10 Diabetes Superfoods Seniors Can Say “Yes!” To

Diabetes can be a frightening and expensive diagnosis. With testing materials, insulin, needles and additional doctor visits with specialists, it can seem daunting. Thats why were going to look at what Original Medicare coverage for diabetes looks like and what you can expect from different parts of Medicare.Medicare Part A Diabetes CoveragePart A coverage is for hospital stays, which can occur for diabetics if their blood sugar is unregulated. If you are diagnosed with diabetes after 65, you will probably need to be hospitalized for a day or two when first diagnosed to get your levels back to normal, receive diabetes education and counseling, and determine a course of action based on your health care needs.Medicare Part B Diabetes CoverageMedicare Part B offers coverage for doctor visits and medical screenings, which includes diabetes management. It will also cover diabetic supplies to help you manage your blood sugar, such as blood sugar testing strips.Doctor visitsPart B covers a one-time Welcome to Medicare doctor visit to review your health when you first join Medicare. If you already have diabetes when you join Medicare, this visit will include an overview of what materials you use to manage your blood sugar and what type of insulin you use. If you are diagnosed after 65, you will likely need to schedule a doctors appointment with your primary care physician to establish a care plan after your diagnosis.Once youve had Part B for longer than 12 months, you have coverage for a yearly wellness visit. This visit is to review your medical and family history, update your list of providers and prescription drugs, and review a treatment and screening plan for the upcoming year.If you have diabetes-related nerve damage (which is called diabetic neuropathy) in either foot, Part B will cover one foot exam every six months with a podiatrist. Diabetes nerve damage on your feet is a safety risk for diabetics, as they may not be able to feel dangers from heat or sharp objects. As part of this coverage, Medicare may cover therapeutic shoes and insoles in certain conditions.Regardless of your diabetic diagnosis, Part B will pay for flu shots, pneumococcal shot to prevent pneumonia and COVID-19 vaccinations, including boosters. Diabetes increases your chances for serious health complications from these and other illnesses.Blood tests & screeningsIf youre at risk for diabetes or diagnosed with pre-diabetes, Part B may pay for up to two screenings, such as fasting blood sugar, in a 12-month period to monitor blood sugar levels. This is used to determine if your blood sugar levels are normal or if you are becoming increasingly insulin resistant.Other screenings include hemoglobin A1C tests and glaucoma tests. Hemoglobin A1C tests measure how well your blood sugar has been controlled over the last three months. Part B will cover an eye check for glaucoma once every 12 months, as diabetes increases the risk of glaucoma.Diabetic servicesPart B covers the Diabetes Prevention Program. Sessions of the program include training on diet and exercise improvements, weight management strategies, and health coaching. To be eligible for the program, you must meet certain criteria, such as body mass index and blood test results.Medicare will cover an outpatient program to teach you how to manage your diabetes upon diagnosis. They will instruct on diet, exercise, monitoring your blood sugar, medication administration and reducing the risk of complications. Part B will also cover nutrition therapy services with a registered dietitian or nutritionist if your blood sugar levels meet eligibility.Supplies & equipmentBlood sugar self-testing equipment and supplies are covered by Part B. This includes blood sugar monitors, blood sugar test strips, lancet devices and lancets, and glucose control solutions for checking the accuracy of testing equipment and test strips. Part B covers these supplies for people with diabetes whether or not they use insulin, although coverage amounts may vary. Medicare Part B may also cover external insulin pump devices, including the insulin used with the pump, if eligible.Medicare Part D Diabetes CoverageMedicare Part D is coverage for prescription drugs. Diabetics rely on medications and Part D covers many of those.Insulin: Injectable insulin, insulin used in pumps and inhaled insulin may all be covered.Anti-diabetic drugs: Your plan may cover drugs to help blood sugar levels.Diabetes supplies: The supplies you use in conjunction with insulin may be covered. These may include syringes, needles, alcohol swabs, gauze and inhaled insulin devices.It is important to note that, starting in 2023, many insulin types will have a monthly $35 copay cap. Check your drug plans formulary for more information on what your specific costs may be.ConclusionOriginal Medicare offers a variety of services for those with diabetes. Additionally, drug coverage is essential for those who rely on insulin. The most important thing those with diabetes can do is manage their condition to prevent complications. If you have questions about diabetic Medicare coverage, including additional coverage options, please reach out to one of our licensed insurance agents and we will be happy to assist you.PlanEnroll is a brand operated by Integrity Marketing Group, LLC and used by its affiliated licensed insurance agencies that are certified to sell Medicare products. PlanEnroll is not endorsed by the Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), or any other government agency.

At The Glenview at Pelican Bay, residents always come firstno matter the forecast. That commitment holds strong even during hurricane season.We know Floridas storms can stir up anxiety, particularly for older adults and their families. Thats why we go above and beyond with emergency preparedness for seniors, combining thoughtful planning, detailed logistics, and heartfelt care to keep everyone safe, informed, and supported from the first warning to the final all-clear. Related article: Hurricane Preparedness for SeniorsCalm, Coordinated, and Ready for AnythingWhen Hurricane Milton approached Floridas west coast in October 2024, The Glenview rose to the occasionshowing that safety and care are always our top priorities. With well-rehearsed evacuation plans and a compassionate team ready to act, we made sure every resident was secure, supported, and even smiling through the storm.Independent living residents were escorted floor by floor, each with a designated tag and color-coded system that made the process seamless. From luggage to medical supplies, everything was accounted for. Our group then made a 5-hour journey to Miami, where residents settled into the Marriott Biscayne Bay before the storm made landfall.In true Glenview spirit, the disruption quickly turned into connection. Days at the hotel were filled with engaging activities and fun, bringing the citys spirit to life. Behind the scenes, our dedicated team worked around the clock to meet every need.Meanwhile, our Premier Place team kept care uninterrupted and consistent for residents who rode out the hurricane at Amira Choice Naples. Despite the storm causing $280 million in damages across Collier County and temporarily pausing operations, every resident returned safely.A Gift of Reassurance for Residents and FamiliesHurricanes can be especially stressful for adult children concerned about their parents safety, but living at The Glenview offers families true peace of mind. Residents have access to Wi-Fi, generators to support medical devices, well-organized meals throughout the storm, and even post-storm support like refrigerator clean-outsmaking it one less thing for loved ones to worry about.The Glenviews exceptional care and hospitality extend beyond residents to include team members and their families. During the storm, the community welcomed staff and their loved ones who needed shelter, providing them with accommodations, three meals a day, and evening snacks. For many, including those once fearful of hurricanes, the experience brought an overwhelming sense of safety and support.This level of foresight and care defines our hurricane preparation tipsnot just emergency kits and evacuation plans but full-spectrum support and communication.Staying Connected When It Matters MostHow can people prepare for a hurricane and still feel secure? At The Glenview, clear and consistent communication makes all the difference. A dedicated One Call system keeps residents, families, and staff informed with updates several times a day.Executive Director Daniel Gomez personally fields calls from families and residents, answering questions and providing reassurance every step of the way. This level of communication helps families feel connected and confident that their loved ones are safe and well cared for.Beyond logistics and communication, theres something equally powerful at play: connection. Emergency preparedness for older adults isnt just about storm shutters and suppliesits about fostering an environment where neighbors support one another.The sense of camaraderie during Hurricane Milton was truly memorable. Residents came together, staff went above and beyond, and delicious buffets brought comfort to all. Everyone pitched in to support one another, creating a strong sense of community. For those who had to weather the storm, there was no better or more reassuring place to be than The Glenview.Related article: Riding Out the Hurricane Season: How Technology, Preparedness and The Glenview Lead the Way in Storm SafetyTrust the Experts in Hurricane ReadinessLife Care Services manages The Glenview with one clear priority: putting the resident experience first. That includes providing hurricane survival tips, emergency preparedness activities for adults, and a sense of calm leadership before, during, and after a storm.Our hurricane prep tips and emergency preparedness for seniors includes everything from medical support and generator power to accessible communication and hands-on care. At The Glenview, we dont just prepare for stormswe weather them together. Contact us to learn more, 

Warmer weather is a great invitation to enjoy the outdoors and nature. Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining health and keeping critical bodily functions working properly. Hydration can be a challenge for some seniors because seniors may have a diminished ability to sense thirst, notice changes in body temperature, and may be taking medications that have a dehydrating effect. Keeping a few tips in mind will ensure that seniors stay hydrated and continue to enjoy the activities that bring them joy.Older adults looking to stay hydrated throughout the day should try these tips to get started. Being dehydrated can cause confusion, headaches, elevated heart rate, muscle weakness, and fatigue. Seniors who think they may be dehydrated should discuss their symptoms with their doctor before changing their fluid intake. Seniors should discuss hydration with their doctor as only can a healthcare professional recommend how much water someone needs, and they can also provide guidance and tips on managing water intake.  Create a schedule drinking a lot of water in one sitting can be difficult. However, creating a schedule that accounts for daily activity, physician-recommended intake levels, and the preferences of the senior can help keep hydration on track. Eat water-rich foods cucumbers, watermelon, apples, and other water-rich produce can help seniors get more fluids at mealtimes. Broth is also a good option. Make water more interesting For those that dont enjoy drinking water, adding small amounts of juice or flavoring to water can make it less boring. Popsicles are also a great optionespecially on warm days! Reduce water loss excessive sweating can contribute to dehydration keeping inside temperatures at a reasonable level, and being mindful of fluid loss during outside activities, can help seniors stay hydrated. Dont wait for thirst often, when seniors feel thirsty; they may already be dehydrated. Comfort Keepers Can HelpComfort Keepers can provide support for seniors that are concerned about the issue of hydration. Our caregivers can provide transportation to healthcare appointments, assist with meal preparation and planning, and provide support for physician-prescribed hydration regimens. Our goal is to support physical and emotional care goals and to elevate the spirits of our clients and their families every day.To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today by calling (970) 241-8818 References Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Get the Facts: Drinking Water and Intake. Web. 2016. FamilyDoctor.org. Hydration: Why Its So Important. Web. 2017. Mayo Clinic. Dehydration. Web. 2018. WebMD. What is Dehydration? What Causes It? Web. 2019 Healthline The Causes and Symptoms of Dehydration in Older Adults