP offers practical tips on fortifying homes against floods.

Plus, the issue includes eight health signals found on our nails and knuckles that could indicate underlying ailments and accompanying expert insights and prevention tips; how to discuss menopause in the workplace; and how to bridge the money-knowledge gaps in marriages so couples can better manage finances together.

In this issue of AARP The Magazine:

Cover Story: Jon Bon Jovi

After living the classic rock star lifestyle for decades, Jon Bon Jovi unveils a new chapter in his musical journey and candidly shares the profound inspiration aging brings to songwriting. Bon Jovi opens up to ATM on refining his image and how he takes care of his voice post vocal surgery.

The A List: Diane Lane

Renowned actress Diane Lane chats about her career in the entertainment business, reflecting on knowing when it is time to take breaks, and staging a triumphant return. Revealing six surprises from her journey along the way, Lane ponders an alternate career shift as a therapist.

What I Know Now With Bobby Cannavale

Emmy-winning actor Bobby Cannavale, a father of three at 54, discusses how being a parent influences his work. The Ezra star also shares his recent experiences with a hypnotist and dedication to “flex every muscle” and try new activities like singing and dancing for the off-Broadway musical Here We Are.

Open Up Your Marriage (the Money Part, That Is)

ATM delves into familiar challenges many couples face: determining who manages finances and how to transition from control to collaboration. AARP offers practical tips and motivations, such as compiling a notebook of finances or patiently educating the less-knowledgeable partner well in advance so both spouses are equipped to manage money independently when necessary.

Surprising Health Clues Hidden in Your Hand

Our fingertips and knuckles serve as revealing indicators of our overall well-being. ATM offers insights on how to be proactive when you begin recognizing any of these eight subtle warning signs that may manifest on our hands and signal the need for medical attention.

How to Talk to Your Boss About Menopause
ATM shares important research regarding menopause and the workplace, such as the fact that only 22 percent of employers provide menopause-specific benefits while 1 in 3 workers currently experiencing menopause had to miss work in the past 12 months due to their symptoms. With menopause frequently overlooked in the workplace, experts provide six tips to initiate conversations with managers and companies to discuss solutions and health benefits to ensure all employees’ comfort and efficiency.

Washed Away

AARP teamed up with veteran environmental journalist Craig Welch for a special report on how extreme weather patterns are currently impacting older Americans in the Coastal Regions of New Jersey and Florida. The report delves into how displaced residents are coping with financial loss as well as feelings of loneliness and uncertainty, and it also provides tips and resources on how individuals can advocate to assist these communities in preparing for floods. With hurricane season underway, the timing of this story is especially critical.

This report is part of a larger AARP series. For an in-depth look at the toll of rising sea levels and more severe weather events, visit aarp.org/washedaway.

# # #

About AARP

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health and financial security, and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest-circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit aarp.org/about or aarp.org/espanol, or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

Get ready! Medicare’s Open Enrollment starts October 15.

October 1, 2021/in Medicare News /by mgl

You can enroll in Medicare health and drug plans from October 15 – December 7. Get ready for Medicare’s Open Enrollment with these 5 tips:

Check your mail. You may get important notices from Medicare or Social Security. If you’re in a Medicare plan, you’ll get an Annual Notice of Changes (ANOC) telling you of any changes in coverage, costs, or service area. Note any 2022 changes to your health coverage or any Extra Help you may get to pay for prescription drugs.
You may also get brochures and other marketing materials from insurance companies that offer Medicare health and prescription drug plans. Remember — plans aren’t allowed to call or come to your home without an invitation from you. Find out how to protect yourself from Medicare fraud.
Think about your Medicare coverage needs for 2022. Carefully review your current Medicare coverage, and note any upcoming changes to your costs or benefits. Decide if your current Medicare coverage will meet your needs for the year ahead. If you like your current coverage, and it’s still available for 2022, you don’t need to take any action to keep it.
Review your 2022 “Medicare & You” handbook. It has information about Medicare coverage and Medicare plans in your area. If you want to get your handbook electronically, you can go paperless by logging into (or creating) your secure Medicare account.
Preview 2022 health and prescription drug plans. We make it easy to compare coverage options and shop for health plans. For a personalized search, log in or create an account (if you have a Medicare Number) to create or access a list of your drugs, compare your current Medicare plan to others, and see prices based on any help you get with drug costs.
Get personalized help in your community. You may be able to find free information and events online, or get help from health insurance counselors in your area by phone, like your State Health Insurance Assistance Program.

Visit Medicare.gov to sign up to get important news & updates by email from Medicare.

Guard your card: How to protect your Medicare card

September 15, 2021/in Medicare News /by mgl

Protect yourself by protecting your Medicare card!

The next Medicare Open Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7) is coming fast, which means con artists may try to steal your identity and commit Medicare fraud. Medicare has taken actions to make Medicare cards safer by replacing Social Security Numbers with more secure ID numbers. But even with those efforts, fraudsters may still try to take advantage of you during Open Enrollment.

Medicare fraud results in higher health care costs for taxpayers just like you. That’s why it’s so important to know how to protect your Medicare card and Number.

What can you do to protect yourself and prevent Medicare fraud?

The most important thing you can do is guard your Medicare card like it’s a credit card. Don’t give your Medicare card or Number to anyone except your doctor or people you know should have it.

You can also:

Keep your Medicare Number to yourself. If you get a call from people promising you things if you give them your Medicare Number — don’t do it. This is a common Medicare scam.
Refuse any offer of money or gifts for free medical care. A common ploy of identity thieves is to say they can send you your free gift right away — they just need your Medicare Number.
Use a calendar to record all of your doctors’ appointments and any tests you get. When you check your Medicare statements, look out for any items and services listed and other details that don’t look correct. If you see a charge or service that you think is incorrect and you know the provider, call their office and ask about it.
Learn how a Medicare plan works before you join.
Stay alert for fraud during the coronavirus disease 2019 (or COVID-19) national emergency. Con artists like to take advantage of people when they’re distracted.

Committing Medicare fraud is illegal & you should report it

If you suspect fraud, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048. If you’re in a Medicare Advantage Plan or Medicare drug plan, call the Medicare Drug Integrity Contractor (MEDIC) at 1-877-7SAFERX (1-877-772-3379).

Learn how to protect yourself from health care fraud. Visit Medicare.gov/fraud for more information on how to help fight Medicare fraud.

Prevention is key—protect yourself with vaccines

August 9, 2021/in Medicare News /by mgl

More than 79% of people 65 and over are fully vaccinated for COVID-19—but are you defending yourself from other life-threatening illnesses, like pneumonia and the flu? Getting vaccinated is a simple, safe, and effective way to protect yourself.

According to the CDC, “vaccines greatly reduce the risk of infection by working with the body’s natural defenses to safely develop immunity to disease.” They strengthen your immune system and train it to create antibodies, like it does when it’s exposed to a disease.

Medicare covers a variety of vaccinations, including:

COVID-19 vaccine—helps protect against Coronavirus disease 2019
Flu shot—helps prevent the influenza virus
Hepatitis B shots—helps protects against the Hepatitis B Virus
Pneumococcal shots —helps protect against pneumococcal disease and its potentially serious complications, including infections like pneumonia and meningitis
Shingles shot—helps protect against reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes varicella (chickenpox)
Tdap shots—helps protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (“whooping cough”)

Also, you no longer need to wait 14 days between different vaccines. According to the CDC, you can get a COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccines, including flu and shingles, at the same visit.

Adults need to keep their vaccinations up to date because immunity from childhood vaccines can wear off over time. Talk to your doctor to help you decide which vaccines are right for you.