CHARLOTTE, N.C. — More than 4 million Americans will turn 65 this year, which means they will have to navigate a new health care journey: Medicare, according to a report from the Alliance for Lifetime Income.
Adults turning 65 years old this year have much to consider when choosing a Medicare plan and provider, from evaluating current health care needs to anticipating changing life situations.
Frankly, the process can be a little daunting, so where should they begin?
Here's what “young seniors” need to know to get ahead of this new milestone.
To let us know how WCNC Charlotte can help you get ahead in 2024, email us at newstips@wcnc.com.
"Medicare is what we've paid into our whole lives while we were working," Dr. Jennifer Taylor, the lead medical director at Humana, said. "Then when we turn 65, we are entitled to that care, which is sponsored through the government."
Taylor said it’s important for older adults to start their research now.
"It's really important to understand all the different parts of Medicare, so you can make a decision based on your own individual needs," she said.
Taylor said there’s the traditional Medicare plan, which covers hospital visits and ER visits, but added those have a deductible.
"You also can buy a plan called a Part D plan that covers your prescriptions," Taylor said.
She said while anyone at any age should have a primary care doctor, that’s absolutely imperative for older adults.
"Because having a doctor that knows you, your own personal history and your own individual health needs, [that] can make a real difference in terms of your quality of life and your longevity," she said.
Also, make sure you know all that your Medicare plan can do for you, so you can maximize your benefits and stay healthy.
"It's super important to understand your benefits," she explained "Medicare Part B, for example, offers a lot of things that you might not even be aware of, like help with tobacco cessation, or help if you have a problem with alcohol."
WCNC Charlotte's Where's The Money series is all about leveling the playing field in the Carolinas by helping others and breaking down barriers. WCNC Charlotte doesn't want our viewers to be taken advantage of, so we’re here to help. Watch previous stories where we ask the question “Where’s the Money” in the YouTube playlist below and subscribe to get updated when new videos are uploaded.