Health tests and exams are very important as slight prevention can go a long way. Through these tests, you will be able to find problems even before they arise or find medical complications in their early stages – when the chances for treatment are doubtlessly better.
With screenings, treatments, and health services, you will improve your chance to live a healthier and longer life, so do not neglect the need to consider a physical examination.
Once you have had Medicare Plan B for 12 months or more, you are an eligible candidate for an annual wellness visit. The point of the Medicare annual wellness visit is to keep you in good health and reduce your overall medical costs through assessment of risk factors and early detection of diseases.
The difference between a general wellness exam and a problem-oriented visit is the latter visits are used to diagnose a current health problem. A wellness exam is used to diagnose a problem in its early stage. The problem visits are done by request of the patient because they have some type of health issues and want to find out the cause. For instance, if you want to have a test because you are having certain problems, that is diagnostic care. If your doctor wants you to do a specific test due to your family history, that is preventive care.
After you complete a health risk assessment, your doctor will create your personalized prevention plan. Based on your current health, this plan will improve your engagement, help you prevent illness, and promote preventive healthcare.
The annual wellness exam helps in drawing a picture of how healthy you are and creating directions for future care.
An annual physical exam is more extensive than a wellness exam. The annual wellness exam includes only the health assessment. It does not involve routine measurements where the doctor physically examines you.
In addition to the aforementioned services that are included in the wellness exam, the physical exam also includes services such as a check of your reflexes, a head and neck exam, neurological exam, abdominal exam, lung exam, and a vital signs check.
Before your appointment, you will be asked to answer a questionnaire about your health, called Health Risk Assessment. The questionnaire should not take you more than 20 minutes to complete. The answers will provide your doctor with important information that will be discussed during your annual wellness exam. At this phase, the doctor will also collect information about psychosocial risks, behavioral risks, self-assessment of health, demographics, and activities of daily living like walking, bathing, and medication management.
During the exam, the doctor will review your medical and family history through:
Your doctor will ask questions about your weight, height, blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), and discuss your health choices and current lifestyle. The visit may also include different types of screening depending on your gender, risk, and age. At the end of the exam, the doctor will develop or update a list of current prescriptions and providers. Your physician will also create a list of risk factors and treatment options and offer you personalized health advice.
To your annual wellness exam, you should bring:
If you have had Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) for longer than 12 months, you get an annual wellness visit once every 12 months. However, you may have to pay coinsurance if your doctor does some additional tests during your visit. Some tests are not covered under the preventive benefits.
Medicare also covers some other preventive services like flu shots, bone density measurement, and preventive cancer screenings at no cost.
Use your annual wellness exam to gain more focus on your physical and mental health and overall well-being. Most insurance plans fully cover the wellness exam, so these services may be available to you free of charge.
You will get more time to take advantage of your benefits if you schedule the annual wellness visit early. The sooner you know what kind of treatment you need, the sooner you can start minimizing your expenses.
Schedule an appointment for a wellness exam with our doctors at VIPcare, and make the most out of your one-on-one visit with our doctors.
For older adults, life can become quieter and lonely as the years go by. One way to combat this life change is by owning a pet. The health benefits of owning a pet for seniors far outweigh the work that goes into owning one.Our furry, feathery, or even scaly family members can provide a variety of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. The bond between seniors and their pets goes far beyond mere companionship. Here are some of the top health benefits of owning a pet for seniorsReduces Loneliness And IsolationAs they get older, many seniors experience feelings of social isolation and loneliness. This can lead to depression and other significant health problems. Having a pet, whether its a dog, cat, or even a bird, provides companionship and helps to reduce these feelings of isolation. Pets are loyal and loving, offering unconditional affection that can significantly improve your mental and emotional well-being.Increases Physical ActivityOne of the biggest benefits of owning a pet, particularly an active dog, is that it forces you to be physical. Dogs need to be walked, which in turn encourages regular physical activity on your part. Seniors with dogs are more likely to go for daily walks or play with them in the yard. Even this little bit of physical activity helps maintain mobility, joint flexibility, and cardiovascular health. In addition, physical activity of any kind leads to a stronger immune system and a reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.Lowers Stress And AnxietySimply looking at a picture of a little puppy or kitten is almost guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Studies show that petting a dog or cat can trigger the release of the mood-regulating hormone serotonin. It also increases the feel good hormone dopamine while decreasing the level of the stress hormone cortisol. This fluctuation helps to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Additionally, a pets rhythmic, soothing presence can help lower blood pressure, contributing to overall cardiovascular health.Boosts Mental AlertnessInteracting with pets can stimulate mental alertness and cognitive function. While training your pet and teaching them tricks helps to boost their mental capacity, it also helps to maintain your mental acuity. This mental stimulation can delay the onset of cognitive decline and reduce your risk of dementia and Alzheimers disease.Fosters A Sense Of PurposeMost of us work hard and look forward to the day we can finally hang up our work boots and retire. However, when that day finally comes, many seniors often experience a diminished sense of purpose. Owning a pet can give you back a sense of responsibility and purpose. Caring for a pet requires routine tasks like feeding, grooming, and exercise, providing structure to your days and a reason to get out of bed in the morning.Enhances Social ConnectionsA study has shown pet owners are more apt to meet their neighbors than non-pet owners. Pets make great icebreakers for seniors when they are out on walks or at pet-friendly facilities. This can give you an opportunity to connect with others and strike up a conversation.Reduces The Risk Of Allergies And AsthmaAlthough it sounds like it would be the opposite, having a pet has been found to reduce the risk of developing allergies and asthma the older we get. This can be an added health benefit for seniors who have had pets throughout their lives.Get Your Purrfect CompanionOwning a pet can do wonders for your health and well-being. These little bundles of joy enrich seniors lives in ways that extend far beyond companionship. The emotional, physical, and mental health benefits of having a pet cannot be argued or overlooked. Seniors who share their lives with a furry friend often experience reduced stress, increased physical activity, enhanced emotional well-being, and a greater sense of purpose. This article was submitted by VIPCare. For more information visit the website: getvipcare.com
Weve all seen the commercial with the infamous line: Help, Ive fallen and I cant get up! The advertisement itself may have been a bit melodramatic, but it raises an important question: what should seniors do if they actually fall and cannot get up?This is where a medical alert system can be critical.What are Medical Alert Systems?Medical alert systems, sometimes referred to as life alert devices, are emergency monitors for seniors to use as they go about their everyday lives. Many medical alert systems are used in the seniors home. These usually consist of a base unit and sensors that are mounted on the wall of the home. These types of systems can detect a fall in the home and trigger an automatic call to emergency services.Some systems also come with a portable option for the senior to wear wherever they go. The main feature of mobile options is the help button. When an emergency such as an injury or fall occurs, seniors can press this button to send out an alert and get the help they need.Oftentimes seniors wear these portable monitors around their neck like a long necklace, on their wrist like a bracelet, on their belt loop, or in their pocket. These monitors should be small and portable so the senior can wear them at all times, and waterproof so they can wear them in the bath or shower a common location for falls.How Do Medical Alert Systems Work?Most medical alert systems allow for real-time tracking through the use of voice, data, and GPS technology. This is important because it gives emergency services the seniors exact location in case of an emergency.With a mobile device, seniors can press the help button after a fall to alert emergency personnel. An in-home system will automatically alert emergency services when it detects a fall. Many basic systems simply alert emergency services once the help button is pressed. More elaborate systems are connected to a 24-hour call center that fields the emergencies and determines the next move. They are able to either alert the seniors emergency contacts (set up ahead of time) or send for emergency services if needed.Who Should Use Medical Alert Systems?All seniors could benefit from having a medical alert system, since you never know when an incident may occur. But, these emergency alert buttons are especially important for seniors who live alone or are aging in place. If a senior who lives alone has a fall and no one is there to help, a medical alert system is not just beneficial; it can actually be lifesaving.Additionally, wearing a medical alert system is one way for seniors to maintain their independence at home while still being prepared for an emergency. And it also provides peace of mind for family members and caregivers that their loved ones can access help in case of an emergency.Why Should Seniors Use a Medical Alert System?The main reason for seniors to use a medical alert system is to allow for fast action in case of a fall or other emergency. According to the CDC, around 36 million falls are reported among seniors every year. Falls can be caused by a number of reasons, such as certain health and cognitive conditions, loss of muscle mass, and weakened eyesight, reflexes, and balance. They can also be caused by unsafe footwear or safety hazards inside and outside the home, like steps, rugs, spills, and clutter.Falls should be taken seriously when they occur. Falls are the leading cause of accidents, serious injuries, and accidental deaths in seniors. To that end, emergency departments treat 3 million seniors for injuries from falls every year. That is more than 8,000 falls every day.The risk of falling can also be a major source of anxiety for seniors, as falls can threaten their independence, mobility, and physical health.Oftentimes when a senior falls, they need help from someone else to regain their balance and get back up. But, if they live alone or no one is around, they may not be able to get themselves up at all. Being stuck on the ground for a long period of time is extremely dangerous for seniors and prolongs their risk of serious injury. Therefore, getting help quickly after a fall is key. With a medical alert system, even a senior who lives alone can have peace of mind that help is available when they need it all at the push of a button. How Much Do Medical Alert Systems Cost?As with all technology, the price of medical alert systems can vary based on equipment, activation, monitoring type, extra devices, and additional features.Some companies allow you to rent their medical alert system equipment, and some require you to buy it. Buying the items may cost anywhere from $50-$350 depending on the type of equipment.In addition, many medical alert systems charge a monthly fee to use their service. This fee pays for access to the 24-hour emergency call center.Generally, the service cost for at-home medical alert systems is around $25 per month or $239 per year. The service cost for on-the-go-devices is slightly more expensive at around $30-$45 a month. Sometimes there is an additional one-time installation or activation fee that can range from $25-$100. However, this fee is often included in the package when you purchase and initiate a medical alert system.Are Medical Alert Systems Covered by Insurance?Usually medical alert systems are not covered by insurance. But, some options might be available to help you cover the cost.For example, your HSA or FSA may offer a deduction for medical alert systems. Medicare Advantage may also cover some of the cost of medical alert systems. You may be able to get coverage through Veterans benefits as well. However, make sure you check with your insurance provider or your states Medicare/Medicaid program, as benefits can vary by policy or state.If you need assistance funding a medical alert system, be sure to contact your local sheriffs office or Area Agency on Aging, which sometimes have grants or resources available. Best Affordable Medical Alert Systems for SeniorsThere are hundreds of companies that sell medical alert systems. Some of the top-rated, affordable options are as follows:MobileHelp - The National Council on Aging (NCOA) voted this company as Best All-Around System. Their monthly fees start at $19.95 and fall buttons are available for an additional $10 per month. They also offer a free trial period.Bay Alarm Medical - The NCOA voted this company as Best for the Price. Their fees start at $25 per month and fall buttons are available for an additional $10 per month. They also offer a free trial period.Lively - Voted Best Health Services by the NCOA, this companys fees start at $25 per month, with fall detection buttons for an additional $25 per month.Other options include Get Safe as a basic option, Medical Guardian MGMove as a wearable option, and Fast Help as an easy, quick option available on Amazon. Some other notable providers of medical alert systems are ADT Medical Alert and Life Alert.How to Help Your Senior Loved OnesMedical alert systems are one impactful way to gain confidence about your senior loved ones safety as they age. For some seniors, this is all the reassurance they need about their safety and independence. But, other seniors may need a little more support.Having a fall can reveal or trigger the need for additional support. Whether you are looking for support in a senior living community or are seeking home health care services, Florida Senior Consulting can help. Our expert senior advisors will find your loved one the care they need to lead a healthy lifestyle, stay safe and lower their risk of falls and injuries. With this peace of mind ultimately comes a better quality of life for seniors and their families.When the decisions become too overwhelming, our experts are here for you. And, we offer these services at no cost to seniors or their families.Senior living on your terms. The choice should be yours.For peace of mind, call us at (800) 969-7176 or visit us at FloridaSeniorConsulting.com.
As we age, it becomes increasingly important to take care of our health and well-being. One way you can ensure you do just that is by finding a primary care physician who specializes in treating seniors. Senior-focused primary care offers a range of benefits that can help older adults, such as yourself, lead happier, healthier lives.Care Tailored To Your NeedsOne of the key benefits of senior-focused primary care is that it is tailored to the unique needs of older adults. Think about it. We take children to pediatricians who specialize in treatment specifically for them, so why wouldnt older adults go to a specialized doctor as well?As we age, our bodies and health concerns change and a primary care physician who specializes in treating seniors will be better equipped to address these changes. They will understand the specific health issues that seniors face, such as chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis, and will be able to provide more effective treatments and care.Focus On PreventionAnother advantage of senior-focused primary care is that it focuses on prevention. Preventative care is essential for older adults, as it can help detect health issues before they become serious and require more extensive treatment. Senior-focused primary care physicians will work with patients to develop a personalized prevention plan that addresses their specific health needs and concerns. This not only helps you achieve Better Health, but it will also help you save on healthcare costs.Provides Care CoordinationIn addition to providing specialized care and preventive services, senior-focused primary care physicians also offer comprehensive care coordination. This means that they will work with other healthcare providers to ensure that seniors receive the best possible care. They will also help patients navigate the healthcare system, providing guidance and support as needed.Achieve Better Health With Senior-Focused CareSenior-focused primary care is an important aspect of maintaining good health and well-being as we age. By working with a primary care physician who specializes in treating seniors, you can receive the personalized, comprehensive care you need to stay healthy and active for years to come.VIPcare specializes in providing primary care for seniors. We take a comprehensive approach that focuses on prevention and maintenance to help you achieve Better Health. Learn how VIPcare can help you live a happier and healthier life. Call 866-926-3831.
At VIPcare, we 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, which we refer to as sick care. Our goal is to get our patients healthy and to keep them healthy. VIPcare is a patient-focused primary care network under the Better Health Group Services umbrella that has been serving senior communities for more than 16 years. We utilize a high-touch population health management approach that prioritizes spending quality time with the physician and focusing on preventative care. To us, its about quality, not quantity. And not only do we value quality time, but we pride ourselves on creating a quality experience for all our patients. We practice kindness. Show empathy. Reach out in compassion. And every day, we partner with our patients on their journey to Better Health.We settle for nothing less than 5-star service and strive to be 1% better every day. This allows us to always go above and beyond for our patients. We take great care of our team so they can take great care of our patients and achieve: Better Care. Better Outcomes. Better Health. Four Locations to serve you throughout Lee County!Bonita Springs-28811 South Tamiami Trail, Ste 13, Bonita Springs, FL 34134/239-429-0386Cape Coral-2301 Del Prado Blvd S, Ste 890, Cape Coral, FL 33990/239-932-5506Estero-19976 South Tamiami Trail ste 206, Estero, FL 33928/239-429-0581Fort Myers-1635 Medical Lane, Fort Myers, FL 33907 /239-880-2126Fort Myers-14131 Metropolis Ave, Suite 104, Fort Myers, FL 33912/239-880-2521Fort Myers-20291 Summerlin Rd ste 105, Fort Myers, FL 33908/239-758-8564
At VIPcare, we 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, which we refer to as sick care. Our goal is to get our patients healthy and to keep them healthy. VIPcare is a patient-focused primary care network under the Better Health Group Services umbrella that has been serving senior communities for more than 16 years. We utilize a high-touch population health management approach that prioritizes spending quality time with the physician and focusing on preventative care. To us, its about quality, not quantity. And not only do we value quality time, but we pride ourselves on creating a quality experience for all our patients. We practice kindness. Show empathy. Reach out in compassion. And every day, we partner with our patients on their journey to Better Health.We settle for nothing less than 5-star service and strive to be 1% better every day. This allows us to always go above and beyond for our patients. We take great care of our team so they can take great care of our patients and achieve: Better Care. Better Outcomes. Better Health. Four Locations to serve you throughout Lee County!Bonita Springs-28811 South Tamiami Trail, Ste 13, Bonita Springs, FL 34134/239-429-0386Cape Coral-2301 Del Prado Blvd S, Ste 890, Cape Coral, FL 33990/239-932-5506Estero-19976 South Tamiami Trail ste 206, Estero, FL 33928/239-429-0581Fort Myers-1635 Medical Lane, Fort Myers, FL 33907 /239-880-2126Fort Myers-14131 Metropolis Ave, Suite 104, Fort Myers, FL 33912/239-880-2521Fort Myers-20291 Summerlin Rd ste 105, Fort Myers, FL 33908/239-758-8564