Medicare's Fall Enrollment Period (OEP/AEP) gets a lot of limelight.
However, there are two other enrollment periods that are "now open" that may be useful for people with Medicare:
The January 1 to March 31 period is known as the Medicare General Enrollment Period (GEP) for those signing up for the first time, and the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA OEP) for those already in a Medicare Advantage plan. It can be an important opportunity for specific changes or initial sign-ups.
Also, it's important for people entering Medicare eligibility to pay attention to their one-time, seven-month window, Initial Enrollment Period (IEP) centered on their 65th birthday: three months before and three months after.
*Special Enrollment Periods are triggered by specific life events, such as moving to a new area or losing employer-based health insurance. These windows let you get coverage without incurring late penalties if you act within the required timeframe.
If you have questions or need help understanding when you can join or switch Medicare, don’t hesitate to call our office at 518-828-4258 or visit shiphelp.org/SHIPS
Check On Your Neighbors: Use our guide to check on older friends, family, and neighbors during storms this winter!
Snow shoveling can pose serious health risks, especially for adults over 45 and those with preexisting conditions. Here are some tips for to stay safe this winter:
Prioritize Your Health: Before you start shoveling, check with a healthcare provider. A quick check-up can help you know if it's safe based on your health.
Choose the Right Equipment: Use lightweight, ergonomic shovels to lower your risk of injury. Pick tools with adjustable handles to reduce back strain. If you have a lot of snow, consider using a snow blower instead of shoveling.
Dress Appropriately: Wear layers for warmth and mobility. Use waterproof boots with good grip to prevent slipping. Wear hats, gloves, and scarves to stay warm, but make sure they don't block your vision. Choose several layers so you can remove one if you get too hot. Avoid cotton against your skin because it can make you cold if you sweat.
Use Proper Shoveling Techniques: :
Warm Up: Treat shoveling like exercise; stretch your muscles first to prevent strains.
Push, Don’t Lift: Push snow to the side instead of lifting it. If you must lift, use your legs for strength and keep your feet shoulder-width apart for balance.
Take Breaks: Don’t rush. Take breaks to rest and drink water, especially with heavy, wet snow. Shovel small amounts to make it easier and safer. Drink water or sports drinks before, during, and after shoveling, even if you don't feel thirsty.
Act Soon: Fresh snow is lighter than snow that has started to melt.
Listen to Your Body: This is the most important tip! If you feel tired or something hurts, stop. Go inside to warm up, rest, and drink something. Check how you feel before you keep going.
Ask for Help: If the job feels too much, don’t hesitate to ask for help from friends, family, or neighbors.
Have Your Phone Handy: If there’s an emergency, call 911 immediately.
