As you enter retirement, staying physically active is essential for maintaining mobility, preventing falls, managing chronic conditions, and enjoying an independent lifestyle. By focusing on early detection and proactive health management, older adults can reduce their risk of chronic diseases, maintain independence, and potentially lower health care costs in the long run.
Regular Check-ups and Screenings
Prioritizing preventive care becomes increasingly crucial for maintaining health and quality of life as we head into our golden years. Regardless of whether you are covered under an employer-sponsored health plan, COBRA, or Medicare, maintaining your health through preventive care and regular check-ups is crucial, especially as you age. Preventive care for seniors encompasses a range of services, from annual check-ups and cancer screenings to vaccinations and bone density checks, all tailored to address the unique health needs that come with aging.
These regular check-ups allow your doctors to:
- Monitor changes in your health.
- Assess potential health risks.
- Perform necessary preventive screenings to track blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other key metrics.
All ZOLL medical plans include free in-network preventive care and prescription drug coverage through OptumRx to support your best health, whether you are employed or are on COBRA.
COBRA
COBRA can serve as a valuable bridge between your current employer-sponsored health coverage and Medicare while you transition to retirement. If you leave your job before becoming eligible for Medicare, COBRA allows you to maintain your existing health coverage for up to 18 months. COBRA is typically more expensive than your employer-sponsored plan, as you’ll be responsible for the full premium plus an administrative fee. It’s important to plan carefully and consider the timing of your retirement, COBRA coverage, and Medicare eligibility to avoid gaps in coverage or potential late enrollment penalties for Medicare Part B.
For more information on COBRA Continuing Coverage, contact your HR Benefit Advocate.
Medicare
We all think of Medicare when we think of retirement. Transitioning to Medicare marks a significant milestone in your health care journey, and proper preparation is key to ensuring you choose the right coverage for your needs. As you approach your 65th birthday, it’s important to start exploring your Medicare options well in advance. Working with Medicare guidance resources like Doctor’s Choice can help you navigate the complexities of various plans, understand your coverage options, and evaluate factors such as costs and additional benefits. By taking a proactive approach and carefully assessing your health care needs, you can select a Medicare plan that provides comprehensive coverage tailored to your individual circumstances, ensuring a smooth transition to this new phase of your health care coverage.
Doctor’s Choice Medicare Guidance
ZOLL partners with Doctor’s Choice, at no cost to you, to provide you with concierge Medicare assistance every step of the way, including:
- Education regarding Medicare basics, including tax savings impact.
- Enrollment assistance and advocacy.
- Issue resolution.
- Health Savings Account (HAS) contribution guidance.
Doctor’s Choice provides you and your family members with personalized advice on the right plan based on your lifestyle, health status, and budget.
Establish Healthy Habits
Staying active, practicing good nutrition, and getting enough sleep is essential for a happier, healthier life, regardless of age or physical condition.
Stay Active
Regular exercise can boost energy, maintain independence, protect your heart, manage symptoms of illness or pain, and support weight management. It also benefits your mind by improving mood, memory, and cognitive function. Regular exercise offers numerous benefits, including:
- Better Sleep: Improves sleep quality and duration.
- Mood and Confidence: Boosts mood and self-confidence by releasing endorphins.
- Brain Health: Enhances brain function and helps prevent cognitive decline.
Even small amounts of exercise can have a significant impact.
- Activities like walking can enhance creative thinking and reduce anxiety.
- Engaging in enjoyable physical activities, such as hiking, bowling, or dancing, can increase motivation to stick with a routine. This leads to benefits like improved energy, mood, and sleep quality.
- Consider exploring local sports leagues to stay active and build social connections.
- Try dancing as a fun way to improve cardiovascular health and build strong bones.
- Gardening and yoga are also excellent options for improving mental health and physical well-being.
By incorporating physical activity into your daily routine, you can take control of your health and enjoy a more vibrant life, at any age.
Eat Healthy
As we enter midlife and beyond, healthy eating becomes increasingly vital for maintaining both physical and emotional well-being. A balanced diet not only supports your body’s health but also plays a crucial role in fostering a positive outlook and emotional balance. The good news is that healthy eating doesn’t have to mean dieting or deprivation. Instead, it’s about savoring fresh, flavorful foods made with wholesome ingredients and enjoying meals with loved ones.
Regardless of your age or past eating habits, it’s never too late to make a positive change. By adopting healthier eating habits now, you can experience numerous benefits, including:
- Longevity and Strength: Live a longer, healthier life with more vitality.
- Cognitive Clarity: Sharpen your mind and stay mentally agile.
- Increased Energy: Boost your energy levels to enjoy life to the fullest.
By embracing healthy eating, you can enhance your overall quality of life and set yourself up for a more vibrant future.
Check out these Mayo Clinic articles about eating the rainbow and fueling your mind.
