One of the most important factors that can impact the quality of life in retirement is health and wellness. When you have your health, you will be able to enjoy senior living to the fullest. For optimal wellness during your golden years, you will want to select the best senior healthcare options for your lifestyle.
At SeniorSmart, we know that finding the right healthcare can be somewhat confusing. You can check out our senior living resources online to help you better understand your options. For more customized guidance on selecting senior healthcare, call us today at 205.460.1124 to get started with our concierge-level services.
What Senior Healthcare Options Are Available to You?
When you receive healthcare through your employer, you may not have a choice of healthcare plans, or the options may be narrowed down to a select few. As a senior who is shopping for your own insurance, you are in full control of which healthcare plan you select. Since this may be the first time you are shopping for healthcare on your own, you may not know where to begin or what is available to you.
These are the main health insurance options available to seniors:
- Medicare – Many seniors enroll in Medicare to meet their healthcare needs since most businesses do not continue to provide health care once they retire. However, you may not be able to enroll in Medicare until you reach the age of 65.
- Medicaid – When you are under age 65 but you have a disability, you may qualify for Medicaid. Low-income seniors may also be eligible for healthcare through Medicaid.
- Private insurance – You can shop for a private insurance plan on the Health Insurance Marketplace. In some cases, you may qualify for a subsidy to help lower the cost. Seniors who do not qualify for Medicare or Medicaid usually go this route until they turn 65 and are eligible for Medicaid.
If you find that you are struggling to get the healthcare services you are entitled to as a senior, consult with your local elder law attorney. They can advocate for your needs and ensure that you are receiving any services for which you qualify. SeniorSmart is here to help put you in touch with the legal services you need.
What Lifestyle Changes Can Support Optimal Senior Health and Wellness?
Having good health coverage is essential for seniors, but ideally, you will not need to use it often other than for preventative care. When you follow healthy lifestyle habits, you can spend more time enjoying your retirement and less time at the doctor.
Some of the best ways to support your overall health and wellness are:
- Exercising regularly – Regular activity can benefit your physical and emotional wellness.
- Eat a heart-healthy diet – The food you eat can impact your energy and mood, as well as your overall health. Choose fresh, whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and lean proteins to look and feel your best as you age.
- Stay connected to others – Seniors who feel a sense of community and maintain close relationships with others tend to be healthier and happier.
- Find healthy ways to manage stress – Exercise is a great stress reliever as well as relaxation techniques such as meditation, breathing exercises, and yoga.
- Stay hydrated – Your natural thirst mechanism may become less sensitive in your senior years. Make it a point to drink water even if you do not feel thirsty. Even minor dehydration can lead to fatigue and headaches.
- Get plenty of sleep – Your sleep patterns may change as you age, but your body still needs restorative rest to do its reparative work.
SeniorSmart: Providing the Resources You Need for Senior Wellness
At SeniorSmart, we realize the importance of keeping your mind and body healthy in your senior years. Reach out to us online or call us at 205.460.1124 today to find out more about the benefits of membership and how we can help you navigate through the senior healthcare options available to you.
