Medicare’s annual open enrollment period is here. This is an 8-week period of time when Medicare recipients can opt for different health care coverage. Whether it’s returning to traditional Medicare or signing up for a Medicare Advantage plan, the window for making changes opens on October 15th and closes on December 6th every year.

Unfortunately, seniors sometimes find it tough to navigate the maze of options that are available to them. Some stick with their current plan for fear of making a mistake by choosing a new one or simply because they feel overwhelmed by the process. A health plan that might have worked well in the past, may not be the best plan anymore. There may be a different choice that will provide better coverage or one that will save money.

Here are a few tips that can help you make the most of Medicare Open Enrollment this year.

Get Started: It’s Medicare Open Enrollment Time

You should have received an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) in the mail in late September or early October. This notice is designed to inform you of any changes to Medicare—including costs—from this year to next. Take time to carefully review it and identify any changes that are important to your health care preferences.

It’s also essential to reflect on the past year’s coverage, as well as to review and explore other choices:

Reflect: Are you happy with your current providers and how well the plan meets your needs? Have you found yourself paying for an expensive prescription that isn’t covered? Have you been unable to see a favorite doctor because they aren’t part of your plan? Make a list of things you are happy with and those you aren’t.

Review: Gather the receipts from this year’s (or even the past two years) health care expenses. Add up all of the costs associated with your medical care, including premiums for gap insurance, co-pays, and uncovered expenses. This will help you compare the true cost of your current plan with others that are available.

Explore: If you are enrolled in traditional Medicare, you might want to explore Medicare Advantage plans, too. Some of these plans offer a wider range of benefits, even vision and dental coverage, for a reasonable price.

Fortunately, help is available if you are having difficulty figuring out which plan is best for 2021.

Online Resources for Support: If you are comfortable using online resources, the Medicare Plan Finder allows you to use your zip code to search for plans in your area. Easy Path to Choosing a Medicare Plan from the National Council on Aging is another easy-to-use resource. The site walks visitors through everything they need to know about Medicare plans.

State Health Insurance Assistance Plan (SHIP): Should you prefer to ask questions to an expert in real time, the SHIP program is available. SHIP advisors are available in every state. They answer questions about all things Medicare from prescription drug coverage to co-pays and out-of-pocket maximums.

If you found this information to be useful, we encourage you to bookmark and visit the Life Protect Blog often. It’s updated every week with information on aging, healthy living, senior safety, and more.

It’s Medicare open enrollment time again. If you are a Medicare recipient, take time to review your current plan and other options. Here’s how.

Preparing for Medicare's Annual Open Enrollment

Most people associate summer vacations with trips to the beach or to destinations like Walt Disney World, Yosemite National Park, or the Grand Canyon. There’s no doubt those can be popular getaways, especially if you have children tagging along. But there are other options to consider, many of which are more affordable and attract fewer crowds.

Big cities, resort areas during the shoulder season, and smaller towns a little off the beaten path can be fun to visit. Many make for especially great intergenerational vacations for families. Let’s take a look at some cities you might want to explore this summer.

Nashville, Tennessee: Music City is more than just a country music town. There are loads of attractions to keep the whole family entertained. You can visit Adventure Science Center, the Grand Ole Opry, Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage, Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, the legendary Bluebird Café, the Frist Art Museum, and more. And the good news is that Nashville has hotels at a variety of price points located all over the city.

New York City, New York: Because residents of New York City often leave town for popular beach destinations during summer months, it can be a great time to enjoy the Big Apple. Many consider June to be an ideal month to visit. You’ll beat the summer tourist crowds but still enjoy warmer weather. New York City has so much to offer—enjoy a Broadway show, tour museums, the Statue of Liberty, or Central Park, or take in the view from one of the city’s famed observation decks.

New Orleans, Louisiana: If you can handle the hot, humid weather in New Orleans, this is another city to consider exploring this summer. With Mardi Gras celebrations done for the year, you’ll likely encounter fewer crowds. Outdoor festivals abound, as do museums, restaurants, antique stores, and boutiques. And the National WWII Museum is a must visit.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming: While you might think this popular celebrity ski destination is too expensive to consider, there’s much to do in the summer when rates aren’t as high. In addition to hiking, biking, boating, and fly fishing, there are lots of local breweries and restaurants to enjoy. Yellowstone National Park is also nearby.

Stowe, Vermont: Many people associate Vermont with fall leaf-peeping getaways or winter ski adventures, but spring and summer are also good months to visit. One city to put on your list to explore is Stowe. You can golf, swim, hike, paddle, or zip line during your vacation. Disc golf is also popular here. Outdoor concerts, museums, and art galleries are plentiful, too.

Lake Tahoe, California: This popular winter resort area is lots of fun in the summer months, as well. The locale is known for its beautiful aquamarine lake, where visitors can kayak. Other options include gondola rides, mountain hikes, zip lining tours, tubing, and gemstone panning. History buffs might be interested in a tour of the Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum. It tells the tale of the infamous Donner Party, a group of pioneers who were trapped during a difficult winter and had to resort to cannibalism to survive.

Chicago, Illinois: While the least expensive months to visit the Windy City are January and February, they are almost always tough weather months. You can avoid the chilly temperatures by visiting in summer. Though you’ll still encounter more crowds than in other places, there’s so much to do—from visiting museums to watching fireworks at the Navy Pier and playing volleyball on the beach—you might not mind it. You’re guaranteed to have a good time in Chicago. This list of affordable hotels can help you start planning.

One tip that might help you make the most of your summer getaway is to talk with your primary care physician about starting a walking program. It can help protect muscle and bone health while also increasing stamina. That can help if your vacation will be an active one.

Whether you are in your own home, hiking in a local park, or traveling with friends, you might have greater peace of mind if you invest in a mobile monitoring unit. These discreet devices allow you to call for emergency assistance with a simple press of a button. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more!

Looking for different ideas for a summer vacation? This list of 7 underrated destinations might help you start planning.

7 Summer Vacations You Likely Haven’t Considered

Seniors searching for a new car might wonder if an electric vehicle, or EV, is right for them. In the past, most people felt EVs were either too small and cheaply made or too expensive. The unpredictable driving range and lack of charging stations also made the average buyer hesitant to invest in one of these vehicles.

In recent years, however, that has changed. Today’s car market includes more models to choose from and easier access to charging stations across the country. If you are in the market for a new car and thinking about going with an EV, here are a few pros and cons to consider.

The Positive Side of Owning an Electric Vehicle

A few good reasons to consider purchasing an EV this time around are:

Environmentally conscious: Electric vehicles are better for the environment because they aren’t putting out climate-damaging emissions. According to the International Council on Clean Transportation, EVs produce 60%–68% fewer emissions than conventional vehicles.

Improved range: Inconsistency in range made older EVs a riskier purchase. Fortunately, they can now go farther on a single charge. According to the Electric Vehicle Research Center at the University of California at Davis, EVs currently average around 250 miles, with some getting as much as 350 miles. That’s a decent range, especially for city drivers. Today’s EV batteries also charge more quickly than those of the past. Some can be at 80% in as little as 30 minutes.

Easier to maintain: Automobiles powered by gas have complicated engines. Depending on the vehicle model, it can require a lot of maintenance. Not so with an EV. If you go with an electric car, you’ll spend less time in the service department at your dealer, which translates to less money spent on maintenance. On average, owners of EVs can expect to save $4,600 over the life of the vehicle when compared with a gas-powered car.

Better looking: There’s no denying the early versions of electric cars were unattractive. Fortunately, those days are gone. While they still have a ways to go in the looks department, you’ll now be able to find more stylish EVs at every price point.

Fun to drive: Today’s EVs are just plain fun to drive! They start quickly and are easy to zip around in. Auto experts liken driving an EV to the fun of driving a go-cart combined with the comfort and style of a car. And who doesn’t like driving a go-cart?

Potential tax credits: A variety of tax credits are available for people who buy an EV. These can help offset the cost of the car. You can check the government’s Fuel Economy page to see if there are other tax incentives your vehicle might qualify you to receive. The dealership you buy the car from might also be able to help you explore tax credits you might be eligible for.


While there are lots of good reasons to buy an EV, it’s also important to be aware of the drawbacks:

Upfront expense: While EVs have become more affordable, even mid-range vehicles can create a bit of sticker shock when compared to a gasoline-powered car. On the lower end of the EV price spectrum, the BMW MINI Cooper SE electric and the Mazda MX-30 have prices in the $30,000 to $40,000 range. By contrast, higher-end electric cars like the Porsche Taycan Turbo S, Audi e-Tron GT, and Tesla Model S are close to or well over $100,000. A few manufacturers, like Ford, Volkswagen, Cadillac, and BMW, have EVs priced in between.

Access to charging stations: The number of charging stations nationwide has climbed in recent years, but in some areas of the country, stations are still far apart. Experts say there are currently 160,000 charging stations in the U.S. As these vehicles gain in popularity, however, there might actually be a need for almost 800,000.

One final consideration to be aware of is that home charger pricing has fallen. Most now retail for between $300 and $700. But you’ll likely incur added fees to install one in your garage. Expenses like permits, supplies, and an electrician’s time can add as much as $3,000 to your bill.

If you found this article interesting, we encourage you to bookmark the Life Protect 24/7 blog and stop back often!

Wondering if an electric vehicle might be a good option for you or a senior loved one? Read more about the pros and cons of owning an EV.

Are EVs a Good Choice for Senior Drivers?

When a person is experiencing a stroke, it is frightening for them and everyone around them. Strokes can occur without warning and are a leading cause of disability and death among seniors in the United States. That’s why every second counts when it comes to getting treatment for someone who is having a stroke.

In honor of National Stroke Awareness Month in May, we are helping to shine a spotlight on this condition. Here are some of the statistics on strokes:

Stroke is the fourth-leading cause of death in this country.

Someone experiences a stroke every 40 seconds in the U.S.

Almost 800,000 Americans a year have a stroke.

According to the American Stroke Association, a stroke is the result of brain cells being deprived of oxygen. Oxygen deprivation is typically caused by a blood clot or by a blood vessel bursting. As brain cells are deprived of oxygen, the cells begin to die. The longer the brain is deprived of oxygen, the less likely it is that the person will survive or make a full recovery.

The risk factors for a stroke can be broken down into three general categories: lifestyle, medical, and genetic. Here’s a little more information on each of these.

Lifestyle choices that impact stroke risk

A diet consisting primarily of sugar and saturated fats increases your stroke risk, as does consuming too much sodium. Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption are other lifestyle choices that put you at higher risk. Experts also say being too sedentary raises your odds of having a stroke—in fact, it can be nearly as dangerous as smoking. You may be able to lower your risk by exercising regularly and avoiding sitting for long periods of time.

Health issues that increase your risk for stroke

Some medical conditions can put you at higher risk of stroke. A few of the more common include high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, and problems with circulation. If you or a senior loved one have any of these, it’s important to talk to your physician to see what steps you can do to lower your risk.

Hereditary factors can also increase the odds of a stroke. Two of these are race and ethnicity. African Americans, Hispanics, and Asians/Pacific Islanders are all at higher risk for experiencing a stroke than Caucasians.

It’s important for older adults and their caregivers to learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms of a stroke. Remembering the acronym FAST might help you do that:

F is for Face: Drooping on one side of the face is a classic stroke symptom. It might be accompanied by blurry vision, loss of vision, numbness, or drooling.

A is for Arm: Weakness in an arm is another warning sign. Ask the person to raise both arms above their head. If they have difficulty doing so or if one arm drifts downward, they might be experiencing a stroke.

S is for Speech: Slurred speech, difficulty forming words, and repetitive speech can be signs of an oncoming stroke.

T is for Time: If a stroke is suspected, look at the clock and note the time. Some life-saving medications are time-bound and can only be administered within a certain time frame after symptoms first appear.

Other common symptoms can include confusion, difficulty walking, and sudden onset of a painful headache. We hope you will save this information and share it with the older adults and caregivers in your life.

Experiencing a stroke can put you at higher risk for having another. Researchers say 23% of people who have a stroke will experience a second one. Being able to quickly and easily summon help is vital. One way to do that is by investing in an emergency response device like the Life Protect 24/7 mobile monitoring unit. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more today!

Strokes are a major cause of disability and death in the U.S. Learn more about the condition, from risk factors to common stroke symptoms.

Would you be surprised to learn that skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States? Experts say one in five Americans will be diagnosed with some form of skin cancer by the time they turn 70. Fortunately, most forms of skin cancer are treatable if caught early. There is one type, however, that is especially dangerous: melanoma.

Deaths from melanoma are highest among older adults. White men over the age of 55 make up the majority of melanoma diagnoses. Just living longer exposes you to more sun damage, which, in turn, can lead to melanoma.

In honor of Melanoma Awareness Month in May and Melanoma Monday, which occurs on May 7 this year, we’re sharing more information on the risk factors for this deadly form of skin cancer.

Though researchers aren’t sure why some people develop melanoma and others don’t, they believe some personal traits and behaviors might put people at greater risk:

Age and gender: Age and sex impact your odds of developing melanoma. The older you are, the more likely you are to develop melanoma. Before age 50, women are at higher risk. After 50, however, that flips and men face the greatest risk.

Family history: Ten percent of adults diagnosed with melanoma have a first-degree relative—a parent, child, or sibling—who has also been diagnosed with the disease. If your family has a history of melanoma, it’s important to share that information with your primary care physician.

UV radiation exposure: While the use of tanning beds has fallen by almost one-third over the last decade, they are still popular. Young white women between the ages of 18 and 21 are the largest consumers. Because the beds emit UV radiation, they put users at higher risk for melanoma.

Complexion: Skin tone is another factor that increases a person’s risk for melanoma. Fair-skinned people usually sunburn more easily, putting them in a high-risk category. Caucasians with blond or red hair and blue or green eyes are especially vulnerable.

Location: When it comes to the chance of developing melanoma, where you live matters. People who reside close to the equator or at high elevation are at greater risk. Researchers believe it is because they are regularly exposed to larger doses of the sun’s UV rays.

Moles: While most moles don’t turn into melanoma, some do. The more moles you have, the higher your risk for this serious form of skin cancer. If you don’t already have an annual skin check by a dermatologist, ask your primary care doctor for a referral to one.

Sunburns: Experiencing one or more blistering sunburns at any age can also increase a person’s odds of developing melanoma. While most skin damage happens during childhood, it’s important not to get complacent and think what you do during adulthood doesn’t matter.

Weakened immune system: Some chronic health conditions, as well as cancer treatments, can weaken a person’s immune system. Research seems to indicate a person’s risk for melanoma rises when their immune system is compromised.

As we head into summer, it’s important to review these risk factors with loved ones of all ages.

Another safety issue to be aware of this summer is the need to monitor hydration. While it can occur any time of year, dehydration happens most often in the summer. Summer Dehydration and Seniors: What Adult Children Should Know is a helpful article you can read to learn more.

What causes melanoma and can it be prevented? Learn more in this article from Life Protect 24/7.

Caregiving for a parent as they grow older can be equal parts rewarding and challenging. For the seven million adults caring for a loved one who lives more than an hour away, the distance makes the challenges more pronounced. It can take an emotional and physical toll on the adult child. According to the National Alliance for Caregiving, long-distance family caregivers are more likely to suffer from worry, guilt, and feelings of helplessness.

These feelings, and the stress that accompanies them, can be attributed to an inability to be present in an aging parent’s home as frequently as you’d like. That often includes worrying that an aging parent won’t have the opportunity to play a meaningful role in their grandchildren’s lives.

Video chat platforms make it easier for families who are separated by any amount of distance to connect and bond. Platforms like Zoom and Skype are easy to navigate and can be accessed on tablets or laptops.

As a long-distance caregiver, you can use video conversations to visually assess how your senior loved one is really doing. While they might tell you by phone that things are fine, seeing them allows you to evaluate the situation for yourself. For example, you can look for signs of unintended weight loss or a flushed face that might indicate a fever.

4 Ways to Use Video Chat to Bond with a Senior

Families can also use video chat services in other ways. Here are a few ideas to help you get started.

Play games virtually: You can play games together across the miles via Zoom or Skype. Charades, Heads Up!, and Pictionary all translate well across video services. You can each provide your own snacks to enjoy during your time online together. The camaraderie can be especially welcome for a senior stuck indoors because of mobility challenges or bad weather.

Host celebrations: When grandparents live far away and aren’t able to travel to join in special celebrations, they might feel left out of important milestones in a grandchild’s life. Using a video service, you can enjoy parties together. One way is to livestream events in a Facebook group or by FaceTime. You could also buy and wrap holiday gifts for family members to open when everyone is together online. The same holds true for treats. For example, order cupcakes or a small birthday cake for people at both ends to snack on during your virtual party.

Share religious studies: Many churches and synagogues stream weekly services. Families could sign on to watch these “together.” Older adults and their families might also enjoy religious studies, such as Sunday school or Bible study groups, that offer opportunities for personal interaction. This Women’s Ministry Toolbox has tips and resources you might find useful for hosting these types of programs virtually.

Read stories: Children often love books and reading. They might like having someone read stories to them or have an adult, especially a grandparent, listen to them read. You could make a habit of including a senior loved one virtually in story time, including before bedtime. To make it easier, borrow or purchase two copies of the same books. Most libraries have digital copies you can check out electronically, too. Another option is to check whether you can borrow books from your library system with the Libby app. It’s free and has many children’s books to choose from.

These are just a few ideas to explore. Once you get started, loved ones will probably come up with other ways to bond virtually.

Mobile Monitoring Units Bring Peace of Mind

Another way technology has made life less stressful for long-distance caregivers is with easy-to-use devices like the mobile monitoring unit. It allows the user to discreetly summon help with the press of a button. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more!

If you are a long-distance caregiver, you may be looking for ways you and others can stay connected with the senior. These tips will help.

Tips for Connecting and Caregiving Across the Miles

Preparing for Medicare's Annual Open Enrollment

Get Started: It’s Medicare Open Enrollment Time

Get Help with Medicare Open Enrollment

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