Understanding the healthcare system can be complicated. Learning how to navigate the healthcare system in your senior years can be even more challenging. You may be deciding on a senior living community or wondering about the type of health insurance coverage you need. Clear guidance on these issues helps ease confusion and lends needed clarity for senior healthcare decisions.
At Buckner Retirement Services we help seniors make decisions that are right for them. Our independent and assisted living programs are available for Texas seniors of all activity levels. And our care programs are tailored to the individual—taking into account their daily needs and medical services. To learn more about our senior retirement community, call 214.227.7182 today to schedule a tour and consultation.
The Senior Healthcare System in a Nutshell
Seniors face an uphill battle when it comes to finding healthcare coverage. A lack of options, high out-of-pocket costs, and transitions from private insurance to Medicare add complexity to the process and can leave you without proper coverage.
To better understand how to navigate the healthcare system, individuals first need to understand what types of healthcare there are:
- Medicare – A federal program that insures seniors over 65. Some people under 65 with disabilities can also be insured through Medicare.
- Medicaid – A federal and state-level insurance program that insures low-income seniors.
- Private insurance – Private insurance includes employer-based plans, individual plans, or insurance plans through the health insurance marketplace. Each plan will have unique eligibility qualifications, copays, deductibles, and benefits.
Private insurance comes with different premiums, deductibles, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums and limits. Seniors will need to review their healthcare coverage to ensure they are fully covered.
Buckner Retirement Services can help you with how to navigate the healthcare system. You can use our online 5-step affordability calculator to see how your current monthly expenses to get a side-by-side comparison.
How to Navigate the Healthcare System in Your Senior Years
Navigating the healthcare system in your senior years is more important than ever. Without healthcare insurance, senior adults can end up with mounting medical bills. Reports show that the average senior couple over the age of 65 will pay up to $315,000.1
Some tips for traversing the healthcare landscape in your senior years include:
- Schedule regular checkups and screenings – This step is essential for seniors. Regular checkups with doctors and other healthcare providers can include monitoring their health status, hypertension, diabetes, osteoporosis, and certain cancers.
- Medication management – Seniors between the ages of 65-69 take, on average, up to 15 prescriptions, leading to confusion and stress. Develop systems for managing your medications, including dosage, refills, and any potential side effects.
- Understanding Medicare insurance – Medicare can cover hospital stays, doctor visits, and prescriptions. Review Medicare plans annually to ensure their plan meets your current and future health needs. Medicare Advantage plans can help cover out-of-pocket expenses.
- Community resources – Community resources include senior centers, meal delivery services, transportation services, and caregiver support groups. Consider these resources an essential part of your healthcare.
- Healthcare advocacy – Senior adults should feel comfortable talking to their doctor for the best possible care. Ask questions, voice your concerns, and actively participate in decisions about your health.
Diligence, advocacy, and willingness to find needed support are crucial to navigating the healthcare system as seniors. These steps are what help to ensure a high quality of life for people, no matter their age.
Contact Buckner Retirement Community Today
Buckner is a full-service senior living community with locations throughout Texas. We will assist you in understanding the healthcare system and everything your senior years have to offer. Our independent and assisted living programs feature nutritious meal plans, exercise routines, wellness programs, assistance with daily living needs, and much more.
 For more information, call 214.227.7182 today to speak with our expert team or submit our online contact form.
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