Tag: Colorado

Make this the best summer of your life ☀️🌊😎🌻✨

Summer Greetings … may this blog find you in great spirits 😊, with your Medicare insurance protecting you… hopefully as well as Ellwood 🐶 is protecting my sock 🧦!

Questions about Medigap Supplement Insurance, Medicare Advantage Plans, or why Ellwood has my sock🤷‍♂️? (He loves to steal things.)  Email Gray@TheBig65.com or book a time on my calendar. We’re here to help.

We’ve been dog sitting Ellwood while our daughter was on vacation and Plato was pretty happy to have a new friend in the house.

Elwood the dog with a sock in his mouth.

Now that Miti, our Malagasi exchange student, is finished with school, summer feels like it’s in full swing. She’s only here for a few more weeks so we’re doing our best to share as much of life in America as we can.

Karl's backyard at night.

That’s the thing about company: visitors shake up routines and that’s great for the aging brain (plus I got to make crepes for the whole family when the kids came back to town.)

A group of people sitting at a kitchen table looking at the camera.

Of course as soon as Ellwood left, Santiago, one of our former exchange students from Mexico, arrived to reconnect with his old host family. Our doors are always open to the people we love.

Miti and Santiago sitting together and looking at the camera.

When you have guests, you finally end up visiting the nearby stuff you never visit on your own. Looking for things to keep them entertained, we visited the Olympic museum in Colorado Springs. It was amazing.

That’s me in front of a picture of my great uncle, Fritz Schilgen, lighting the torch for the 1936 Olympics in Berlin.

Our family history is complicated. While Fritz was lighting the torch, the Jewish half of my family was figuring out a way to flee Germany.

That’s how we ended up in the US. My father arrived in New York in August of 1939, a week before World War II began.

Karl standing next to a computer screen with a photo.

I didn’t learn any of this history until I was in college (dad kept it a secret).

But as a boy, my hero was Jesse Owens and it was great to read about him again. His 4 gold medals in track and field destroyed the myth of Aryan superiority that the Nazis were trying to have the world believe.

A photo of Jesse Owens at the Olympics.

If you visit the museum, there’s an interactive race track where you can race against Jesse Owens on a virtual track. Santiago did his best, but he couldn’t beat Jesse!

Santiago racing on an indoor track at the musuem.

We lunched at a local Mexican restaurant and had the best and largest Molca Jete😋I have ever eaten. If you ever see this on the menu, try it, but be sure to take cholesterol medication in advance😂.

Santiago sitting at a restaurant table in front of a big plate of food.

On the way home, we rode bikes around the Garden of the Gods and admired the rock formations. It was an amazing and exhausting day, and all because we engaged with others and spent time exploring.

Santiago and Karl on bikes in Colorado.

So what does this have to do with Medicare🤔?

  • The busier you are🐝📅🏃‍♂️
  • The more engaged you are 🌎🤝✨
  • The happier you will be😊😄🌞 !
    d

Be like my amazing sister in law Logan. She flew a plane✈️ for the very first time and lived to tell the tale😅🙌.

Make it a point this summer to try new things, to help others, and to keep squeezing the juice out of life!

Karl's sister-in-law Logan in an airplane.

Keep asking,  “What’s the next big thing?”

If family or friends need help… referrals are the lifeblood of my business.

If you know someone who might like to receive The Big 65 newsletter, forward this link.

Medicare questions or problems?

Book a time on my calendar or email Gray, Gray@theBig65.com.

Let us know what’s going on and please send pictures :).

 

Karl Bruns-Kyler
(877) 850-0211
Book a time on my calendar here
Happy with my Service? Click Here to Leave a Review.

Karl Bruns-Kyler is a Medicare insurance broker and independent Medicare agent licensed to help Medicare recipients in over thirty states from around the country, including:

Alabama
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maryland
Michigan
Missouri
Montana
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin

The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Services does not offer every plan available in your area. Currently, we represent 10 organizations that offer 50 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.

Karl Bruns-Kyler of The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Services.

Mental agility ain’t just for kids 🧠🌸

Memorial Weekend greetings … we’re hoping May showers will bring June flowers – and that your Medicare insurance works like a reliable umbrella. ☔😊.

Questions about Medigap Supplement Insurance, Medicare Advantage Plans, or why Miti is smiling? (She graduated Wednesday🎓✨!)  Email Gray@TheBig65.com or book a time on my calendar. We’re here to help.

Many of you know we’ve been hosting a Malagasy exchange student for the calendar year. Having a young’un in the house keeps us young and keeps stretching our brains.

Miti on a bike, looking back at the camera.

Of course that means I have to continue to adapt to an ever changing landscape and that, my friends, is the secret to aging well.

Karl holding a white container with Plato.

I just finished listening to Liz Tran’s book, AQ: A New Kind of Intelligence for a World That’s Always Changing.

(And a special 📣 shout out to Dave for using AI 🙌 to add a Wolverine to the family team🤣!  He’s a world class dog trainer; good luck training a virtual badger!)

Dave sitting on a sofa with his dogs and a virtual like-like badger.

We know IQ measures intelligence and that EQ measures emotional intelligence. Liz Tran wants you to measure and strengthen your AQ, your Agility Quotient.

Miti, made it through the emotional drama of high school, played soccer and cross country for the first time, (had a phone and a computer for the first time), learned a third language, left her country for an entire year, and was awarded the “Outstanding Multilingual Learning Award.” Plus, she had to live with the crazy Bruns-Kyler family.

Oh…and did I mention she is an orphan from one of the poorest countries in the world?

If that ain’t agility, I don’t know what is.

Miti holding her high school diploma as Plato, the big black and white dog, looks up at her.

Mental agility isn’t just for kids.

With change accelerating, the ability to pivot, to let go, to reframe, to change our mind, well, these may be the most important skills we carry into retirement – and into life.

Mental agility is the secret to happiness.

Miti’s graduation ceremony at Red Rocks was touch and go (because of rain and lightning). We had to go with the flow.

Miti surrounded by Quantz and Karl at Miti's graduation in Colorado.

Building AQ does not mean we never get confused, annoyed, or surprised.

It means we pause, adjust, ask good questions, and take the next right step🌸. It means we don’t give up, we adapt.

What we saw at graduation were students who genuinely loved their teachers, teachers who cried with joy at the success of their students, and varsity athletes helping others in the great circle of life.

You can see it in the eyes of this young’un: will I ever be this old, yikes!

People helping each other next to a white bus.

My dear friend Rose is a therapist at the Veterans Administration and she shared this:

Sometimes the smartest move is not to push straight through the turbulence. Pilots may climb above it, drop below it, or change course — and still arrive at about the same time. ✈️🌤️ Why stay in a turbulent situation if you don’t have to?

So when something gets in your way this morning, when something or someone pisses you off, when every one of your senses screams 🤯 out at the absurdity of this world on fire🔥…

Take a moment and breathe, take sip of your coffee, look up at the sun, remember you’re not dead yet, and step to the side of your anger, and go help someone in greater need.

Let us know how you are staying agile and raise a glass 🥂for Miti 🎓and her amazing AQ!

Miti looking up at the sky with here arms spread wide, welcoming the world before her.

Keep asking,  “What’s the next big thing?”

If family or friends need help… referrals are the lifeblood of my business.

If you know someone who might like to receive The Big 65 newsletter, forward this link.

Medicare questions or problems?

Book a time on my calendar or email Gray, Gray@theBig65.com.

Let us know what’s going on and please send pictures :).

Karl Bruns-Kyler
(877) 850-0211
Book a time on my calendar here
Happy with my Service? Click Here to Leave a Review.

Karl Bruns-Kyler is a Medicare insurance broker and independent Medicare agent licensed to help Medicare recipients in thirty-three states from around the country, including:

Alabama
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maryland
Michigan
Missouri
Montana
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin

The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Services does not offer every plan available in your area. Currently, we represent 10 organizations that offer 50 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.

Karl Bruns-Kyler of The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Services.

 

 

 

I hate arenas🏟️, but I ❤️ small music venues

Howdy … may this blog find you in amazing health, with your Medicare insurance in place, having avoided April showers🌧️☔, we hope you now have May flowers🌸🌼.

Questions about Medicare Supplements, Medicare Advantage, or why we sent Susanna flowers?  Email Gray@TheBig65.com or book a time on my calendar and we’ll be happy to answer (our daughter, the software engineer was promoted🥳).

Last week, we wrote about the cognitive benefits of smelling flowers…

Susanna sitting at her desk.

This week, let’s talk about the power of music.

Since my brothers were in town, we drove north to Fort Collins, Colorado for the annual music festival, which featured 450 bands, over two days, performing in 40 walkable, small, downtown locations. These were all local Colorado bands and the concerts were amazing, including my favorite band, The Gasoline Lollipops.

Three men on stage playing guitars and one man playing the drums.

A small local concert may not look like medicine, but the research suggests that attending live music performances can improve memory, attention, and other thinking skills (just make sure to bring hearing protection.)

Medicare insurance broker.

Music can help you feel better, and help you connect with others and relax.

We love the Fort Collins festival because the small local shows have such a great mix of young’uns and old’uns.  Connecting across the generations with music (and perhaps a glass of beer) reduces isolation and loneliness.

A group of people taking a selfie photo.

The bottom line:  Trying new things and staying connected to the people you love is good for the brain and great for the soul.  It’s way too easy to get stuck in our routines.  When I hang out with my brothers…

Karl with his two brothers.

Well, the years melt away.  It’s like the old days, when we were dumb young’uns!  This week, I challenge you to find some local music, call someone and go light up your brain.  Your parents in heaven will be proud!

A group photo of Karl with his brothers and dad.

Keep asking,  “What’s the next big thing?”

If family or friends need help… referrals are the lifeblood of my business.

If you know someone who might like to receive The Big 65 newsletter, forward this link.

Medicare questions or problems?

Book a time on my calendar or email Gray, Gray@theBig65.com.

Let us know what’s going on and please send pictures :).

Karl Bruns-Kyler
(877) 850-0211
Book a time on my calendar here
Happy with my Service? Click Here to Leave a Review.

Karl Bruns-Kyler is a Medicare insurance broker and independent Medicare agent licensed to help Medicare recipients in thirty-three states from around the country, including:

Alabama
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maryland
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
Montana
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin

The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Services does not offer every plan available in your area. Currently, we represent 10 organizations that offer 50 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.

Karl Bruns-Kyler Medicare broker.

Your Guide to Highlands Ranch Free Link On Demand

🚌 Getting Around Highlands Ranch Just Got Easier — and It’s Free!

If you live in Highlands Ranch and could use a little extra help getting to the doctor, the grocery store, your favorite park, or even a friend’s house, you’ll be thrilled to hear some good news.

This  past spring, Douglas County partnered with the City of Lone Tree and the transportation company Via to Launch Link On Demand — a free, on-demand ride service that’s now available right here in Highlands Ranch.

Two older citizens of Colorado getting in a Rideshare car in Highlands Ranch, Colorado.

What is Link On Demand?

Link On Demand is a simple, curb-to-curb service that picks you up at your front door and takes you wherever you need to go — all at no cost to you. It’s perfect for seniors who don’t drive, anyone who’d prefer not to drive, or simply those who’d like an easy, affordable alternative to get around town.

Commissioner George Teal summed it up perfectly at the launch event:

“We spent the last two years listening to our older adults — and one of the biggest things we heard was, ‘we need help getting around.’ Today, we’re delivering on that promise.”

How Does It Work?

Getting a ride is quick and easy:

  • 📲 Download the Link On Demand app at City.RideWithVia.com/LinkOnDemand, then enter your pickup and drop-off spots.
  • 📞 Prefer to call? Dial 719-212-2430 and someone will help you book a ride.
  • 🚐 Once you request a ride, a friendly driver will pick you up at your curb — usually within minutes — and take you anywhere inside the service area.

And remember — it’s FREE and accessible to everyone.

Supporting a Stronger Community

This service was created with seniors and other neighbors like you in mind. Commissioner Abe Laydon explained, “Every dollar we spend connecting people to the places they need to go pays dividends — from boosting local spending to helping folks stay active in our community.”

And Lone Tree Mayor Marissa Harmon agrees: “As a city that founded Link On Demand nearly 10 years ago, we’ve seen firsthand the benefits. This expansion reflects strong regional collaboration — and our commitment to keeping everyone moving.”

Ready to Give It a Try?

We hope you’ll take advantage of this wonderful new service. Getting around Highlands Ranch is now easier, safer, and more affordable than ever before — so you can stay active and connected.

Visit City.RideWithVia.com/LinkOnDemand or call 719-212-2430 to get started today.

We look forward to seeing you on the road! 🚍💜

Colorado Medicare insurance broker Karl Bruns-Kyler of The Big 65Karl Bruns-Kyler is the owner of The Big 65, an insurance company that provides Medicare insurance services to Colorado. The Big 65 is based in Highlands Ranch, right outside of Denver, where Karl lives with his family. Karl’s role as a health insurance broker is to match Medicare beneficiaries with the ideal Medicare plan at the lowest price. For more information, visit The Big 65 Colorado.

Check out this festival where fun meets wellness!

Hope you had a great Father’s Day and may this blog find you in amazing health 💪 with your Medicare insurance coverage 🏥 working well.

For Medicare questions, quotes, or quandaries, email Gray@TheBig65.com or book a time on my calendar and we’ll get it sorted.

We had a delightful surprise Father’s Day visit from our daughter Sus, with pancakes and board games (she let me win once).

After that, she was back on the road home and life was back to normal (now cue the Jim Croce song, “And the cat’s in the cradle and the silver spoon 🎻💧…”)

Sus with a black cat sitting on her shoulder, playing board games at the kitchen table with her dad Karl as Plato the dog sits under the table.

My favorite Father’s Day was many years ago when the kids were still critter size and we climbed a volcano in Guatemala.

It felt like we were in a Lord of the Rings movie. It’s amazing how attentive your kids can be when threatened with being thrown into molten lava 😉, good times!

Karl and his family climbing a volcano in Guatemala.

After Sus left, I went back to morning chores, and the usual quiet routines, building extra boxes for the bees.

Karl doing chores in his back yard.

You know the satisfaction that comes from building something yourself? This was way more fun than Medicare certifications for 2025 I’m working through when I’m not working with clients.

I’m not counting on any grapes because of the racoons, but I am cautiously optimistic we’ll have a good honey harvest this fall. I promise to share!

Karl taking a break from working on his bee hives and playing with Plato the black and white dog.

After lunch, Q made us attend a Scandinavian festival up in Golden, Colorado.

The event got me thinking about how much there is to gain from visiting summer festivals and doing something new near you (as long as you prepare for the heat).

Man with a white beard in costume at the Scandinavian festival in Golden, Colorado.

It was a great fun sampling the food and watching the little people interact with the Vikings.

Check your newspaper and see what events are going on in your area, I double dare you. With a little luck, you’ll find yourself walking around, exploring different stalls, and participating in various activities. This can be a fun way to get some exercise without even realizing it.

A man dressed up as a Viking at the Scandinavian festival in Golden, Colorado.

Festivals are a feast for the senses. The sights, sounds, and smells can stimulate our brains and keep us mentally engaged. We loved watching these couples in traditional garb doing these amazing folk dances.

A man and lady in traditional Scandinavian dress dancing a folk dance together.

Whether it’s listening to live music, or trying out a new type of food, these experiences can help keep our minds sharp.

A man and woman in traditional Scandinavian dress.

Festivals are also a great way to meet new people, bond with friends and family, and feel part of a community. Social connections can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are endemic in our screen based society. Even more important, building and maintaining relationships can lead to a longer, healthier, and happier life.

The Coors brewery in Golden, Colorado.

And best of all, you might accidentally discover a brewery on the way and go in for a tour! Now that is a perfect Father’s Day😉, especially when your wife is the designated driver 🛞!

Keep squeezing the juice out of life and look for ways to help others!

Refer a Friend:  If family or friends need help… referrals are the lifeblood of my business.

If you know someone who might like to receive The Big 65 newsletter, forward this link.

Medicare questions or problems?

Book a time on my calendar or email Gray, Gray@theBig65.com.

Let us know what’s going on and please send pictures :).

 

Karl Bruns-Kyler
(877) 850-0211
Book a time on my calendar here
Happy with my Service? Click Here to Leave a Review.

Karl Bruns-Kyler is a Medicare insurance broker and independent Medicare agent licensed to help Medicare recipients in thirty states around the country, including:

Alabama
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maryland
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin

The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Services does not offer every plan available in your area. Currently, we represent 10 organizations that offer 50 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.

Karl Bruns-Kyler of The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Agency.

 

Screen Time and the Pursuit of Happiness

Greetings from Valparaiso.

May this blog post find you in great health with your Medicare coverage working properly.

Well, the Bruns-Kylers are continuing their adventure in South America. You know I encourage each of you to seek out your own adventures, whether at home or abroad, so I’m doing my best to live by these words.

But don’t worry, I work from wherever we are exploring.

Karl and Quantz standing in front of a colorful door.

Remember, if you’re having problems with your coverage, reach out to Gray or book a time on my calendar if it’s complicated. We’ll get it fixed, I promise.

Before leaving Bogota, we had the pleasure of reconnecting with Flo, the daughter of Quantz’s French cousin who lived with us in Denver last year. She is studying Spanish and volunteering before starting grad school next year. What a surprise to see her in Colombia.

Flo, Karl, and Nicholas having dinner on a wooden table in Columbia.

Sadly, we finally had to say “Adios” to our Air Force son, Nicholas. He returned to his base in Britain last Friday and we already miss him. I hope you’re keeping all our soldiers in your prayers, it’s a crazy world out there!

Quantz embracing her son, Nicholas.

But kids grow up and we have to move on. We have to keep asking, what’s the next big thing?

Each of us will have a different answer so I’m no help here, but…

Karl admiring artwork on a wall.

I can tell you the next small thing to avoid, and that is too much screen time ‍📱😵‍💻.

A young girl sliding down a slide.

In the United States, we average about 7 hours daily staring at screens 😱!

How you feel when you see bogus Medicare ad on television.

Of course this number is increasing every year and we don’t even notice. We are like frogs in a pot of water slowly getting warmer 🐸🍲🔥. One day it will boil.

A mummy in Chile.

Let’s not negate the many positives of screens: we can stay connected to others, it’s easy to share pictures of the ones we love, and some apps can absolutely save us time and money. I love face timing with family and friends.

Quantz admiring the Pointsettas.

But on average, we spend 44% of our time awake staring at screens and that may not be making us healthier or happier.

Octavio and his sons meeting Karl Bruns-Kyler.

Some of the physical risks of using a phone too much include cyber sickness, text claw, eye strain, and fatigue.

A map of the area that Karl and Quantz are visiting.

Excessive screen time can increase the risk of depression. Limiting time engaged in social media to 30 minutes daily may improve well-being.

AirBnB tip of the day - check out the bathroom.

The great news is small changes can reduce your screen time and increase your well-being.

Susan and her husband in Chile.

Put your phone away during meals and keep it out of the bedroom. If you’re on your phone, set a timer and take a break every 30 minutes, rest your eyes, move around, and stretch.

Marilyn showing Karl a photo on her phone.

I just learned about this really cool technology… books. Most of the US has amazing libraries and if you haven’t visited one recently, I promise you’ll be amazed.

Remember, we can’t be perfect. I am as guilty as everyone of overusing my screens 😇😈, but with a little attention, we can improve our lives and our health. As James Clear says, 1% every day. Keep going 🌟😊👍!

Quantz holding a glass of red wine in each hand.

And keep squeezing the juice out of life and look for ways to help others!

Medicare questions or problems?

Book a time on my calendar or email Gray, Gray@theBig65.com.

If family or friends need help… referrals are the lifeblood of my business.

Let us know what’s going on and please send pictures :).

 

Karl Bruns-Kyler
(877) 850-0211
Book a time on my calendar here
Happy with my Service? Click Here to Leave a Review.

Karl Bruns-Kyler is a Medicare insurance broker and independent Medicare agent licensed to help Medicare recipients in thirty states around the country, including:

Alabama
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Louisiana
Maryland
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin

The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Services does not offer every plan available in your area. Currently, we represent 10 organizations that offer 50 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.

Blue, red, and white logo for The Big 65 Medicare insurance broker.

 

Changes to your Medicare Prescription Drug Plans for 2024

Greetings and may this note find you in great health with your Medicare coverage working properly.  Today, I want to discuss changes to your Medicare Prescription Drug Plans for 2024. But first …

If you’re having problems, reach out to Gray or book a time on my calendar if it’s complicated.

Happy man in a blue car.

Don’t you love the smile on this guy’s face? He’s enjoying the day tooling around the old town sharing his city with travelers in this classic car.

That’s the way I’d like to feel every day.

Turtle walking near an old hotel.

My reality is a little closer to this old tortoise who sleeps behind the planters in this old hotel.

Every morning, getting up and out is a little harder. I’m a little achier and often a little grumpier, but, a good cup of coffee makes all the difference in the world.

The Big 65 Medicare insurance broker crew in Aruba.

Once we get up and out, there are adventures waiting, especially when Quantz twists my arm and gets me to do something I’d enjoy but wouldn’t do on my own.

If it weren’t for her, I’d work more and enjoy less. Traveling with Q pushes my comfort zone.

This is an old German freighter off the coast of Aruba. Instead of letting it fall into Allied hands in 1942, the captain chose to sink her himself by flooding the boiler room and causing the engine to explode. I’m glad I wasn’t on board.

A turtle underwater.

Our daughter Sus had to return to her home in Colorado because she had a burst pipe. As you can tell, Plato was happy to see her but he’s still mad at us for leaving him at home with her boyfriend.

Now Quantz, our Air Force son Nicholas, and I have moved on to explore Colombia.

Sus and Plato in Colorado.

Thanks to Tim in Firestone, Colorado for sharing an interesting article from the Wall Street Journal about drug trends for Medicare. Here’s the gist:

In 2024, Medicare Part D plans will have a ceiling of $8,000 for how much they and consumers (combined) will pay out of pocket.

Changes brought about by the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act mean that people on Part D plans will pay no more than roughly $3,300 on drugs annually (subject to variation based on brand or generic medications).

Les Lezards Boutique Hotel in Cartegena.

In 2025, the cap will change to a flat $2,000.

The 5% coinsurance that patients had to pay after reaching the “catastrophic” spending threshold has been eliminated. This change is expected to offer significant savings to approximately 1.5 million people.

The rooftop garden at Les Lezards.

The cap on drug costs will force insurers and drugmakers to cover a larger part of the cost.

Potential downsides for Medicare patients include higher premiums and more complicated paperwork.

Quantz and Nicholas at a fruit stand in Columbia.

The changes represent a significant makeover to the Part D prescription-drug benefit.

Cancer drugs in pill form can be costly for people on Part D plans, and these changes are expected to provide substantial savings for patients with expensive medications.

A man and woman walking down the street of Cartegena at night.

Despite all the good news, drug costs seems to be one of the biggest frustrations everyone has.

Quantz feedings the turtles in Columbia.

Remember the following strategies when filling a prescription:

Often, physicians will prescribe a brand name medication without taking into consideration a client’s financial situation. Check with the doctor’s office to see if they can provide you with a sample before you shell out your own money.

Quantz and Nicholas exploring the architecture of Old Town in Cartagena, Columbia.

If you are a prescribed a brand name drug, check with your pharmacist and find out if there is a generic alternative.

A single medication is always easier but sometimes, a combination of drugs can be used successfully and perhaps keep down your costs. Every situation is different so do your homework.

Karl and Marcus in Cartagena.

Before filling the prescription through your drug plan, ask the pharmacist if they have a cash price that is lower than your copay.

If you get into the catastrophic phase every year (which means the total cost of your drugs {paid by you and the drug plan, $8,000 for 2024} then you may want to run all of your drugs through plan but…

If you barely reach the donut hole each year ($5,030 paid by you and the drug plan) or never reach the donut hole, paying the cash price or using a third party tool like GoodRx, Amazon, or Cost Plus Drugs might save you some serious coin.

Life continues to be filled with a million moving pieces but if you take thirty minutes and make a few calls and check a few websites, it might really save you some money.

Please know that even though we are traveling, I have slots open every week if you need me.

Nicholas enjoying the sunset at Cafe del Mar in Cartegena.

Keep squeezing the juice out of life and look for ways to help others!

Medicare questions or problems?

Book a time on my calendar or email Gray, Gray@theBig65.com.

If family or friends need help… referrals are the lifeblood of my business.

Let us know what’s going on and please send pictures :).

 

Karl Bruns-Kyler
(877) 850-0211
Book a time on my calendar here
Happy with my Service? Click Here to Leave a Review.

Karl Bruns-Kyler is a Medicare insurance broker and independent Medicare agent licensed to help Medicare recipients in thirty states around the country, including:

Alabama
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Louisiana
Maryland
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
Tennessee
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The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Services does not offer every plan available in your area. Currently, we represent 10 organizations that offer 50 products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options.

Logo for The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Services company.

 

What is The Big 65? A Medicare Broker Review

May this blog post find you in good health with your Medicare Insurance working properly Smile emoji..

Yours truly is busy completing Medicare Certifications for 2024. It’s the same every summer. I don’t enjoy taking exams with all the different carriers but…

I give thanks for each of you, that I have a reason to get up each morning and go to work, to help others, and to take care of my family.

June, who came to America in 1974 from Korea, holding a card.

June came to America in 1974 by herself from Korea with ten cents in her pocket (seriously).

She saved the original coin and has built a successful life and business for herself and her family. Hard work and faith. Isn’t that the foundation of the American dream?

Ashleigh sitting in a wheelchair in Colorado.

I met Ashleigh in 2018, a few months after she severed her spinal cord in an accident here in Denver (just a month after my brother had his accident). We met again this week.

Five years later, she has rebuilt her life, living independently, and working as a peer mentor at the Craig Spinal Center. She is such an impressive young woman.

Flo and Plato relax together in Denver CO.

Perspective is everything. I’m as guilty as the next person of taking things for granted. But when we keep our eyes open, pay attention, and connect with those around us, we can be reminded of how much we have to be thankful for.

Flo enjoying a big breakfast in Highlands Ranch, Colorado before heading back to France.

We had our final breakfast with Florence (Flo as we call her). After a year of living in our home and working as a volunteer at an inner city music school, she is preparing for the next chapter in her life, and we are sure going to miss her. Life continues at its normal pace and then it changes, just like that.

Santiago in Mexico after competing in half marathon.

Santiago (one of our many exchange students) sent us this picture of his successful completion of the half marathon he ran in Mexico City last weekend. Now that University is over, he is preparing for an internship in Spain. The young ones keep growing up as we get closer to the end zone.

Life is short and that’s what makes it special. So be sure to remember what you are thankful for, to help others, and to laugh as much as possible.

Bacon alone cannot solve all our problems sign in Colorado.

That’s it for this week; Keep squeezing the juice out of life!

Medicare questions or problems?

Book a time on my calendar or email Gray, Gray@theBig65.com.

If family or friends need help… referrals are the lifeblood of my business.

Let us know what’s going on and please send pictures :).

 

Karl Bruns-Kyler
(877) 850-0211
Book a time on my calendar here

As a novice to navigating the Medicare system, I cannot recommend the services of Karl enough. His knowledge has saved my wife and I a lot of money, both on the Medicare supplement insurance and the drug coverage. Costs you nothing to listen and has saved up thousands of dollars over time.
– Robert B

Happy with my Service?  Click Here to Leave a Review.

Karl Bruns-Kyler is a Medicare insurance broker and independent Medicare agent licensed to help Medicare recipients in twenty-six states around the country, including:

Alabama
Arizona
Colorado
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Louisiana
Maryland
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Virginia
Wisconsin

The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Services does not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all your options.

The Big 65 Medicare insurance broker logo.

 

 

This might keep you out of the ER!

May this blog post find you in great health with your Medicare Insurance working properly Smile emoji..

The fourth of July is behind us now and we are cruising into full summer. We had a great time eating with neighbors and watching the little ones play hard.

This might keep you out of the ER ….!

Plato admiring orange flowers in Colorado senior market.

Plato had a little too much fun on the fourth, he grabbed the grease drip off the BBQ and went rogue … Pig emoji.

It took an hour of scrubbing to get all the grease off his face. Live and learn, right?

Karl Bruns-Kyler of The Big 65 holding bowls of vegetables in each hand.

Plato didn’t get sick, thank goodness, but his escapade did remind me of an article I wanted to share: “5 Things I’d Never Do As Urgent Care Doctor This Summer,” from Zocdoc.com.

Flo standing in the kitchen in Colorado.

The article lists five absolute must NOTS to avoid in the summer:

Quantz in Colorado.

1. Don’t dive headfirst without knowing the water depth.

2. Don’t ride without a helmet.

Karl holding a schmore in Colorado.

3. Don’t walk in the woods without long pants tucked in and tick protection.

4. Don’t play with firecrackers.

5. Don’t eat food that’s been sitting out too long in the sun or that has been undercooked.

Sus rock climbing in Colorado.

For our rock-climbing daughter, Sus, I’d also add, “don’t tell your dad when you’re climbing.”

She’s an engineer and super methodical but I still prefer to remember the words from Hogan’s Heroes:

The bottom line, there’s enough risk in our lives already, being aware of these simple things to avoid will increase your chances of staying out of the ER.

Group of people gathered for high school reunion in Loveland, Colorado.

Quantz had her high school reunion last weekend up in Loveland, and everybody seemed to have a great time, the weather was lovely.

Q and friends in Colorado.

Isn’t it funny how important we thought the small stuff was back in the day?

Now we’re just happy when our backs don’t hurt and our kids are doing okay Smile emoji..

Adrienne and Winston in Colorado.

Thanks to Adrienne for sending this picture of Winston, he’s all grown up and looks great, like a mini Plato (but probably better trained Smile emoji.)

That’s it for this week; Keep squeezing the juice out of life!

Medicare questions or problems?

Book a time on my calendar or email Gray, Gray@theBig65.com.

If family or friends need help… referrals are the lifeblood of my business.

Let us know what’s going on and please send pictures :).

 

Karl Bruns-Kyler
(877) 850-0211
Book a time on my calendar here

As a novice to navigating the Medicare system, I cannot recommend the services of Karl enough. His knowledge has saved my wife and I a lot of money, both on the Medicare supplement insurance and the drug coverage. Costs you nothing to listen and has saved up thousands of dollars over time.
-Robert B

Happy with my Service? Click Here to Leave a Review.

We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all of your options. This is a proprietary website and is not associated, endorsed or authorized by the Social Security Administration, the Department of Health and Human Services or the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services. This site contains decision-support content and information about Medicare, services related to Medicare and services for people with Medicare. If you would like to find more information about the Medicare program please visit the Official U.S. Government Site for People with Medicare located at http://www.medicare.gov

Karl Bruns-Kyler is a Medicare insurance broker and independent Medicare agent licensed to help Medicare recipients in twenty-three states around the country, including:

Alabama
Arizona
Colorado
Florida
Georgia
Idaho
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Louisiana
Maryland
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Oklahoma
Pennsylvania
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Virginia
Wisconsin

The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Services does not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all your options.

The Big 65 Medicare insurance services red white and blue logo.

New Highlands Ranch Senior Center: What to Expect

Highlands Ranch will soon break ground on a new senior center for residents over 55 and their families. This is exciting news for Highlands Ranch!

Highlands Ranch Senior Center rendering

The new senior community center will offer a much-needed antidote to the rising tide of loneliness, especially among older adults.

The 20,000 square foot community center will be built next to Mountainview Christian Church on Highlands Ranch Parkway and will offer a wide variety of opportunities for socializing, lifelong learning, meeting new people, and staying active.

Among the activities planned include fitness classes, potluck dinners, indoor and outdoor games, conversational groups, special interest clubs, events, card games, BINGO, cooking classes, movies, tastings, book clubs, author events, travelogues, pickle ball lessons and leagues, bocce ball, recreational opportunities, and many more social activities.

In addition to a wellness and fitness center, the new facility will include meeting rooms and a large kitchen. Part of the facility will also be used for adult financial programs and other assistance for seniors.

Highlands Ranch Senior Center
Highlands Ranch Senior Center (Rendering from Highlands Ranch Metro District)

A groundbreaking ceremony for the future Highlands Ranch Senior Center is scheduled for Monday, September 19th and will take place from 2:30-3:30 pm in the parking lot of Mountainview Christian Church, located at 40 East Highlands Ranch Parkway, Highlands Ranch, Colorado.

The groundbreaking event will include light refreshments, giveaways, photo keepsakes, and a short program.

The new Highlands Ranch Senior Center is expected to open in 2023.  More info can be found at highlandsranch.org/seniorcenter.

Karl Bruns-Kyler headshotKarl Bruns-Kyler is the owner of The Big 65, an insurance company that provides Medicare insurance services to Colorado. The Big 65 is based in Highlands Ranch where Karl lives with his family. Karl’s role as a health insurance broker is to match Medicare beneficiaries with the right Medicare plan at the lowest price.  For more information, visit The Big 65 Colorado.