For more information about the author, click to view their website: Area Agency on Aging
Preventive care is the care you receive to prevent illness, detect medical conditions, and keep you healthy. During this Medicare Minute, we’ll look at Medicare’s coverage of preventive services and review the screening, vaccines, and counseling that can help you stay on top of your health. A quick reference handout is available for download that will include everything covered in this blog post and more.
Medicare Part B covers many preventive services with no cost-sharing, as long as you meet the eligibility requirements and follow the guidelines below.
Preventive services recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force are covered with zero cost-sharing, so you will not owe any deductible or coinsurance when you receive them. You can find a list of those services on Medicare.gov’s page on Preventive & Screening Services. You can also call 1-800-MEDICARE or read your Medicare & You handbook for a full list.
For many of the covered preventive services, you have to meet certain criteria based on your age, sex, or certain risk factors. Your health care provider should be able to tell if you qualify.
The Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) is a yearly appointment with your primary care provider to create or update a personalized prevention plan. Medicare Part B covers the AWV if you have had Part B for over 12 months and you have not received an AWV or your Welcome to Medicare Visit in the last 12 months.
At your Annual Wellness Visit, your doctor may:
What the annual wellness is not:
Genetic testing fraud or abuse can occur when Medicare is billed for genetic screenings or tests that are not medically necessary and were not ordered by the beneficiary’s treating physician. We often see scammers offering cheek swab tests to obtain a beneficiary’s Medicare information, which the scammers can then use for fraudulent billing or medical identity theft. Genetic testing is often advertised as one of the following:
Look for these red flags to avoid genetic testing fraud and abuse:
To prevent genetic testing fraud and abuse, make sure to work with your trusted health care provider on your preventive health. Protect your personal information and Medicare number. Always read your Medicare statements for any suspicious charges. And finally, if you received a cheek swab or genetic screening/test that was not medically necessary, report your concerns to your local Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP).
The Medicare Rights Center is the author of portions of the content in these materials but is not responsible for any content not authored by the Medicare Rights Center. This document is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $2,534,081 with 100 percent funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government. |
Every independent living, assisted living, and memory care community has experienced it.A prospective resident and their family tour your community. They love the apartment. They are emotionally ready to make the move.Then comes the sentence that changes everything:"We have to sell the house first."Suddenly, what seemed like a straightforward move becomes filled with uncertainty.How long will it take to sell?How much will they actually receive?Will the buyer's financing fall through?Will repairs be required?Will inspections uncover expensive issues?Will the move be delayed for months?Unfortunately, these unknowns often result in families postponing their decision. Some decide to "wait until next year." Others choose another community with different availability. Sometimes a health event forces an emergency move that could have been avoided with better planning.In many cases, everyone loses.The family experiences unnecessary stress.The senior delays the next chapter of their life.And your community may lose a future resident.The Home Is Often the Biggest ObstacleFor many seniors, the home represents decades of memoriesbut it is also the largest financial asset they own.Many families simply cannot commit to a move until they know:When the home will sellHow much they will receiveWhether repairs will be necessaryWhen they will have access to the proceedsWithout those answers, planning becomes difficult.That's where we help.Did You Know?Many prospective residents delay moving into an independent living or assisted living community simply because they are uncertain about selling their home.In many cases, one conversation with an experienced real estate professional can eliminate that uncertainty and give families the confidence to move forward.One call gives families two professional options:A fast, guaranteed cash offer through Sarasota Cash Home BuyersA traditional MLS listing through Jeff Nemeth Real EstateThere is no obligation and no pressure - just honest guidance to help families choose the solution that best fits their goals, timeline, and financial needs.One Contact. Two Professional Solutions.Unlike most companies, we can provide both of the primary options available to homeowners.Our goal isn't to convince someone to choose one path over the other.Our goal is to help families choose the solution that best fits their situation.Solution One: Sarasota Cash Home BuyersSome families need certainty.Perhaps Mom needs to move within a few weeks.Perhaps Dad has already moved into assisted living.Perhaps the family lives out of state.Perhaps the home needs extensive repairs.Perhaps maintaining the property has become overwhelming.A direct cash purchase often removes nearly every obstacle.Benefits include:Sell completely as-isNo repairsNo cleaningNo paintingNo stagingNo open housesNo repeated showingsNo financing contingenciesNo appraisal concernsNo commissionsNo waiting for a buyer to qualify for financingChoose the closing date that works with the move-in scheduleGreater certainty throughout the entire processInstead of wondering whether the house will sell, families know exactly when the transaction will close.That certainty often makes scheduling a move into your community much easier.Solution Two: Jeff Nemeth Real EstateSometimes, selling through the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is the better option.Every family's goals are different.If maximizing the sale price is the highest priority and the family has flexibility with timing, a traditional listing may produce the best overall outcome.With nearly two decades as a licensed Realtor and hundreds of successful real estate transactions, Jeff Nemeth helps families understand the advantages and trade-offs of listing their home traditionally.Our philosophy is simple:Recommend what's best for the clientnot what's best for us.That means families receive honest advice about both options before making any decisions.Why This Matters to Senior Living CommunitiesWhen a family delays selling a home, the move into your community is often delayed as well.Those delays can affect:OccupancyMove-in timelinesApartment availabilitySales forecastingFamily confidenceResident planningHaving a trusted housing resource available early in the conversation can eliminate many of these roadblocks before they become major problems.Even if a family ultimately chooses to list the property rather than accept a cash offer, they now have a clear roadmap and realistic expectations.Knowledge reduces uncertainty.And reduced uncertainty helps families move forward.We Become Part of Your TeamWe regularly work alongside:Independent Living communitiesAssisted Living communitiesMemory Care communitiesContinuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)Senior placement agenciesSenior move managersEstate planning attorneysElder law attorneysProbate attorneysTrust officersFinancial advisorsGuardiansHome health agenciesHospice providersProfessional organizersSenior relocation companiesOur role is simple:Help families solve the housing piece of the transition.When that obstacle is removed, everyone benefits.One Contact. Two Solutions.Sarasota Cash Home BuyersJeff Nemeth Real EstateImmediate cash offerTraditional MLS listingSell completely as-isProfessional marketingNo repairsMaximum market exposureNo showingsBuyer competitionNo financing contingenciesGuidance throughout the selling processFlexible closing dateMarket-based pricing strategyFast, predictable closingIdeal for families with more flexibilityThere is no "one-size-fits-all" solution.Every family deserves to understand both options before making one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives.Why Families Appreciate Working With UsFamilies often tell us that what they value most isn't simply buying or selling a home.It's having someone who explains every option without pressure.We believe education comes before transactions.Sometimes the best recommendation is a cash sale.Sometimes it's listing on the open market.Sometimes it's waiting.Our responsibility is to help families make an informed decision based on their financial goals, timeline, and personal circumstances.Helping Seniors Move ForwardMoving into a senior living community is a major life transition.The process should feel supportednot overwhelming.If one of your prospective residents needs to sell a home before they can move, we'd be happy to provide a complimentary consultation, explain every available option, and help the family determine the best path forward.There is no obligation.No high-pressure sales presentation.Just experienced guidance from professionals who understand both the real estate market and the unique challenges families face during senior transitions.One conversation today could be the difference between a delayed move and a successful move-in.At Sarasota Cash Home Buyers and Jeff Nemeth Real Estate, we're committed to helping seniors, their families, and senior living professionals remove one of the biggest obstacles to a successful transition - selling the home with confidence.Together, we can help more seniors move forward with certainty.Contact Jeff Nemeth at 941-202-6957 for more information.
When it comes to choosing a senior living community, finding the right balance of personalized care, wellness, engaging experiences, and comfort is essential. At The Watermark at Marco Island, residents can enjoy a thoughtfully designed lifestyle in a beautiful setting while receiving support tailored to the way they want to live.A Place to Call Home on Marco IslandLocated at 1170 San Marco Road in Marco Island, Florida, The Watermark at Marco Island offers assisted living and memory care in a welcoming residential environment.The community is designed to provide more than just a place to live. Here, personalized care is complemented by opportunities for wellness, enriching daily experiences, social connection, and chef-prepared dining.For seniors and their families, that means having support available while maintaining independence and enjoying the lifestyle that makes each day meaningful.Personalized Care Designed Around YouEvery resident has unique needs, interests, routines, and preferences. The Watermark at Marco Island takes a personalized approach to care, creating support around the individual rather than expecting residents to fit into a one-size-fits-all model.Whether a senior needs assistance with daily activities or specialized support associated with memory care, the goal is to help residents feel comfortable, confident, and engaged in their surroundings.This thoughtful approach allows families to have greater peace of mind while their loved ones enjoy a community designed around their well-being.Wellness and Enriching ExperiencesLife at The Watermark at Marco Island extends beyond care. The community incorporates holistic wellness and enriching daily experiences designed to encourage residents to remain active, connected, and engaged.Common areas provide opportunities to socialize with friends, participate in activities, enjoy hobbies, or simply relax in a comfortable environment. From a game of pool to sharing a meal or spending time with neighbors, residents have opportunities to make each day their own.The emphasis is on supporting the whole personmind, body, and spirit.Dining Made From ScratchGood food is an important part of a fulfilling lifestyle, and dining at The Watermark at Marco Island is designed to be an enjoyable part of each day.Residents can experience chef-prepared meals made from scratch, offering the opportunity to enjoy delicious food while dining in a social and welcoming environment.Meals can be more than simply meeting nutritional needsthey can provide residents with another opportunity to connect, celebrate, and enjoy the pleasures of everyday life.Comfortable ResidencesThe Watermark at Marco Island offers thoughtfully designed residences intended to provide comfort, privacy, and a sense of home.Bright interiors, comfortable furnishings, and inviting living spaces create an environment where residents can settle in and feel at ease. Families can visit and spend quality time with their loved ones in a setting that feels warm and welcoming.The community's design also provides convenient access to shared spaces where residents can socialize and participate in daily activities.See Your Day HereChoosing senior living is a significant decision, and seeing a community in person can make all the difference. A personal visit allows seniors and their families to experience the environment, explore the residences, learn about available care, and get a better understanding of everyday life at the community.The Watermark at Marco Island invites prospective residents and their families to step inside, tour the residences, and picture what their day could look like here.To schedule a personal visit, call 239-999-4601.The Watermark at Marco Island1170 San Marco RoadMarco Island, FL 34145WatermarkMarcoIsland.com
Moving a parent to senior living is rarely just a move. It is an emotional transitionfor the older adult, the family, and often the person making the decision.Families may feel guilt, sadness, fear, relief, and even uncertaintysometimes all in the same day.A daughter may think, Am I doing the right thing?A son may wonder, Will Mom think Im abandoning her?And a parent may be thinking, Am I losing my independence?These emotions are normal.As senior living leaders, our responsibility goes beyond providing a safe apartment, meals, activities, and care. We have to care for the emotional journey that comes with the transition.Its not about taking independence away.Its about helping redefine what independence looks like.Sometimes independence means no longer worrying about cooking, cleaning, medication management, or being alone. It means having people nearby, opportunities to socialize, and support when it is neededwhile still having choices about how each day is lived.Families need reassurance, not judgment.The decision to move a parent is often made after monthsor yearsof difficult conversations, falls, sleepless nights, increasing care needs, or simply realizing that living alone isnt working anymore.Families dont need someone to make them feel guilty.They need someone to say:Youre not failing your parent. Youre helping create a safer, more supported chapter of their life.The first days matter.A successful transition isnt just about getting someone moved in.The process starts before they move in. Person Centered Selling truly makes a difference from an average senior living to a fantastic senior living. It is about learning who they are.What makes them smile?What did they do for a living?What music do they enjoy?What foods do they love?Who are the important people in their life?What makes them feel comfortable?When we know the person behind the resident, we can begin creating a sense of belonging, not just care. And sometimes the greatest measure of success isnt the beautiful apartment or the activity calendar.Its when a family member says:I havent seen Mom this happy in a long time. That is priceless! That is when we know the transition is becoming a new beginning.From a senior living leaders perspectiveI have learned that families arent simply looking for a place for Mom or Dad.They are looking for peace of mind.They want to know their loved one is safe.They want to know someone will notice when something isnt right.They want their parent to have friends.They want to be a daughter or son againnot a full-time caregiver.And most importantly, they want to know:Will you love and care for my parent when I cant be there?That is the promise behind great senior living like Springwood Court. Because at the end of the day, we arent just helping someone move into a community.Were helping a family move into a new chapter and season of their life, one filled with support, connection, dignity and love.Fran Gray RNExecutive Director Springwood CourtAssisted Living12780 Kenwood LaneFort Myers, FL33907239-278-0078
The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) is a nonprofit organization serving older adults (age 60-up) and adults with disabilities. We serve Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hendry, Lee and Sarasota counties. AAASWFL is committed to connecting older adults and adults with disabilities to resources and assistance for living safely with independence and dignity.AAASWFL is also the states designated Aging and Disability Resource Center for Southwest Florida. We provide information and resources for seniors and adults with disabilities. We also help their families and caregivers. AAASWFL can connect you with local resources like elder care, adult day care, housing assistance, home care, meals, housekeeping, legal assistance, personal care, and even volunteer opportunities.Providing Long-Term Care (LTC) services to Floridas most vulnerable citizens is a multi-agency effort. The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) administers the Statewide Medicaid Managed Care (SMMC) Long-Term Care program, sets coverage policy, and gets those eligible for services enrolled in a LTC plan. The Department of Elder Affairs (DOEA) is responsible for determining medical eligibility and level of care needed. We are one of eleven regional Area Agencies on Aging in the state of Florida. Nationwide, there are more than 600 Area Agencies on Aging serving elders and adults with disabilities.Please contact the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida if we can be of assistance to you, a friend or a family member!The AAASWFL Elder Helpline is available between 8:00 am-5:00 pm Monday through Friday: 866-413-5337 (866-41-ELDER)Contact Phones:Telephone: 239-652-6900FAX: 239-652-6989Toll Free: 866-413-5337 (in the State of Florida)Postal address:Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida2830 Winkler Avenue, Suite 112Fort Myers, FL 33916Hours of Operation:Monday-Friday: 8am 5pm
The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) is a nonprofit organization serving older adults (age 60-up) and adults with disabilities. We serve Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hendry, Lee and Sarasota counties. AAASWFL is committed to connecting older adults and adults with disabilities to resources and assistance for living safely with independence and dignity.AAASWFL is also the states designated Aging and Disability Resource Center for Southwest Florida. We provide information and resources for seniors and adults with disabilities. We also help their families and caregivers. AAASWFL can connect you with local resources like elder care, adult day care, housing assistance, home care, meals, housekeeping, legal assistance, personal care, and even volunteer opportunities.Providing Long-Term Care (LTC) services to Floridas most vulnerable citizens is a multi-agency effort. The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) administers the Statewide Medicaid Managed Care (SMMC) Long-Term Care program, sets coverage policy, and gets those eligible for services enrolled in a LTC plan. The Department of Elder Affairs (DOEA) is responsible for determining medical eligibility and level of care needed. We are one of eleven regional Area Agencies on Aging in the state of Florida. Nationwide, there are more than 600 Area Agencies on Aging serving elders and adults with disabilities.Health & WellnessThe Area Agency on Agings health and wellness programs are designed to help older adults (60+) through education and activity. AAASWFL also provides support programs for caregivers. These free workshops are available throughout our service area (Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hendry, Lee and Sarasota Counties).All of our Health and Wellness offerings are evidence-based, which means they have been scientifically tested and shown to produce verifiable results for people that have completed the workshops.AAASWFLs Health & Wellness programs are funded through the U.S. Older Americans Act.Chronic Disease Self-Management ProgramThe Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (CDSMP) was developed at Stanford University to help people with a variety of chronic health conditions. It is an education program to help people better manage their health and keep them active and engaged in their lives. Small groups meet with facilitators for six weeks, creating a plan to improve their health. CDSMP is for adults with chronic health conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, and other ongoing health problems.A Matter of BalanceDid you know that falling is the most common cause of death and serious injury among older adults? Many seniors begin to restrict their activities because of concerns about falling. A Matter of Balance workshops are designed for seniors who have anxieties about falling or who have fallen in the past. This 4-8 week program helps older adults improve their balance, develop an exercise plan to increase strength and flexibility, and conduct a home safety check, among other topics.Tai ChiTai Chi is a low-impact form of Chinese martial arts that involves slow, controlled, flowing movements. It can help improve hand-eye coordination, enhance health and fitness, improve balance, reduce stress and provide a gentle aerobic workout. AAASWFL offers two different Tai Chi workshops. Tai Chi for Arthritis for Falls Prevention is an 8-week, 16 session workshop. Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance is a 12-week, 24 session workshop.Walk With EaseWalk With Ease is an Arthritis Foundation fitness program that can reduce pain and improve your health. If you can be on your feet for ten minutes without increased pain, you can have success in this program. One-hour classes include group walks and health-related discussions.Arthritis Foundation Exercise ProgramThe Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program (AFEP) is tailor-made for people with arthritis. The AFEP is safe, comfortable, and effective. In one-hour classes, youll reduce stress and learn how to better manage your arthritis. Classes can be done either sitting or standing, depending on your ability and activity level.Caregiver SupportCaring for a loved one can be demanding and stressful. AAASWFL offers caregiver support programs. These workshops are available to caregivers of any age who are the primary caregiver for an older adult or person with a disability. Powerful Tools for Caregivers helps provide confidence, emotional management skills, self-care behaviors, and connection to local resources. Classes are offered in 6-week programs.Find a Class Near You:To find a Health & Wellness class near you, or to request a class at your facility, call the AAASWFL Elder Helpline at 866-413-5337 (41-ELDER).
The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) is a nonprofit organization serving older adults (age 60-up) and adults with disabilities. We serve Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hendry, Lee and Sarasota counties. AAASWFL is committed to connecting older adults and adults with disabilities to resources and assistance for living safely with independence and dignity.AAASWFL is also the states designated Aging and Disability Resource Center for Southwest Florida. We provide information and resources for seniors and adults with disabilities. We also help their families and caregivers. AAASWFL can connect you with local resources like elder care, adult day care, housing assistance, home care, meals, housekeeping, legal assistance, personal care, and even volunteer opportunities.Providing Long-Term Care (LTC) services to Floridas most vulnerable citizens is a multi-agency effort. The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) administers the Statewide Medicaid Managed Care (SMMC) Long-Term Care program, sets coverage policy, and gets those eligible for services enrolled in a LTC plan. The Department of Elder Affairs (DOEA) is responsible for determining medical eligibility and level of care needed. We are one of eleven regional Area Agencies on Aging in the state of Florida. Nationwide, there are more than 600 Area Agencies on Aging serving elders and adults with disabilities.Please contact the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida if we can be of assistance to you, a friend or a family member!The AAASWFL Elder Helpline is available between 8:00 am-5:00 pm Monday through Friday: 866-413-5337 (866-41-ELDER)Contact Phones:Telephone: 239-652-6900FAX: 239-652-6989Toll Free: 866-413-5337 (in the State of Florida)Postal address:Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida2830 Winkler Avenue, Suite 112Fort Myers, FL 33916Hours of Operation:Monday-Friday: 8am 5pm