medicare advantage Archives

Q: Are Medicare Advantage plans really bad?

Medicare Advantage plans are not inherently bad, but they involve trade-offs that do not work for everyone. The most common issues are network restrictions, prior authorization delays, and unpredictable out-of-pocket costs. For healthy people who stay local and understand the rules, they can be a cost-effective option.

Q: Is Medicare Advantage or Medigap better for someone turning 65?

It depends on your individual circumstances. If you are healthy, live in an area with good networks, and want to minimize monthly premiums, Medicare Advantage may work well. If you want maximum flexibility, predictable costs, and the freedom to see any Medicare-accepting doctor nationwide, Medigap is typically the stronger choice.

Why Medicare Advantage Plans Are Bad (Or Are They?)

If you’ve been researching Medicare, you’ve probably heard friends, family, or even doctors say that Medicare Advantage plans are bad. With over 33 million Americans enrolled in these plans, opinions run strong on both sides.

The truth? Medicare Advantage plans aren’t inherently bad, but they’re not right for everyone. The real problem is that many people enroll without fully understanding the trade-offs. After 20 years of helping Medicare beneficiaries navigate their options, I’ve seen firsthand when these plans work well and when they create serious frustration.

Let’s take an honest, balanced look at the common complaints about Medicare Advantage, the legitimate advantages, and how to decide which path is right for you.

What Is a Medicare Advantage Plan?

Before diving into the criticisms, it helps to understand what Medicare Advantage actually is. Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. They bundle Part A (hospital), Part B (medical), and usually Part D (prescription drugs) into a single plan.

These plans are required to cover everything Original Medicare covers, but they can add extra benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and fitness programs. In exchange, enrollees typically agree to use a network of providers and follow the plan’s rules for referrals and prior authorization.

7 Common Complaints About Medicare Advantage Plans

These are the most frequent issues Medicare beneficiaries report. Each one is legitimate and worth understanding before you enroll.

1. Restrictive Provider Networks

This is the number one complaint. Unlike Original Medicare, where you can see any doctor or hospital that accepts Medicare anywhere in the country, Medicare Advantage plans limit you to a specific network of providers.

With HMO plans, you must use in-network providers except in emergencies. PPO plans offer some out-of-network coverage, but at significantly higher costs. If your preferred doctor, specialist, or hospital isn’t in your plan’s network, you may need to switch providers or pay the full cost out of pocket.

This is especially problematic for:

Snowbirds who split time between states
People with established specialist relationships for chronic conditions
Rural residents with fewer in-network options nearby

2. Prior Authorization Delays

Prior authorization is a process where your insurance company must approve certain treatments, tests, or procedures before they’re performed. While Original Medicare rarely requires prior authorization, Medicare Advantage plans use it extensively.

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, over 2 million prior authorization requests were fully or partially denied by Medicare Advantage insurers in recent years. Even when authorizations are approved, the process can delay care by days or weeks while paperwork is processed.

For someone waiting on an MRI, a specialist referral, or a surgical procedure, these delays can feel agonizing, and in some cases, they can impact health outcomes.

3. The “Nickel-and-Dime” Cost Structure

Many Medicare Advantage plans advertise $0 monthly premiums, which sounds incredible. But the real costs show up as you use your healthcare:

$10-$50 copays for primary care and specialist visits
$100-$300 copays for imaging (MRIs, CT scans)
Daily hospital copays that can reach $350+ per day
Coinsurance percentages for certain services

These expenses add up quickly, especially if you have chronic conditions or need frequent medical care. The maximum out-of-pocket limit for Medicare Advantage plans can be as high as $9,250 in 2026 for in-network services. For someone on a fixed income, that’s a significant financial burden during a health crisis.

4. Annual Plan Changes

Medicare Advantage plans can change their benefits, costs, provider networks, and drug formularies every year. A plan that worked perfectly this year might look very different next year. Your copays could increase, your favorite doctor might be dropped from the network, or a medication you depend on might no longer be covered.

This means you need to carefully review your plan during every Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7), which many beneficiaries find exhausting. In 2026, nearly 3 million Medicare Advantage enrollees had to find alternative coverage after plans reduced service areas or exited markets entirely.

5. Difficulty Switching Back to Medigap

This is what many experts call the “Medicare Advantage trap.” When you first become eligible for Medicare, you have a guaranteed right to purchase a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plan without medical underwriting, meaning the insurance company can’t deny you coverage or charge more due to health conditions.

However, if you enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan and later decide to switch back to Original Medicare with a Medigap supplement, you may face medical underwriting. If you’ve developed health conditions while on Medicare Advantage, you could be denied Medigap coverage entirely, or face much higher premiums.

This is critical information that many people don’t learn until it’s too late.

6. Doctors Don’t Always Like Them Either

It’s not just patients who have concerns. Many healthcare providers have frustrations with Medicare Advantage plans, including:

Lower reimbursement rates compared to Original Medicare
Slower payment processing from insurance companies
Administrative burden of prior authorization paperwork
Frequent claim denials that require time-consuming appeals

Some providers have stopped accepting certain Medicare Advantage plans altogether. If your doctor drops your plan’s network, you may face the difficult choice of switching doctors or switching plans.

Learn more about why doctors dislike Medicare Advantage plans

7. Marketing Tactics Can Be Misleading

The aggressive marketing around Medicare Advantage plans, especially during enrollment season, can create unrealistic expectations. TV commercials emphasize $0 premiums, grocery allowances, gym memberships, and dental benefits while glossing over network restrictions, prior authorization requirements, and potential out-of-pocket costs.

These extra benefits can be genuinely helpful, but they shouldn’t be the primary reason you choose a health insurance plan. A $50 monthly grocery allowance isn’t worth much if your plan denies coverage for a procedure you need.

When Medicare Advantage Plans Actually Work Well

Medicare advisor helping a beneficiary compare plan options — Working with an independent Medicare advisor can help you understand the trade-offs of each plan type.

Despite the legitimate criticisms, Medicare Advantage plans aren’t bad for everyone. They can be an excellent choice in the right circumstances.

You May Benefit from Medicare Advantage If:

You’re generally healthy and don’t visit doctors frequently. With low utilization, the $0 or low premium can save you significant money.
You live in a well-served area with robust provider networks. Urban areas tend to have many more in-network options.
You value bundled benefits like dental, vision, hearing, and prescription drug coverage in a single plan.
You stay in one geographic area and don’t travel extensively or split time between states.
Budget is a primary concern. The lower monthly premiums can make healthcare more affordable for people on tight fixed incomes, as long as they stay relatively healthy.
You’re willing to do annual homework. If you’re committed to reviewing your plan each year and switching if needed, you can stay ahead of changes.

The Satisfaction Numbers

It’s worth noting that many Medicare Advantage enrollees report being satisfied with their plans. When people choose a plan that genuinely fits their healthcare needs and geographic situation, and when they understand the rules going in, these plans can deliver real value.

The dissatisfaction tends to come from mismatched expectations, not from the plans being inherently “bad.”

Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap: A Fair Comparison

To truly understand whether Medicare Advantage is right for you, it helps to compare it directly with the alternative: Original Medicare paired with a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plan.

Feature	Medicare Advantage	Original Medicare + Medigap
Monthly Premium	Often $0 (plus Part B premium)	Part B premium + Medigap premium ($100-$300+/mo)
Provider Choice	Limited to plan network	Any provider accepting Medicare nationwide
Out-of-Pocket Costs	Copays, coinsurance as you go (max $9,250 in 2026)	Predictable; Medigap covers most gaps
Referrals Required	Yes (HMO plans)	No
Prior Authorization	Frequently required	Rarely required
Extra Benefits	Dental, vision, hearing, fitness often included	Must purchase separately
Drug Coverage	Usually included	Separate Part D plan needed
Travel Coverage	Limited to service area	Nationwide
Annual Changes	Benefits, networks, costs can change yearly	Standardized benefits stay the same
Best For	Healthy, budget-conscious, local care	Frequent care needs, travelers, peace of mind

See our detailed Medicare Supplement vs. Advantage comparison guide

Who Should Probably Avoid Medicare Advantage

Based on two decades of experience helping Medicare beneficiaries, there are certain situations where Original Medicare with a Medigap plan is likely the better choice:

You have chronic health conditions requiring regular specialist visits, frequent tests, or ongoing treatments. The copays and prior authorization requirements of Medicare Advantage can become costly and frustrating.
You travel frequently or spend significant time in different states. Medicare Advantage networks are typically local or regional.
You have established doctor relationships you’re not willing to change. Losing access to a trusted provider can disrupt your care.
You want predictable costs. If knowing exactly what you’ll pay each month matters more than having the lowest possible premium, Medigap offers that stability.
You’re concerned about future health. If you anticipate needing more care in coming years, locking in Medigap coverage during your initial enrollment period (when you can’t be denied) may be the safer long-term play.

Senior man researching Medicare coverage options on laptop — Taking time to research and compare your Medicare options is one of the best investments you can make in your healthcare.

How to Make the Right Decision for Your Situation

Rather than asking “are Medicare Advantage plans bad?” the better question is: “Which Medicare path is right for me?” Here’s a practical framework:

Step 1: Assess Your Health Needs

List your current doctors, specialists, medications, and how often you use healthcare services. If you have a complex medical situation, weigh the impact of network restrictions and prior authorization on your care.

Step 2: Calculate the True Cost

Don’t just compare monthly premiums. Add up estimated copays, deductibles, and potential out-of-pocket expenses for a typical year of your healthcare usage. A $0 premium plan can end up costing more than a $200/month Medigap plan if you use your coverage regularly.

Step 3: Check Provider Networks

Before enrolling in any Medicare Advantage plan, verify that your current doctors, specialists, and preferred hospitals are in-network. Use Medicare.gov’s Plan Finder tool to compare specific plans in your area.

Step 4: Consider Your Lifestyle

Do you travel? Split time between states? Plan to relocate in retirement? These factors heavily favor Original Medicare’s nationwide coverage over Medicare Advantage’s local networks.

Step 5: Talk to an Independent Medicare Advisor

An independent advisor (not one tied to a specific insurance company) can help you compare your specific options based on your health, budget, and location. They can walk you through the details that TV commercials leave out.

Learn how to compare Medicare Advantage plans effectively

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Medicare Advantage plans really bad?

Medicare Advantage plans aren’t inherently bad, but they involve trade-offs that don’t work for everyone. The most common issues are network restrictions, prior authorization delays, and unpredictable out-of-pocket costs. For healthy people who stay local and understand the rules, they can be a cost-effective option. For those with complex health needs or who travel frequently, Original Medicare with a Medigap supplement may be the better choice.

Why do so many doctors dislike Medicare Advantage plans?

Doctors often report lower reimbursement rates, slower payments, excessive prior authorization paperwork, and frequent claim denials from Medicare Advantage plans. These issues can strain the doctor-patient relationship and lead some providers to stop accepting certain plans.

Can I switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare?

Yes, you can switch back during certain enrollment periods. However, if you want to add a Medigap supplement, you may face medical underwriting after your initial enrollment period has passed. This means you could be denied coverage or charged higher premiums based on your health history.

What is the maximum out-of-pocket cost for Medicare Advantage in 2026?

For 2026, Medicare Advantage plans can set their out-of-pocket maximum as high as $9,250 for in-network services. Some plans set lower maximums, so it’s important to check the specific plan you’re considering.

Is Medicare Advantage or Medigap better for someone turning 65?

It depends on your individual circumstances. If you’re healthy, live in an area with good networks, and want to minimize monthly premiums, Medicare Advantage may work well. If you want maximum flexibility, predictable costs, and the freedom to see any Medicare-accepting doctor nationwide, Medigap is typically the stronger choice. The key is making an informed decision during your initial enrollment period, when you have guaranteed access to Medigap plans.

The Bottom Line

Medicare Advantage plans aren’t universally “bad,” but they do come with real trade-offs that are frequently underexplained during the enrollment process. The common criticisms, including network limitations, prior authorization hassles, the nickel-and-dime cost structure, and the difficulty of switching back to Medigap, are all legitimate concerns worth understanding.

At the same time, these plans genuinely help millions of Americans access affordable healthcare coverage with benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t offer. The key is matching the right plan to your specific health needs, financial situation, and lifestyle.

The worst decision you can make is an uninformed one. Take the time to understand both options, compare the real costs (not just the premiums), and work with an independent Medicare advisor who can help you see the full picture.

Compare Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage to explore your options in detail.

This article was reviewed by Karl Bruns-Kyler, founder of The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Services, with over 20 years of experience helping Medicare beneficiaries make informed coverage decisions. Licensed in 33 states.

Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap: Which Is Right for You in 2026?

What Is Medicare Advantage?

Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an all-in-one alternative to Original Medicare offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. When you enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, you receive your Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical) benefits through a single private plan rather than directly from the federal government.

Most Medicare Advantage plans also bundle Part D prescription drug coverage, and many include extras like dental, vision, hearing, and fitness benefits. The trade-off? You typically must use a network of doctors and hospitals (HMO or PPO), and some services may require prior authorization from your insurer.

As of early 2026, over 35 million Americans are enrolled in Medicare Advantage, representing roughly 51% of all eligible Medicare beneficiaries. The average beneficiary can choose from about 42 different plans in their area.

What Is Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance)?

Medigap, formally known as Medicare Supplement Insurance, works alongside Original Medicare rather than replacing it. You keep your Original Medicare Parts A and B, and your Medigap policy helps pay the “gaps” that Original Medicare leaves behind, including copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles.

Medigap plans are standardized by letter (Plan A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M, and N) in most states. A Plan G from one insurance company offers the same core benefits as a Plan G from another, though premiums may differ. Plan G is currently the most popular choice, covering nearly all out-of-pocket costs except the annual Part B deductible ($257 in 2026).

Importantly, Medigap does not include prescription drug coverage. If you choose the Medigap path, you’ll need a separate standalone Part D plan for your medications.

Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap: Key Differences at a Glance

The core difference comes down to structure: Medicare Advantage replaces Original Medicare with a bundled private plan, while Medigap supplements Original Medicare to fill coverage gaps. You cannot have both at the same time.

Feature	Medicare Advantage (Part C)	Medigap (Medicare Supplement)
How It Works	Replaces Original Medicare with an all-in-one private plan	Works alongside Original Medicare to cover out-of-pocket costs
Monthly Premium	Often $0 beyond your Part B premium; average ~$17/month	Varies by plan, state, and age; Plan G averages ~$164/month
Doctor Choice	Must use plan’s network (HMO/PPO); may need referrals	See any doctor or hospital nationwide that accepts Medicare
Out-of-Pocket Maximum	Yes, annual cap (around $8,850–$9,250 for in-network in 2026)	Minimal out-of-pocket costs; most plans cover nearly everything
Prescription Drug Coverage	Usually included (bundled Part D)	Not included; must buy a separate Part D plan
Dental, Vision, Hearing	Often included	Not included; must purchase separately
Prior Authorization	Often required for certain services	Not required; Original Medicare rules apply
Travel Coverage	Usually limited to plan’s service area (except emergencies)	Nationwide coverage; some plans cover foreign travel emergencies
Plan Stability	Benefits can change annually; plans can leave your area	Standardized benefits are guaranteed renewable and don’t change

Cost Comparison: What You’ll Actually Pay

Premium alone doesn’t tell the full story. Here’s a realistic breakdown of what each path may cost in 2026:

Cost Category	Medicare Advantage	Medigap + Part D
Part B Premium	~$185/month (required either way)	~$185/month (required either way)
Plan Premium	$0–$17/month average	$130–$250+/month (varies by plan, age, state)
Part D Premium	Usually included	~$40–$50/month (separate plan)
Total Monthly Premium	~$185–$202	~$355–$485+
Copays per Doctor Visit	$20–$50 per visit	$0 with most plans (Plan G: only Part B deductible)
Worst-Case Annual Out-of-Pocket	Up to ~$8,850–$9,250 (MOOP cap)	$257 Part B deductible + minimal costs

The bottom line: Medicare Advantage has lower monthly premiums but higher costs when you use services. Medigap has higher premiums but near-zero costs at the point of care. If you’re healthy and rarely see doctors, Medicare Advantage may save you money. If you have chronic conditions or use healthcare frequently, Medigap’s predictable costs can actually be less expensive in the long run.

Senior reviewing Medicare plan documents and comparing Medigap vs Medicare Advantage coverage options — Taking time to compare your Medicare options can help you find the best coverage for your health needs and budget.

Pros and Cons of Medicare Advantage

Pros

Low or $0 monthly premiums beyond your Part B premium
Bundled benefits: Drug coverage, dental, vision, hearing, and fitness often included
Out-of-pocket maximum: A built-in annual spending cap protects against catastrophic costs
Convenience: One card, one plan, one premium for most of your healthcare needs
Part B premium giveback: Some plans reduce your Part B premium amount

Cons

Network restrictions: You must use in-network doctors and hospitals for covered care
Prior authorization: Some treatments, tests, and specialist visits require insurer approval, which can delay care
Higher costs when sick: Copays accumulate with frequent doctor visits, potentially reaching thousands per year
Geographic limitations: Coverage is typically limited to a local service area
Annual plan changes: Benefits, networks, and formularies can change each year

Pros and Cons of Medigap

Pros

Predictable costs: After your premium, you pay little to nothing for covered services
Complete provider freedom: See any doctor or hospital in the U.S. that accepts Medicare, with no referrals needed
Guaranteed renewable: Your insurer cannot drop you as long as you pay your premium
Standardized plans: Benefits don’t change year to year; a Plan G is a Plan G everywhere
Travel-friendly: Nationwide coverage, and several plans include foreign travel emergency benefits

Cons

Higher monthly premiums: Expect $130–$250+ per month depending on your plan, age, and location
No drug coverage: You must purchase a separate Part D plan
No extras: Dental, vision, and hearing coverage must be purchased separately
Medical underwriting: Outside your initial 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period, insurers in most states can deny you or charge more based on health history

Who Should Choose Medicare Advantage?

Medicare Advantage may be the better fit if you:

Are generally healthy and don’t see doctors frequently
Want to keep monthly costs as low as possible
Value the convenience of bundled dental, vision, hearing, and drug coverage
Don’t travel extensively and are comfortable staying within a local network
Prefer one plan and one card for simplicity

Who Should Choose Medigap?

Medigap may be the better choice if you:

Have chronic conditions or see specialists regularly
Want the freedom to see any Medicare-accepting doctor without restrictions
Travel frequently between states or internationally
Prefer predictable healthcare costs with no surprises
Value long-term plan stability and don’t want to review plan changes annually

As Karl Bruns-Kyler, founder of The Big 65 and a licensed Medicare insurance broker with over 20 years of experience, often explains: “The right choice isn’t about which plan type is ‘better’ in the abstract. It’s about which one fits your health situation, budget, and lifestyle. A plan that works perfectly for your neighbor may not work for you.”

Enrollment: When and How to Sign Up

Medicare Advantage Enrollment

You can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan during:

Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): The 7-month window around your 65th birthday
Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): October 15 through December 7 each year
Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period: January 1 through March 31 (for those already in an MA plan)
Special Enrollment Periods: Triggered by qualifying life events like moving or losing employer coverage

Medigap Enrollment

Your best opportunity to enroll in a Medigap plan is during your 6-month Medigap Open Enrollment Period, which starts the month you turn 65 and are enrolled in Medicare Part B. During this window:

You have guaranteed-issue rights, meaning no insurer can deny you or charge more based on health conditions
You can choose any Medigap plan sold in your state

Critical warning: If you miss this window and later decide to switch from Medicare Advantage to Medigap, most states allow insurers to use medical underwriting. This means they can review your health history and potentially deny coverage or charge higher premiums. A few states (Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, and others) offer protections, but for most people, the initial enrollment decision carries significant long-term weight.

Can You Switch Between Medicare Advantage and Medigap?

Technically, yes. You can drop a Medicare Advantage plan and return to Original Medicare during the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 to December 7) or the MA Open Enrollment Period (January 1 to March 31).

However, the challenge is getting a Medigap policy after your initial enrollment window has closed. In most states, switching back means facing medical underwriting for Medigap, which can make this transition difficult or expensive if your health has changed. This is why it’s so important to carefully consider your initial choice and understand the long-term implications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have both Medicare Advantage and Medigap at the same time?

No. You must choose one path or the other. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, a Medigap policy will not pay for any services. You are either on the Medicare Advantage path or the Original Medicare + Medigap path.

Is Medicare Advantage really free?

Not exactly. While many Medicare Advantage plans have $0 plan premiums, you still pay your monthly Part B premium (~$185 in 2026). You also pay copays and coinsurance each time you use services, which can add up to thousands per year depending on your healthcare needs.

Which option is better for someone with a chronic illness?

For most people managing chronic conditions, Medigap combined with Original Medicare tends to offer better value. You get unrestricted specialist access without referrals, no prior authorization delays, and predictable costs regardless of how many appointments or treatments you need. The cost comparison changes significantly when you account for frequent copays under Medicare Advantage.

What is the most popular Medigap plan?

Plan G is the most popular Medigap plan in 2026, chosen by about 39% of Medigap enrollees. It covers nearly all out-of-pocket costs except the annual Part B deductible ($257 in 2026). Learn more about Medigap plan options and rate comparisons here.

Does Medigap cover prescription drugs?

No. Medigap plans do not include prescription drug coverage. If you choose Medigap, you’ll need to enroll in a separate Medicare Part D plan for your medications. Starting in 2026, the Inflation Reduction Act caps annual out-of-pocket drug costs at $2,000 under Part D, making this more affordable than in previous years.

What happens to my Medicare Advantage benefits if I move to a new state?

Medicare Advantage plans are tied to local service areas. If you move outside your plan’s area, you’ll qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to choose a new plan. However, the Medicare Advantage plans available to you will change based on your new location. With Medigap + Original Medicare, you have nationwide coverage and moving doesn’t affect your benefits.

Making Your Decision: A Step-by-Step Approach

Assess your health needs. List your current doctors, specialists, prescriptions, and how often you use healthcare services.
Check your doctors. If considering Medicare Advantage, verify that your preferred providers are in the plan’s network.
Run the numbers. Compare total annual costs (premiums + expected out-of-pocket) for both paths based on your typical healthcare usage.
Consider your lifestyle. Travel frequency, desire for provider flexibility, and comfort with network restrictions all matter.
Think long-term. Your health may change. Consider what happens if you need more care in 5 or 10 years.
Get expert guidance. A licensed, independent Medicare broker like The Big 65 can help you compare your specific options without bias toward any single insurance carrier.

With over 20 years of Medicare expertise and licensing across 33 states, Karl Bruns-Kyler and The Big 65 team provide personalized, independent guidance to help you find the right coverage for your unique situation. Whether you’re leaning toward Medicare Advantage or Medigap, having an experienced advisor in your corner can help you avoid costly mistakes and make a confident decision.

You may not need a trainer 🧑‍🏫🏃!

Hello! Plato hopes this blog finds you well, with your Medicare Insurance working and his nickname “Plate” helping with your wordle puzzle clues🧩😂.

Medicare Supplement plans can be switched any month of the year, (if you are in good health). Medicare Advantage or Part D Drug plans can be changed in the fall, from October 15th to December 7th. Please e-mail Gray, Gray@TheBig65.com or book a time on my calendar.

Remember, keep calm and Plato on🐕!

We had a quiet Labor Day Weekend here in Colorado, Quantz caught up on the yard work.

Shava and I focused on the hives. The bees and the queens looked super healthy but we only harvested 30 pounds of honey🍯! Last year, we pulled 160 pounds from the same two hives, five times more than this year😮!

Our care protocols were exactly the same as every year: regular inspections, mite iradication, and proper feeding of the bees🐝. What changed?

The answer, things beyond our control: Mites & viruses, pesticide exposure, habitat loss & monoculture, and extreme weather.

But just because we didn’t get the results we wanted doesn’t mean we are going to give up on good habits (like feeding the hives after we harvest the honey).

And the same message applies to brain health and dementia.

Even though each year is a little tougher than the last, a new JAMA study shows that everyday lifestyle choices — moving your body, eating well, staying social, and challenging your brain — can help protect memory and thinking as we age.

And best of all you don’t have to hire a trainer to get the lion’s share of these benefits. Here are things you need to do.

💪 Move Your Body

30 minutes a day, 5 days this week.
Mix in brisk walking, light strength work (chair squats, wall push-ups), or balance practice (heel-to-toe walk).

Miti, our exchange student, and I helped our neighbors plant trees and bushes. That was a serious workout.

🥗 Eat Brain-Healthy Foods

Add at least one extra serving of leafy greens each day.
Swap butter for olive oil once or twice this week.
Enjoy nuts or beans as a snack or side.

Brad and Chau brought over dinner after we worked in their yard. OK, the s’mores weren’t healthy🤫, but the chicken and the salad were!

🧠 Challenge Your Mind

Do a crossword, puzzle, or memory game 3 times this week.
Try learning one new skill or word.

Our neighbor Tony just bought this sweet ride as his future retirement hobby. Keeping it on the road will definitely be good for his brain!

🤝 Stay Connected

Schedule at least two social moments this week: a phone call, a coffee with a friend, or a group activity.
Bonus: combine with exercise (walk and talk).

Our daughter surprised us with a visit and it was such a delight to see her again and for her to meet Miti.

Of all the habits you can practice, staying connected to the ones you love is the most important of all. Be sure to keep it at the top of your list!

And do keep squeezing the juice🍊 out of life and look for ways to help others.

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
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.

We survived the earthquake 🌍!

Greetings and may this blog find you in amazing health, with your Medicare insurance coverage🏥working well.

Any issues with your Medicare coverage (and the carrier isn’t helping), or you’d like to shop coverage? Email Gray, Gray@TheBig65.com or book a time on my calendar.

Remember to hang up 📞 on the big illegal call centers ⚠️ that try to force the wrong plans on consumers. Always use an independent broker, like The Big 65. That’s why we’re here.

Quantz and I are exploring Istanbul🕌✨, an ancient city where East meets West. It’s a fascinating mix of Europe and Asia and it’s filled with surprises😲.

Like the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest covered markets in the world, thousands of shops selling spices, food, and clothing. You can get lost in this place if you don’t use Google maps.

It’s fun to try new things: mulberries, persimmons, even Turkish delight🍬. Of course Q is way more adventurous then I am, but that’s why we have balance in our relationship…

One explorer and one boring insurance dude to keep things on track.

Istanbul is filled with dogs and cats that roam freely and are fed and housed with public funds.

As long as you see a tag in the dog’s ears, or a clipped spot on the cat’s ears, you know they’ve been vaccinated and protected.

On Thursday, as I was walking to meet a friend for coffee, we experienced a 6.2 magnitude earthquake 🌍 that shook for thirteen seconds.

Thousands of people streamed out of every building but there was no major damage, thank goodness😮‍💨!

As Yusuf and I drank Turkish coffee, every member of his family called him to make sure he was OK.

What a great reminder to live every day as if it is your last.

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

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:

Aging isn’t the problem—losing curiosity is 🧓💭

Greetings and may this note find you in amazing health, with your Medicare insurance coverage🏥working well.

Any issues with your Medicare coverage (and the carrier isn’t helping), or you’d like to shop coverage? Please email Gray, Gray@TheBig65.com or book a time on my calendar.

Well this week, Egypt has been a full-on contrast to our quiet, organized lives back home.

Honestly? It knocked me out of my comfort zone way more than it did Quantz. I guess that’s because she knows how to walk like an Egyptian🌞🐫🤣!

Cairo has more than 22 million people, staggering inflation, it’s surrounded by chaos, there’s constant construction, and super intense heat.

Oh, and did I mention there aren’t ANY traffic lights in Cairo😱?

One of our cab drivers u-turned into three lanes of traffic to find a short cut, it was crazy🚕🙏😩!

And yet… Egypt was exactly what I needed😲?

Yours truly is a Medicare Insurance broker because, just like my German Dad, I DON’T LIKE SURPRISES!

I want everything in order, in writing, the exact opposite of Egypt. Do you see the point?

So it was quite helpful (every time Q reminded me to “lighten up,”), that I had just read Never Play It Safe by Chase Jarvis.

The book is all about seven levers we can pull to live more boldly and creatively—not just on big trips, but in everyday life.

Visiting a new country gave me the perfect chance to practice what I preach.

Naturally, I didn’t “nail” any of these behaviors, but life is all about trying, right? Plus we got to see the oldest coffee house in Egypt, visited by Napoleon and Morgan Freeman 😎.

Attention

The classic saying, where attention goes, energy flows. It’s our most important resource. That’s why the internet is always trying to steal our attention.

Paying attention to the present is a skill I’m still working on, but Egypt gave me a reason to try harder.

Time

The scale of history here is humbling. These pyramids were already ancient when Alexander the Great arrived in 323 BC.

Standing in front of them reminded us how little time we get—and how important it is to stop wasting it on the wrong things.

Intuition

This wasn’t Yelp-approved dining. We followed a smell of roasted meat, made eye contact with the grill-meister, and said yes. It was one of the best meals we had in Egypt, and it was less than 5 bucks.

Sometimes you don’t need a plan—you just need a feeling. Still learning to trust mine more.

Constraints

Jarvis points out that constraints—whether it’s limited time, energy, or resources—can actually push us to be more creative. That hit home in Egypt.

Play

Play doesn’t come naturally when we’re stressed or tired.

Trying to remember: humor connects, lightness heals, and silliness might be the smartest thing we do all day, even if the sandflies are eating you alive.

Failure

We got lost. Took wrong turns. Felt frustrated. But that quiet guard reminded me: failure isn’t the end—it’s just part of the path. As Jarvis says, it’s how we move forward.

Practice

As we get older, it’s easy to slip into routine and stop reaching for what lights us up. Chase Jarvis reminds us that wonder, energy, better relationships with our kids—none of it happens by accident.

If we want more meaning or joy, we have to keep practicing the behaviors that lead us there.

In the end, it’s all about showing up. Egypt reminded me—and Never Play It Safe confirmed it—that we don’t need perfect conditions to live fully.

We’re all still figuring it out. But if we keep showing up, practicing what matters, and being open to surprise…

There’s no telling what we might reel in next, just ask Rich🐟!

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

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:

Think This😃, Not That😫—Make 2025 Your Best Year Yet🫠!

Greetings and may March Madness 🏀 find you in wonderful health with your Medicare insurance🏥working properly😄.

Remember, anytime you see an ad on TV 📺 (or receive an illegal telemarketing call📞) promising a $900 food allowance for Medicare, beware⚠️…

That benefit is ONLY for people on Medicaid with super low incomes.

If your Medicare coverage ISN’T working, or you’d like to shop your coverage, email Gray, Gray@TheBig65.com or book a time on my calendar. We’re here to help you avoid the swamp monsters🐊☣️.

Remember the opening from the Charles Dicken’s book, A Tale of Two Cities?

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times…”

That’s how I felt when Plato and I stumbled upon a herd of one hundred plus Elk 🦌in the park near our house😱.

Fortunately, Plato came running back to me and he didn’t end up getting in big trouble chasing the wildlife🐾😌🙏.

That moment reminded me how much life is shaped by how we choose to respond.

And that’s exactly the idea behind Dr. Josh Axe’s book, Think This, Not That. It’s all about flipping the script—recognizing we can shift our mindset anytime, even when life throws unexpected surprises at us.

As the world continues to spin out of control, this couldn’t be more important. Whether it’s facing health changes, making Medicare decisions, or simply navigating life’s ups and downs, adopting the right mindset can turn “the worst of times” into “the best of times.”

Like when KC decided to try snowboarding…but we took him down the expert side of the mountain😩🙈 (poor guy, he looked like Sasquatch in the snow).

Here are 4 powerful mind shifts from the book that apply to all of us:

1. Think Abundance, Not Scarcity

Too often, we think, “I’m too old to try that” or “It’s too late to change.”

Flip it: There’s still so much time to grow, explore, and live fully.

Try This: Pick one new experience this month—whether it’s a hobby, class, or trip you’ve been putting off. New challenges keep you sharp!

Though we definitely started KC on the wrong side of the mountain🏔️, by the end of the trip, he had learned enough to enjoy the process🏆.

2. Think Confidence, Not Fear

It’s natural to feel uneasy when it comes to health changes, life’s curveballs, or Medicare Choices. But fear keeps us stuck.

Flip it: Replace fear with confidence—remind yourself, “I’ve handled challenges before. I can handle this, too.”

Try This: Take one step toward clarity today—whether it’s scheduling your preventive screenings, facing a challenge, or booking a quick Medicare review with me. Being informed is the fastest path to feeling in control.

Fun fact: After skiing, the left side of the table was drinking wine…for medicinal purposes 🤣 (and sore bodies)🍷!

3. Think Focus🧘, Not Overwhelm

Don’t let everything pile up in your mind.

Flip it: Focus on one small step at a time.

Try This: Set a single wellness goal this week—like a 10-minute walk each day or preparing one healthy meal at home🥗.

Plato told me he felt much more confident about chasing the wild turkeys instead of the Elk, but I kept him on the leash just the same.

4. Think Possibility, Not Limitation

Forget “It’s too late” or “I’m stuck.”

Flip it: Ask yourself, “What’s next for me?”

Try This: Write down a few things you’ve always wanted to do—big or small—and take one step toward making it happen.

My wife Q spent 30 years chained to a corporate desk. When the pandemic hit, and work was miserable, Quantz quit her job and said “we need to change everything.” I still work as much as I ever did, but now, I work virtually. Q has reinvented herself as a traveler and that includes medical missions, like the one she is on in Kenya. Happy wife, happy life!

At the end of the day, it’s all about choosing possibility over limitation. Life’s too short to let fear or doubt hold you back.

Keep asking yourself, “What’s next?”—and take that next step.

Be like my big brother Robert. Despite severing his spinal cord in a bike accident five years ago, he rose from the ashes.

Despite many daily challenges, Robert still practices medicine, plays pickleball, mentors young medical students, and makes the world a better place. He’s the first one to tell you, gettin’ old ain’t for sissies! I am so proud of my brother!

Don’t leave your best song unsung. Your story’s still being written—make it one worth telling.

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

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:

Boring Life😒 or Extraordinary Life😀? The Choice is Yours!

Greetings and may this blog post find you in amazing spirits, ignoring the Medicare scams and with your coverage 🏥working properly😄.

If your Medicare coverage ISN’T working, email Gray, Gray@TheBig65.com or book a time on my calendar.

March is the last month you can make changes on Medicare Advantage plans for 2025.

Look who had a birthday! Plato turned 10 🎂!

We celebrated with fancy dog food and a couple of new toys.

Of course we love our kids but we really love our dogs, right🤣!

It seems like yesterday when Nicholas and I drove to the middle of nowhere Ohio and chose little puppy from the Old Order Mennonite breeder. Now the kids are grown and Plato is an old guy, just like us,😮. As my favorite saying goes:

Gettin’ old ain’t for sissies.

Last week, I shared the Swedish philosophy of Lagom, being content with having just enough.

This week I had the privilege of attending Certified Senior Advisor (& Ted Talk Presenter) Kelly O’Connor’s lecture on “The Longevity Lifestyle: Embrace and Nurture It in Your Life.”

What does it take to live not just a long life, but a great one?

Kelly introduced The Ten Pillars of an Extraordinary Life, key areas that contribute to living longer, healthier, and happier lives:

Kelly shared actionable steps for building a lifestyle that promotes longevity, fulfillment, and overall well-being.

✅ Purpose – A reason to get up in the morning.
✅ Financial Well-Being – Planning ahead ensures security.
✅ Community – Social connections improve health.
✅ Spirituality – Faith, meditation, or reflection bring balance and peace.
✅ Curiosity – Lifelong learning keeps the mind sharp.
✅ Brain Health – Stimulation, diet, and exercise.
✅ Advocacy – Taking charge of your health empowers independence.
✅ Physical Health – Movement, nutrition, and self-care.
✅ Mindset – A positive outlook improves resilience and happiness.
✅ Mental Health – Stress management and self care support a fulfilling life.

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

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

Let’s make sure you have just enough⚖️!

Howdy and may this blog post find you in super health with your Medicare insurance 🏥working properly😄.

Have you seen these totally bogus commercials promising free food cards with an Advantage Plan📺💩😠?

Most of these types of ads offer benefits that are ONLY available to consumers on Medicaid. The ads hold up these food cards as a fishing lure but never mention the fact that you must be on Medicaid to qualify.

Don’t be fooled by these bait and switch techniques!

If you’d like us to review your coverage or if you see a Medicare plan that looks better, email Gray, Gray@TheBig65.com or book a time on my calendar and we will look at it together. Most of the time, we find it’s a scam, but if not, we can help.

Plato just auditioned for Shark Week and he reminds everyone to remember the quote: Never trust a man who says trust me😂.

It’s great to be home in Colorado. We are catching up on the “honey-do” list. Quantz sent out a bunch of honey this week and I’m pleased to report we lost only one hive this winter. We’ll get a new Queen and restart the hive shortly!

If we promised you honey and you didn’t receive it, please send me a note.

If you’d like honey🐝🍯 (while it lasts), you are welcome to write a Google Review or refer a friend. You can also follow our Facebook page and that’ll get you honey as well.

Last week’s snow gave Plato a chance to practice his alpaca imitation. He’s so happy to have us home again.

Dogs are usually content and his consistent happiness made me think of the Swedish philosophy of “lagom,” being content with having just enough.

Life is best enjoyed in balance—not too much, not too little, just enough.

Instead of chasing extremes, why not embrace a lifestyle where everything feels just right? 🌿

Lagom offers a refreshing approach to aging with purpose and contentment. Instead of striving for more or dwelling on what’s lost, it’s about finding joy in what is already enough.

This means maintaining an active lifestyle without overexertion, eating well without strict dieting, and spending wisely while still enjoying life. 🏡

Embracing lagom can lead to a healthier, less stressful retirement—downsizing without deprivation, staying social without overcommitting, and engaging in meaningful activities at a comfortable pace.

We can start by decluttering our homes, simplifying our schedules, and focusing on quality relationships over quantity. By doing “just enough” in every aspect of life, we can cultivate lasting happiness and peace. ✨

My late mother-in-law, Susan, was one of the most important people in my life. She helped others, laughed at everything, and always saw the good in life, never letting the darkness get in her way.

She never stopped moving, never stopped praying; she never stopped. Her life was filled with just enough. I still miss her every day, as do many others❤️.

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

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:

The good old days ain’t what they was😮‍💨, neither are the drug plans💊!

Hello and may this blog find you in great health with your Medicare insurance coverage 🏥 working well😄.

If you’re having issues with your Part D drug coverage or you haven’t received your cards, and you’ve already called the carrier…

Please email Gray, Gray@TheBig65.com or book a time on my calendar. Drug max out of pockets for 2025 are now $2,000 (down from $8,000 in 2024) but they still are challenging.

Remember the good old days? This week, Q and I have been exploring the mountains of Chiapas, one of the poorest and most beautiful states in Mexico.

Chiapa de Corzo is a small village about an hour from San Cristobal. For the past two hundred years, every January, they celebrate “The Great Feast” in honor of three Catholic saints.

The masked dancers, called Parachios, start in the morning and continue all day. It’s an amazing celebration that connects the community to each other and to their beliefs.

To see something so beautiful makes us yearn for simpler times, for the old days, and yet…

The past isn’t as amazing as we think it was. Our memory typically let’s go of the negative memories and tends to remember the positive.

Nostalgia is Widespread

A 2023 Pew survey found that 60% of Americans believe life was better 50 years ago.
Popular culture fuels this nostalgia, with old songs dominating the music market and movies relying heavily on sequels and reboots.

The Reality: Life Has Improved Dramatically

Material Living Standards: Americans today are wealthier, with bigger homes, more cars, and advanced technology.
Education: High school and college graduation rates are significantly higher than in the past.
Global Advances: Extreme poverty has dropped from over 50% of the global population in 1950 to just 10% today, and life expectancy has increased by nearly 30 years.

Why Do We Yearn for the Past?

Shifting Expectations: Progress raises our standards, making us forget past hardships.
Selective Memory: We tend to forget negative events and idealize the positives of the past.
Loss Aversion: Fear of change makes us cling to the familiar, even when the present is objectively better.
Personal Nostalgia: Often, we’re longing for our younger selves, not the past itself.
While challenges exist, the broader trajectory of human history shows progress in health, wealth, and equality. Remembering how far we’ve come can help us appreciate the present and look forward to the future.
Keep squeezing the juice out of life and look for ways to help others!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.

Don’t ever pay…immediately ⚠️!

Hello and may this blog find you in amazing health with your Medicare insurance coverage 🏥 working well.

For Medicare questions or concerns, book a time on my calendar or email Gray, Gray@TheBig65.com if you need us.

If you were driving the backroads of Mexico and you came across a cowboy 🤠 leading his cattle🐄 across the road, you’d slow down, right?

Consider using the same strategy when it comes to paying Medicare medical bills—proceed with caution⚠️.

One Medicare client received a shocking $50,000 hospital bill😱, but after a few calls, it was corrected to less than $1,000. What a difference😌!

To avoid overpaying, separate the forest from the trees.

Here’s what to do:

Review Your Bill Carefully:

Never pay the bill immediately.
Request an itemized statement from your healthcare provider.
Look for duplicate charges, services you didn’t receive, or any unfamiliar billing codes, called CPT codes.

Compare with Your Insurance Coverage:

Cross-check the charges against your Medicare Summary Notice (MSN) or Explanation of Benefits (EOB).
Verify that the services are covered and that the charges align with your plan’s benefits.

Contact Your Healthcare Provider’s Billing Department:

If something doesn’t look right, call the billing department to discuss the charges.
Request a review and ask them to resubmit the claim to Medicare or to your insurance plan if there are errors.

Remember, slowing down to verify your medical bills can save you thousands of dollars. Here’s an article from Medicare. This problem occurs with Medicare Supplements, Medicare Advantage Plans, and Part D Drug Plans. Beware!

If you have questions about Medicare or need assistance navigating your coverage, we are here if you need us.

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

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: