Health - Other

Most of us have a basic sense of what Medicare is: health insurance for older people. But the components of Medicare, and the expanse of its coverage, are often more complicated than beginners realize.  Different parts, different enrollment options, some things covered, some things not- an array of terms that…

Who can remember all of the interactions you’ve had with the health care system over the course of your life?  For example, consider the following: What was that medication you took years ago for gastric reflux? Or when did you get that last tetanus vaccination? Sometimes it doesn’t matter if…

It’s estimated that every 2 seconds someone in the world needs a blood donation. In fact one donation can save up to 3 lives. The question is whether senior citizens can be candidates to donate blood, and the clear answer is yes- at least in theory. While donors over 65…

There is no excuse: if you are of a “ certain age,” you really need to get an annual flu shot. Older individuals are at greater risk for serious illness as a result of contracting influenza. And these days, just about any local pharmacy offers the shot, so it’s easily…

As we get older, it’s common that our health status evolves and changes. Some years we may struggle with illness but other years may usher in a period of better health and stability. For those on Medicare, the upcoming open enrollment period allows you to re-evaluate your current health plan,…

How many pairs of old glasses are stuffed into your junk drawer? What are you doing with the walker your parent previously used that now sits idle? Is there a way to donate the single hearing aid that lost its mate? If these questions feel relevant to you, then perhaps…