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Light the candles, put on your favorite song, and savor this moment – you only turn 65 once!
Forget sayings like “A lady or gentleman never tells their age,” because at ArchWell Health, we believe every birthday is a reason to celebrate. And every age brings new gifts.
So if you’re turning 65, there’s more than Medicare to look forward to – although that is one of the perks!
That’s why we’re excited to unwrap this new series, Turning 65, over the coming months. Each post will highlight a different aspect of life in your mid 60s – with a positive spin and practical insights.
Here are the topics we’ll cover between now and the fall:
Understanding Aging: Part of growing older is learning how to listen to the beautiful machine that is you – and knowing how to care for it in this new era. We’ve got you covered.
Drug Management: With increased age often comes an increased number of prescriptions, and that’s OK. We’ve got tips for managing them all with ease.
Maximizing Independence: You might need help with a few things in this next life stage, but you can still keep that independent spirit too. We’ll show you the ways.
Mental Health: There are definitely more things to worry about as you add more candles to the cake. And there are just as many things – if not more – to be excited about. We’ll talk about the serious stuff and how to look for the good in healthy ways.
When you were preparing for college, the workforce, marriage, or parenthood, you probably did some goal setting. Why not do the same now?
Whether you’re close to retirement, have no plans to stop working because you enjoy being busy, or you’re caring for parents and possibly adult children and grandkids, take time during your 65th year to set some new goals for the future – near term and long term.
Start by setting the tone for adventure in this milestone year: create a bucket list of places you want to go, people you want to visit, hobbies you want to rekindle or try for the first time, or volunteer/paid jobs you’d like to do.
Schedule time to make progress on these goals each week. You don’t have to make a big trip across the ocean – maybe start by checking out a travel club at the local Y, or coming to an ArchWell Health Center for line dancing, Jeopardy, or Zumba.
Turning 65 does not mean you suddenly understand Medicare and all its tricky moving parts. We get it! It’s confusing, and it changes a lot – so we’ll start with the basics.
Part C Medicare/Medicare Advantage plans have to cover everything that the Original Medicare plan does. Most also include Part D coverage and extra benefits like vision and dental coverage. You must keep paying your Part B premium and, in some cases, an additional Medicare Advantage premium. Your premium is your monthly bill for health insurance.
Private companies also offer Medicare supplement plans (aka Medigap plans). These help you pay for things Parts A and B don’t cover, like extra costs that come in the form of copays and deductibles.
How and when do you enroll or switch plans?
Open enrollment begins on October 15th. During this period, you can sign up for a new Medicare Advantage, Part D or Medigap plan from the Medicare website. Peruse plans and when you find the one you like, simply click the enroll button.
You can also enroll by calling a health plan directly. Prefer a paper form? Just ask your ArchWell Health provider. Make sure to get that form in before December 7th when open enrollment ends.
How do you choose the right coverage?
If you’re happy with the coverage you have, you don’t have to do anything else – unless your Medicare Advantage, Medigap or Part D drug plan will no longer be available.
If you’re not happy – or you want to shop around – do these two things next.
Step one: Review your current plan’s Annual Notice of Change (ANOC), which comes in the mail in September. On the ANOC, you’ll find a list of:
Any changes to costs like premiums, deductibles and copays
Any changes to the plan’s network of providers and pharmacies
Any changes to the plan’s drug list (formulary)
If your Medicare plan is dropping your favorite doctor or health system, it might be time to find a new plan. Want a different provider? This is the time to find someone new. And if an expensive drug you take won’t be covered anymore (or it moves to a higher level on the drug list, which makes the price go up), it’s time to consider a new plan.
Step two: Visit the Medicare website. There, you’ll find a handy tool that lets you compare Medicare Advantage, Part D and Medigap plans in your area. Log in or enter your ZIP code, then choose the plan you want. You can study all the available options here too. With Medicare Advantage plans, you’ll see things like:
The Medicare star rating, where 5 stars is the highest.
The monthly premium – and, good news! – there are Medicare Advantage plans with $0 premiums.
Total drug and premium costs (if you’ve entered your prescriptions).
Other costs (like deductibles and maximum out-of-pocket costs).
What extra benefits the plan includes.
If you’ve logged in, you can even see a side-by-side comparison between your current plan and up to two others.
What’s the difference between “payer” and “provider?”
As you become more familiar with Medicare – or if you’ve been around the healthcare block a few times – you’ll probably hear terms like payers, providers and outcomes. It’s important to know what these terms mean as you navigate Medicare.
Insurance companies are the payers.
Doctors, clinics, physical therapists, and centers like ArchWell Health are the providers.
Choosing the right provider makes a difference when it comes to your healthcare experience and outcomes (positive results).
Maybe you never paid much attention to your providers before: you were busy working, raising a family, or didn’t know you had the opportunity to choose something or someone else. Now you know! And we encourage you for your 65th trip around the sun to prioritize your health by finding the right fit – because your care matters.
Plan now so you and your loved ones can have peace later. Many people put off things like writing a will or setting up advanced directives because they think “I don’t need that yet.” But think of preparedness in terms of the whens, not the “what ifs.” Because ultimately, even if we’re turning 65 and see another 30 good years ahead of us, we all have to be ready for those moments.
The beauty of planning ahead is that you can take your time, knocking out document after document in an orderly, unhurried way. Make sure you have a will, a power of attorney and healthcare proxy to make decisions for you if you become unable to do so, and draw up healthcare directives should the unthinkable happen.
Set aside some time each month to look at retirement planning tools like retirement cost calculators, an estate planning checklist, or educational workshops and free legal clinics in your community. Working with a community or trusted partner can help you stay on track and get expert advice to reach your goals. They may also be able to point you in the direction of benefits and discounts available to those 65 and older.
Read more about having successful conversations about care plans and how to keep your caregiving paperwork ducks in a row.
Who doesn’t love free stuff? Check out this list of discounts and community-based resources to make 65 a banner year – at a reduced rate, of course. You’ve earned it!
Get out and see the world
It’s a great time to spread your wings – or hit the trails – and find new adventures without the high price tag. Here are a few notable offers:
Travel by train and get 10% off rail fares through Amtrak.
Prefer the bus? Greyhound offers 10% off for seniors too.
Want to visit the National Parks across the US? A Senior Lifetime pass is $80, and an Annual Pass is $20.
Car rentals: Hertz offers 20% off to those 50 and older, and other companies offer discounts to AARP members.
Airline tickets: American Airlines and United both offer senior discounts. Check the website or ask customer service for more details as these may be limited to certain destinations.
Stay close to home and save money
Whether you’re visiting the grandkids or looking to be a tourist in your own town, many movie theaters, restaurants, and museums offer senior discounts.
Learn something new or study a subject you’ve always loved through discounted college courses or tuition free programs at universities near you.
Want to work out at home for free, or at a local gym? Find out if your health plan participates with Silver Sneakers.
Connect in the community
When you’re not out seeing the world, stay plugged into your local neighborhood happenings through these senior-friendly resource hubs:
AARP: The American Association of Retired Persons is still the top organization for all things aging and active older adults. Check out the website to see everything they have to offer for your later life decades.
Local Senior Centers: Many cities and towns are still home to senior centers, which are supported by county-based AAAs (Area Agencies on Aging). Find the one closest to you to learn more.
We’re all about celebrating our members every day – birthday or not. Come with your Medicare questions, your nutrition challenges, or with an open mind to participate in our unique center activities focused on wellness for those 65 and up.
Judith Ford, MD, Chief Clinical Officer
Growing up with a father as a physician and a mother as a nurse, Judith Ford, a Medical Doctor (MD), has always had an interest in the medical field and caring for others. After attending college and medical school, she began practicing with a focus on taking care of older patients with complex conditions. With this mission in mind, the move to ArchWell Health was a natural fit. When not practicing medicine, she’s spending time with her husband, Chris, and her children, Sara and Jane.
For professionals serving seniors, a home can sometimes be the biggest piece of the transition puzzle.But what happens when that home isn't an ordinary property?What if your client owns a $1 million, $2 million or multimillion-dollar luxury or waterfront home?A senior may be downsizing, transitioning to independent or assisted living, moving closer to family, settling an estate, or simply deciding that maintaining a large property no longer makes sense.For senior living professionals, elder law attorneys, estate planners, financial advisors, care managers, move managers and other professionals helping with that transition, there is an important option worth knowing about:The homeowner may be able to sell a luxury property privately and directly, without first putting it on the public market.Why Can Selling a Senior's Luxury Home Be Different?Luxury and waterfront properties can present challenges that aren't always present in a typical home sale.The property may be a waterfront estate on Casey Key, a residence on Bird Key, a condominium overlooking Sarasota Bay, or a distinctive home on Siesta Key or Longboat Key.The owner may have lived there for decades.The home may contain valuable possessions, artwork and deeply personal belongings. It may need updating. Adult children may live hundreds of miles away. And the family may already be coordinating a significant life transition.For some homeowners, maximum exposure to the real estate market is the priority. In that situation, publicly marketing the property may make sense.But other seniors have very different priorities:Privacy. Simplicity. Certainty. Flexibility.They may not want strangers repeatedly touring their home.They may not want photographs of their home's interior and possessions published online.They may not want to renovate, stage or prepare the property for the luxury market.And they may not want their move dependent upon months of marketing, inspections and a buyer obtaining financing.For those homeowners, a private direct sale may be another option worth considering.Can a Senior Sell a Luxury Home Without Publicly Listing It?Yes.A luxury homeowner can explore a direct sale without first broadly marketing the property.Private Luxury Home Sales considers select luxury, waterfront and distinctive properties throughout Sarasota and Florida's Gulf Coast for direct purchase. A homeowner can request a confidential property review before deciding whether a private sale or broader market exposure better fits their objectives.This can allow an owner to explore an offer without first going through the traditional process of preparing and publicly marketing the property.Why Might Privacy Matter to an Older Luxury Homeowner?For some affluent seniors, privacy isn't simply a preference.It can be an important part of the selling decision.Imagine a homeowner who has spent 25 or 30 years in the same waterfront residence.Inside may be family photographs, artwork, collections, jewelry, antiques and other personal possessions.A traditional luxury marketing campaign can involve professional photography, video, aerial photography, online advertising and numerous people entering the property.Some homeowners are completely comfortable with that exposure.Others aren't.A private direct sale provides another route. When Private Luxury Home Sales evaluates a property for potential direct purchase, broad public marketing isn't necessary merely to consider the home. For a senior who values discretion, that difference can matter.Does the Luxury Home Need to Be Renovated First?Not necessarily.One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding high-value real estate is that every luxury property must be extensively updated before it can be sold.A longtime owner may have an exceptional property in an exceptional location while the kitchen, bathrooms, flooring or other features are dated.Preparing that property for the retail luxury market could potentially involve substantial renovations, contractors, staging and months of work.A direct buyer evaluates the property differently.Private Luxury Home Sales considers properties as-is, including residences requiring updates or significant renovation. That can be particularly relevant when an older homeowner or the homeowner's family doesn't want to oversee a major renovation before selling.Which Senior Clients Might Benefit From Knowing About This Option?You don't need to determine whether a private sale is right for your client.You simply need to recognize situations where having another option could be valuable.Consider the homeowner who is:Downsizing from a large luxury residence. Transitioning into independent or assisted living. Moving closer to adult children. Managing a home after the death of a spouse. Selling an inherited luxury or waterfront property. Handling a property through an estate or trust. Living out of state while responsible for a parent's Florida property. Facing substantial deferred maintenance or renovation. Concerned about privacy and public exposure. Looking for greater certainty about the timing of the sale. Those are situations where understanding both the public-market and private-sale alternatives can help a family make a more informed decision.What's the Most Important Question to Ask Your Client?There is one question professionals can ask that may reveal a great deal:What matters most to you when the home is sold?Listen carefully to the answer.Is it achieving maximum exposure to the marketplace?Maintaining privacy?Avoiding repairs?Controlling the closing date?Avoiding repeated showings?Reducing uncertainty?Making the transition as simple as possible?There isn't one correct answer.The homeowner's priorities should help determine which selling strategy deserves consideration.Private Sale vs. Traditional Luxury ListingA private direct sale and a traditional luxury listing serve different objectives.Traditional public marketing provides broader exposure to potential buyers and may create greater price discovery and competition.A private direct sale can emphasize privacy, simplicity, convenience, an as-is transaction and greater certainty about the process.Neither approach should automatically be assumed to be right for every senior homeowner.The value to your client comes from understanding that there is more than one option.One More Resource for Your Professional ToolboxProfessionals serving seniors don't need to become real estate experts.But they are frequently the first people to recognize a problem.A senior living advisor may hear:Mom is ready to move, but we don't know what to do with the house.An elder law attorney may be helping a family deal with an estate containing a multimillion-dollar residence.A move manager may discover that preparing a 4,000-square-foot waterfront home for the market is becoming overwhelming.A financial advisor may have a client whose largest single asset is a luxury property.Knowing that a confidential direct-sale option exists gives you another resource to share with the family.Private Luxury Home Sales specializes in select luxury, waterfront and distinctive properties throughout Sarasota and Florida's Gulf Coast. Its Seniors Blue Book profile specifically includes waterfront estates, Gulf and bayfront homes, boating properties, inherited luxury homes, second homes and properties requiring substantial updating. When You Encounter the Right ClientIf you're working with a senior or family who owns a luxury or waterfront property, consider asking one additional question:Would they like to understand their private-sale option before deciding how to sell the property?There is no obligation to accept an offer simply because the property is evaluated.Sometimes the homeowner will determine that traditional market exposure is the better choice.Sometimes privacy, simplicity and certainty will matter more.Either way, knowing the options before making the decision is valuable.Private Luxury Home SalesSarasota & Florida Gulf CoastPrivate Direct As-Is Close on Your Timeline For more information, please contact Jeff Nemeth at 941-202-6957
Life can take you anywhere until knee arthritis pain slows you down. Whether its walking, golfing, traveling, or playing with your grandkids, the activities you love shouldnt be limited by chronic knee pain. So, whats the solution?For many, knee replacement surgery is an effective option to reduce pain from arthritis and continue to live an active life. The great news is that there are several different types of knee replacement surgery, as well as advanced surgical techniques that can even speed up your healing.Whether you're just beginning to explore treatment options or preparing for surgery, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons at AdventHealth can help you understand the different types of knee replacement procedures and what to expect throughout your recovery journey.Who Needs Knee Replacement SurgeryThe leading cause of knee replacement surgery is osteoarthritis, a degenerative condition that gradually wears down the cartilage in the knee joint. As the damage progresses, pain and stiffness can worsen over time, making everyday activities increasingly difficult.Common symptoms of knee osteoarthritis include:Gradual knee pain that worsens with activityKnee stiffnessKnee swellingPain after extended sitting or restingKnee pain that continues to get worseIf you have osteoarthritis, your doctor will start by offering the most conservative treatments to alleviate your pain.Some initial treatments for knee osteoarthritis might include:Weight lossPhysical therapyAnti-inflammatory medicationsCortisone injectionsViscosupplementation or gel injectionsIf these strategies are not helpful and your condition worsens, your doctor might offer knee replacement surgery as a promising option to reduce pain and return to the active life you love again.Types of Knee Replacement SurgeryNot every knee replacement is the same. While a total knee replacement restores the entire joint with an artificial implant, some patients may qualify for a partial knee replacement, which replaces only the damaged portion of the knee and preserves more of the natural joint.What to Expect Before Knee Replacement SurgeryOnce you and your surgeon have worked together to decide the right treatment plan for you, youll likely need to make an appointment with your primary care doctor to assess your general health and clear you for surgery. You may also need an evaluation and clearance from your dentist.Once this step is completed, youll be able to schedule your knee replacement surgery appointment. You may also need a CT scan of your knee so your surgeon can more precisely customize your replacement to most naturally fit your knee anatomy and movement.In preparation, make sure you have someone who can take you to your surgery appointment and be there as your caregiver after the procedure. This person will be able to drive you home, get any prescribed medications and help maintain your comfort after surgery.Your medical team might also advise you to stop taking certain medications (such as blood thinners, NSAIDs like aspirin or other supplements) up to a week before your surgery date. Youll also be advised to fast prior to surgery. In most cases, you cant have anything to eat or drink (including water) after midnight on the night before your surgery.Some other ways to prepare your home ahead of time include:Setting up your comfortable space for resting and elevating your legClearing the floor and pathways of fall and trip risks such as rugsHaving ice packs frozen and ready for when you return homeWhat to Expect During Knee Replacement SurgeryYour exact recovery will depend on exactly what type of procedure you are having as well as your overall health. Some patients may have outpatient knee replacement surgery and go home the same day. This is especially true for minimally invasive surgical procedures. Other knee replacement procedures may require you to stay in the hospital from one to four days.On the day of surgery, you'll be prepped for the procedure and given anesthesia. Most knee replacement surgeries take about one to two hours to complete. Afterward, you'll recover under close observation before receiving instructions on pain management, medications, physical therapy and follow-up care. To help you safely regain mobility, you'll likely use crutches or a walker during the early stages of recovery.What to Expect After Knee Replacement SurgeryYour surgeon will provide you with a follow-up appointment and a prescription for physical therapy. Physical therapy after surgery is essential to regain your strength and get optimal results from your knee replacement. Physical therapy usually begins immediately after surgery and may continue for up to six weeks.After roughly six weeks, most knee replacements are up to 80% healed. After three months, most achieve 90% healing and by one year, most patients are back to their active lifestyle with nearly complete knee function and comfort.Whole-Person Orthopedic CareOur orthopedic experts offer advanced knee replacement options that put your whole-health first. To learn more about the services we offer, visit AdventHealthPortCharlotte.com.
Looking for comfortable, worry-free senior living in Sarasota? Suncoast Club at Prestancia offers assisted living and memory care options in a beautiful community designed to provide comfort, convenience, and connection.With shared apartments starting at $3,875, residents can enjoy all-inclusive pricing that includes utilities, three meals each day, weekly cleaning, linens and laundry, daily trash pickup, and assistance with daily activities such as dressing, grooming, and showering.Suncoast Club at Prestancia offers a variety of room options, including private standard suites, one-bedroom/one-bath apartments, and one-bedroom/two-bath apartments. Additional services and accommodations are also available to help meet individual needs.Residents can enjoy inviting common areas, comfortable dining spaces, beautiful surroundings, and opportunities for social engagement and activitiesall while receiving personalized support in a welcoming environment.Located at 3749 Sarasota Square Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34238, Suncoast Club at Prestancia provides assisted living and memory care with a focus on helping residents enjoy each day with comfort and peace of mind.Call 941-922-1669 or visit SuncoastClubSL.com to learn more and schedule a visit.
Welcome to ArchWell Health, where we believe small things can make a big difference. Our mission is simple: to help seniors live healthier, fuller lives through high-quality primary care and meaningful doctor-patient relationships.At ArchWell Health, care is built around you. As a member, youll have access to a team that takes the time to listen, understand your needs, and support your health with a personalized approach.Why members choose ArchWell HealthMore time with your doctorWe focus on building real relationships through regular check-ups, routine screenings, and quality time with your care team. This helps catch potential health concerns early and keeps your care on track.Personalized care plansNo two patients are the same. Thats why we create wellness plans tailored to your individual health goals, lifestyle, and needs.Care you can count onFrom same-day appointments to ongoing support, our team is committed to providing the attention, guidance, and care you deserve.Our approach to careWe believe better health starts with a stronger connection between patient and provider. Our highly trained medical professionals deliver expert care with compassion, respect, and a genuine commitment to helping every member thrive.Comprehensive primary care servicesAs your primary care provider, ArchWell Health offers a wide range of services to support your overall well-being, including: Routine wellness visits Preventive health screenings Lab work Acute care for illness or minor health concerns Nutrition education Vaccinations Care management On-site referrals to licensed social workers Cardiology telehealth servicesYour partner in better healthAt ArchWell Health, were more than a healthcare provider were your partner in wellness. Our goal is to make it easier for you to access the care you need, stay proactive about your health, and feel supported every step of the way.Find an ArchWell Health location near you and become a member today. Your path to better health starts here.Locations:5100 S. Cleveland Ave., Suite 101, Fort Myers 339075660 Bayshore Rd. Ste. 42, North Fort Myers 33917
Welcome to ArchWell Health, where we believe small things can make a big difference. Our mission is simple: to help seniors live healthier, fuller lives through high-quality primary care and meaningful doctor-patient relationships.At ArchWell Health, care is built around you. As a member, youll have access to a team that takes the time to listen, understand your needs, and support your health with a personalized approach.Why members choose ArchWell HealthMore time with your doctorWe focus on building real relationships through regular check-ups, routine screenings, and quality time with your care team. This helps catch potential health concerns early and keeps your care on track.Personalized care plansNo two patients are the same. Thats why we create wellness plans tailored to your individual health goals, lifestyle, and needs.Care you can count onFrom same-day appointments to ongoing support, our team is committed to providing the attention, guidance, and care you deserve.Our approach to careWe believe better health starts with a stronger connection between patient and provider. Our highly trained medical professionals deliver expert care with compassion, respect, and a genuine commitment to helping every member thrive.Comprehensive primary care servicesAs your primary care provider, ArchWell Health offers a wide range of services to support your overall well-being, including: Routine wellness visits Preventive health screenings Lab work Acute care for illness or minor health concerns Nutrition education Vaccinations Care management On-site referrals to licensed social workers Cardiology telehealth servicesYour partner in better healthAt ArchWell Health, were more than a healthcare provider were your partner in wellness. Our goal is to make it easier for you to access the care you need, stay proactive about your health, and feel supported every step of the way.Find an ArchWell Health location near you and become a member today. Your path to better health starts here.Locations:6363 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 342094430 14th St. W., Bradenton, FL 342076832 14th St. W., Ste. 3, Bradenton, FL 342074265 Tamiami Trl., Port Charlotte, FL 339803506 Clark Rd., Sarasota, FL 34231543 Tamiami Trl. S., Venice, FL 34285
Welcome to ArchWell Health, where we believe small things can make a big difference. Our mission is simple: to help seniors live healthier, fuller lives through high-quality primary care and meaningful doctor-patient relationships.At ArchWell Health, care is built around you. As a member, youll have access to a team that takes the time to listen, understand your needs, and support your health with a personalized approach.Why members choose ArchWell HealthMore time with your doctorWe focus on building real relationships through regular check-ups, routine screenings, and quality time with your care team. This helps catch potential health concerns early and keeps your care on track.Personalized care plansNo two patients are the same. Thats why we create wellness plans tailored to your individual health goals, lifestyle, and needs.Care you can count onFrom same-day appointments to ongoing support, our team is committed to providing the attention, guidance, and care you deserve.Our approach to careWe believe better health starts with a stronger connection between patient and provider. Our highly trained medical professionals deliver expert care with compassion, respect, and a genuine commitment to helping every member thrive.Comprehensive primary care servicesAs your primary care provider, ArchWell Health offers a wide range of services to support your overall well-being, including: Routine wellness visits Preventive health screenings Lab work Acute care for illness or minor health concerns Nutrition education Vaccinations Care management On-site referrals to licensed social workers Cardiology telehealth servicesYour partner in better healthAt ArchWell Health, were more than a healthcare provider were your partner in wellness. Our goal is to make it easier for you to access the care you need, stay proactive about your health, and feel supported every step of the way.Find an ArchWell Health location near you and become a member today. Your path to better health starts here.Locations:6363 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 342094430 14th St. W., Bradenton, FL 342076832 14th St. W., Ste. 3, Bradenton, FL 342074265 Tamiami Trl., Port Charlotte, FL 339803506 Clark Rd., Sarasota, FL 34231543 Tamiami Trl. S., Venice, FL 34285