Three Questions Caregivers Should Ask Loved Ones During Annual Enrollment Period
By Christopher Ciano, Head of Aetna Medicare

Caregivers know that the term “care” goes beyond supporting the physical well-being of our loved ones. It also includes providing support for other needs—such as helping them understand their health insurance plan and make informed decisions about their health.

A recent Morning Consult poll showed that one in four Medicare eligibles feel as though they do not have sufficient resources to make an educated decision when purchasing Medicare coverage. As the primary caregiver to my 92-year-old parents, and as the Head of Medicare at Aetna, I found this figure striking.

Navigating the health care system can be a challenge, and the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) can be particularly confusing. I’ve found that asking your loved ones simple questions can help them evaluate their options and find a Medicare plan that will best support their unique health needs.

Here are three key questions to guide you and your loved one during AEP. Not a caregiver, but still have questions about AEP? This guide is for you, too!

What does your loved one know about Medicare plans?

Medicare is broken down into parts – A, B, C and D. I know, it can look confusing! But, the Medicare A, B, C (and Ds) don’t have to be overwhelming. Here is an abridged list of options for Medicare plans: 

  • Part A (Hospital Insurance) covers expenses associated with hospital care, including services like nursing care and hospital stays. Part A falls under Original Medicare, which is administered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
  • Part B (Medical Insurance) covers doctor visits, durable medical equipment, outpatient procedures, lab services and other testing. Part B falls under Original Medicare. Most people sign up for both Parts A and B at the same time, especially if they don’t get medical coverage from another source like work.
  • Part C (Medicare Advantage) covers both Parts A and B, and it can also include other benefits like dental, vision or hearing services, or fitness club memberships depending on your insurer. Before enrolling in Part C, you’ll need to sign up for both Parts A and B and then choose a Medicare Advantage plan through a private insurer. 
  • Part D (Medicare Prescription Drug Plans) exclusively covers prescription drugs. Prescription drug benefits are often included as part of Medicare Advantage plans. However, if you choose to enroll in Original Medicare you can add prescription drug coverage to your Original Medicare coverage. You can do this by purchasing a stand-alone Part D plan from a private insurer. 

Remember, different plans cover different services. Knowing what kinds of coverage your loved one would benefit from will help them select the right plan with more confidence.

What does your loved one need to meet their unique health needs and goals?

To help further identify the best plan for your loved one, it’s important to discuss their health needs and goals. Start the conversation by asking: what does healthy aging look like for you?

According to a recent Morning Consult poll*, at least three out of four Medicare eligibles think it’s important to have a personalized health plan when it comes to maintaining physical and mental health. One of the main differentiators between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage is that Medicare Advantage plans have programs that can be tailored to members’ needs. For example, if your loved one is active, they might prefer a plan with fitness benefits.

It’s important to not only think about and discuss the need for more traditional benefits like surgery or home care, but to also consider other health needs. For example: does your loved one have access to healthy meals? Do they have safe, reliable transportation to the pharmacy, the doctor’s office and other destinations?

Fortunately, beginning in 2019, CMS expanded what benefits could be considered health-related. This change allowed Medicare Advantage plans to create programs and offer benefits like meal delivery that support healthy aging in a more holistic way.

The more you know about what your loved one wants and needs, the better prepared you’ll be to help them choose a Medicare plan that helps them age on their terms.

What will help your loved one best stay connected to the community and the activities they enjoy?

Medicare plans can also assist your loved one with needs that may be less obvious — but are just as important. According to CVS Health’s Path to Better Health Study**, one out of four Medicare eligibles said they don’t know where to meet new people. Older adults are at increased risk of social isolation, which can be harmful to their health. Aetna wants to help our members thrive inside and outside of their homes.

We offer several resources to help our members stay connected to their communities. One benefit available with most Aetna Medicare Advantage plans is SilverSneakers®, which gives members access to over 15,000 fitness locations across the country. Members can also attend group classes led by certified instructors – a great way to meet new people and stay active!

Is your loved one struggling to make social connections because they’re new to a community? When my parents relocated to be closer to me, it was really hard for them to leave behind their home, friends and clubs and start over again. Thankfully, resources exist to help your loved ones navigate situations like this. Aetna’s Resources For Living® program helps members find services and resources within their community, like local senior centers, volunteer groups, or even transportation, if getting to an activity is the issue.

Bonus: Don’t forget to care for you, the caregiver!

Lastly, it’s important to always make time for self-care. Caregiving is rewarding, but it can also take a toll on your physical and emotional well-being. Take care of yourself by finding time to relax, eat healthy and exercise regularly.

And don’t forget, you don’t have to do everything by yourself. Build a support system and ask for help. Resources For Living consultants can help connect caregivers to local support groups and other services that can make your responsibilities more manageable. 

The relationship between a caregiver and their loved one is truly special. I hope that you and your loved one identify a plan that helps both of you live healthier, happier lives.

 

*Morning Consult poll conducted from July 10-12, 2019 among a national sample of 436 adults aged 65+

**Learn more about the study at https://cvshealth.com/thought-leadership/path-to-better-health-study




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