Diabetic Retinal Eye Exams

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.

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

Strong relationships between grandparents and grandchildren are more than just heartwarming. They have been shown to contribute to better health, sharper minds, and deeper emotional connections across generations. At Right at Home, weve seen firsthand how relationships in grandfamilies (also called kinship families) improve the quality of life for both older adults and younger family members, says Patti Walter, owner/operator at Right at Home Northern Colorado As an in-home caregiving agency, we not only support day-to-day care but also champion the kind of intergenerational connections that lead to healthier, happier lives. Heres why nurturing the grandparent-grandchild bond mattersand how it helps at any age. The Health Benefits Go Both WaysFor grandparents:Spending meaningful time with grandchildren can reduce the risk of depression, cognitive decline, and even chronic illness. Studies show that older adults who engage regularly with younger generations report lower levels of loneliness and higher life satisfaction. Conversations and shared activities also help keep the mind active. Whether helping with homework, discussing current events, or sharing stories from the past, these interactions stimulate memory, language, and problem-solving skillsall critical for healthy aging. For grandchildren:The benefits arent one-sided, says Walter Grandchildren who have strong relationships with their grandparents often show greater emotional intelligence, resilience, and a stronger sense of identity. Grandparents offer a unique kind of supportless authoritative than a parent, but still deeply rooted in love and life experience. In families where grandparents help with caregivingeither regularly or as neededchildren can experience more stability, better behavior, and improved academic outcomes. And even as teens or adults, grandchildren often gain valuable perspective from a grandparents lived experience. Mind the (Communication) GapOf course, every generation speaks its own language. Misunderstandings between grandparents and grandchildren can happen, especially in todays fast-moving digital culture. But these gaps can be bridged with a bit of patience and intention. Walter suggests some tips for different generations to improve communication with each other:  Dont assume disinterest. Grandparents may not know current slang or how to use current technology, but that doesnt mean they dont care. Grandchildren may seem tied to their toys or screens, butas anyone who has raised children knowsthey are always listening. Ask open-ended questions. Encouraging storytelling and reflection can lead to richer conversations. Be mindful of hearing or cognitive limitations. For grandchildren, making simple adjustmentsspeaking clearly, avoiding noisy environmentscan make a big difference. Grandparents can make the most of mealtimes or times when grandchildren are least busy. Respect different life stages. A teen might be navigating identity or stress about the future; a grandparent may be dealing with health issues or loss. Understanding context helps both sides show compassion, says Walter.  Supporting Each Other Through CareIn-home caregiving often highlights how much grandparents and grandchildren lean on one another. Grandsboth generationshave been caring for each other more and more in recent years. Adult grandchildren may step into caregiving roles, providing companionship, managing medications, or helping coordinate care. On the flip side, grandparents often remain active caregivers in their own rightbabysitting, offering financial support, or simply being a trusted presence. These roles can be deeply rewarding, but also emotionally complex for both parties. Whether or not the grands relationships include caregiving, there are many ways to support them:  Schedule regular visits or calls. Routine contact reduces isolation and builds trust and familiarity. Share activities. Cook a favorite recipe together, take a walk, or explore family history. Use techcurrent and olderto stay connected. Teach each otherwhether its FaceTime or how to play an old record. Include caregiving support. Home care agencies can ease the load by providing daily assistance and helping maintain a safe, comfortable home environment.  Caregiving Equals ConnectionGrandparent-grandchild relationships can be an important part of healthy aging and emotional development for all involved. They remind us that caregiving is more than a service; its a connection. At Right at Home, were proud to support families in building and maintaining those connections, every step of the way. Need help supporting a grandparent or looking for ways to strengthen intergenerational bonds? Our care team is here to help with personalized, in-home services and expert guidance. About Right at Home of Northern Colorado The Northern Colorado office of Right at Home is a locally owned and operated franchise office of Right at Home, LLC, serving the communities of Larimer and Weld County. For more information, contact Right at Home of Northern Colorado at rightathome.net/northern-colorado , at 970-494-1111 or by email at pwalter@ncoloradorah.com.