Approaching 65 and retiring? Follow these steps to prepare for Medicare:
Nine to 12 months before you turn 65
Contact the Social Security Administration to confirm your eligibility.
If you had enrolled in Social Security benefits prior to age 65, you will automatically receive Medicare Parts A and B at 65.
If you plan to delay claiming Social Security benefits, you’re still eligible for full Medicare benefits, but will need to sign up for Original Medicare three months before turning 65.
Six to eight months before you turn 65
Check with your healthcare providers to see if they accept Medicare.
Begin researching Medicare Advantage plans, such as Geisinger Gold, that best fit your lifestyle and budget. Geisinger Gold offers more value than Original Medicare. Learn more about Geisinger Gold.
Three months before you turn 65
If you previously signed up for Social Security benefits or Railroad Retirement benefits, you’ll receive your Initial Enrollment Package in the mail with your new Medicare card and a letter explaining your automatic enrollment in Medicare Parts A and B.
If you don’t plan to enroll in Social Security benefits right away, or if you decide to wait until after you reach full retirement age, you can still sign up for Medicare three months before your 65th birthday to avoid potential delays or penalties.
Apply for a Geisinger Gold Medicare Advantage plan beginning three months before the month of your 65th birthday. Be sure you have your Medicare Parts A and B effective dates when enrolling. If you enroll during this time, your enrollment is effective the first day of the month that you turn 65.
When you turn 65 (Happy birthday!)
Enjoy your special day!
If you have yet to enroll in Original Medicare and a Medicare Advantage plan, you still have time! Remember, you can enroll anytime within the month of your 65th birthday and up to three months afterward.
Three months after you turn 65
Don’t delay any longer! If you enroll in Part A and/or Part B the month you turn 65 or during the last three months of your Initial Enrollment Period, your start date will be delayed, up to three months after enrollment.
Note: This is not all-inclusive, and not every situation may be covered above.
Next steps:
Here’s how to choose a Medicare Advantage plan
Learn more about why people may change Medicare plans
Medicare and Medicare Advantage: What’s the difference?
Diet and exercise are the two most important changes you can make. Even if you’ve never been active, it’s never too late to get started. A healthy diet and physical activity are good at any age. As you age, these healthy habits strengthen muscles and bones. Strong muscles and bones reduce serious injuries related to falls. When your muscles are strong, activities like getting up from a chair or opening a door are easier. When lifting weights, start with a 1-pound or 5-pound weight. If you don’t have weights, use a can of soup, a book, or a full bottle of water. Keep your weights in the same room as your television. Do a few exercises while you watch.
Another way to build muscle is to use a resistance band. This is also called an exercise band. Resistance bands are flexible and come in different lengths. They are commonly used to strengthen upper arm and leg muscles.
Try these tips when aiming for a healthy diet and exercise.
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