Dean, Jacobson Financial Services, LLC

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Medicare Open Enrollment—running from October 15 through December 7—is your annual opportunity to review your coverage and ensure it still meets your health and financial needs for the year ahead.

Whether you’re new to Medicare or have been enrolled for years, it’s important to revisit your plan options. Health needs, medications, and provider networks can change—and so can your plan costs and benefits. Taking time to compare your options now can help you avoid surprises and save money next year.

Here are a few steps to make the most of Open Enrollment:

1. Review your current coverage. Look over your current plan’s Annual Notice of Change. This document outlines updates to costs, coverage, and participating providers. If your preferred doctors or prescriptions are no longer covered, it might be time to switch plans.
2. Compare plans in your area. Use the Medicare Plan Finder on Medicare.gov to see available plans, premiums, copayments, and out-of-pocket maximums. Even if you’re happy with your current plan, it’s worth checking for new or more affordable options.
3. Consider your total costs. A plan with a lower monthly premium may not always be the best deal. Be sure to review the deductible, copays, and drug coverage tiers to estimate your total annual cost.
4. Don’t forget about prescription coverage. If you have Original Medicare (Parts A and B), you’ll need a separate Part D plan for prescriptions. Review your medication list carefully—especially if your prescriptions or dosages have changed this year.
5. Ask for help if you need it. Medicare rules can be complex. Licensed insurance professionals or your financial advisor can help you evaluate how health costs fit into your broader retirement plan.

If you’d like assistance reviewing your coverage or budgeting for potential premium changes, our team is here to help you navigate your options with confidence.

Spotlight: What Medicare Doesn’t Cover

Even with Medicare, certain healthcare expenses remain your responsibility. Some of the most common out-of-pocket costs include:

• Dental care – Routine exams, cleanings, and dentures aren’t covered.
• Hearing aids – Medicare doesn’t cover hearing aids or hearing exams for fitting them.
• Vision care – Eye exams for glasses or contact lenses aren’t included.
• Long-term care – Custodial care (help with bathing, dressing, and eating) in assisted living or nursing homes is not covered.

Fortunately, there are ways to plan for these expenses. Health savings, supplemental insurance (Medigap), or Advantage plans with expanded benefits can help bridge the gaps.

Healthy Living: Five Ways to Keep Your Brain Sharp After 65

Research shows that cognitive health can be supported through consistent mental and physical activity. Here are five easy habits to boost brain health:

1. Stay social. Join a club, volunteer, or attend community events to stay connected.
2. Move daily. Regular exercise improves blood flow to the brain and supports overall wellness.
3. Challenge yourself. Learn a new skill, language, or instrument.
4. Eat for your brain. Foods rich in omega-3s and antioxidants—like salmon and blueberries—support brain function.
5. Prioritize sleep. Quality rest gives your brain time to repair and recharge.

Recipe Corner: “Memory-Boosting” Blueberry Smoothie

Fuel your body and mind with this quick and nutritious smoothie—no stove required!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen blueberries
• ½ banana
• 1 cup spinach (optional)
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• A drizzle of honey

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour into a tall glass and enjoy!

Blueberries and chia seeds are packed with antioxidants and omega-3s—great for brain and heart health.

Medicare Myths Quiz

Test your Medicare knowledge!

1. True or False: Medicare covers 100% of all healthcare costs once you enroll.
2. Which part of Medicare covers hospital stays? A. Part A B. Part B C. Part C D. Part D
3. When does Medicare Open Enrollment end each year? A. October 1 B. October 31 C. December 7 D. December 31
4. True or False: You can switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan only during Open Enrollment.

Answers:

1. False – You’ll still have deductibles, copays, and non-covered services.
2. A – Part A covers hospital care.
3. C – December 7.
4. True – Most plan changes can only be made during Open Enrollment.

If you’d like help reviewing your Medicare coverage or planning for healthcare expenses in retirement, contact our office to schedule a conversation.

Best regards,

DEAN, JACOBSON FINANCIAL SERVICES

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Securities and Retirement Plan Consulting Program advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. Other advisory services and investment advice offered through Dean, Jacobson Financial Services, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor, and separate entity from LPL Financial.

*The views expressed are offered through Dean, Jacobson Financial Services, and do not necessarily represent the opinions of the firm or its advisors, nor those of LPL Financial. These views should not be construed as investment advice. Please contact advisors at Dean, Jacobson Financial Services for specific questions or explanations on interpreting this information for your personal circumstances.This material was prepared by Carson Coaching. Carson Coaching is not affiliated with the named broker/dealer or firm.