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Why We Love How Bright Light Therapy Lamps Benefit Older Adults (And You Should, Too!)

By
Greg Wilson, Founder
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bright light therapy

If you experience sleep disorders, the blues, or depression in the winter months, you aren’t alone, and there is an entirely rational explanation for that. 

In this Senior Affair article, we visit the uses of bright light therapy and how it can help older adults by treating many conditions like: 

  • Depression
  • SAD (seasonal affective disorder)
  • Sleep disorders
  • Dementia
  • Alzheimer’s

According to the Mayo Clinic, certain skin conditions can also be treated, such as psoriasis.

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder

When you suddenly feel sadness and low energy at certain times each year, they call this seasonal depression or (SAD). 

You can beat these feelings by using a seasonal depression lamp to bring the light into your home to boost your serotonin and melatonin levels.

These lamps have been used to sleep disorders – like insomnia, jet lag, or sleeplessness. By using light therapy, you can help your natural circadian rhythm, helping you fight fatigue and restlessness.

Your body creates different hormones; let’s discuss two of them. The first, serotonin, is produced when your body is exposed to sunlight when it gets dark out. Then, the serotonin converts to melatonin, which makes you tired and maybe depressed. 

What Is Bright Light Therapy?

All humans need sunlight to survive. A therapy that uses high-powered therapy lights that mimic daylight. These phototherapy lights usually provide 10,000 LUX that triggers your hormonal changes. 

Why Use Bright Light Therapy? 

Having these sunlight therapy lamps in your home positioned correctly and used for the appropriate amount of time can increase your melatonin levels and improve your mood, energy, sleep pattern and digestion. 

What Conditions Can Bright Light Therapy Treat?

Since sunlight therapy lamps can help with hormonal imbalances in the body, you can use them to treat seasonal affective disorder, circadian rhythm disorder, ADHD, and anxiety.

Using Bright Light Lamps for Community-Dwelling Adults

This information from the National Institute of Health recommends that it’s worth trying BLT (bright light therapy) with patients in an institutional setting. They found that its use reduced nap duration and increased mood when used with social and physical activities. They note that we should pay more attention to using these lamps in this setting for mental and physical well-being.

How Can Older Adults Benefit from SAD Light Therapy?

A study shows that three weeks of using bright light therapy boxes improved depression in 54% of older adults. In addition to lifting their moods, light therapy improves sleep and optimizes serotonin. 

SAD Lights Help with Sleep Problems for Older Adults

Everyone has an internal clock; this clock tells our systems when it’s time to sleep and when it’s time to wake up, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine also regulates body temperature. 

What to Look for in a Light Therapy Lamp?

Shape

A compact shape is an excellent pick for an older adult because they are lightweight; you could quickly bring it along with you on vacation or room-to-room by having a detachable or convertible stand.

Light Intensity

The lux is a measure of light intensity; most light therapy lamps offer 10,000 lux brightness. This research suggests that most indoor lighting only provides 100 lux, and a sunny day provides 50,000 lux. 

Advanced models have multiple brightness settings or sunrise or sunset modes for gradual adjustments from day to night. People prone to light sensitivity have features to eliminate flicker, glare control, and non-white light. 

Adjustable Settings

If you like variety, you should choose a model with multiple settings to choose from, like adjustable dimming and brightness regardless of the time of day, location or season. 

Timer

To avoid sunburn or overexposure, choose an option with a timer, or use a timer and manually time your session. Depending on your situation, following your doctor’s and the lamp manufacturer’s instructions about the recommended frequency and how long you should use it, this could be from 20 to 40 minutes in the morning, the same in the evening.

Carex Day Light Classic Plus Bright Light Therapy lamp 1
Carex Day-Light Classic Plus Bright Light Therapy Lamp

Check Out These Best Bright Light Therapy Lamps

Best for SAD: Carex Day-Light Classic Plus Light Therapy Lamp

We recommend Carex Day-Light Classic Plus Light if you experience SAD; this helps by blocking 99% of UV rays, improving sleep, and boosting mood. 

It features a large light face with two brightness settings, adjustable height, and angle with a five-year warranty. 

This lamp provides 10,000 lux of glare-free, LED white therapy light. It blocks 99 percent of UV rays and projects the light downward for maximum effectiveness. 

With a broad surface to project the light from, the lamp provides a total dose of light from 12 inches, so you don’t have to sit right next to the lamp.

Carex designed the Daylight therapy lamp to improve sleep, boost mood, and improve your concentration. The unit stands on a pedestal.

Price – $139.99 

 Customer Review

“I have suffered from SAD for about 10 years. Ever since I moved from the East Coast to Wisconsin, I suffer from depression starting at around early October lasting until April-ish. I have tried pretty much everything I could think of, except for prescription psychotropic medication. I’ve done supplements, herbal supplements, homeopathy, consistent exercise throughout the entire winter, dietary changes (several different types over the years, and even a Philips GoLite Blue. The blue light never worked, no matter how consistent I was. NOTHING worked. I should note that I was never dangerously depressed, but just “blah” from Fall to Spring.

I finally caved and saw my GP and discussed my depression. Though he initially wanted to put me on prescription medications, I expressed my concerns and that I’d be willing to try ANYTHING first prior to prescription medications, if he could think of anything. He mentioned giving light therapy a try. I got a prescription for a lightbox and contacted my durable medical equipment provider.

It didn’t work out with insurance and I wasn’t able to get it through them, but I did learn of what they were going to give to me with a doctor’s order, and I tracked it down on Amazon. I ended up purchasing this privately because I was starting to feel the depression coming on. I literally felt AMAZING within about 3 days. The following week, I really noticed the change when I was driving with the sunroom open on a sunny day, and found that I was actually smiling for no reason, just smiling taking in the beauty of the day and weather! I haven’t felt that good in years!

Since then, I’ve used it since 9/21/16, about 2 months. I notice that when I take several days off, I feel my mood shift. I also noticed that it reset my sleep pattern literally within 2 days. I don’t need an alarm clock to wake up now. If I use my lamp at 5 AM, I literally awaken at 5 AM whether I want to or not. This is great for consistency for work, but bad on weekends when I want to sleep in. Also bad for nights I stay up late for something because I’m up at 5 AM regardless! Stay up to 1 AM playing video games, I’m up at 5 AM! Kinda sucks, but I can’t fault the machine for that… It’s also large, and you will need a sturdy place to keep it because it’s heavy too. But it needs to be big I believe to work effectively. I wish it had less plastic around the base and more metal. It’s already heavy, so I could deal with a little more if it were all metal. I also wish it used LEDs instead of old-school fluorescent lights. But maybe LEDs wouldn’t be as effective? My blue light was small and LED (still bright though), but it wasn’t effective…

I would HIGHLY recommend this for Seasonal Affective Disorder/Major Depression. This literally saved my life and marriage, and I’m finding life up north bearable now, versus dreading it every Fall. Avoid the smaller lamps, and those gimmick blue lights. They do nothing.”

-Adam Hunt

carex com theralite radiance light therapy lamp 28287931580521 1
Carex Theralight Radiance Light Therapy Lamp

Carex Theralite Radiance Light Therapy Lamp

This SAD light therapy light has all the tech options – an alarm clock, wireless charging station, and a USB port. It’s small and portable and provides the recommended 10,000 lux. It has four light settings, can also be used as a desk lamp, and could help with sleep disorders like insomnia. You can get more info here. 

Price. $59.99

Customer Review

5.0 out of 5 stars It’s been the best thing for my SADness. I wish I hadn’t waited until now to get one.

“I wish I had bought this so many years ago. I was so skeptical at first. Was like, meh, if nothing else, it’ll be an extra lamp.

I live in the cold Midwest where it’s now dark when I go to work and when I leave. My office is in the middle of the building with no sunshine whatsoever. Every year around this time, my coffee intake increases from none in the summer to a very large amount when the spring brings more light.

Normally, I drink 20+ oz of heavy-duty cold press coffee, a day, at least (roughly the equivalent to 20 oz of espresso)!

The day I got it, I used it & it was as if I drank all of my coffee straight away, minus the jitters and anxiety, in reality, I drank about 4 oz, BEFORE I used the light.

It’s freaking wonderful!

Now, it takes me a whole week to MAYBE drink 20oz.

My overall SADness has seemed to disappear.

I thought it was a fluke so I continued to use it and the results are the same! I wish I had one at home for the weekends.”

-Dara

Carex is offering $20 off select therapy lamps plus 20% off with code TAKE20

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

  1. Will a SAD Sun Lamp Actually Make You Happy?. Health Essentials from Cleveland Clinic.
  2. Jurvelin H, Takala T, Nissilä J, et al. Transcranial bright light treatment via the ear canals in seasonal affective disorder: A randomized, double-blind dose-response study. BMC Psychiatry. 2014;14:288. doi:10.1186/s12888-014-0288-6
  3. M.D MCM. Seasonal affective disorder: bring on the light, Harvard Health Blog.
  4. Pail G, Huf W, Pjrek E, et al. Bright-light therapy in the treatment of mood disorders. Neuropsychobiology. 2011;64(3):152-62. doi:10.1159/000328950
  5. Seasonal affective disorder: using light therapy | Michigan medicine.
  6. Okawa M. [Bright light therapy for elderly]. Nihon Rinsho. 2015 Jun;73(6):997-1005. Japanese. PMID: 26065132.

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What Are The Most Common Types And Causes Of Arthritis: What No One Is Talking About

By
Greg Wilson, Founder
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What Are The Most Common Types And Causes Of Arthritis: What No One Is Talking About

If you’ve previously injured yourself and find ongoing issues with painful joints, you might wonder if you have arthritis or a particular type of arthritis. Perhaps you’ve decided to investigate further and search for the common causes of arthritis. Arthritis is a condition that affects almost everyone. It tends to be very disabling and can be why many patients apply for disability. Arthritis is an inflammatory process involving the joints of the body. It commonly occurs in the knees, hands, and feet.

What Are The Most Common Causes of Arthritis?

Several things lead to arthritis, including heredity, age, obesity, infections, sugar and alcohol intake, joint damage, and general inflammation. If you want to understand the causes, it may be best to learn about the most common arthritis types.

Infections

Infections can also be the cause of arthritis. An example of this would be Lyme disease, an infectious complication of the bacteria carried on ticks. Lyme disease can typically lead to joint inflammation of the knees.
A nasty infection in the blood called sepsis can also lead to the complication of septic arthritis, which can be seen in the hands, hips, and knees.

What Are The Different Kinds of Arthritis?

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the type of arthritis most commonly seen. It most often occurs in the elderly population. Some of the contributing factors to osteoarthritis are wear and tear, infection, and blood hormonal level issues. Osteoarthritis affects the elderly most of all, and it’s often seen in several joints. It leads to bony degeneration over time. The bones become deformed, and the cartilage which supports the bones breaks down.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Another common type of arthritis is an autoimmune type called rheumatoid arthritis, which affects the lining of the joints. It’s seen more often in people over 50 years of age, and it usually follows a previous injury or illness. Medical testing of the blood for factors produced in this inflammatory process is one of the primary methods utilized to make the diagnosis.

Psoriatic Arthritis

The other common type of arthritis is psoriatic arthritis, often a complication of psoriasis’s skin disease. Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic disease for which there is no current cure. It is also characterized by the autoimmune phenomenon where the immune system abnormally attacks normal cells in your body and causes inflammation of the joints.

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Effects of Inflammation

The inflammation in the joints is the main problem in cases of arthritis. Common injuries are often the source of inflammation and swelling. An infection, foreign body, or toxins in the system can also cause arthritis. Certain foods, environmental factors, and genetics also can lead to inflammation of joints.

When you have an inflammation of the joints, you will subsequently develop damage to the joint tissue. If the cartilage is damaged and cannot correctly replace itself, this results in stiffness and a loss of mobility. The goal in treating arthritis will be to address any underlying problems causing inflammation, restore mobility, and relieve pain.

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Extensive selection of arthritis pain management products that will give you the relief you’re looking for, whether it’s the moist heat of our microwaveable arthritis pain reliever products or the arthritis glove that controls swelling while giving support to your aching wrist.

Arthritis Risks

Another problem with arthritis progression is the risk of needing joint replacement. There are different types of surgery that can replace a joint to help correct the symptoms of arthritis. For example, many patients have had good outcomes with joint replacement surgery, such as in the knees, hips, or shoulders. The surgeries can be complicated to experience, which will deter some patients. However, as time has passed, the success of joint surgery has improved with better equipment and improved techniques.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Downsizing Advice All Seniors Need to Hear

By
Greg Wilson, Founder
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Downsizing Advice All Seniors Need to Hear

Downsizing is becoming common among seniors, and for a good reason. For one, it could be the difference between a lower mortgage payment (or none at all), freeing up income for leisure and expenses. It also means a much smaller house to keep up, which improves both safety and accessibility. So if you’ve been toying with the idea of downsizing, the following are some pieces of advice you should take to heart.

Downsizing Tips for Seniors

Is It Time to Downsize?

There’s no definitive answer to this question because there are several scenarios in which it makes sense to downsize. For example, you could have a home with many unused rooms or one that isn’t conducive to aging in place, or you may have unmanageable monthly expenses and difficulty keeping up with cleaning and maintenance. 

How to Begin the Downsizing Process

You’re downsizing your home, but you’ll also need to reduce everything to fit comfortably in your new home. Where do you begin? Before you start, there are some smaller details you should handle first before tackling the downsizing process. Take photos of your home to keep as souvenirs, sort through/purge paperwork, and label photographs. Decide what you’d like to gift to family and friends, as it isn’t feasible or fair to pay for storage items they aren’t yet ready to accept.

Once you’ve done this work, you can get started downsizing by first taking inventory of all your things and sorting them into piles to keep, give away, donate, sell, or throw away. Then, measure your new space with a tape measure to determine what furniture will fit and what needs to go. Finally, there are some items that you should be able to easily let go of, such as duplicate items, unwanted/unworn clothing, miscellaneous gadgets, clutter, and anything you’re currently paying to keep in storage.

Finding the Right Home

Once you see all the homes on the market, you may feel a little overwhelmed. Remind yourself that this means you have plenty of options, ensuring you find the right home without compromising wants and needs. So, what should you look for? You might already have your list of must-haves, but don’t lose sight of the big picture, which is a smaller, accessible, safe, and senior-friendly home.

Start by pinpointing the best location, whether near family or close to stores, health care facilities and entertainment. Don’t forget about senior-specific amenities, such as the size and layout. For example, a claw-foot tub is gorgeous, but an accessible bathtub/shower or portable walk-in tub is more practical and safe. You will likely find that whatever home you choose needs some modifications to make it accessible, such as grab bars, ramps, or widened doorways, so be sure to factor this into the price.

Best Portable Walk-in Tubs For Seniors. Heavenly Walk-in Tubs Review 2022
Heavenly Portable Walk-in Tub

However, it is essential to note that downsizing doesn’t necessarily mean moving to a smaller home. If you need additional assistance with daily activities, your health has declined, or you’re experiencing safety concerns such as trips, falls, or confusion, now could be the time to put some serious thought into downsizing to an assisted living facility. Schedule some assisted living tours, and you’ll see that assisted living may not be what you’d expect because you can still be self-sufficient in this environment. The average monthly assisted living cost in Orlando ranges from $1,500 to $7,770, so you’ll want to do an extensive search and take your time.

If you still plan to age at home, will you need to apply for a new mortgage? These days you can go through the whole application and funding process online.

Many seniors have to downsize. So instead of toying with the idea, take the first step in actually doing it. Although it’s a big step, the benefits of doing so make it a leap worth taking in your golden years.

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Is It Safe for Me to Drive at Night? 9 Night-time Driving Tips for Seniors

By
Tracy Lynn
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Is It Safe for Me to Drive at Night? 9 Night-time Driving Tips for Seniors

At age 32, I leased my first car. It was a beautiful plum-colored 1996 Pontiac Grand Am equipped with many convenient features, including a 150.0-hp, 2.4-liter, 4 Cylinder Engine, sun-roof, CD player, leather interior, and more. Driving it was effortless and exciting. If possible, I would have driven it to the Moon and back!

Back then, driving safely at all times of the day was not a problem for me. For work, it was required during the day, and most weekend late nights, I happily drove it home alone from a party or other social event. This newfound freedom to drive myself to and from anywhere was very liberating. I also enjoyed picking up family, friends, or co-workers in my new car to hang out together. I have also driven to and from various States, where the road trip was a wonderful experience to cherish.

Previously, I was heavily dependent upon hailing a taxi or sharing a ride with a friend or family member to get around. If I was ready to leave an event and rode with someone else, I had to leave when they were ready to go. Equally, if they wanted to leave and I was not ready, I had to leave when they did. Oftentimes it was my only way back home. Taxicab services greatly assisted me with navigating to and fro, but they have also proved to be unreliable. Unfortunately, I was inconvenienced on several occasions because of their untimeliness in accommodating me.

Currently, I continue to drive a car I absolutely love with every modern amenity bell and whistle available. Today, with slight issues with my eyesight, heavy traffic jams, road construction, road rage, and increased car-jacking incidents, I drive when it’s absolutely necessary. Suddenly, with all of the above conditions, driving in the dark for me became frightening on any one-way trip over 20 miles. My driving skills had slipped a bit while night driving. If the road was not brightly lit, I misjudged distance and objects on the road. On a pitch-dark back road, oncoming high beam headlights have contributed to this. Wearing sunglasses reduced the glare, and fortunately, no incidents have occurred where it caused me harm.

So, how do you know if driving at night is still safe for you? As a senior, we are faced with many important, life-altering questions like this where our safety may become compromised. Additionally, if you have experienced any of the aforementioned road conditions, especially at night, or if you have had a car accident, you understand why this is an important topic to explore.

If you must drive at night, please consider these tips in improving your driving skills. I have encountered many of the following scenarios and found them to improve my night driving tremendously. These work during the day also.

Here are a few tips to follow to achieve this:

Maintain A Safe Distance Between Yourself and Other Drivers

If the vehicle driving in front of you comes to an abrupt stop, you should be back far enough to have time to react. Suggested distance should be at least 3 seconds of space between you and the vehicle in front of you at a minimum during dry weather conditions. Use a fixed object such as a tree or road sign to regulate this. When the car’s rear bumper in front of you crosses that object, begin to count 1001, 1002, 1003. If you don’t make it to 3 by the time your front bumper crosses the fixed object, you need to increase your following distance.

Travel On Familiar Roads

Are you more confident driving on roads you’re very familiar with? If so, this greatly decreases your chances of being involved in an accident.

Be Open About Your Driving Ability

Honestly, are you running red lights, stop signs, and unable to see posted road signs? The truth will set you free from stressful nighttime driving if you’re no longer participating in these dangerous driving activities.

Stay Alert When Traffic Patterns Change

Do you notice lane changes or traffic patterns such as road construction? Slow down and pay attention to road signs and other warnings on the road.

Slow Down and Take Your Time

Pay attention to speed limits and allow some extra travel time. This will reduce the stress of driving at night.

Keep Up With Regular Vehicle Maintenance

Are your lights and turn signals working properly? When was the last time you had your engine serviced or oil changed? Is your tire pressure good? Are you checking up on your lights and mirrors? Minor maintenance greatly impacts your safety while driving at night.

Be Sure All Mirrors Are Visible and Clean

Wipe down all vehicle mirrors to see clearly through them. Adjust all mirrors so that you can see all sides of the vehicle!

Schedule Regular Eye Exams

Make regular appointments for eye exams to ensure your precious eyes remain fit for nighttime driving. Your physician can recommend safety tips based on your current eyesight condition. You can even try transition glass or blue light glasses.

Take Driving Courses

A driving course will help revive your knowledge of the rules of the road and make you feel more confident behind the wheel of your vehicle at night. Driving courses are available through a number of organizations, including the local Department of Motor Vehicles.

Conclusion

By following these safety tips, you should feel more confident about driving at night. Practice until you have mastered them. If you’re not there yet, be patient and ask a family member, trusted friend or hail a driving service like Lyft or Uber to drive you around. Most folks I know, including myself, have downloaded these apps on their smartphones.

Once downloaded, open the app, type in the desired address, select the type of ride you want to take (single, shared, or luxury), see the cost, and confirm. You’ll be able to see where your driver is and when they will arrive. Each has its own pricing terms, safety features, rewards, and subscription options.

All the best!

Author

Retired at age 57, living in suburban Chicago, Tracy has started a new chapter as a writer of novels and the president of an active book club.

7 Things About What Medicare Plan K Covers That You Should Know

By
Greg Wilson, Founder
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7-Things-About-What-Medicare-Plan-K-Covers-That-You-Should-Know

Becoming policyholders in the National Health Insurance Program comes with the option of purchasing a Medicare Plan K policy, a Medigap Supplemental Insurance. If you have Part A and Part B plans, you are eligible to enroll in Medigap Plan K during its enrollment period, which starts the first month you enrolled in Part B. Only private insurance companies offer Medigap policies that make the market competitive with different costs for the same coverages. Depending on the state you live the premiums may vary and increase. We will explain the policy and what it covers in 2022 and help you understand how Medigap plan K works.

What is Medigap Plan K

To understand how Medicare Plan K works, let us briefly discuss the National Health Insurance Program. Providing the most protection against the costs of healthcare services is the insurance program benefit package. Beneficiaries may have to pay additional costs, such as deductibles, co-payments, coinsurance, and the entire cost of services not covered by the program. For example, according to the 2022 Medicare and You Handbook, approximately 17 percent of beneficiaries purchased Medigap private supplemental insurance in 2008.

Medicare Plan K is an insurance policy sold by private insurance companies to cover those additional costs. It is a Medicare cost-sharing coverage that does not pay for any medical treatments not covered by the health insurance program. It may extend your coverage for services, such as hospital stays over the limit of the program’s benefit. Private insurance companies finance Medigap using payments collected from the beneficiaries.

Medigap Plan K Coverage Overview

In 2022, Medicare plan K covers 100 percent of medical services for the remaining year after you meet the out-of-pocket limit and Part B deductible of $233. The out-of-pocket limit is $6,620 for Medigap plan K. It does not cover Part B deductible, excessive charges, or international travel for emergencies. What the policy covers include the following:

  • Medicare-Part A Coinsurance and Hospital Costs: 100 percent coverage, with up to 365 additional days after using your Medicare benefits.
  • Medicare-Part A Hospice Care Coinsurance or Co-payment: 50 percent.
  • Medicare-Part A Deductible: 50 percent.
  • Medicare-Part B Coinsurance or Co-payment: 50 percent.
  • Skilled Nursing Facility Care Coinsurance: 50 percent.
  • First Three Pints of Blood: 50 percent.

Critical Facts about Medicare Plan K

  • Must follow Federal and State Laws to protect policyholders.
  • Must be enrolled in Part A Hospital Insurance and Part B Medical Insurance.
  • You must pay a monthly premium for Plan K plus the Part B monthly premium.
  • There may be two separate premium payments when you buy plan K and a different Medicare drug plan.
  • Married couples must purchase separate coverage.
  • You can only have drug coverage in one plan, Medigap or Medicare, not both.
  • Depending on your state, you can purchase the Medigap Medicare-Select policy that allows the use of hospitals and physicians within its network. It covers full benefits coverage, excluding emergencies. Policyholders can change the plan to Medigap within one year after purchasing Medicare-Select.

Who is Eligible to Purchase the Medigap Plan K Policy?

If you are 65 or older and have both Part A and Part B coverages, you can buy the Medicare plan K policy. The enrollment period is the six-month period that starts the month you turn 65 and are a Part A and Part B policy owner. Individuals under 65, including disabled young people and those with End-Stage Renal Disease, may not be able to purchase Plan K, or they may have to pay a higher premium.

Types of Health Coverage Plan K Don’t Share Costs.

What are Part A and Part B Coverages

Part A is a hospital insurance plan covering hospital inpatient care, nursing center care, hospice care, and home health care. Plan B is medical insurance covering services provided by healthcare providers and physicians. Services include home health care, outpatient care, medical equipment, and preventive care, such as annual wellness visits and vaccines.

Lowering medical and hospital costs for Part A and Part B services is one benefit of Medicare plan K for policyholders. It covers 50 percent of the first three pints of blood, Part B coinsurance or co-payment, Part A deductible, nursing care coinsurance, and Part A hospice care coinsurance or co-payment. Of your Part A coinsurance and hospital costs, the plan will cover 100 percent.

If you have Medicare Advantage, it is illegal for someone to sell you a Medigap supplemental insurance policy unless you are switching back to Original Medicare. The plan covers Parts A, B, and D (drug coverage) all in one policy, which may offer vision, dental, and hearing. It differs from Original Medicare, which only covers its share of approved services of Parts A and B.

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YUP PUP All-Natural CBD Dog Treats Review: Expectations vs. Reality

By
Greg Wilson, Founder
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YUP PUP All-Natural CBD Dog Treats Review Expectations vs Reality

The pet care industry has shown exponential growth, with a strong demand for premium CBD-infused products.

YUP PUP dog treats have all-natural, organic ingredients designed to reduce anxiety, help digestion, and ease the pain of our pups.

Each pack contains:

  • 30 servings per pack
  • 150mg per pack
  • 5mg per serving

YUP PUP™ is nutrient-packed. At the same time, hemp extract works to relieve anxiety and reduce joint pain, ingredients like chondroitin coconut oil.

Benefits

Anti-Inflammatory

YUP PUP™ supports a healthy immune system, which can help promote a normal inflammatory response in the body. This aids with issues like occasional joint stiffness or discomfort.

Pain-Killer

Hemp extract inhibits the breakdown of anandamide, which regulates inflammation and helps with pain management.

Anti-Convulsant

Abnormal neuron function sometimes leads to tremors and seizures. Hemp extract helps maintain normal nervous system function and promotes regular healthy brain activity.

Anti-Anxiety

Full-spectrum hemp extract has a calming effect on the nerves by targeting serotonin receptors, which promote relaxation and help with managing stress.

Antiemetic

Hemp extract is helpful in the control of nausea and vomiting in dogs. Since it’s common to have nausea while undergoing specific treatments, such as chemotherapy, CBD helps in this situation and may even stimulate appetite.

I’ve started giving my dogs CBD treats that they would not eat, which is weird because they are very opportunistic! It’s possible they can smell the CBD, but my dogs started going to the cupboard to beg for the peanut butter treats. I give them 2-3 treats a day; they smell appealing like something a human could eat, unique among dog treats.

Want to get some YUP PUP hemp dog treats for your fur baby?!

The YUP PUP mission is to treat our pets to the same health and happiness we treat ourselves to, made with all-natural ingredients, YUP PUP is available in Tasty Bacon Treats, Peanut Butter Bites, and Savory Salmon Snacks.

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Top Affordable Keto Meal Delivery Options in 2022

By
Greg Wilson, Founder
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top-affordable-keto-meal-delivery-options-in-2022

Ketogenic meals are special diets that help get calories from protein and fats rather than carbohydrates. In addition, it requires the consumption of fewer than 50 grams of carbohydrates each day. These food resources include sugar, white bread, yam, etc. 

Keto meals help manage blood sugar and significantly reduce weight if you have been battling being overweight. 

Keto diets are also recommended for diabetes, acne, epilepsy, and certain brain and heart diseases.

Top 5 Keto Meal Delivery

Making Keto meals isn’t as easy as it sounds. Instead, it is very tasking to prepare because there are some stringent rules you have to follow. 

This challenge alone can make you give up on Keto meals even before starting.

But the good news is that you don’t need to stress yourself about it because some Keto meal delivery services are out there to make it easier for you while you continue to do what you love. 

They can deliver the special Keto diet meals to your doorstep without you breaking the bank.

Snap Kitchen

Snap Kitchen has varieties of Keto meals that meet your dietary needs. 

With Snap Kitchen, fresh Keto meals are made each day containing just 30 grams of carbohydrates free of gluten and antibiotics. 

Their meals aid in improving energy, mental activeness, and maintaining a balanced blood sugar level

Six-packs and twelve-packs of Snap Kitchen Keto meals cost $69.99 and $114.99. 

If you are lucky to live in one of the 39 States listed on their websites, Snap Kitchen will deliver your Keto meal will be delivered to your doorstep without hassle. 

Jet Fuel Meals

The keto meals from Jet Fuel Meals are bundled with 1-5 meals per day priced from $51/week to $170/week. You can add breakfast as an add-on option for $10-$15/week. The delivery fee is $14.99/week.

Their Keto Weight Loss Plan has an estimated: 350 calories, 16g of fat. 35g of protein and 8 carbs per meal. The meal plan was designed to remove carbs and replace them with good fats, protein, and veggies, this low-carb diet puts your body into fat-burning ketosis mode.

Sun Basket

Sun Basket is another keto service you can rely on, although it is not Keto-specific. Their keto meals have 25 to 30 grams of carbohydrates, with about 25 grams of proteins and fats extracted from oils, nuts, and avocados.

Sun-basket keto meal costs around $11 to $12 per meal. 

If you are confused about the Keto meal that is best for you, their chefs are there to guide you.

Territory Foods

Territory Foods is an excellent Keto meal delivery service you should also consider. Territory Foods has professional chefs and nutritionists who make special Keto diets for different needs. 

Territory foods cost $9.95 per meal, and it is delivered twice a week (Mondays and Thursdays, depending on your choice).

Green Chef

Green Chef is the best Keto meal delivery service we can recommend if you intend to make your meals at home. 

They offer Keto meals that are 100 percent gluten-free. Additionally, they can prepare these meals in 30 minutes or less. They have several plans, but the average plan costs $12.99 per meal, delivered once a week.

noodle less beef lasagna skillet fcaf043b 1
Green Chef Noodle-less Beef Lasagna Skillet

Pete’s Paleo

Although Pete’s Paleo isn’t Keto-specific, they deliver Keto-related foods to doorsteps. 

Pete’s Paleo meals are prepared by world-class chefs using tantalizing and seasonal ingredients that you can’t resist. 

The cost for five packs, ten packs, and fourteen parks are $79.95, $149, and $196, respectively.

Conclusion

Keto meal delivery service has made the preparation of Keto meals easier and stress-free. Choose from any recommended keto services listed to enjoy a delicious and stress-free keto meal.

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8 No-Fuss Ways to Figuring Out What Medicare Plan M Covers

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Greg Wilson, Founder
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8 No-Fuss Ways to Figuring Out What Medicare Plan M Covers

If you’re a retiree wondering what Medicare Plan M covers, making sense of the many different plans available can be challenging. Medicare plan M is a popular choice because it’s reasonably priced yet offers many more benefits than the original plan.

This article will explain what Plan M covers and how it differs from other plans. It also details the risks, costs, and benefits of choosing this coverage for yourself or a loved one.

When Can I enroll in Medicare Plan M?

The earliest you can start receiving medical benefits from Plan M is age 65 if Social Security no longer covers you. However, if you’ve already started receiving Social Security benefits, Plan M will not be available to you.

Another way to enroll in Plan M is if you are disabled and cannot work due to a physical or mental condition known as an employment-related illness (ERI). For example, if you are under 65 and receiving Social Security disability benefits, you can enroll in Plan M once you turn 65.

What Coverage Does Medicare Plan M Provide?

Plan M provides a basic level of coverage. At this level, Medicare plan M:

• Provides inpatient and outpatient coverage (as well as other services).

• Gives access to prescription drug coverage.

• Excludes some tests, treatments, procedures, and supplies; for example, Medicare plan M does not cover “home health services” (provided in a home), hospice care, or mental health services.

How Much Does Medicare Plan M Cost?

The cost of Plan M is based on your annual income. For 2022, you will pay a Part B premium, the monthly premium with your Social Security check, or pay directly to Medicare. It’s 25% of the total expense to enroll in Plan M.

As mentioned earlier, Plan M also covers limited services and supplies not covered by other plans. In addition, it makes Plan M a popular choice for retirees and disabled persons.

The good news is your costs will likely be covered by Social Security. The government subsidizes 70% of the price of Medicare plan M, making it an affordable option for those who need it.

What Are the Liability Risks?

Plan M doesn’t come with many liability risks. The primary risk is that Plan M doesn’t cover some medical services and supplies.

It means you could spend more money on these services and supplies than you would if you had gone with a more comprehensive plan like Original Medicare.

Why Choose Plan M?

Plan M offers significant discounts for business owners, people over age 65, and those who are disabled or have ended employment-related illness (ERI). In many cases, you are eligible for a discount of 25% or more if you choose this plan.

Plan M is not as comprehensive as the original Medicare, but it still covers many essential services and provides access to prescription drug coverage. In addition, this plan is often significantly cheaper than other plans available through Medicare.

What is Not Covered in Plan M?

Plan M doesn’t include many essential services and supplies in the original option. However, if you don’t meet one of the other criteria, you will likely pay more than you would have if you had gone with the original Medicare option instead.

For example, Plan M does not cover:

Emergency Care

You should always access emergency care no matter how old you are or your health condition. For example, original Medicare ensures that you have access to emergency care on an ongoing basis.

Home Health Services 

If you need additional care at home, Plan M will not cover it.

Hospice Care 

This service provides exceptional treatment and support for people who need special attention near the end of their lives.

Mental Health Services

Mental health services can treat behaviors like depression or anxiety, but Plan M does not cover these.

Outpatient Prescription Drugs 

Plan M provides access to a limited number of inpatient prescription drugs, which is generally ineffective for conditions like asthma or high blood pressure.

Vision Care

You can get eye exams, eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other items related to your vision. However, Plan M does not cover vision services in general.

Nutritional Supplements 

These are products taken by chewing or drinking to provide extra nutritional benefits without adding calories to your diet.

Conclusion:

Plan M is an attractive option for people on Social Security who have ended ERI or are over 65. People who fall into these categories will be eligible for a significant discount if they choose this option instead of the original Medicare option. The government subsidizes 70% of the cost of Plan M, which lowers your monthly premiums and overall expenses.

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Do I Really Need Supplemental Insurance with Medicare?

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Greg Wilson, Founder
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Do-I-Need-Supplemental-Insurance-with-Medicare

Are you enrolled for Medicare and still contemplating whether you need a Medicare supplement plan?

Then it would be best if you read this article to know everything about the Medigap policy and why you may have to rethink it.

What is a Medicare Supplement Plan?

Medicare Supplement Plan is a health insurance policy issued by private insurance companies to cover some of the health services expenses that aren’t covered by Original Medicare (Medicare A and B), including copays, coinsurance, and deductibles. Kindly note that Medigap does not replace Original Medicare.

According to Medical Resources, only 19% of Original Medicare beneficiaries have not enrolled for the Medicare Supplement Plan, which reveals the importance of the Medigap policy.

Why Do I Need a Medicare Supplement Plan?

The importance of Medicare can not be over-emphasized, most importantly, a Medicare Supplement Plan. 

Some of the benefits are:

● It covers Part B coinsurance and copayment.

● It covers Part B excess charges.

● It covers skilled nursing facility care costs.

● It covers the first 3 pints of blood.

● It covers additional 365 days of Part A coinsurance and hospital costs after Medicare benefits are used.

● It provides durable medical equipment

● It covers Medicare Part A deductible

● It covers Medicare Part B deductible

● It covers overseas hospital care bills.

● Medigap Plans K and L pay 100% of covered services annually after meeting the out-of-pocket limit and paying your Medicare Part B deductible.

Although Medicare Supplement plans cover many healthcare services, it doesn’t cover all. The benefits that aren’t covered include vision, hearing aids, long-term care, dental services, private-duty nurse or doctor, and eyeglasses.

How To Enroll for a Medicare Supplement Plan

You are now aware of the enormous benefits of a Medicare Supplement Plan, which you can’t afford to miss. So it’s time to take the next step and get enrolled!

Enrollment on Medicare involves just a few easy steps. First, please note that the best time to enroll in Medicare is during your six-month open enrollment period, which starts counting when you turn 65 and enroll in Medicare Part B. It is considerably cheap during this period.

The following are the steps you need to take to be enrolled. 

  • Read each Supplement Plan from Plan A to Plan N thoroughly, understand each and the benefits they offer, then choose the one that addresses your present and future health needs.
  • For example, research the health insurance companies in your state that offer the Medicare Supplement plans you want. Examine each of them and choose the one that satisfies your budget. Log on to Medicare.gov and enter your zip code; the closest companies to you will be disclosed. 
  • Reach out to the insurance company and ask for a quote, then opt for your preferred Medicare Supplement Plan

Conclusion

Having a Medicare supplement plan is excellent. If you don’t have one, it’s time to enroll because your failure to do so may cost more in the future. And as the adage goes, “Health is wealth.” It’s time for you to protect your wealth.

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Does Medicare Cover Back Surgery?

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Greg Wilson, Founder
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does medicare cover back surgery

One of the most frequently asked questions about Medicare is, “Does Medicare cover back surgery?”

It is good to know that Medicare covers several surgeries, and back surgery is among those. Back pain is caused by different reasons, such as Arthritis, muscle or ligament strain, disorders of the aorta, and chest tumors, so it is essential to visit your doctor to help diagnose the cause of the back pain.

Types of Medicare and What they Cover

Medicare has four parts of coverage that we will discuss.

Medicare Part A

Medicare Part A is the first part of Original Medicare. Medicare Part A covers inpatient or hospital care for injuries and illness, nursing care, drugs, general hospital care, and semi-private room services. If your hospital accepts Medicare and your doctor officially orders that you need inpatient hospital care, you will be eligible for this–.

Medicare Part B

Medicare Part B is known as medical insurance and is the second part of medical insurance. Medical insurance covers outpatient coverages, doctor visits, laboratory tests, disease detection screenings, flu shots, vaccines, medical equipment such as wheelchairs, X-rays, blood sugar monitors, ambulance charges, etc.

Medicare Part C

Medicare part C is also known as the Medicare Advantage Plan. Private health insurance companies grant Medicare Advantage plans, whereas The federal government issues original Medicare.

Medicare Part C covers all the benefits of Medicare Part A and Part B and some other benefits, including hearing, dental, or vision services.

Medicare Part D

Medicare Part D provides drug prescriptions and is part of the Medicare Advantage plan issued by private health insurance. 

Although Medicare Part B also provides some specific vaccines and medication coverages, Medicare Part B covers a greater option for vaccines and outpatient medication coverages.

What Does Medicare Cover for Back Surgery?

As discussed earlier in this article, there are different Medicare plans, and the plan you choose ultimately determines the benefits you will enjoy.

Medicare Plan A covers inpatient services such as drugs, general nursing services, public rooms, general hospital services, and meals.

Medicare Plan B covers doctor services, physical therapy, and outpatient services after being discharged from the hospital.

Medicare Plan C and D help to reduce the amount you pay for your back surgery to a considerably cheap rate. 

Types of Back Surgery Covered Medicare

Medicare covers the following types of back surgeries:

  1. Discectomy 
  2. Spinal laminectomy or spinal decompression
  3. Foraminotomy
  4. Spinal fusion
  5. Artificial disc replacement

Conclusion 

Generally, Assuming your doctor recommends that you return your original Medicare, Medicare Part A and Part B will cover the surgery. In contrast, private health insurance will cover Medicare Part C and D.

To know how much a back surgery will cost you is relative; there is no definite amount because the services rendered determine the cost. Therefore, your doctor should help with an estimated cost.

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