Oh! Mama Mia!! It’s time to review my insurance coverage plan again and I don’t want to!

Each year the same plan gets smaller and smaller, yet the costs are getting greater and greater. Honestly, I don’t know what I’d do without Pete. He’s helped me for years to navigate through these plans then signs me up after I think I’ve understood him the best I can! It’s becoming more of a maze because, dear senior friends, each year my needs are changing.

I know I’m not alone in this. Some friends just let their plan roll over from one year to the next and hope for the best. “At least,” they say, “better the devil we know than the devil we don’t!” Well . . . yes. Perhaps there are better options now available.

We are all navigating a healthcare dilemma in our country. Getting around all the health insurance options can be overwhelming; however, with the right information and the right guidance, we can make informed choices that support each of our healthcare needs.

Medicare open-enrollment season for 2026 starts October 15 and ends December 7, 2025. All indications are there will be big and potentially costly changes. Premium hikes for both medical and drug coverage, shrinking benefits on some private insurers’ Medicare Advantage plans, and a few rule changes mean it will be especially wise to research your choices to protect your health and save money.

Yet, according to a study last year by health policy and research firm KFF (a policy research polling firm), nearly seven out of 10 Medicare beneficiaries don’t compare plan options. That can be an expensive decision, even if you’re satisfied with your current coverage.

The first step in choosing health insurance is to understand the types of plans available. Medicare, a standard option for seniors aged 65 and older, consists of several parts.

• Part A covers hospital insurance.
• Part B covers outpatient care, including doctor visits.
• Part C (Medicare Advantage Plans) combines Parts A and B, often including additional benefits like vision and dental.
• Part D covers prescription drugs.

Here’s a good rule of thumb when considering your plan of action: Evaluate your current health status and anticipate future healthcare needs. Consider any chronic conditions, required medications, and upcoming treatments. If you frequently visit specialists or need specific therapies, make sure the insurance plan covers those services.

Costs can vary significantly between plans. Consider deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. A plan with a low premium may have high out-of-pocket expenses, leading to higher overall costs.

For many of us seniors, prescription medications are essential for maintaining health. If you take specific drugs, make sure they are included and check your out-of-pocket expenses.

Many Medicare Advantage plans offer extras beyond primary healthcare, including vision, dental, hearing, gym memberships, and wellness programs. Review all available benefits offered to you to ensure you are making informed decisions.

Other considerations may include foreign travel. Do you travel abroad and want emergency coverage overseas? What is your income each month, each year, and can you afford to pay for medical care?

The best Medicare plan covers all necessary medical and financial needs. Each plan option has advantages and disadvantages, from cost-effectiveness to provider limitations.

One thing I am sure of: I’m very grateful for the help Pete provides AND that I’m still around to have to figure out all these options!

Need some help with that? For more information, contact Youthful Aging Home Health Care.

Lani Kelly is a research writer for Youthful Aging Home Healthcare.

Need some help with that? For more information, contact Youthful Aging Home Health Care.

Lani Kelly is a research writer for Youthful Aging Home Health Care.