Millions of elderly Americans depend on Medicare as their main health care, which is why upcoming changes have them in a panic. Premiums are scheduled to rise for Part B enrolls as early as December. This is going to cause prescription costs to skyrocket. In addition to health care, the elderly need dental and vision as well, even more than ever.
While original Medicare has never covered "most" dental care, it also doesn't cover vision. These are two important coverage especially for elderly enrolls. Some Medicare options offer limited coverage, but there is an extra expense. That's why many are checking recent changes in 2015, and as a result they are searching elsewhere for coverage.
Secure a Stand-alone Plan
For those that want both dental and vision benefits and they carry the original Medicare, it may be smart to check into a plan that only covers these options, and leave the Medicare for medical coverage only. This method has proven to save individuals a great deal of money.
Looking for coverage is easier now, as there are several online plans. Seniors can easily get help searching the web to find affordable dental and vision plans. Thankfully, the plans are open to all including those with per-existing conditions. Plans start at very affordable prices as low as $8 per month!
As an added bonus, many of these plans include vision and prescription discounts. Enrolls may find they are saving even more than they did on Medicare alone, and receiving even more benefits.
Why Senior Dental Care is Important
Though dental and vision plans are important for everyone, they are especially important for seniors who want to continue to enjoy their standard of living. There are a much larger percentage of older adults that have cavities that are left untreated. This can lead to oral surgery including root canals, which are much more painful than a simple filling. For some reason, older adults tend to avoid having toothaches checked, and it may be in part to lack of insurance coverage but it's also because nerves shrink making the gums less sensitive to possible issues. Therefore, the only way to find them is via a regular exam.
The mouth changes as we age, and if oral health care is overlooked it can mean a whole host of issues that are directly related to periodontal disease. This disease is rampant in people ages 65 to 75 and associated diseases include:
• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Respiratory issues
Because of this, nearly 30 % of adults end up losing their teeth. No one wants to go through that! That's why securing dental and vision plans is very important.
Avoid High Costs
Since Medicare doesn't cover most dental work and coverage is limited preventive care ends up being the expense of the elderly patient. That's why securing supplemental dental and vision plans is smart. Look for a plan that has no limits, as those can be eliminated by just a few cleanings or x-rays.
Fillings can be near $100 and root canals thousands. Seniors don't need to be stuck in a situation where they owe more than they can afford on their retirement budget. Thankfully, there are plenty of options.
See it All
Dental and vision plans are a great deal because not only is oral health secured, but vision is too. Eye exams and glasses are a huge expense, so having regular exams and discounts on frames can be a huge relief for those on a budget.
Not being able to afford glasses could mean the end of many freedoms for the elderly, such as driving. Vision is definitely not something to be taken for granted.
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