Being ready isn’t about expecting the worst; it’s about having a plan. Now’s the time to connect with your agent — before Annual Enrollment Period opens October 15. A quick check-in this month means you’ll head into enrollment season prepared, not scrambling.
If a storm knocked out power for a few days, or you had to leave home in a hurry, would you be ready? Older adults face a few extra considerations. Daily medications can’t be skipped. Devices like oxygen concentrators or CPAP machines need electricity. And key information (pharmacy, specialists, dosages) might live in your head instead of somewhere easy to grab. Where to begin your emergency prep:
- Keep a week’s supply of medications on hand, with a written list of what you take and why
- Put copies of your Medicare card, ID, and insurance information somewhere accessible.
- If you rely on a power-dependent device, talk to your provider about a backup plan.
- Make sure someone outside your household would notice if they hadn’t heard from you
One more thing: Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) opens October 15th, and it’s a great time to pause and ask — did your health needs change this year? New prescriptions, a new diagnosis, or a specialist you’re now seeing regularly can all affect whether your current plan is still the best fit.
If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug (MAPD) or standalone Prescription Drug Plan (PDP), keep an eye out for your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) — it should arrive by September 30th and it explains exactly what’s changing in your coverage for next year. Give it a read and book an appointment if you have questions.
How to Prepare For Emergencies | Be Red Cross Ready
Three simple steps that make emergency planning far less overwhelming. ✅
Safe Medication Use After a Natural Disaster
What actually happens to your medications when the power goes out (and what to do about it). 💊
Monthly Motivation:“The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” -Mark Twain |
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