By Trish Pearson
Insure Your Future
Trish Pearson
Based on the buds on the trees, the sounds of birds chirping and the pollen in the air, spring has arrived. It’s time to shake off the winter dust (and perhaps winter weight) and get moving.
Health insurance companies recognize the value of having healthy members. Most insurance companies offer a variety of wellness benefits in all their health plans whether group, individual or Medicare Advantage. These benefits range from free or discounted gym memberships, monetary rewards for completing a health assessment, registering on the member portal, virtual exercise classes, nutrition and smoking cessation classes.
Details on the benefits your plan offers can be found by going to the company website and exploring the “member benefits” tab. Insurance companies offer more than just covering the cost of medical care, so it is worth your time to check out the many options and programs each company provides.
The benefits of exercise include activities beyond lifting weights, running 5 Ks, or walking the track. Gardening, yard work, playing with and walking the dog all burn calories. An Apple watch or fitness tracker will tell you how many calories you burn for almost every type of physical activity – including reminding you it’s time to stand up.
Spending more time outdoors can also trigger allergies. Be sure to stock up on non-prescription medications that will help to alleviate symptoms. It’s also time to stock up on sunscreen and lip protection. These and other skin care products are included as part of the over-the-counter benefit in Medicare Advantage plans. Some insurance companies also offer discounts at certain retail locations for all their members. If not, remember that Amazon delivers.
Planning your summer vacation? If your travel plans include a destination outside of the US it is always a good idea to purchase travel insurance. These plans will cover unexpected medical costs in the event you need attention. They not only cover emergencies, but they also cover situations which require attention to relieve symptoms. A classic example would be an infected cut or bug bite. These policies are not expensive as they only cover the length of the trip. They also eliminate the issue of whether the provider or facility accepts your insurance and avoid having to be reimbursed by your insurance company.
Exercise is not only good for our bodies; it is good for the brain. A study out of the University of California San Francisco shows that an active body produces more proteins that enhance neuron connection. Exercise is good for our bodies, bulks up our brains and may be vital to fending off dementia. So let’s get moving.
Trish Pearson is a licensed independent insurance agent and certified long term care specialist. Contact her at 203-640-5969 or trishpearson281@gmail.com.