It’s startling how little people really know about what, for many people, could be their biggest asset in retirement. We’re trying to fix that.

It’s easy to be overwhelmed with the barrage of information during this time of year, so here are a few tips to help you navigate this year’s Annual Enrollment Period. 

More older Americans are working after age 65 than ever before. Some do it for financial reasons. The added income helps defray health care and other living expenses. Others do it for social and intellectual benefits. Regardless of why you may decide to continue working past age 65, you can receive Medicare benefits while you’re still working. Here’s how Medicare works when you’re not retired.

The open enrollment period for Medicare runs from October 15 to December 7. Each year during this time, you can switch your plan to one that covers the services you need best. It is a good time to make changes to your current plan. For example, you can change from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage, and vice versa. You can also add supplemental coverage plans or change to other Medicare Advantage plans.

Mammograms are one of the best tools for early detection of breast cancer, and being proactive about getting your annual mammogram after you turn 40 is critical for your overall health. While there are certain instances in which you may have to pay out-of-pocket, Medicare Part B and many Medicare Advantage plans both cover 100% of annual mammogram screening costs. Learn more about Medicare coverage for mammograms.

Talking about your health means sharing information about how you feel physically, emotionally, and mentally. Knowing how to describe your symptoms and bring up other concerns will help you become a partner in your health care. Use these worksheets to organize your questions and information when talking with your doctor

If you are on Medicare and have been referred for a colonoscopy, you may have questions about whether your plan will pay for the test. The answer is yes, but there are some limits to how often and when Medicare will cover a colonoscopy. In some cases, you may need to undergo earlier tests or preventive measures.

All recipients of Social Security disability benefits can also receive Medicare coverage two years after they are eligible for monthly disability benefits. Some individuals, however, can get Medicare coverage sooner depending on their situation. Here’s a guide to help you navigate disability and Medicare coverage. 

While you may be overwhelmed with the amount of information out there on AEP, here’s a guide to help you prepare for enrolling in coverage during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period 2022. 

Sarah Gorham, a Teaching Professor of Art at Maine-based University of New England, has put into action a unique approach.  To capture, communicate and savor her 80 year old mother's life story, Gorham embraced colors. Using yarn and then paint, she and her mother interpreted the past and forged a new bond.