What are some ways to ensure your parents feel supported during the Medicare decision-making process?
Answered by 38 licensed agents
Plan options and going over the plans and comparing them is extremely important to find the plan that best fits their needs.
It's important that if a Broker comes in to talk with the parent they are simplifying the process and giving adequate time for discuss and questions at the same time building trust that the Broker has the client's best interest at heart.
Answered by Linda Bolan on March 12, 2025
Agent Licensed in IN
Answered by Larry Dalton on March 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in OK & TX
Answered by Brian Moore on March 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in OH
Answered by Tony Capraro III on March 27, 2025
Agent Licensed in NH & ME
Answered by Brian Krantz on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in NY, AK, AL & 48 other states
Answered by James Carlson on March 27, 2025
Agent Licensed in MN
Answered by Christopher Boyd on March 4, 2025
Agent Licensed in IN, KY, MI, OH, PA & TN
Answered by Robert Pennington on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in NC, GA, SC & VA
Sit Down Together: Take time to go over their options with them. Look at plan details—coverage, costs, and provider networks—and talk through what matches their health needs, like frequent doctor visits or specific meds.
Simplify the Jargon: Medicare can be a maze of terms like "Part D," "deductibles," or "out-of-pocket maximums." Break these down into plain language so they’re less overwhelming.
Ask Questions: Encourage them to share their worries or priorities—what’s most important, like keeping their current doctor or managing drug costs? Listening helps you guide them better.
Research Together: Look up plans on Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE with them. You could also check reviews or forums for real-world experiences with plans they’re eyeing.
Be Patient: This can feel stressful or confusing for them, so keep the tone light and give them space to process without rushing.
Double-Check Deadlines: Help them mark key dates, like the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15–December 7), so they don’t miss out on making changes.
Offer a Second Opinion: If they’re unsure, suggest talking to a trusted friend, a doctor, or a free Medicare counselor (like SHIP—State Health Insurance Assistance Program) to back up your advice.
Consider using an Insurance Broker: Brokers can help you do all these things and provide important perspective because they work in the world every day.
Small steps like these show you’re in their corner, which can ease the pressure and make the process feel less like a solo mission.
Answered by Charles Fletcher on March 24, 2025
Agent Licensed in WA, AZ, ID, NV & TN
Answered by Vincent Esposito on March 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in NY, FL & NJ
On example maybe: (Planning on a surgery in the coming year).
Answered by Don Hudson on March 30, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL
Answered by Karen Boudreaux on March 13, 2025
Agent Licensed in TX, AZ, CA & 5 other states
Do they want to travel? Do they want to remain with their current doctors? Are their prescriptions covered on the formulary? What type of coverage is important to them? What type of budget are they working with? If they can no longer afford the costs of their healthcare, will they qualify for assistance or will the family be able to support them?
Working with a licensed agent/broker is a great way to ensure those difficult questions are asked and addressed.
Answered by Samantha Jellison on March 6, 2025
Broker Licensed in NC, FL & SC
Be understanding! Considering retirement, enrolling in Social Security and Medicare can be overwhelming.
Answered by Danny Radisewitz on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in SD, IA, MN & ND
Answered by Edward Smith, ChFC, CRPS, AIF on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in OH, GA, IN, KY & SC
Answered by Kevin McIntire on March 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in IN & OH
Answered by Taylor Langlois on March 12, 2025
Agent Licensed in KS, CO, MO, NE, OK & TX
Answered by Mark Slemons on March 5, 2025
Broker Licensed in AZ, CO, FL & 14 other states
Answered by Alan Faerber CFP® CRPC® on February 11, 2025
Agent Licensed in UT
Answered by Steven Bleicher on May 28, 2025
Broker Licensed in AZ
We have software that shows carriers current rates, history of rate increases, Planned rate increases and the Carriers Medical Loss Ratio, which could signal a coming rate increase.
Financial rating of carriers are only a part of the equation have seen Carriers that are rated A with a negative outlook. Watch out!
Answered by Michael Pyers on March 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in OH & MI
Answered by Leslie Helene Sussman on March 31, 2025
Broker Licensed in NJ, FL & PA
Answered by Shelly Hefley on March 28, 2025
Broker Licensed in IN, AL, IL, KY & TN
Answered by Gretchen Morris on March 4, 2025
Broker Licensed in MN, AZ, FL & WI
Answered by Jill Belvin on March 24, 2025
Agent Licensed in TX, AZ, FL, MI & NJ
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
1. Understand Their Needs and Preferences:
Open Communication:
Talk with your parents about their current health status, medical needs, and any concerns they have about their existing coverage.
Budgeting:
Discuss their budget and how different Medicare options might impact their financial situation.
Personalized Approach:
Consider their lifestyle, health priorities, and preferences when choosing a plan.
2. Provide Information and Resources:
Medicare.gov:
.
This official website provides comprehensive information about Medicare, including different parts, plans, and enrollment processes.
State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs):
.
SHIPs offer free, unbiased counseling and help with Medicare enrollment, plan comparison, and appeals.
Local Resources:
.
Explore local resources like senior centers, community organizations, and hospitals that may offer Medicare education and support.
3. Be a Supportive Companion:
Be Present:
Offer to accompany them to appointments with doctors, insurance agents, or other professionals.
Help with Tasks:
Assist with filling out forms, making phone calls, or understanding complex documents.
Answer Questions:
Be patient and willing to answer their questions, even if they seem basic.
Offer Emotional Support:
Acknowledge their feelings and concerns, and help them navigate the process with a positive attitude.
4. Consider Legal and Financial Support:
Health Care Proxy:
If your parents are unable to make their own medical decisions, consider obtaining a health care proxy.
Estate Planning:
Discuss with your parents any concerns they may have.
Answered by Fred Manas on May 14, 2025
Agent Licensed in NY, CT, DC & 7 other states
Answered by Steve Brauer on June 3, 2025
Broker Licensed in AZ & CA
Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian on May 17, 2025
Agent Licensed in CA, AL, AR & 22 other states
Being a Medicare agent and having a relationship for the lifetime of my clients is a privilege and honor. The client always knows they have someone to turn to with all their insurance needs.
Answered by Marcie Barnes on April 10, 2025
Agent Licensed in TX, AK, AL & 48 other states
Answered by Carol Thompson on June 3, 2025
Broker Licensed in FL, LA, MI & NC, SC, VA & WI
Answered by Aisha Saleem on March 13, 2025
Agent Licensed in MD & FL
Second: Find out their needs, and hear their concerns. Your parents may have needs and concerns about healthcare, costs, or changes as they age and drug coverage.
Third: Suggest looking into specific Medicare options for them, such as Medicare Advantage plans, Medigap, or Part D drug plans, so they feel they’re making an informed choice. Researching together can reduce any anxiety they may feel about navigating complex details.
I also recommend getting an advocate, a Medicare agent in your area. They can advise your parents and with the above tools, you’ll be able to tackle the topic of Medicare with your parents trust and knowledge they are making the right decisions. I hope your Medicare journey is enlightening and as carefree as possible
Answered by Betty McCarty on April 7, 2025
Agent Licensed in WA
Answered by Adriana De la Cruz on May 23, 2025
Broker Licensed in TX, AZ, CA & NM
Answered by Debra Weber on March 25, 2025
Broker Licensed in PA, DE, FL & 5 other states
Answered by Jami Mead on May 19, 2025
Broker Licensed in OH, FL, GA & 11 other states
Answered by Areasha Lockhart on May 20, 2025
Broker Licensed in CO, IA & ME
Answered by Soledad Ramirez on March 12, 2025
Broker Licensed in CA, AZ, NV & WA
Answered by Marisol Torres on March 26, 2025
Broker Licensed in IL, CA, FL & 19 other states
Tags: Advice for Caretakers
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