Insurance Blog

ACA Marketplace Open Enrollment Date Changes

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 16:35:38 GMT

Here's What You Need to Know

If you have a health plan through the Marketplace (also known as the ACA exchange), you may have heard that the 2026 open enrollment dates for 2027 plans were changing. That change has now changed again. Here are the latest updates on when open enrollment will occur for Marketplace health plans.

What Almost Changed

In 2025, a federal rule set out to shorten open enrollment for 2027 coverage. States that use HealthCare.gov would have seen the window end December 15, 2026 instead of January 15, 2027, and the option to start coverage February 1 would have gone away.

That rule didn't take effect. A federal judge blocked it in June 2026, and it appears that it will no longer impact open enrollment this year.

What This Means for Most People Right Now

In early August 2026, CMS confirmed that open enrollment on HealthCare.gov will run November 1, 2026 through January 15, 2027, the same schedule used in recent years. That covers the majority of states.

A few important notes:

December 15, 2026 is still a key deadline for most. If you want coverage starting January 1, 2027, enroll by then.
If you enroll later than December, coverage would start February 1, 2027

State-by-State: Some Windows Look Different

Most states follow the federal schedule above (November 1, 2026 through January 15, 2027). But 21 states plus Washington, D.C. run their own exchanges, and some of them have set different dates. This information continues to shift, so double-check with us for information about your specific state.

In all states except three, open enrollment will begin on November 1, 2026. These are the exceptions:

Idaho begins October 15
Connecticut and Massachusetts begins October 23

Here are the states ending open enrollment on a date other than January 15:

California: January 31
Connecticut: December 23
District of Columbia: January 31
Idaho: December 15
Massachusetts: December 23
Minnesota: December 31
New Jersey: January 31
New York: January 31
Rhode Island: December 31
Virginia: January 29

If your state isn't listed above, you're likely on the federal HealthCare.gov schedule: November 1, 2026 to January 15, 2027.

Why This Keeps Changing

A quick recap, since the back-and-forth has been confusing:

A 2025 federal rule proposed shortening open enrollment starting with 2027 coverage.
Some states adjusted their own deadlines in anticipation of that rule.
A federal court vacated the rule in June 2026.
Several of those states reversed course and went back to longer windows.
CMS confirmed in August 2026 that HealthCare.gov states will use the traditional November 1 to January 15 schedule.

What You Can Do Now

Don't assume last year's deadline, or the shortened deadline you may have heard about earlier this year, still applies. Keep checking with us or on your state's marketplace to get the latest dates.
Mark November 1, 2026 as the date to start looking at your options.
If you want January 1 coverage, aim to enroll by December 15, 2026 , regardless of your state.
If you're not sure which schedule applies to you, we can help you confirm your exact dates.

If you have questions about your coverage or want help sorting out what applies to you, we are here to help!

This information reflects the most recent guidance available as of August 2026.

Protecting Your Eyes From Environmental Strain

Wed, 23 Sep 2026 16:33:56 GMT

The Hidden Eye Strain You Don't See Coming

Our eyes work hard. Between staring at screens for hours, taking on changing weather and seasonal allergy patterns, navigating artificially lit spaces for much of the day, and living with less-than-ideal air quality in many places, our eyes are under environmental assault every single day.

Fortunately, some of these sources of strain are preventable. You just need to know what to watch for and how to protect your vision and your eye health as a whole.

Seasonal Eye Discomfort: It's Not Just Spring

Fall allergies are here, and if you're one of the millions of people who suffer from itchy, red, burning, or watery eyes during allergy season, you know how miserable it can be. Surprisingly, some types of seasonal eye discomfort can impact people year-round as environmental changes trigger irritation.

What you can do:

Stay indoors during peak pollen hours (early morning and late afternoon)
Wear wraparound sunglasses or protective eyewear outdoors to shield your eyes from wind and pollen
Wash your hands and face (including eyelids) frequently to remove allergens
Use cool compresses instead of rubbing your eyes
Try artificial tears or over-the-counter antihistamine drops
Switch to daily disposable contact lenses if you wear contacts (they reduce allergen buildup compared to longer-wear contacts)
If over-the-counter treatments aren't helping after a few weeks, see your eye doctor

The Dry Eye Problem: Climate and Indoor Air

Your environment's climate directly affects your eyes' ability to stay moist and comfortable. Hot, dry outdoor air saps moisture from your eyes. Even if you live in a humid environment, indoor air conditioning creates a dry climate in your home or workplace.

Cold winter weather can actually bring similar problems. Your eyes dry out in cold air, and then the forced heat from indoor heating systems makes it worse. The result: dry, itchy, burning eyes that ache by the end of the day.

What you can do at work:

Keep a bottle of artificial tears at your desk
Position your desk away from direct air conditioning vents if possible
Ask if you can use a humidifier in your workspace
Stay hydrated throughout the day
Take frequent breaks away from your desk to let your eyes rest
Blink consciously and often—it sounds simple, but many people blink less when concentrating

What you can do at home:

Use a humidifier, especially in bedrooms and living spaces where you spend evenings
Avoid sitting directly in front of heating or cooling vents
Keep eye drops handy during dry seasons
Again, blink consciously and often. You blink less when concentrating

Screen Time and Lighting: A Modern Eye Strain Crisis

The average person stares at screens for seven or more hours daily. That sustained focus causes dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches—often called digital eye strain. Add fluorescent workplace lighting or poorly-lit home offices, and your eyes are working overtime.

Too little light causes eye strain and stress. Too much light creates glare and can trigger headaches and sleep disruption. Blue light from screens compounds the problem, especially if you're working late into the evening.

What you can do:

Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away. This lets your eyes refocus and rest.
Use blue light filters or night mode on your devices, especially in the evening
Position your screen at arm's length and slightly below eye level
Consider glasses with blue light protection or screen-friendly lens coatings
Make sure your workspace has adequate lighting—not too dim, not too bright
Take breaks outside during the day to get natural light exposure
If you work night shifts, make sure to get natural sunlight during your off hours

Air Quality: An Invisible Threat

Poor indoor and outdoor air quality can cause serious eye problems. Outdoor pollutants from vehicle emissions, dust, wildfires, and industrial sources irritate eyes. Indoor air pollution from tobacco smoke, cleaning chemicals, and building materials can trigger ocular surface disease, conjunctivitis, and other conditions.

If you work in construction, manufacturing, or outdoor jobs, air quality is an even greater concern.

What you can do:

Ask your employer about HEPA air filters in your workspace, or consider using one in your home
Keep your home clean and dust-free—dust irritates eyes
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke exposure
Use natural or low-odor cleaning products
If you work outdoors or in dusty environments, wear protective eyewear
Keep your windows closed during high-pollen days

Vision Insurance: Your First Line of Defense

Your eyes work hard for you every single day. They deserve the same care and attention you give the rest of your health. A comprehensive eye exam can detect not just vision problems, but also eye health issues like dry eye disease, allergies, and infections. Your eye doctor can recommend specific solutions tailored to your environment and lifestyle, whether that's special coatings on your glasses, specific types of contact lenses, or prescription eye drops.

If you don't have vision insurance, talk to us about coverage options. For the cost of a few coffees a month, you can ensure your eyes get the care they need to stay healthy and comfortable, no matter what your environment throws at them.

You probably think about protecting your eyes from the obvious hazards like bright sunlight or computer screens. But your everyday environment puts strain on your vision in several other ways as well—ways you might not be aware of.

It's Time to Prepare for Medicare Annual Enrollment

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 16:32:08 GMT

Plan Ahead for the Best Results

As we head into fall, it's time to think about an important Medicare milestone: the Annual Enrollment Period. If you're on Medicare, this is your chance to review your coverage and make changes if your needs have shifted, or if there will be changes to your current plan that you don’t like.

Key Dates for Annual Enrollment in 2026

October 1, 2026: Plan details for 2027 go live. You can start comparing Medicare Advantage (Part C) and prescription drug (Part D) options in your area, though you can't make changes yet.

October 15 – December 7, 2026: Enrollment is officially open. This is when you can:

Join a Medicare Advantage or Part D plan
Switch to a different plan
Drop coverage or switch back to Original Medicare

January 1, 2027: Any changes you made take effect. Make sure you review your new plan documents so you understand your coverage and costs.

What About Medigap?

If you have a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan, it works differently. The rules for joining or switching a Medigap plan are more complicated than those for Medicare Advantage and Part D plans. Reach out to us to discuss your options.

How to Get Ready Now

Between now and October, set aside some time to prepare.

Gather recent medical bills and receipts
Make or update your complete list of current medications and doses
List the doctors and hospitals you have used most over the past year
Check your current plan's summary of coverage
Watch for your Annual Notice of Changes (ANOC) from your health insurance company (usually arrives in late September)—this tells you what's changing in your coverage, costs, provider and pharmacy network, and benefits for 2027
Schedule a review session with our team starting October 1—slots fill up fast

The more organized you are, the easier it will be to make confident choices.

Let's Plan Ahead

Whether you want to stick with what you have or explore new options, we can help you understand your current plan, see what else is available, and make sure your doctors and prescriptions and other benefits are covered. Schedule now to meet with us starting October 1st.

If you have questions now about the process and what to expect, reach out anytime. We're here to help make the process as straightforward and successful as possible.

Medicare Scam Calls and Fake Agents Are Getting Harder to Spot

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 16:30:31 GMT

Who's Really on the Other End of That Medicare Call?

The phone rings. The voice on the other end says your name, your age, and your address. It sounds official. It may even sound friendly. And within a minute, you are being asked to confirm your Medicare number. What do you do?

Complaints about Medicare-related scam calls have climbed sharply over the past year. Reports to the Better Business Bureau indicate that these kinds of calls remain a major concern for people Medicare. Some have even described getting dozens of these calls in a single day. Enrollment season tends to make it worse, because legitimate outreach picks up at the same time criminals do.

Here is how these calls tend to sound, and how to protect yourself.

The Three Pitches You Are Most Likely to Hear

Many Medicare scam calls follow similar scripts. Once you recognize a few key patterns, the calls lose a lot of their power.

"You qualify for extra benefits"

A recorded voice says it is reaching out to make sure you receive unclaimed Medicare benefits. The recording asks whether you have Part A and Part B, then transfers you to a live person. The real goal is either to get your personal information or to switch you to a plan you did not ask for.

"Your card is expiring"

The caller warns that your Medicare card is about to expire, or that your coverage could be interrupted unless you verify a few details. Fear and urgency are the strategy here. If you hand over your Medicare number or Social Security number, criminals can use it to steal your identity or bill you for services you never received.

"Something free is on the way"

Free braces. Free hearing aids. Free gift cards or a free smartphone. The offered gift is bait. One woman in Texas received a large box of orthopedic braces she never ordered, and later learned Medicare had been billed more than $700 for them. Her secondary insurer was charged as well, and additional claims were filed for supplies she never requested.

Fraudulent claims can also leave inaccurate information in your medical records, including diagnoses for conditions you do not have.

Fake Agents Are Part of the Problem

Not every scammer sounds like a robot. Some present themselves as licensed insurance agents. They may reference a well-known carrier, quote a plan name, or offer to walk you through your options right now over the phone.

A few things a real agent will not do:

Pressure you to decide something during a first call
Refuse to give you a full name, license number, or office phone number
Ask you to pay by gift card, wire transfer, or a payment app
Tell you that you must act today or lose your coverage
Show up at your door uninvited to sell you a plan

Verifying an agent is simpler than most people expect. Ask for their name and license number, then hang up and call the agency's main office number yourself. You can also check the license with your state Department of Insurance. Anyone who is legitimate will not mind you doing this; they know you need to be careful.

Habits That Keep You Safe

Treat unexpected Medicare calls with skepticism, even friendly ones
Never give your Medicare number, Social Security number, or bank details to someone who called you
Remember that Medicare generally reaches out by mail first and does not call to ask for your Medicare number or banking information
Hang up on anyone who pressures you or claims your coverage is at risk
Read your Medicare Summary Notices and Explanation of Benefits statements and look for charges you do not recognize
Report anything unfamiliar right away

Hanging up may feel rude, but it is the single most effective thing you can do.

If You Think You Already Shared Something You Shouldn't Have

Act quickly, but do not panic. Write down what you shared and when. Review your recent statements. Then report it. You can contact the Senior Medicare Patrol program in your state, call 1-800-MEDICARE, or file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

The Easiest Defense Is a Person You Already Know

Scam calls work because they catch people on their own and unsure. Having a licensed agent you already trust means you have someone in your corner. You have a number you can call to ask whether an offer is real before you respond to it. If you have questions about a call you received, or you want a second set of eyes on your current coverage, reach out to our office. We are here to help you!

Scammers Are Targeting Grandparents

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 15:20:50 GMT

Outsmart the Scammers Who Expect You to Be Fooled

Imagine getting a call in the middle of the night from someone claiming to be your grandchild, panicked and in trouble. They say they’ve been in an accident or arrested—and they desperately need money. Your heart races. You’d do anything to help. That’s exactly what scammers are counting on.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has recently issued a warning about a rise in what's known as the “grandparent scam” —a sneaky and heartless scheme targeting older adults with urgent, emotional phone calls meant to trick them into sending money.

What Is the Grandparent Scam?

These scams usually start with a phone call from someone pretending to be your grandchild (or another close relative). They’ll say they’re in trouble—maybe stuck in jail or in a hospital—and they need money fast for bail, legal fees, or emergency expenses.

To make things even more convincing, they may hand the phone off to someone pretending to be a lawyer or a police officer. And they’ll likely ask you not to tell anyone—saying it’s a “private” or “sensitive” situation.

That sense of urgency is key to the scam. It’s meant to bypass your instinct to double-check and make you act fast—before you have time to think it through or talk to someone else.

Why It Works—and Why It’s Dangerous

These calls often come late at night or early in the morning, when you’re more likely to be caught off guard. The scammer might not even say who they are—just “Grandma, it’s me”—and hope you fill in the blank for them. From there, they use that information to sound more convincing.

Some victims have been asked to send money via wire transfer, cryptocurrency, gift cards, or even in cash via courier—all methods that are difficult or impossible to trace or reverse. According to the FCC, scammers using this method have stolen tens of millions of dollars from seniors across the U.S.

Watch for These Warning Signs

If you or someone you love receives a call like this, here are some red flags that it could be a scam:

High pre ssure and ur gency – You’re told to act immediately
Vague or strange details – They may not identify themselves clearly, or hope you’ll say the grandchild’s name for them
Unverifiable location or story – They say they’re in jail overseas or in a place where you can’t easily check on them
Unusual payment requests – Gift cards, Bitcoin, wire transfers, or cash deliveries
Calls at odd hours – Scammers try to catch you when you’re less alert

What To Do If You Get a Suspicious Call

If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut. Here’s what you can do to stay safe:

Hang up and verify – Call your grandchild or their parent using a phone number you know is theirs
Talk to someone you trust – A second opinion from a friend or family member can make all the difference
Don’t rely on caller ID – Scammers often “spoof” numbers to make it look like someone you know is calling
Block the number – Use your phone’s settings to block suspicious calls
Report the scam – Contact the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 833-FRAUD-11 and file a complaint with the FCC

What If You’ve Already Sent Money?

First of all, don’t panic—and know that you’re not alone. Scammers are incredibly convincing, and even smart, cautious people have been tricked.

Here’s what to do:

Call your bank or payment service right away – They may be able to stop or reverse the transaction if it's recent
Report it – Contact the FCC, your local police, and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov
Let your family know – They can help protect you and others from future attempts

Help Protect Others, Too

The more people know about this scam, the harder it becomes for criminals to succeed. Please share this information with friends, neighbors, and especially your older loved ones. A quick conversation now could prevent a heartache later.

And remember—if you ever get a call like this and aren’t sure what to do, don’t rush. Take a breath, hang up, and check in with someone you trust. Real family emergencies don’t come with secret demands or payments via gift cards.

7 Healthy Travel Tips

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 15:20:53 GMT

Prepare for the Unexpected to Enjoy Safe Getaways

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a long-awaited international adventure, setting off on a trip is always exciting—but can also be unpredictable. That’s why preparing for the unexpected, especially when it comes to your health, is essential. Knowing what your medical coverage includes (and doesn’t) while traveling can help you stay healthy, avoid costly surprises, and soak up the unforgettable moments on your journey.

Let’s walk through some proactive steps you can take before packing your bags—from vaccinations and insurance to emergency planning and fraud protection.

1. Know What Your Health Plan Covers—And Where

Medical surprises aren’t on anyone’s itinerary—but it’s best to be prepared. Start by knowing how your insurance policy covers (or doesn’t) the region you’re traveling to.

Individual health policyholders, review your insurer’s network coverage. Some plans only cover in-network or state-specific services, while others offer broader emergency coverage or travel-specific riders. Consult your insurance agent to get help reviewing your policy.

Medicare beneficiaries, Original Medicare (Parts A & B) typically doesn’t cover medical care outside the U.S., except in limited circumstances. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, it may include emergency and urgent coverage abroad, but this varies by provider. Check your plan’s Evidence of Coverage or speak to your plan representative before traveling.

2. Consider Supplemental Insurance

If you're a frequent traveler or heading abroad, look into some options to help cover you. Some options include:

Travel Medical Insurance : Plans offer emergency coverage during trips outside the U.S. and tend to be affordable.
Evacuation Insurance : This covers transport to a qualified medical facility if the nearest care is inadequate. An evacuation clause is often, but not always, included in a travel insurance plan.
Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) : Some Medigap policies cover emergency care abroad, typically up to plan limits and with a deductible.
Critical Illness Insurance : A lump-sum payout can provide financial flexibility in case you’re diagnosed with a covered condition like a heart attack or stroke during travel.

Be sure to read the fine print—some policies require you to be under a certain age, and preexisting conditions may not be covered. Your licensed insurance agent can help talk you through your options.

3. Keep Your Medical Info Handy

Consider using a secure health app or digital wallet to access all your health records quickly. But just in case your phone is inaccessible, bring physical copies of these important documents as well:

Your insurance or Medicare cards
Emergency contact numbers (include the country code +1 if you’re traveling abroad)
A medication list with dosages
Allergy and medical condition alerts

Pack all essential paperwork together in a waterproof sleeve in your luggage, and leave a second copy with someone back home.

4. Schedule Preventive Care Before Departure

Most insurance plans cover preventive care services like wellness visits, vaccinations, and screenings. Before your trip, check these tasks off your list:

Get vaccinated : Make sure you’re up to date on your flu, COVID-19, and tetanus shots. If traveling internationally, check the CDC recommendations for the region you’re visiting, which may include Hepatitis A/B, typhoid, or yellow fever vaccinations.
Stock up on medications : Make sure you have enough for your entire trip, including extras in case of delays. Some health insurance plans offer mail-order pharmacy options.
Visit your provider : Discuss any destination-specific risks and request a travel health consultation if needed.

5. Prepare for Fraud Protection Abroad

Travelers are common targets for scams. If you’re a Medicare beneficiary, protect your Medicare number like a credit card. Fraudsters may try to use it to get free services or access your personal health data.

Tips:

Never share your Medicare number via phone or email.
Use only official websites or verified agents to review your policy while traveling.
Regularly check your policy’s Explanation of Benefits (EOB) for suspicious claims.

6. Create a Medical Emergency Plan

Ask yourself some questions to be ready for an emergency:

Where is the nearest hospital or clinic?
Do they accept your insurance?
What’s the procedure if you need medical evacuation?

If you have any medical conditions, it’s wise to carry an alert card in your wallet, including translated versions if you’re traveling in areas where English is not commonly spoken.

7. Stay Active and Healthy on the Go

To adapt an old phrase: Health never takes a vacation . It’s all too easy to leave good habits behind when you head out on a trip, but taking care of your body is just as important whether you’re at home or away.

Move regularly : Stretch and walk every few hours, especially on long flights or bus rides.
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Drink plenty of water to counter the effects of extra activities, extra sun—and maybe that extra mai tai on the beach.
Eat balanced meals: Meals on the go tend to lack a healthy dose of fiber, which can lead to digestive distress. Be sure to seek out veggies and whole grains or consider bringing a fiber supplement with you.
Rest : Fatigue lowers immunity. Don’t skip on sleep!
Keep germs at bay: Use hand sanitizer, wash your hands frequently, and consider wearing a mask on crowded airplanes or mass transit.

Don’t forget these essentials to keep yourself feeling your best—so you can focus on making great memories.

Conclusion

Travel is one of life’s great joys—but staying healthy and protected while you’re away starts long before you leave home. By understanding your health insurance benefits, considering supplemental coverage, and taking simple precautions, you can set off with confidence. Whether you’re hiking the Rockies or relaxing on a beach in Mexico, being prepared means you can focus on the adventure ahead.

Safe travels!

Rethinking Your Soft Drink Habits

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 15:20:52 GMT

Why What You Drink is Essential to Your Health

As thirst levels rise, it's tempting to reach for a cold, fizzy beverage. But before you pop open that soda can, consider this: your drink choice has long-term implications for your health.

The Hidden Risks in Your Glass

A comprehensive study by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) analyzed data from over 451,000 individuals across 10 European countries over a 16-year period. The findings revealed that consuming two or more 250 ml glasses of soft drinks daily—whether sugar-sweetened or artificially sweetened—was associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality compared to those who drank less than one glass per month .

Delving deeper:

Artificially Sweetened Beverages : Individuals consuming two or more glasses daily had a 26% higher risk of death compared to those who consumed less than one glass per month. Specifically, there was a 52% increased risk of death from circulatory diseases .
Sugar-Sweetened Beverages : Those consuming one or more glasses daily faced a 59% higher risk of death from digestive diseases .
All Soft Drinks : A notable association was found between soft drink consumption and increased mortality from Parkinson's disease.

Alternatives That Aren’t Any Healthier

Think fruit juice or energy drinks are a safer bet? A study involving 13,440 U.S. adults aged 45 and older found that each additional 12-ounce serving of sugary beverages, including 100% fruit juice, was linked to an 11% higher risk of all-cause mortality. Specifically, each additional 12-ounce serving of fruit juice was associated with a 24% increased risk. Watch the sugar content of iced coffee beverages and alcoholic cocktails as well.

Lifestyle Factors Matter, Too

It's essential to note that high soft drink consumption often correlates with other unhealthy lifestyle choices. The IARC study observed that individuals who drank more soft drinks typically had higher body mass indexes and were more likely to smoke. Even after adjusting for factors like diet, physical activity, smoking, and education, the association between soft drink consumption and increased mortality risk remained significant .

Refreshing Alternatives

Looking to quench your thirst without compromising your health? Here are some delightful, healthier options:

Infused Water : Add slices of citrus fruits, cucumbers, or berries to your water for a refreshing twist.
Herbal Iced Teas : Brew teas like hibiscus or mint, chill them, and enjoy over ice.
Sparkling Water with a Splash : Mix sparkling water with a splash of 100% fruit juice for a fizzy treat.
Homemade Lemonade : Use fresh lemons, water, and a touch of natural sweetener like honey or stevia.
Coconut Water : A natural source of electrolytes, perfect for rehydration.

Final Thoughts

Summer is a time for relaxation and enjoyment. By making informed beverage choices, you can savor the season while prioritizing your health. So, the next time you're reaching for a drink to beat the heat, consider these healthier alternatives. Your body will thank you!

Insurance Blog

ACA Marketplace Open Enrollment Date Changes

Here's What You Need to Know ﻿

What Almost Changed

What This Means for Most People Right Now

State-by-State: Some Windows Look Different

Why This Keeps Changing

What You Can Do Now

Protecting Your Eyes From Environmental Strain

The Hidden Eye Strain You Don't See Coming

Seasonal Eye Discomfort: It's Not Just Spring

The Dry Eye Problem: Climate and Indoor Air

What you can do at work:

What you can do at home:

Screen Time and Lighting: A Modern Eye Strain Crisis

Air Quality: An Invisible Threat

Vision Insurance: Your First Line of Defense

It's Time to Prepare for Medicare Annual Enrollment

Plan Ahead for the Best Results

Key Dates for Annual Enrollment in 2026

What About Medigap?

How to Get Ready Now

Let's Plan Ahead

Medicare Scam Calls and Fake Agents Are Getting Harder to Spot

Who's Really on the Other End of That Medicare Call?

The Three Pitches You Are Most Likely to Hear

"You qualify for extra benefits"

"Your card is expiring"

"Something free is on the way"

Fake Agents Are Part of the Problem

Habits That Keep You Safe

If You Think You Already Shared Something You Shouldn't Have

The Easiest Defense Is a Person You Already Know

Scammers Are Targeting Grandparents

Outsmart the Scammers Who Expect You to Be Fooled

What Is the Grandparent Scam?

Why It Works—and Why It’s Dangerous

Watch for These Warning Signs

What To Do If You Get a Suspicious Call

What If You’ve Already Sent Money?

Help Protect Others, Too

7 Healthy Travel Tips

Prepare for the Unexpected to Enjoy Safe Getaways

1. Know What Your Health Plan Covers—And Where

2. Consider Supplemental Insurance

3. Keep Your Medical Info Handy

4. Schedule Preventive Care Before Departure

5. Prepare for Fraud Protection Abroad

6. Create a Medical Emergency Plan

7. Stay Active and Healthy on the Go

Conclusion

Rethinking Your Soft Drink Habits

Why What You Drink is Essential to Your Health

The Hidden Risks in Your Glass

Alternatives That Aren’t Any Healthier

Lifestyle Factors Matter, Too

Refreshing Alternatives

Final Thoughts

Here's What You Need to Know