For more information about the author, click to view their website: VIPcare-Alabama
How
to Keep Your Kidneys Healthy: A Guide for Seniors
Maintain a Healthy Diet
A balanced and nutritious diet plays a crucial role in supporting kidney health. Focus on consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy. Limit your intake of sodium, processed foods, and added sugars. Potassium-rich foods like bananas and sweet potatoes can support healthy blood vessels and blood flow, but consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns about your potassium levels.
Protein is essential, but too much can strain your kidneys. Seniors with a family history of kidney issues or a history of kidney failure should monitor their protein intake carefully. A dietitian can help you create a meal plan tailored to your needs.
Stay Hydrated with Extra Water
Proper
hydration supports kidney function by helping them filter wastes and maintain
blood flow. Drinking extra water can reduce the risk of kidney stones by
diluting the minerals that form them. However, seniors with heart disease or
kidney issues should consult their doctor about the right amount of water for
their needs.
Control
Diabetes and High Blood Pressure
Diabetes
and high blood pressure are leading causes of kidney disease. Keeping your
blood sugar level and blood pressure within healthy ranges is essential.
Regular monitoring, taking prescribed medications, and following a healthy
lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk for kidney disease. If you have
diabetes and high blood pressure, work closely with your healthcare team to
manage these conditions effectively.
Exercise
Regularly
Regular
exercise, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, can improve overall health and
support kidney function. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most
days of the week. Exercise helps improve blood flow, manage weight, and reduce
the risk of conditions like heart disease and diabetes that can harm your
kidneys.
Avoid Overuse of NSAIDs
Nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen (Aleve) are
commonly used for pain relief but can be harmful to your kidneys, especially
when taken frequently or in high doses. Seniors should use these medications
sparingly and consult a healthcare provider for safer alternatives if they
experience chronic pain.
Manage
Risk Factors for Kidney Disease
If
you have a family history of kidney problems or a history of kidney failure,
you may be at a higher risk for kidney disease. Regular check-ups with your
doctor are crucial. Routine tests, such as blood and urine tests, can help
detect early signs of kidney damage. Early intervention and proactive care can
make a significant difference in outcomes.
Quit
Smoking and Limit Alcohol
Smoking
damages blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the kidneys, and increasing the
risk of kidney disease. Alcohol, when consumed in excess, can also harm your
kidneys. Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol intake are steps that can keep
your kidneys healthy.
Monitor
Your Medications
Certain
medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, can strain your
kidneys. Always consult your doctor before starting new medications, especially
if you have a history of kidney issues. Ensure they are aware of all
medications and supplements you’re taking.
Watch
for Warning Signs
Be
alert for symptoms of kidney problems, such as:
·
Swelling
in the ankles, feet, or hands
·
Fatigue
·
Changes
in urination (frequency, color, or amount)
·
Persistent
nausea or vomiting
·
High
blood pressure
If
you notice any of these symptoms, consult your doctor.
Reduce
Stress
Chronic
stress can negatively impact your overall health, including your kidneys.
Activities like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and hobbies can help you
relax and reduce stress levels.
Know
When to Seek Medical Help
If
you experience severe pain in your lower back or sides, it could indicate
kidney stones or another kidney issue. Don’t ignore these signs; seek medical
attention promptly to prevent further complications.
Prevent
and Manage Kidney Stones
Kidney
stones can be excruciating and lead to complications if untreated. Drinking
extra water, maintaining a healthy diet, and limiting salt intake can help
prevent them. If you’re prone to kidney stones, your doctor may recommend
specific dietary adjustments or medications.
Keep
Regular Check-Ups
Routine
medical check-ups are vital for detecting and managing health conditions that
affect your kidneys. Blood tests can measure your kidney function by evaluating
markers like creatinine, while urine tests can check for protein or other
abnormalities.
Healthy
Kidneys, Healthy Body
Taking
care of your kidneys is essential for overall health and well-being. If you’re
unsure about your kidney health or have concerns about your risk factors,
consult your doctor. Proactive steps today can make a significant difference in
protecting and keeping your kidneys healthy for years to come.
For
better primary care, call VIPcare today at 251-257-2886 to make the switch!
These 4 Simple Actions May Deliver Big Payoffs for Mens HealthIts been 12 months since the last Mens Health Month. Have you seen your doctor?June is a great time to make an appointment for a physical with your primary care provider, and its also an ideal month to educate yourself about some of the issues that impact mens health. For example, did you know that men tend to die five years earlier, on average, than women? Or that men face higher risks for health conditions such as lung cancer, heart disease and HIV? And theyre also at risk for sex-specific cancers, including prostate cancer and testicular cancer (learn about those facts and more via the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion).There are many simple actions men can take to benefit their health, this month and every month. Here are four ways to get started.Tip 1If you dont have a primary care doctor, select one. Establishing a relationship with a doctor is important. That person can help you feel better when youre sick, and they can offer advice on how to feel and stay your healthiest. And yet, according to a survey by the Cleveland Clinic, many men arent taking actions to stay healthy. Nearly two in five Gen Z men dont have a primary care provider (PCP). And when it comes to annual physicals, just 32% of millennials and Gen Z men get them, compared to 61% of Gen X and Baby Boomers. A primary care doctor can test your cholesterol and blood pressure, keep you up-to-date on immunizations and advise you on which screenings you need. A PCP visit is like a one-stop shop for your health!Tip 2If youre worried about your mental health, talk to a professional. Its tough to ask for help, and the statistics show that men, in particular, struggle when it comes to addressing their mental health challenges. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, nearly one in 10 men experience some sort of anxiety or depression, but fewer than half seek treatment. If you find that youre feeling unhappy or irritable, and youre avoiding or not getting pleasure from activities you usually enjoy, talk to your doctor or connect with a therapist and share the way youre feeling. They may be able to help.Tip 3Strengthen your support system. Research shows that social connections are important for your mental and physical health; in fact, people with strong social connections may actually live longer. Prioritize connecting with old friends and open your mind to ways to meet new ones. Itll be good for all involved!Tip 4Practice good health habits. There are everyday actions you can take that are known to be good for your health. Those include regular exercise (aim for 30 minutes of movement, five times a week); eating a healthy diet filled with lean proteins, whole grains and lots of fresh fruits and vegetables; finding outlets to manage your stress, such as yoga or deep breathing; getting enough sleep; quitting tobacco; and moderating how much alcohol you drink (the US guidelines recommend two drinks a day or less for men and one a day or less for women).Making healthy choices isnt hard, but you may need to adjust to some changes in your routine. Before long, those healthy choices may make you feel good enough that you wouldnt want to choose any other way.Contact Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama located in Mobile at 251-344-2115.
Protecting Your Parents Assets From Nursing Home CostsNursing home care costs have been rising over time, with many older Americans who require long-term care unable to afford it.With proper planning, seniors may be able to rely on Medicaid to pay for this care and still retain some of their assets by exploring several different strategies.The aging U.S. population means that more people will likely need nursing home care in the coming decades. Meanwhile, the cost of nursing home care is increasing and expected to keep increasing.With the exorbitant cost of nursing home care, many families worry about depleting their loved ones life savings to pay for the care they need. Private health insurance does not cover nursing home care, and while long-term care insurance is available to cover nursing home costs, these plans are also expensive and may come up short for long-term stays.This leaves millions of Americans reliant on Medicaid to pay for nursing home care a far from perfect solution that usually involves spending down assets to qualify. With proactive Medicaid planning, though, it is possible for someone to qualify for Medicaid and still retain some of their assets. The sooner you start planning, the more options youll have for protecting your parents assets from nursing home costs. Odds of Needing Long-Term Care Are HighThe lifetime likelihood of needing nursing home care is relatively high. About 70 percent of people who turn 65 today will eventually need some type of long-term care, including nursing home care.About 1.3 million Americans aged 65 and older currently live in nursing homes, and about 40 percent of todays 65-year-olds will spend some time in a nursing home before the end of their lives.Women are more likely than men to need long-term care, and the older a person gets, the more likely they are to need it. At the same time, there has been a growing trend of younger adults (those under the age of 65) living in nursing homes, in part due to Medicaid eligibility expansion under the Affordable Care Act. Research shows that this group increased from 10.6 percent of total nursing home residents in 2000 to 16.2 percent in 2017.Medicaid expansion has led to more people of all ages qualifying for the joint federal and state health insurance program. Intended as the payer of last resort when it comes to long-term care, Medicaid has become the primary nursing home insurance for millions of Americans due to the absence of any other public program covering long-term care.In 2020, around 6 million Medicaid enrollees used the program to pay for long-term support and services. Around one in five enrollees received institutional care, such as care provided at a nursing facility.After age 65, more than a quarter of adults receive at least 90 days of nursing home care. Thirteen percent of them receive long-term Medicaid-financed nursing home care.Medicaid typically pays for 100 percent of nursing home costs and may be the only insurance option available for long-term stays. Long-term care insurance can be purchased, but most policies have limits on the maximum daily or monthly benefit amount and the total lifetime benefit, as well as terms and health requirements that may exclude coverage.A nursing home stay isnt necessarily permanent. About 15 percent to 20 percent of admissions are for short-term rehabilitation. Among current residents, the average stay is one year and four months. More than half of residents stay for at least 100 days, while 15 percent of older adults spend over two years in a nursing home.With nursing home costs running $250 to $300 per day in some states, costs can add up quickly. The average nursing home stay of little over a year, or about 485 days, could end up costing upwards of $150,000.Extrapolate these costs over multiple years, and they are unsustainable for many families. Medicaid Planning StrategiesWhether a nursing home stay lasts months, years, or is permanent, you may have crunched the numbers and determined that Medicaid is the only feasible payment option for a parents nursing home care.This is a good news, bad news scenario. The good news is that its possible for somebody who doesnt currently meet Medicaids income and asset limits to spend down their excess assets to meet limits. The bad news is that these limits are generally only $2,000, which requires significant planning, since the average net worth of Americans is more than $1 million, including nearly $1.8 million for those 65 to 74.Another upside is that not all a persons assets count against the limit. A home, for example, is typically exempt. Someone can also own one car without exceeding Medicaids asset limits.Many Medicaid spend down strategies take advantage of workarounds that allow nonexempt assets to be converted to exempt assets, thereby excluding them from Medicaid calculations. But these strategies often involve navigating a tricky five-year lookback period where past asset transfers are scrutinized to ensure applicants dont give away assets to qualify for Medicaid.Keeping these considerations in mind, there are financial planning strategies that can help to protect a parents assets from nursing home costs and a Medicaid spend down. Medicaid-Compliant Annuities (MCAs)MCAs, a type of single premium immediate annuity, allow countable assets (like cash or investments) to be converted into a stream of income that doesnt count toward the Medicaid asset limit. The payout structure must be based on life expectancy, and once purchased, the annuity cannot be cashed out or changed; funds in the annuity are no longer accessible as assets.Annuity income may affect your parents eligibility for other needs-based government programs, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI). In addition, the state Medicaid agency must be the primary beneficiary in case of the annuitants death during the annuity period. Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts (MAPTs)Medicaid-compliant trusts, like MAPTs, hold assets for a set period, after which they transfer to beneficiaries (usually children or other family members).Assets in the MAPT are no longer considered part of your parents estate for Medicaid purposes. They are legally owned by the trust, not your parents, although they may be able to benefit from these assets, such as remaining in a home transferred to a MAPT.Creating a MAPT triggers a penalty period of Medicaid ineligibility under the lookback period thats based on the value of assets transferred. A MAPT is therefore most effective when implemented well in advance of potential Medicaid need, often in conjunction with a parents estate plan. Promissory NotesA promissory note is a legal agreement that allows your parents to lend money to someone (e.g., a family member) who agrees to repay the money with interest over time. This converts a lump-sum asset into a stream of income.Not all states recognize promissory notes for Medicaid planning. In states that do allow them, they may be subject to scrutiny by state Medicaid agencies. The note must clearly outline the repayment terms and the interest rate must be at or above the applicable federal rate (the minimum interest rate the IRS allows for private loans).Interest income from the loan may be taxed at a lower rate, and the terms can be customized to meet individual needs. For the Medicaid applicant, however, the effectiveness of a promissory note is largely dependent on the borrowers ability and willingness to repay the loan. Life EstatesA life estate lets your parents transfer ownership of their home to a child or other family member while retaining the right to live there for the rest of their lives. It removes the homes value from their countable assets for Medicaid purposes and may protect the family home from Medicaid estate recovery, a program that empowers states to recoup Medicaid expenses from the deceased beneficiarys estate.Medicaids lookback policy applies to life estates, so the transfer must be done well in advance of needing care. Your parents may also lose some control over the property, and there could be tax implications. Other Spend Down StrategiesA spend down strategy might additionally include a parent spending on needs or wants that can both enhance their quality of life and help them qualify for Medicaid.Paying off debts, making necessary home repairs, purchasing a new car, prepaying funeral expenses, or taking a family vacation are ways to spend down assets and derive an instant benefit.Gifting assets to loved ones outside of the lookback period can reduce countable assets and fit into a gifting while living strategy, but annual and lifetime gift tax exemptions apply.If only one spouse needs nursing home care, Medicaid allows the other spouse (the community spouse) to retain a certain amount of income and assets.Because state Medicaid laws and individual nursing home care needs vary, there is no one-size-fits-all strategy for protecting a parents assets from nursing home costs and a Medicaid spend down. To develop a personalized plan that avoids penalties or disqualification from Medicaid in your state and also maximizes asset protection, consult with Ashley Day. Phone: 251-277-3377.
What to Do If Long-Term Care Insurance Doesnt Cover All CostsA Practical Guide for Families to Identify Funding Solutions for Home CareOne of the most common and unexpected challenges aging seniors and their families face is realizing that their long-term care insurance (LTCI) doesnt cover everything. While LTCI is an important financial safety net, policies often come with daily or lifetime caps, elimination periods, or limits on the type of care covered. This can leave families who are policyholders scrambling to fill financial gapsoften while juggling emotional stress and caregiving responsibilities.The good news is there are many strategies to help manage these uncovered costs, say experts like Michael Banner, the host of 62 Who Knew podcast that focuses on educating seniors and their adult children about long-term care, Medicare, elder law, and other topics related to retirement planning. Whether youre just beginning to plan or facing care expenses right now, its never too late to reassess and adjust your approach. Here are several options that can provide support when long-term care insurance falls short.Hybrid Life Insurance with Long-Term Care RidersHybrid life insurance policies offer both a death benefit and a long-term care benefit. If you never use the LTC portion, your beneficiaries still receive a payout. If care is needed, a portion of the death benefit is used to cover services like in-home care, assisted living, or nursing facilities.These policies can be especially attractive because: Premiums are typically guaranteed and wont increase over time. Underwriting is often more flexible than traditional LTCI. You get peace of mind knowing the funds will be used, one way or another. This option is great for families who are planning in advance and want to ensure that their investment doesnt go to waste.Annuities with Long-Term Care BenefitsAnnuities that include long-term care riders can be another viable solution, especially for individuals with significant retirement savings. These products allow you to invest a lump sum and receive monthly incomeenhanced if used for qualified care expenses.Key benefits: No need to qualify with medical underwriting for some options. Funds grow tax-deferred. If long-term care isnt needed, the annuity still provides income. This is ideal for retirees who want to protect against longevity risk and the rising cost of care.Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)If youre still working and enrolled in a high-deductible health plan, contributing to an HSA is a tax-advantaged way to prepare for future health-related expensesincluding some long-term care costs.Advantages include: Contributions are tax-deductible. Growth is tax-free. Withdrawals for qualified medical expenses, including LTC services, are also tax-free. Funds roll over year to year and can be a powerful savings tool when planned early.Medicaid PlanningWhen private funds and insurance arent enough, Medicaid becomes a vital safety netbut qualifying isnt simple. Medicaid is means-tested, meaning you must meet strict income and asset thresholds. Fortunately, with proper legal guidance, its possible to spend down assets in a way thats compliant with Medicaid rules.Why its important: Medicaid covers the full cost of nursing home care and, in some states, in-home or assisted living support. Planning early (ideally five years before care is needed) can preserve some assets for a spouse or heirs. An elder law attorney can help navigate this complex system and avoid costly mistakes. Family Care AgreementsWhen a family member provides caregiving services, a written agreement ensures transparency and allows for potential Medicaid reimbursement. These agreements can: Help justify compensation for caregiving, especially if one family member is giving up work. Protect family relationships by establishing clear roles and expectations. Provide documentation for tax or Medicaid eligibility purposes. Formalizing informal care arrangements can also bring peace of mind and fairness to all involved.Life SettlementsA life settlement involves selling a life insurance policy to a third-party investor for more than its cash surrender value but less than its death benefit. The buyer continues paying premiums and collects the death benefit when the policyholder passes.Consider this if: You no longer need the life insurance policy. You need immediate funds for care. Youre ineligible for more traditional forms of care financing. Be sure to consult with a financial advisor or attorney, as this option can affect taxes and estate planning.Cohousing and Shared Living ArrangementsSenior cohousing is a growing trend in which older adults live in a community designed for shared support and resources. Residents often share meals, caregiving responsibilities, and social activities.Benefits include: Lower costs compared to institutional care. Built-in companionship and reduced isolation. Informal support networks that ease the caregiving burden. This lifestyle is especially appealing to seniors who value independence but also want access to a community.Emergency Savings and Liquid AssetsEven a modest emergency fund can make a big difference when unexpected care costs arise. While many retirees live on fixed incomes, its important to set aside funds specifically for healthcare and long-term support.Recommendations: Keep at least 612 months of essential expenses easily accessible. Regularly reassess your budget to adjust savings needs. Consider placing emergency savings in a high-yield savings account or money market fund. An emergency fund can serve as your first line of defense before tapping into investments or family resources.Plan Proactively, Not ReactivelyLong-term care costs can be overwhelmingbut they dont have to catch you off guard. If your LTCI doesnt cover everything, you have more options than you might think. Whether you choose a financial product, government program, or community support model, the most important step is to plan ahead.At Amada Senior Care of Mobile & Baldwin County, we specialize in providing compassionate, non-medical care services that help seniors live safely and comfortably in their own homes. We understand how stressful it can be to manage the cost of care, and were here to work with youwhether its helping you build a care plan, navigating resources, or offering flexible support options.Need help figuring out the next step? Contact us today at 251-305-4500 for a free consultation. As experts in long-term care insurance claims management and other funding solutions, our senior care advisors are here to support you and your familyevery step of the way.
VIPcareWe are a group of passionate healthcare professionals who believe theres a better way to practice medicine. We see a future where preventative medicine is valued over the traditional approach, what we refer to as sick care. We thrive on seeing our patients healthy, not sick.Preventative CareUtilizing a value-based Medicare Advantage model produces lower rates of hospital stays, emergency department visits, and 30-day readmissions for beneficiaries as compared to Traditional Medicare health models.5-Star ProviderThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services use a five-star quality rating system to measure Medicare beneficiaries experience with their health plans and the health care system.Patients 65+ require different attention and care than other age groups. VIPcare provides senior-focused primary care that caters specifically to the needs of older adults.What is Senior-Focused Care?Senior-focused care is primary care that delivers a wide range of value-based healthcare services with a dedicated focus on patients 65+. It takes the unique needs of the senior population into consideration when caring for patients.How Is Senior-Focused Primary Care Different than Traditional Primary Care?At VIPcare, youll notice many differences between how we care for patients and how others do. Because VIPcare specializes in caring for adults 65+, our providers are trained and specialized in the specific clinical needs of seniors. We focus on prevention and management, helping to achieve Better Health. Also, using a value-based model allows our providers to spendmore time with patients. Instead of waiting for an appointment, our providers can see you right away, sometimes even the same day if needed.What are the Benefits of Senior-Focused Care?Many older adults live with multiple chronic conditions, such as hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. By having a primary care provider that is skilled and trained to treat the senior population and their specific needs, such as chronic conditions, patients receive better and more personalized care. In addition, senior-focused care integrates a team approach and coordinates with specialty care when necessary.What Insurance is Needed for Senior-Focused Care?Senior-focused primary care is best delivered as part of a value-based model and works best when paired with Medicare Advantage plans. However, some VIPcare clinics do accept traditional Medicare.Learn More About Senior-Focused Care at VIPcareVIPcare provides senior-focused primary care to the aging population. We believe in quality over quantity and always strive to deliver 5-star care. Learn more about what makes VIPcare different by scheduling an appointment or calling 251-325-1962.
VIPcareWe are a group of passionate healthcare professionals who believe theres a better way to practice medicine. We see a future where preventative medicine is valued over the traditional approach, what we refer to as sick care. We thrive on seeing our patients healthy, not sick.Preventative CareUtilizing a value-based Medicare Advantage model produces lower rates of hospital stays, emergency department visits, and 30-day readmissions for beneficiaries as compared to Traditional Medicare health models.5-Star ProviderThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services use a five-star quality rating system to measure Medicare beneficiaries experience with their health plans and the health care system.Patients 65+ require different attention and care than other age groups. VIPcare provides senior-focused primary care that caters specifically to the needs of older adults.What is Senior-Focused Care?Senior-focused care is primary care that delivers a wide range of value-based healthcare services with a dedicated focus on patients 65+. It takes the unique needs of the senior population into consideration when caring for patients.How Is Senior-Focused Primary Care Different than Traditional Primary Care?At VIPcare, youll notice many differences between how we care for patients and how others do. Because VIPcare specializes in caring for adults 65+, our providers are trained and specialized in the specific clinical needs of seniors. We focus on prevention and management, helping to achieve Better Health. Also, using a value-based model allows our providers to spendmore time with patients. Instead of waiting for an appointment, our providers can see you right away, sometimes even the same day if needed.What are the Benefits of Senior-Focused Care?Many older adults live with multiple chronic conditions, such as hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. By having a primary care provider that is skilled and trained to treat the senior population and their specific needs, such as chronic conditions, patients receive better and more personalized care. In addition, senior-focused care integrates a team approach and coordinates with specialty care when necessary.What Insurance is Needed for Senior-Focused Care?Senior-focused primary care is best delivered as part of a value-based model and works best when paired with Medicare Advantage plans. However, some VIPcare clinics do accept traditional Medicare.Learn More About Senior-Focused Care at VIPcareVIPcare provides senior-focused primary care to the aging population. We believe in quality over quantity and always strive to deliver 5-star care. Learn more about what makes VIPcare different by scheduling an appointment or calling 251-325-1962.
VIPcareWe are a group of passionate healthcare professionals who believe theres a better way to practice medicine. We see a future where preventative medicine is valued over the traditional approach, what we refer to as sick care. We thrive on seeing our patients healthy, not sick.Preventative CareUtilizing a value-based Medicare Advantage model produces lower rates of hospital stays, emergency department visits, and 30-day readmissions for beneficiaries as compared to Traditional Medicare health models.5-Star ProviderThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services use a five-star quality rating system to measure Medicare beneficiaries experience with their health plans and the health care system.Patients 65+ require different attention and care than other age groups. VIPcare provides senior-focused primary care that caters specifically to the needs of older adults.What is Senior-Focused Care?Senior-focused care is primary care that delivers a wide range of value-based healthcare services with a dedicated focus on patients 65+. It takes the unique needs of the senior population into consideration when caring for patients.How Is Senior-Focused Primary Care Different than Traditional Primary Care?At VIPcare, youll notice many differences between how we care for patients and how others do. Because VIPcare specializes in caring for adults 65+, our providers are trained and specialized in the specific clinical needs of seniors. We focus on prevention and management, helping to achieve Better Health. Also, using a value-based model allows our providers to spendmore time with patients. Instead of waiting for an appointment, our providers can see you right away, sometimes even the same day if needed.What are the Benefits of Senior-Focused Care?Many older adults live with multiple chronic conditions, such as hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. By having a primary care provider that is skilled and trained to treat the senior population and their specific needs, such as chronic conditions, patients receive better and more personalized care. In addition, senior-focused care integrates a team approach and coordinates with specialty care when necessary.What Insurance is Needed for Senior-Focused Care?Senior-focused primary care is best delivered as part of a value-based model and works best when paired with Medicare Advantage plans. However, some VIPcare clinics do accept traditional Medicare.Learn More About Senior-Focused Care at VIPcareVIPcare provides senior-focused primary care to the aging population. We believe in quality over quantity and always strive to deliver 5-star care. Learn more about what makes VIPcare different by scheduling an appointment or calling 251-325-1962.