medicare advantage plans Archives

Never go to the doctor alone👨‍⚕️⚠️😬!

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

Last week it was North Carolina🌧️, this week it’s Florida🌪️, what’s next🤪?

Oh yeah, the Annual Election Period starts Tuesday, October 15th 😱! I’ve already spoken with dozens of clients. Some will need to make changes, most won’t😌.

Just remember to IGNORE the telemarketers📞⚠️☠️ and the misleading TV ads. They’re like racoons, if you feed them, you’ll be sorry🦝!

Here’s the deal:

If your drugs 💊 and doctors👨‍⚕️ have changed significantly🔄…
If your plan is ending or the premiums have gone way up 💲…
If you’re unsure your coverage📄is still meeting your needs🤔…

Then please book a time on my calendar here 🗓️.

If you are an existing client, there’s no need to fill out a new drug list.

Gray will reach out and update your medications and doctors before we speak. If you can’t find a time that works, email Gray@thebig65.com and he will get you on my calendar 🗓️.

Plato says thank you SO MUCH❤️ to clients Jean, Cindy J, Claire, Maryellen, Annette, Karen, Wietze, Carol G, Bill J, Robyn, Lisa, Elizabeth, Robert, and Terrye for the 5 Star Google reviews that took us to over 300 reviews🎉!

Small honey bears from our hive🍯will go out next week when my wife Q gets home from her adventures in Belgium. Yes indeed, Quantz may actually be coming home🤞.

If you’d like a small honey bear🍯🐻(smaller than neighbor Ed’s) from my bees, please post a Google Review with this link IF you’ve been happy with our service.

If you don’t have a Gmail account, you can leave a review on Facebook. That’ll be good for a honey🍯🐻as well. If you already posted a review on the Facebook Big 65 page, please reply to this email and you’ll get your honey, honey😂🤣!

Now the important message: Why you should never go to to the doctor👨‍⚕️alone!

(or take an ice bath❄️🛁 at 43 degrees without your Doodle nearby!)

It’s always better to have someone with you at the doctor’s office.

A spouse or a friend can help you remember things and provide support.

Be sure to get the doctor to look you in the eye👁️ and always ask the question:

“Doc, what would YOU do in this situation? If I was your Mom/Dad what would you recommend?”

Doctor visits can be overwhelming. A friend or family member can:

Take Notes: They can jot down what’s important so you don’t have to worry about missing anything.
Ask Questions: Sometimes they’ll think of things you didn’t.
Offer Support: If you’re feeling nervous or unsure, having someone there can help.

If someone goes with you, when you get home you can reprocess the information and reduce the chances of making a mistake. Don’t be like this prairie dog and stick your head in the ground. It’s a good thing to ask for help!

Here are some apps on your phone you might consider downloading and using:

Otter.ai: Records and transcribes your appointment so you can listen back later.
MyChart: Lets you access your medical records and test results anytime.
Google Keep: A simple way to take notes and track questions.
CareClinic: Helps you keep track of meds, symptoms, and appointments.

If you have to go alone (or even if someone comes with you), let technology be your friend!

Never underestimate the value of support during a medical appointment. A second set of ears or a bit of technology will increase your chances of making good decisions.

Support includes face timing with the people you love, like little Greta, the daughter of one of our exchange students from Germany. Grand varmints, life’s great joy ❤️!

Speaking of good decisions, I think my brother Robert made a great one… spending time with his granddaughter Nel in New York City. Enjoy the Big Apple brother (and please send me a bagel)🥯.

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.

AEP Countdown: Are You Ready 😛?

Greetings and may this blog find you in amazing health 💪 with your Medicare insurance coverage 🏥 working properly. Big prayers 🙏 to everyone in North Carolina experiencing the floods.

Remember, the Annual Election Period doesn’t begin until October 15th. Please don’t book a time BEFORE October 15th. Otherwise, Quantz and her friends in Ethiopia will be very put out.

You should have received our letter and the QR code on a jar opener like this to book a time for after October 15th. Here’s the link just in case.

If you’d like a small jar of honey🍯(smaller than Emerson’s cause he gets our mail), anyone with a Gmail address who writes a Google review with this link will get a jar. We have 297 and we’re trying to break 300 reviews!

If you don’t have a Gmail account, please leave a review on Facebook. That’ll be good for a jar of honey🍯 as well.

If you’ve already booked a time, Gray, Gray@TheBig65.com, or I will be calling to update your drugs and perhaps reschedule for later in October.

Don’t worry, we won’t give you any lip if you booked early😂.

From October 15th till December 7th, my mission is to get you out of any tight spots if:

Your plan was dropped😱.
Your drugs changed 💊.
Plan premiums went up 💵.
You’ve added or changed doctors👩‍⚕️.
You would like to make sure everything is ok 😬.

Here is my motto for the Annual Election Period:

I suspect Art and Esther’s new 5 month old Red Labrador Ruby will be well taken care of, too. Hopefully their Boxer Stella is on board with the project.

For those of you who are curious, Q did make it successfully out of Africa.

She had the trip of a lifetime, seeing extraordinary religious festivals like Meskel, commemorating the discovery of the Cross by Empress Helena (Constantine’s mother) in the 4th century. Ethiopia is a very religious country.

Q visited many different tribes and saw coming of age rituals (like this boy becoming a man jumping over the six white bulls).

I was tempted to join her in Madagascar and Ethiopia but even though Gray is available…

As your broker, I will only visit countries with excellent internet 💻📱so that you can always get a hold of me if you need me.

But after seven weeks apart, I couldn’t take it any more so…

I surprised her for a few days in this European capital famous for Mermaids…

Viking ships…

And excellent internet (which I used into the wee hours every night I was here). By the time you read this…I’ll already be back in Denver, ready for the busy season.

And though I’m back home, ready to catch up with everyone who needs me, Q is still exploring. She’s the one who inspired the motto at the end of every newsletter. That’s why I love her❤️.

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:

An apple a day ain’t a bad idea

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

The Annual Election Period is under three weeks away. Part D drugs are going to be a pain in the… see Q’s friend below.

Fancy/schmancy drugs are going to require your attention👁️!

Have you received the Annual Notice of Changes by email or mail? Please take a moment to review it.

Some Medicare Advantage Plans and Part D Plans will have changes to premiums and drug tiers, while others will stay the same or be discontinued.

For some, no action is needed, others may need to make changes. Hopefully, we won’t need a priest!

October 14th till December 7th, that’s when we can understand and change coverage.

Please book a time on my calendar if you need me.

If we have your drug list, don’t fill out a new one, please email Gray@TheBig65.com an updated list.

You should receive a jar opener and a letter next week.

ANYONE calling without your permission is an illegal telemarketer🚫🤥📱. Watch out for Medicare scammers like these baboons. Took us all week to get Bob’s scammer’s mistakes resolved.

Yeah, it’s true, Medicare and Elections are a pain in the … but, let’s not forget all we have to be thankful for.

Props to Bill in Durango for guessing my wife Q’s current country, Ethiopia.

Last week, rebels captured the UNESCO castles near Gondar and Q was forced to return to Addis Ababa.

Good news, the rebels retreated, the army regained control, and Q was able to make new friends and see the castles.

See all the other tourists? That’s because there aren’t any. Q was the only non soldier at her hotel.

Imagine if you were living in a civil war?

America is imperfect at best and it is still the most amazing country. As an old classmate’s Lebanese grandfather said, “the US is the land of milk and honey.”

Our home is the land of one gallon of milk and one hundred sixty four pounds of honey🍯from our two hives🐝. Last year, we harvested sixty eight. Plato was proud.

Neighbor Jeff’s been out of our honey for a while. He likes to put it in his oatmeal in the winter.

According to our bees, it’s gonna be a hard winter in Colorado.

Of course we can’t live on honey alone. Fortunately, there are other superfoods in the kitchen🍎.

Here are highlights of a recent article on apples and Plato hopes you wait for it.

Good for Your Gut: Apples are full of fiber, feeding healthy bacteria, the microbiome. These bacteria can improve your health, lowering cancer risk and boosting mood.

Coffee is packed with antioxidants and can boost heart health, improve mood, and even lower the risk of certain diseases. Why not coffee and apples?

Heart Helpers: Apples have a fiber called pectin that can lower cholesterol. One study showed eating apples every day dropped bad LDL cholesterol! Apples also have polyphenols that help lower blood pressure.

Fight Inflammation: Apples reduce inflammation, lowering the risk of diseases like COPD. Even eating half an apple a day can make a difference!

I’m guessing the original stone masons suffered from a lot of inflammation. This is Lalibela, home to the largest monolithic church in the world, a series of five interconnected churches carved from solid rock in the twelfth and thirteenth century.

Don’t Skip the Skin: The apple’s skin has most of the fiber and health-boosting polyphenols. Darker apples usually have more, but try different varieties for the best benefits!

And do try to buy your produce at a local farmer’s market.

Regardless of where you buy, wash all fruits and vegetables with baking soda.

So despite all the noise here and abroad, remember…

We do live in the land of milk and honey…and apples. Give thanks, help others.

There is no “them” there is only us.

And Happy Anniversary 🎉❤️🥂 to Becky and Joe, 36 and counting…well done!

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:

Here’s a preventive screening most folks forget about

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

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

We’re just weeks away from the Annual Election Period. Keep an eye on your mailbox for a letter from me at the end of the month.

ANYONE calling without your permission is an illegal telemarketer 🚫🤥📱. Watch out for Medicare scammers.

This week I spoke with a guy in Michigan. An agent LIED to him and now he’s in a tight spot 😱😡. I’m hoping we can fix his situation, but DON’T let this happen to you, OK?

The last thing you want is to have your feet swept out from underneath you and no recourse.

These are my legs during an exercise class at Red Rocks Amphitheater last Saturday. My wife Q signed me up for the cardio class and I almost coughed up a lung (thanks honey❤️).

As your Medicare insurance broker, you’ve inspired me to stay in peak health. Really truly, I work out daily, eat well, stay connected to family, practice gratitude, and do my best to learn something new every day.

This week I learned something from my amazing brother, Dr. Robert Kyler (seen here with his daughter Jordan). He’s a Radiation Oncologist in Virginia and he asked me to share this with all my Medicare insurance clients.

Getting regular lung cancer screenings for those at risk can make all the difference in the world.

Did you know that lung cancer is often diagnosed too late? According to the American Lung Association, only about 26% of lung cancers are found in the early stages. According to Robert, that’s when treatment is most effective.

For high-risk groups—like long-term smokers between 50 and 80—regular lung cancer screening can make all the difference.

Fortunately, my little brother Haas is addicted to trout fishing🐟, not tobacco🚬😂🚭.

Low-dose CT scans (LDCT) are key, reducing lung cancer deaths by up to 20%. The best part? Many of you may qualify for free annual screenings through your Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage plan.

If you or someone you know has a history of smoking, or being around second hand smoke, it’s worth chatting with your doctor about getting screened. It’s painless, takes only a few minutes, and could catch something before it becomes serious.

Remember, Medicare often covers these screenings, so there’s no reason to delay! Early detection is vital, and it could save your life. Like Adrienne, there may be people and doodles, like Winston, counting on you.

For those of you who are curious, my wife Quantz left Madagascar and is now exploring her 81st country. She had to force this street vendor to smile. She was the only tourist.

Why was she the ONLY tourist? That’s because Q arrived in the capital city of this civil war torn country despite my protests. She is a very independent woman.

The people in this country are very religious and they have 180 mandatory fasting days for lay people, and up to 252 days of fasting for the clergy and the particularly observant. Fasting may keep you healthy but it doesn’t sound like fun!

This country has one lake that is a source of the Nile. While travelling to visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site castle, she and her guide were stopped by government soldiers and told to return to the capital immediately. Apparently the area she was planning to visit had been taken over by a rebel army.

Me, I would’ve turned tail and like this monkey – split! Q just pivoted and went to another part of the country that is, hopefully, a little more stable.

Can you guess where she is? The first three correct answers will get a Starbucks card, (new winners only, please).

Meanwhile, Plato and I are back home, working with clients and hanging out at the Bark Park. We ran into an old friend, Phyllis. I admire Phyllis so much because she personifies my favorite saying: gettin’ old ain’t for sissies.

Despite challenges, Phyllis keeps going and still visits the dog park, long after her favorite pet has passed. Plato is always glad to see her. Never stop, never give up, always keep going!

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:

It’s time to sharpen that saw

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

We’re four weeks away from the Annual Election Period. If you want to know how to get ready, check out this link. Just remember to avoid all the illegal telemarketers.

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

In the meantime, Plato is loving the autumn weather here in Colorado: sunny, cool and delightful. He never met a patch of grass that he didn’t love.

My wife Q is still in Madagascar, making as many new friends as possible and seeing as much she can.

She’s the most adventurous person I know and that’s what I love about her. Travel is a great way to keep your mind sharp.

Seeing new things, getting out of your comfort zone, and experiencing different cultures are great ways to grow new synapses.

As we age, it becomes increasingly important to maintain our physical and our mental well-being. Of course you can travel and play with spiders if you want.

Fortunately, there are lots of small, daily habits we can do at home that will make a big difference in how well your brain functions.

Here are some easy ways to keep our minds active and healthy. And don’t worry, they don’t include public speaking to 150 retirees like I did this week in Highlands Ranch!

Exercise Your Brain with Puzzles

Puzzles are a fantastic way to engage the mind. Whether it’s a crossword, Sudoku, a jigsaw puzzle, or Wordle, these activities challenge your brain by stretching your memory and problem-solving skills.

Of course you can do puzzles on your phone, but don’t discount the neuro-cognitive value of doing puzzles with pen and paper.

Here’s a puzzle for you: why did I spend $20 on fox urine to try to protect my 5 peaches from the local racoons? Of course the racoons ate four of them. That makes this a $20 dollar peach😳!

Stick to a Consistent Sleep Schedule

Good sleep is essential for a healthy mind and one of the greatest ways to protect our brains. Maintaining a consistent sleep routine allows your brain to rest and rejuvenate. Everyone’s sleep needs vary, but if you often feel tired or sluggish, it may be a sign that you need to improve your sleep habits.

I’m a big believer in the coffee nap: if you’re feeling tired in the early afternoon, down a cup of joe, set timer for 20 minutes, cover your eyes and snooze. The alarm will ring just as the caffeine is kicking in.

Studies have shown that regular short naps can reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.

Plato thinks paddleboarding reduces the risk of having to walk too much😉. After feeding him on the paddleboard all last week, I’m happy to report he jumped right on!

I fell in twice, he never left the board. Turns out you can teach old dogs new tricks.

Stay Social and Connect with Others

You know I’m a broken record but human connection is vital for brain health.

Regular social interactions can help prevent cognitive decline. Simple activities like a quick phone call, video chat, or an in-person meet-up can boost your mental well-being.

Plato and I got a surprise visit from our daughter Sus and it sure brightened up a quiet weekend. If nobody’s visiting you, go say hello to a neighbor. You’ll be glad you did. Sus is testing out The Big 65 jar openers you’ll be receiving at the end of this month.

Of course it’s challenging to get out, especially for those with mobility issues, but technology makes it easier than ever to stay connected. Set aside time to catch up with family or friends a few times a week—these conversations not only brighten your day but also stimulate your brain.

I try to get on facetime with my brothers at least once a week. My brother Rabbit sometimes gripes that l call too much. Hey, that’s just the way I roll. What can I say. I love my brothers and I will never take them for granted. Who do you need to call?

Explore New Experiences for Sensory Stimulation

Engaging all your senses is another way to keep your mind sharp. This could be something as simple as trying a new recipe, attending a local event, or taking up a new hobby like painting or gardening. By exposing yourself to new sights, sounds, and experiences, you’re stimulating different parts of your brain.

This week, my friend Shava helped me harvest the beehives under our grape vines. The Japanese beetles and the raccoons harvested most of the grapes🦝😡!

Shava is a professional beekeeper and she was pretty excited about the flavor of our honey. It’s getting bottled and now we’re getting the bees ready for winter.

Maintaining a sharp mind as you age doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. By incorporating simple habits—puzzles, good sleep, socializing, and new experiences—you can keep your brain engaged and functioning well for years to come.

Plato said he would like to have a new sensory experience with honeycombs, but he knows better, right Plato? If Plato doesn’t eat all the honey, I promise to share a few bottles.

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:

Get ready for the (Medicare) Fall

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

Q sends her greetings from Madagascar where she’s still exploring and making up for thirty plus years of working way too hard. Me? I am happily back home getting ready for the busy season, yikes!

We’re five weeks away from the Annual Election Period and I’m starting to feel a little bit like how this chameleon looks.

Changes are definitely coming. Even this lemur is curious.

If you have a Medicare Supplement (plan G, plan N, etc.), the changes will not be significant. If you’ve been in your plan for more than two years, and you are in decent health, it’s probably a good idea for us to shop the rates.

Medigap/Medicare Supplemental plans can be shopped any month of the year, so feel free to book a time in September if you like.

If you have a Part D drug plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan, here’s what to do to prevent sticker shock in January.

When “the Annual Notice of Changes” arrives, please open it and look at the costs, the benefits, and your drugs.

Reading through the changes will take less time than it took me to refinish these barrels (Plato refused to help).

Some Part D drug plans and some specific Medicare Advantage plans may be going away entirely😱 .

Some plans may have significant price increases 😡.

Some drugs may no longer be covered 😨.

Some drugs may be less expensive😊.

Some people won’t need to make any changes at all.

Please don’t stick out your tongue and forget about it.

If we’ve been working together, then I have a copy of your medications and your doctors.

You’ll get a letter from me at the end of the month telling you it’s time for us to chat, including this fancy schmancy jar opener/mouse pad.

After you book an appointment, please email Gray, Gray@TheBig65.com, and tell him you would like to update your medications before we speak.

Gray will send you a link with your current medications. You can update them yourself or chat with him on the phone and he will help you. October 15th till December 7th is when we can make changes.

Jeanne and Vincent should be back from their adventures in Scotland by then and I’ll have plenty of slots open if we need to speak.

Q tells me she should be home by then… assuming she learns how to cook onions, cassava, and salt.

Congrats Jim in Illinois, Betsy in Denver, Louie in Pennsylvania for guessing the mountains in this picture. The answer is Maroon Bells.

Thanks again to client Mike in Atlanta for the painting. He is getting a Starbucks card as well!

This week’s “don’t be a hero” award goes to neighbor John. John is one of the amazing guys who never stops hustling. Though retired, he still teaches part time, travels, has a yard way nicer than mine, and he loves to play pickleball.

That’s what got him in trouble…trying a little too hard to make the point… and then continuing to play after he was injured. The good news, he is definitely on the mend.

Everyone, repeat after John, “don’t be a hero ‍⚕️😊🎾👨‍⚕️!”

We got great news from our Air Force son in Britain. Knock on wood, come December, he’ll be deployed in Italy. We’re very proud of this young rascal and we can’t wait to visit. You know we love to travel.

In the meantime, Plato and I have decided to learn a new hobby, paddleboarding. Don’t worry, we’ll do our best not to be heroes.

Plato is a rule follower and he was exhausted after sanding the barrels.

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:

Wanna reduce your risk of dementia?

Greetings and may this blog find you in amazing health 💪 with your Medicare insurance coverage 🏥 working properly this Labor Day Weekend. I sure hope you get outside and enjoy the last days of summer with family and friends.

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

Well, yours truly is happy as a clam to be home again and working from my office. Special thanks to client Mike for painting this portrait of Plato and me and the beautiful mountains of Colorado.

Starbucks cards for the first three people to name the mountains in the picture.

Of course my wife Q isn’t back home yet. She’s still exploring the wilds of Madagascar and having the adventure of her life. I’m fairly certain she’ll be coming home… eventually, right Quantz 🙏❤️?

She’s still making up for thirty plus years at a desk and she’s earned every moment of this journey. As Wayne Dyer used to say, “don’t die with the music inside.”

For each of us, living an authentic life has a different definition. For Plato, it’s chasing the squirrels and the racoons (and hopefully protecting the five remaining peaches) and snuggling as much as possible.

For me, it’s all about staying connected to family, friends, and clients. It’s also about spending time outside, drinking coffee in the back yard, and preparing to harvest the honey and the grapes.

Whatever a meaningful life means to you, I haven’t spoken with anyone yet who wants dementia to be part of the equation. We can’t control all of the risk factors leading to dementia, but…

Current research shows that there are several effective strategies to reduce the risks of cognitive decline. That means we have some control over the speed of decline and the quality of our lives.

Here’s a breakdown of the key findings and actionable steps we can take to maintain cognitive health.

Physical Activity: Regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to prevent cognitive decline. It improves blood flow to the brain, reduces the risk of cardiovascular issues, and helps maintain overall brain health.

You don’t have to climb a mountain to see the sunset, but a walk around the block is easy and you never know who you’ll meet on the way.

Mental Stimulation: Keeping your brain active through learning, puzzles, reading, or engaging in new hobbies can help build cognitive reserve, which protects against dementia.

Q told me the animal below is called a fossa. It’s only found in Madagascar, a cross between a mongoose and a cat and it hunts lemurs. Do you think it’d keep the squirrels out of my backyard?

Social Interaction: Staying socially engaged helps reduce stress, fosters mental health, and keeps your brain active.

The more time we are isolated from others, the more brittle we become. Connecting with others through church, volunteering, family time, or travel rewires the brain and creates new neural pathways. Remarkably neuroplasticity can continue as we age if we find opportunities to stay connected.

Healthy Diet: A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats (like the Mediterranean diet) supports brain health.

I’m fairly certain my little brother Haas released this fish back to the river, but he eats a super healthy diet based on the food he catches and the plants he grows on his farm.

Here’s my favorite breakfast: black coffee, a slice of Dave’s bread with avocado, and a few pecans and avocados. You’re gonna laugh at this, but I chose to give up honey (for a while) because my triglycerides shot up this year.

Oh well, we’ll see if a few months of a sugar free diet changes the numbers, keep your fingers crossed. I guess that means I’ll have more honey for you guys!

Sleep: Quality sleep is crucial for brain health. It allows the brain to clear out toxins that accumulate during the day.

Are you doing everything you can to get a good night’s sleep? Here’s an article on cognitive shuffling, a technique that has proven very effective in helping people sleep.

Of course you could do what Brian and Denise do: they take sleep lessons from Miles. Now that’s a cute dog!

Stress Management: Chronic stress can damage the brain. Techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and yoga can help reduce stress.

Another great way to reduce stress is to be like Mark and go fishing with your buddies. These fellas hit their limit of Redfish in Matagorda Bay. Looks like good times to me.

Avoiding Tobacco and Excessive Alcohol: Smoking and heavy drinking are linked to a higher risk of dementia. The saddest news is that even one drink a day causes brain atrophy 😔🍷. Just remember my father’s favorite saying: everything in moderation, even moderation.

Regular Health Check-ups: Managing conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol can reduce dementia risk. Leverage the benefits in your Medicare Supplement plans and in your Medicare Advantage plans. That’s why we have them.

We don’t have to be perfect, we just have to try to do our best.

Take it from our son, Airman Nicholas: small improvements over a long period of a time will make a huge difference.

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:

Protect Your Identity with These Simple Steps

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

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

The country of Georgia is the birthplace of wine 🍾 and this wine jar is 8,000 years old, making it the oldest known wine jar in the world.

You may want to grab a glass of 🍷, a seat, and a notepad before we talk about today’s topic.

As a Certified Senior Advisor who helps consumers shop for Medicare Supplements, Medicare Advantage Plans, and other types of insurance coverage, I have a fiduciary responsibility to help you avoid irreversible mistakes.

Earlier this week, the breach of National Public Data was reported. Hackers potentially accessed the personal information of millions, including Social Security numbers 😱.

While the details are still murky, one thing is clear: we need to stay vigilant about protecting our credit and personal information.

Now before you follow Frank Sinatra’s advice about a second glass below, here are some practical ideas on how to protect your data and how to make sure this breach doesn’t cause you a financial hangover‍ 😵‍💫💸.

First off, take a deep breath 😮‍💨🧘‍♂️.

Not every piece of stolen data gets used. Sometimes, it just sits in the hands of thieves who don’t know what to do with it. But it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Here’s something you can do immediately to protect your finances.

Freeze Your Credit

One of the best defenses against identity theft is to freeze your credit with the big three credit reporting agencies:

Equifax: Visit www.equifax.com or call 1-800-685-1111.
Experian: Go to www.experian.com or call 1-888-397-3742.
TransUnion: Access www.transunion.com or call 1-888-909-8872.

Each website provides detailed instructions for managing your credit, including how to freeze or unfreeze your credit reports.

This stops anyone from opening new accounts in your name without your permission. Just don’t forget your PINs for thawing your credit when you need to open a new account!

(We met Donnie and Linda in Tbilisi, Georgia on the last day of their trip. Their daughter and her new husband had their wedding in the mountains of Georgia, near Russia. These two are adventurous!)

Additional Steps to Protect Yourself

Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your online accounts.

Set Up Account Alerts: Keep tabs on any suspicious activity by setting alerts for charges outside your home country or transactions over a certain amount.

Watch Out for Phishing Scams: If you get an alert, avoid clicking links or calling numbers provided. Instead, log into your account directly to check for issues.

It’s a bit of a hassle, but it may be worth the peace of mind.

Commercial Tools to Consider

If you want even more protection, consider investing in tools like:

Identity Theft Protection Services (e.g., LifeLock, IdentityForce) that offer monitoring and recovery services.

Credit Monitoring Services (e.g., Credit Karma, Experian) to keep an eye on your credit report for any unusual activity.

Just like Q’s salad, you don’t have to take these steps, but they are options 😂.

While we can’t always prevent these breaches, we can make it as difficult as possible for thieves to mess with our lives.

The key to life is NOT what happens to us but how we choose to respond. Be like Becky and go pick some blueberries in Michigan. They are great for the brain and being outside is good for the soul.

My brother’s neighbor adopted a pair of orphaned opossums. Hopefully my wife Q doesn’t volunteer to rescue them. Our dog Plato would be totally jealous.

We had wonderful adventure this summer exploring the world, but yours truly is ready to get home. The Annual Election Period is now eight weeks away and I have to get ready for the Medicare madness 🤪.

Based on my certification trainings, there may be significant changes to Part D drug plans and Medicare Advantage plans for 2025. Keep an eye out for the “Annual Notice of Changes” you should be receiving in late September.

If you’ve had changes in medications or your doctors, please update them with Gray, Gray@TheBig65.com. That way, we’ll be ready if we need to review your coverage in the fall.

I can’t wait to get home, but Q, the love of my life, isn’t quite ready. She still has to make up for her thirty years of corporate slavery. Georgia was her 79th country. That’s why she said “goodbye” to me on Monday .

Bet you can’t guess where she’s goin’ next?

The first five people who guess right get a Starbucks card☕(hint: they have lousy Wi-Fi so I couldn’t go!). You can guess up to three countries to make it easier! I’ll be at home playing with Plato and my bees❤️. Let me know if you need me.

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:

Do you really need that preventive screening?

As they say in Georgia, გამარჯობა gamarjoba. May this blog find you in amazing health 💪 with your Medicare insurance coverage 🏥 working properly.

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

No, my wife Q and I are not in Atlanta. Instead, I’m working from Tbilisi, Georgia, the oldest Christian country in the world, half way round the world.

Here in Liberty Square, there used to be a statue of Lenin. When the people threw off the communist yolk, the citizens replaced him with a statue of St. George (and the Dragon), the patron saint of the nation.

Georgians trace their lineage back to Kartlos, who is considered a great-grandson of Noah. It’s a fascinating place.

So after helping Medicare clients all over the US, I then love to walk this 1,600 year old city late at night in search of local food, like this khachapuri, cheese bread, yummy and inexpensive.

If you ever see a Georgian restaurant or food truck, try the khinkali, soup filled meat dumplings that are addictive and delicious.

What surprised us most about Tbilisi? The food️ 🍽️, the wine 🍷, the buildings️ 🏛️?

Actually, it was all the well-kept street dogs 🐶😲! Even on the Peace Bridge in the middle of the night, the dogs were everywhere.

This is so different from the way we keep our dogs in the US. See Stevie below, the amazing rescue Huskey who loves to watch TV animal shows (and is spoiled by clients’ Ron and Karen in northern California).

These Georgia dogs (not to be confused with my Georgia College football Bulldawgs in Athens) live outside on the streets as protected mascots of the city.

They are chipped, spayed, or neutered, and receive food, vet care, and vaccinations to keep them healthy.

Which brings us to today’s topic: preventive health screenings.

Whether you have a Medicare Supplement or a Medicare Advantage Plan, preventive health screenings are an essential part of wellness.

Appropriate preventive screenings track health risks, manage chronic health issues, and reduce the risk of an acute visit to the Emergency Room.

That’s the upside of preventive screenings. A recent article questions whether American health consumers are being screened too often for certain cancers.

In 2021, the United States spent $43 billion on screening for five types of cancer—breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, and prostate—according to a study published in The Annals of Internal Medicine. This figure represents a significant portion of the annual expenditure on cancer care, which likely exceeds $250 billion.

Colonoscopies, my least favorite procedure, account for 55% of the total screening expenditures.

This dog, next to Q, slept like a rock, until lunch was served, then suddenly he was awake. Coincidence?

Despite the high costs of screenings, experts argue colonoscopies are valuable as they can both detect and prevent cancer by allowing surgeons to act quickly.

These old stairs in the back streets of Tbilisi made me think of a colonoscopy or maybe an Escher drawing! Better be friends with your neighbors here.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force supports screening for four of the five cancers studied, particularly highlighting its effectiveness for cervical and colorectal cancer. However, the benefits for prostate cancer remain inconclusive, and the task force is currently updating its guidelines.

As a Medicare Insurance broker, I hear from you daily on the successes and the frustrations of navigating the healthcare system. It’s challenging to know the right thing to do, isn’t it?

Perhaps some contemplation and prayer in the Sioni Cathedral, built in the 7th century? It certainly couldn’t hurt.

Now, experts are advocating for a more nuanced discussion on the true value of cancer screening.

While screening does have benefits, its impact on overall mortality is often modest, suggesting that other factors, such as improved treatments and lifestyle changes, also play crucial roles in reducing cancer death rates.

So what should we do as consumers when it comes to preventive screening?

Well, you could ask our tour guide Giorgi (one out of every 12 Georgian men is named Giorgi!), but I don’t think he would know. Here’s our advice:

The next time you get a notification to have a preventive screening, talk to your doctor.

If you’re in an actual appointment, get your healthcare practitioner to look up from his or her dadburn screen and say:

“Hey Doc, if you were in my situation, or, if it was your mom or dad in this situation, would you have them complete this preventive screening? What would you do, really?”

You might be surprised by their response. The bottom line: every Medicare consumer needs to self advocate. Challenge the system and ask good questions. Don’t be shy. Get your provider to slow down and treat you like a human.

That’s how the Georgians threw off the commies (maybe not exactly, but you get my drift). I’m rooting for them and their freedom and you know I’m rooting for you and your health!

In the meantime, wake up and smell the flowers, life is short!

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:

Do you know what it takes to live to 100?

Hello 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.

Long time clients (and friends) Jack and Adrienne shared this amazing picture celebrating Jack’s mom Bonnie’s 100th Birthday 🎂🎉. Adrienne’s mom lived happily and well into her nineties so Jack and Adrienne have great role models!

Ever wonder what it takes to reach that magical milestone of 100 years? It’s not just about good genes or luck (of course they help). Let’s dive in to fun and practical tips to help us live well and perhaps make it to that centennial birthday.

Stay Active and Engaged

First things first – keep moving! Whether it’s a morning walk, gardening, or joining a pickleball league, staying active is crucial. The Big 65 recently sponsored a tournament in Columbus, Ohio. I hear from clients across the country how much they enjoy the game. I’m pleased to say David and Pam attended and participated.

Pam is actually a professional pickleball player and instructor. This woman is so fit she may never die 😊.

Regular physical activity helps maintain mobility, balance, and overall health. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to socialize.

Stay Connected

Maintain strong social ties. Family, friends, community groups—these connections keep us happy and grounded. I ran into Bill at Home Depot and just by reconnecting and saying hello, both of us felt better.

And if you enjoy traveling like my wife and I do, use it as an opportunity to meet new people and experience new things.

Last weekend, we attended a Bourbon and Bacon festival with Susanna and her boyfriend. All three of them practiced moderation, but I was a bit of a pig 🐷😂.

It was great to spend time with Sus and KC and while we were in the mountains, we discovered the world’s first aqua doodle 🐩💧, good old Plato!

Find Joy in the Little Things

Take time to enjoy the simple pleasures in life: a cup of coffee at a cozy café, a walk through town, or a quiet moment in your garden. These small moments add up to a fulfilling life.

Carmen has two beautiful grandchildren who live overseas. She recently celebrated the arrival of her first grand dog, Jamie. AFTER puppies are potty trained, THEN they reduce the blood pressure, right Carmen?

Regular Check ups

Stay on top of your health with regular check-ups. Early detection of potential issues can make a big difference. And of course, make sure your Medicare coverage is up to date to avoid any surprises. Preventive health checks are the most important thing we can do to maintain good health.

Living to 100 isn’t just about the years in your life but the life in your years. Embrace these tips, stay vibrant, and here’s to a long, healthy, and joyful journey ahead!

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: