Seniors, Diabetes, and Medicare: How to Make it All Come Together- Guest Post

We have a great blog post this week from our fantastic guest writer, Kevin Wells of Senior Diabetic discussing symptoms to watch out for with diabetes, resources for supplies and information, info to help you navigate your medicare coverage, and what providers are best to work with to help guide you through your diabetes management.

Diabetes is a common disorder and impacts thelives of 12 million seniors. The numbers go up as timepasses, with an estimated one in three Americans predicted to have diabetes by2050 due to the aging population and the higher risk of developing diabetesthat tends to come with age. Whether you are recently diagnosed or have beendealing with it for some time, you know how expensive treatments, tests, andsupplies can be. Your Medicare coverage can help, but deciphering it can belike trying to put together a puzzle while blindfolded. Below are several tipsfor navigating your Medicare coverage to make it work for both you and yourdiabetes.

BeAware of the Signs

Diabetes tends to mask itself, proven by thefact that 7.2 million people who were diagnosed withdiabetes had no idea they had it. It is important that you are aware of the signs of diabetes, as they are very similar tothe typical medical issues that arrive with age. One symptom to pay attentionto is your blood pressure. Low blood pressure may present itself as coldshivers, nausea, and feelings of nervousness and irritability, while high bloodpressure can cause sudden weight loss, fatigue, and increased urination. This inabilityto manage blood pressure and blood sugar can cause problems with vision andhearing. Neuropathy in the feet is a common sign as well. The bottom line: Seeyour doctor if you notice any changes.

KnowWhere to Get the Best Information

Before we dive into the need to know inforegarding diabetes and Medicare coverage, take a moment to consider how youwill keep yourself educated beyond this article by learning to use theresources available to you. The ultimate source of factual information is Medicare.gov,but it can be difficult figuring out how to navigate the site to get the information you seek, so make sure to do yourresearch. It will be helpful to have information on diabetes in older adults aswell, so take time to peruse the American Diabetes Association site.

Coveragefor Testing and Supplies

When it comes to diabetes coverage, Medicare Part B is what youshould be looking at. Part B covers testing if you meet certain criteria suchas high blood pressure and a history of high blood sugar, and diabetesscreening if at least two criteria apply to you: 65 and older, overweight,family history of diabetes, or prior gestational diabetes. As for supplies,Part B covers blood sugar testing monitors and strips, finger prickdevices and lancets, glucose control solution for calibrating monitors, andtherapeutic shoes and/or inserts. In addition, Part B may cover an externalinsulin pump should your doctor deem it necessary.

WhatAbout Insulin and Other Meds?

In order to receive coverage for insulin andvarious prescriptions, you will need Medicare Part D. A Part D plan will cover any insulin notadministered through a pump, diabetic supplies used to administer insulin suchas syringes, needles, and insulin pens, and anti-diabetic drugs. The amount ofcoverage (typically 80 percent) depends on your plan, any copays ordeductibles, and whether the drugs are on your plan’s formulary. However, thosewith diabetes who depend on Medicare for coverage will oftentimes findthemselves in the Medicare coverage gap known as the donut hole, in which they have reached acertain level of drug spending and therefore have to pay a higher percentage ofthe cost. To keep out-of-pocket costs down, talk to your doctor about switchingto a generic brand to take advantage of discounts.

The SilverSneakersProgram

You may also have access to a free fitness membership knownas SilverSneakers, which can help you stay active. SilverSneakers is a programavailable to those with certain Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans. If youhave one of these plans, then you can take advantage of many facilities thatoffer exercise classes, workout equipment, and fitness amenities like tenniscourts. Since exercising regularly can increase glucoselevels and help you manage your weight, it’s a good idea to learn more aboutthis membership and find out if your plan covers it.

More ThanMedicine

Managing diabetes involves more than justtaking your medicine and exercising. One of the most important things you cando to keep yourself healthy is to pay careful attention to the food you eat. Apoor diet can cause – and worsen – type II diabetes. Likewise, skipping theexcess sugars can help you keep control. Work with a dietitian to help you planout your weekly menus and rethink your relationship with food.

Diabetes is a disorder millions of people livewith, but it can get expensive. All the supplies, medications, and insulinquickly add up. Medicare can help with the cost. All it takes is some researchand knowledge on your end and you’re heading in the right direction.

I hope you enjoy these tips from our guestblogger and would love to hear your feedback or any other tips you have foundsuccessful in managing your Diabetes and Medicare coverage!

Wishing you a week of health and wellness,

–Ricci-Lee Hotz, MS, RDN

Denver’s Dancing Dietitian

A Taste of Health, LLC

“Improving Quality of life one bite at a time”

https://dancesportdietitian.com

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