Plato has a bone to pick with you!

With Spring just round the corner, we hope this finds you in good health with your Medicare Insurance working properly. 

Plato chews on a bone with Karl Bruns-Kyler of The Big 65.

Of course Plato doesn’t have a bone to pick with you, but today I want to re-emphasize the importance of hyper vigilance to protect your identity and your money from scammers.

According to the Federal Trade Commission, imposter scams netted over 2.6 BILLION in 2022 (and that’s just what was reported!)

Examples of family emergency scam_from The Big 65.

We all like to think we’ll act rationally and sniff out an imposter in the classic “family emergency scheme,” but the scams are getting better and better, and some of the new AI technology can imitate family voices (see link).

Nicholas and Plato together in Colorado.

One of the most common features of aging is that we become more trusting as we age and though imposter scams occurred more often to people under thirty, people over 60 were scammed out of much larger sums of money ☹!

So, remember to be careful and deliberate before responding!

Luke senior holding a cane.

Yesterday would have been my best friend’s dad’s 90th birthday.

You can tell from the picture that Luke Senior was quite a character, a dentist and a barn painter, and overall troublemaker, still climbing ladders well into his eighties. He sure is missed by everyone who loved him.

Tina celebrating her mother Marie's 90th birthday.

Meanwhile in Arizona, close friend Tina celebrated her mother Marie’s 90th birthday with her daughter Mandy. You just can’t take moments like these for granted. When was the last time you reached out to a family member?

Bruns-Kyler Family enjoying a meal together in Colorado.

Here in Colorado, we enjoyed our first meal together as a family in over two years.

Yours truly rustled up crepes and bacon as the Bruns Kyler family took great pleasure in the simple ritual of a breakfast around the kitchen table, the most sacred place in our home. Who knows when that will happen again?

Karl Bruns-Kyler and Nicholas at the airport_The Big 65.

Of course our Air Force son’s leave had to come to an end… I drove him to the airport last night so he could go back overseas. Sunglasses hid the sadness, we’re sure gonna miss this goofball!

Please keep him and ALL our soldiers in your prayers!

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

And, if you are having Medicare questions or problems, email Gray, Gray@thebig65.com, or just book a time on my calendar.

We are here if you need us.

Let me know what’s going on your life, please send pictures for the newsletter, and remember…

Referrals are the lifeblood of my business!

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


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

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

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

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

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

The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Broker logo

Watch out for aggressive medical care

Karl Bruns-Kyler of The Big 65 is a Medicare insurance broker.  In this week’s blog, Karl shares the following warning:  Watch out for aggressive medical care. 

But first, may this note find you and your family in good health with your Medicare Insurance working properly.

Plato sure is glad to have everyone home even though he got spoiled while we were away.

Karl Bruns-Kyler of The Big 65 is a Medicare insurance broker watches Plato and Nicholas in Colorado.

But that’s the whole point of pets, right?  To give and get as much love as possible.

Plato is happy we are home and shouting at the squirrels.

Plato shouting at squirrels in Colorado.

At an insurance workshop this week, a colleague brought this article to my attention, and it is definitely worth a read.

Karl Bruns-Kyler of The Big 65 at insurance conference in Colorado.

According to the article, with alarming frequency, many seniors are encouraged to accept “aggressive end of life care” which may not be appropriate and will often cause individuals to live out their final moments in hospitals away from their loved ones or with poor quality of life.

Sus and Plato relaxing in Colorado living room.

“Although studies repeatedly show that most patients want to die at home, 25 percent of the community dwellers and almost 40 percent of the nursing home residents died in hospitals.”

The choices are never easy when it comes to end of life healthcare decisions, but it is very important to weigh the pros and the cons of any invasive procedure or service and to really understand the risk/reward ratio before you agree to aggressive treatment if someone you love is nearing the end of life.

Friend of The Big 65 Jean in Georgia with beautiful spring flowers.

Speaking of super healthy clients, Jean in Georgia looks as happy as always and is enjoying the spring like weather. Jean was one of five winners who guessed where last week’s pictures were from.

Singapore flag.

Starbucks gift cards go out next week to the winners. Congratulations!

Here’s a big shout out to my brother Robert for learning something new. Despite the wheelchair, Robert spent time in an adaptive skiing program that he says was tons of fun.

Robert Kyler skiing_The Big 65 Medicare insurance broker.

Never stop learning, never stop trying new things.

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

And, if you are having Medicare questions or problems, email Gray, Gray@thebig65.com, or just book a time on my calendar.

We are here if you need us.

Let me know what’s going on your life, please send pictures for the newsletter, and remember…

Referrals are the lifeblood of my business!

 

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


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

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

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

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

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

The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Broker logo

What’s the best drink for your health?

May this find you in good health with your Medicare Insurance working properly.

Today, I pose the question:  “What’s the best drink for your health?” 

But first …  the Bruns-Kyler family has returned to the States and boy are we glad to be home.  
The Big 65 Medicare insurance broker watches Quantz entering a car.
We chose to return home early because some family members are having health issues and Q wanted to be with them. That’s why I love her.

Can you tell where this week’s pictures were taken? As you read, pay attention!

I’ll be sending out Starbucks gift cards to the first five folks who email back the correct answer!

It’s great to be in my office again, plus, it’s time to get the yard ready for Spring.

Karl Bruns-Kyler having tea with friends.

For whatever reason, we’ve been seeing numerous Medicare billing issues so I have been drinking a lot of tea AND coffee to stay focused.

Be cautious before paying a Medicare related bill, mistakes are common!

Nice lady pouring tea by The Big 65.

This week, one client’s pharmacy claimed they didn’t have drug coverage.

That is the type of concern that wakes me up. It took a number of calls to get everything straightened out. Thank goodness the pharmacy was wrong!

I used to worry that coffee and tea could have negative effects on my health, but as long as they are used in moderation, and your doctor approves, both beverages seem to have positive health benefits.

Karl, Quantz, and Nicholas on a boat for The Big 65.

Caffeine can boost mood and improve performance, plus both drinks are rich in antioxidants.

Nice lady eating a meal with a bird on her shoulder.

Some studies link caffeine to weight loss and both drinks may provide anti-cancer benefits.

Beautiful plants indoors_photo by The Big 65 medicare insurance broker- agent.

One client in Texas shared how he takes a “Coffee Nap” in the afternoon.

Interesting plants in the sky.

When Michael is tired and has things to do, he’ll down a coffee, set an alarm for thirty minutes and take a quick siesta.

Quantz and Nicholas enjoying a meal together.

The caffeine will usually kick in just as the alarm goes off and then he is able to be quite productive.

Nice man playing an instrument for The Big 65 Medicare broker.

If you have insomnia or caffeine sensitivity, this may not be a good idea, always talk with your doctor.

The bottom line, it’s healthy to review your liquid consumption patterns and see if you can make small tweaks to optimize productivity, sleep, and overall health.

Nicholas embracing Plato for The Big 65.

Our Air Force son, Nicholas, is sure enjoying his first extended vacation in two years. Plato was so excited to see him when he got to our house.

We’re just happy to have our son home.

You know how quickly they grow up so don’t take anything for granted.

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

And, if you are having Medicare questions or problems, email Gray, Gray@thebig65.com, or just book a time on my calendar.

We are here if you need us.

Let me know what’s going on your life, please send pictures for the newsletter, and remember…

Referrals are the lifeblood of my business!


Karl Bruns-Kyler

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


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

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


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

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

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

The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Broker logo

Do we have you in the right coverage?

May this blog post/newsletter find you in good health with your Medicare Insurance working properly.  Today’s question: “Do we have you in the right coverage?

Karl Bruns-Kyler helping Medicare clients for The Big 65.

In working with clients all over the country this week, it’s been a great opportunity to sharpen the saw and drill into the differences between plan types: Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement.

Man in tall grass as seen by Karl Bruns-Kyler of The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Agency.

From a distance, it’s not always easy to understand the differences between the two types of plans and I often get the question: which type of plan is better?

The simple answer is… it truly depends on how each consumer uses healthcare.

Q and N exploring bamboo as seen by Karl Bruns-Kyler of The Big 65.

Medicare Supplements charge a monthly premium and allow consumers to go to any doctor who takes Medicare (and is willing to see them) and folks don’t have to deal with prior authorization for Medicare approved services. They also don’t receive extra benefits and the premiums typically go up every year.

Adorable critter holding on to a branch.

Medicare Advantage Plans typically have no premiums, offer additional bells and whistles but require you to jump through additional hoops for certain services.

Photo of an orangutan eating an apple as viewed by The Big 65.

As your independent Medicare Insurance Broker, I try to spend most of my time understanding your healthcare preferences and how you prefer to receive healthcare services.

After that, it’s all about education and understanding the pros and the cons of each type of plan and letting YOU make your own choice.

Kids playing in the water and smiling at The Big 65.

That’s the reason for this newsletter, so that we can stay connected to make sure your coverage is working the way it should.

Musician playing a harp for The Big 65.

Of course, nothing works perfectly. Sometimes there are billing errors, other times it’s hard to reach customer service. Life is imperfect at best, but the important thing is you have an additional resource: The Big 65!

Nicholas with a big smile from The Big 65 Medicare insurance agency.

If you are having issues, always call the carrier first.

However, if you speak with the carrier and you are stilling having problems, please reach out to us by email or just book a time on my calendar.

That why I’m here. Medicare call centers (and all those enticing commercials you see on TV) only want you to switch plans. If it’s necessary, we can do that, but usually there’s an easier fix.

Nicholas double-fisted with two drinks.

It sure has been fun to finally have an extended vacation with our Air Force son Nicholas.

Karl Bruns-Kyler and Nicholas working on bucket list together.

We worked on his bucket list one night and I didn’t even try to keep up with him. I guess we were all young once, right?

South Carolina springtime scene_The Big 65 South Carolina

I keep hearing from clients like Claire in South Carolina that spring is on the way so don’t give up hope!

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

And, if you are having Medicare questions or problems, email Gray, Gray@thebig65.com, or just book a time on my calendar.

We are here if you need us.

Let me know what’s going on your life, please send pictures for the newsletter, and remember…

Referrals are the lifeblood of my business!

 

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


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

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


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

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

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

The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Broker logo

Are your doctors really taking care of you?

Are your doctors really taking care of you?  Is your Medicare insurance working properly?

Cartoon of two women discussing medical and technology challenges in a cemetary.

I wish the above cartoon was a one-off joke that we could all laugh at and ignore, but that just isn’t the case. Getting lost in the medical labyrinth is much more common than we would like to believe.

Today, I want to share a tip on how to get in to see medical providers faster when they can’t see you in a timely manner.  

Karl Bruns-Kyler of The Big 65 and his wife Quantz holding a live serpent

I spoke with a client in Michigan this week who was under a double whammy: a power outage because of the snow and a specialist who couldn’t seem him for three months.

Photograph of a monkey sitting on a gold crown.

While I couldn’t do anything about the outage, this is the solution that did help him get in quicker:

James started calling the receptionist EVERY DAY the moment they opened and right after lunch to KEEP asking about cancellations. The polite/squeaky wheel often gets the oil!

Karl Bruns-Kyler of The Big 65 sees monks walking.

We spoke on Monday and by Thursday, James had gotten on his Urologist’s calendar. This will not always work, but it often does.

Of course, you could consider finding a different physician, but most of don’t like to switch doctors. There is normally great value in long term continuity.

However, if you are consistently underwhelmed by the response you receive from your provider, you may want to look up their ratings on third party websites like Heathgrades.com, Vitals or some of the others listed in this link.

Shoplifters will be prostituted sign in a store.

If you discover that a provider is consistently receiving negative reviews, you may want to look for a new provider.

Please know the lion’s share of medical providers are doing their best to provide great care, but like everything else in life, the eighty-twenty rule applies.

Photo of Quantz and Nicholas reunited with The Big 65 and Karl Bruns-Kyler.

Well, I am pleased to report that the Bruns-Kyler family has reunited in Kuala Lumpur. Quantz returned from travels in Burma and…

Nicholas holding chopsticks with Karl Bruns-Kyler.

Our Air Force son, Nicholas, after three cancelled vacations because of the Ukraine situation, was finally able to meet up with us for some for very well-deserved leave.

Time with grown up children is a blessing, isn’t it?

Malaysia is a multiculture country of Malays, Indians, and Chinese.

Malaysia is a very modern country with a very old world feel, a very multicultural country of Malays, Indians and Chinese.

Malaysia in a beautiful country with great food, Karl Bruns-Kyler.

That means the food is incredibly diverse and delicious. Though we didn’t try everything.

Photo of Drunken Duck Tongue on a menu.

One of the things we did finally try is durian, have you heard of it?

Durian is a fruit banned in Singapore because of the smell.

This fruit is banned in Singapore because of its smell, but it has a fanatical following, nonetheless.

Photo of Karl Bruns-Kyler and his son Nicholas.

Of course, following my axiom of trying new things, we had to give it a try.

Karl Bruns-Kyler is a Medicare insurance broker with The Big 65 Colorado.

I’ve gotta tell you, I am NOT a fan. It has a taste of rotten onions and the texture of meat.

As you can imagine, Q was not a fan. But hey, it’s off our bucket list. You win some, you lose some, right?

Quantz points to "No Durian" sign on store window.

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

And, if you are having Medicare questions or problems, email Gray, Gray@thebig65.com, or just book a time on my calendar.

We are here if you need us.

Let me know what’s going on your life, please send pictures for the newsletter, and remember…

Referrals are the lifeblood of my business!

 

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


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

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


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

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

“We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all your options.”

The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Broker logo

What you need to know about Medicare and travel

May this note find you in good health with your Medicare Insurance working properly. Today, I will discuss what you need to know about Medicare and travel. But first …

Quantz in Chang Mai Thailand with The Big 65.

Here in Chang Mai, Thailand, no one has accused Quantz of being a “Momster,” yet, but this crocodile statue in front of the temple took a special liking to my wife!

Q swinging on vine with The Big 65 Colorado Senior Insurance Broker.

For those of you who have been reading this Medicare newsletter for a while, you already know that Q is much more adventurous than me when we travel.

Q pets the elephant.

I tend hang back and observe before jumping into a new activity. That’s just the way I’m wired.

Kneeling in Thailand.

This sense of caution aligns with my mission to help clients avoid irreversible health insurance issues.

Q and a little boy.

While chatting with a client in Ohio this week, I received the following question:

How will my Medicare coverage work when I travel away from home in the US or overseas?

Karl and Q with cute kids and The Big 65 Medicare insurance broker.

The answer is… it depends.

Regardless of the type of plan you have, emergency care is typically covered as in network anywhere in the United States.

Emergency care is often covered overseas, if you haven’t been out of the US for more than 60 consecutive days.

Karl and Q with nice lady.

If you are travelling outside the US, sometimes it makes sense to purchase additional travel insurance that may include medical evacuation, just in case.

Kids playing in the water.

The bottom line: every situation is different, so if you have travel coming up, feel free to shoot me an email or just book a time on my calendar.

Karl working for The Big 65 Medicare insurance clients.

Please remember the reason for this newsletter is to make sure your Medicare coverage is working the way you expect it to be working.

If you are having problems or just have questions, email my admin Gray, Gray@thebig65.com, or just book a time on my calendar.

Let me know what’s going on your life and remember, referrals are the lifeblood of my business!

 

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


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

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


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

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

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

The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Broker logo

Why Not Volunteer?

May this blog post find you in good health with your Medicare Coverage working properly.  

After visiting the largest Buddha in Bangkok, Q and I couldn’t resist walking past the monk and receiving good wishes.

Monk in Bangkok with Karl and Q.

We’ve been sending this newsletter for five years now, pretty much every Saturday.

Whether at home or working from the road, I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to help clients from all over the States make sure their Medicare coverage is working properly.

Quantz in the sun with The Big 65.

We had a long trip to visit the bridge over the river Kwai (remember that movie?) and to learn about all of the Allied POW’s who died building the Thai Burma railway during the Japanese occupation.

My great uncle was a Dutch POW and he was forced to help build the railroad.

Karl and Q visit bridge over the River Kwai.

My takeaway from his horrific experience (he wrote the history for the family) is that he survived because he banded together and worked with other POWs to survive and to help each other.

In our world today, I think we survive and thrive by staying connected to others. At least that’s what many clients tell me on a regular basis when we catch up on calls.

Click on the picture below to learn one activity that seems to make life better.

Volunteering has many benefits that go both ways, for the volunteer and the recipient.  

Engagement, a sense of purpose, connection and perhaps better health could be a few of the benefits of doing something new and developing new relationships.

Here is a link to the benefits, and also a link to the organisation where we dropped in to teach English for a morning.

Volunteering seems to be one of the secret sauces that brings joy to life.

For years my mother volunteered by driving community members to doctor appointments and also working in an animal shelter.

Aunt Nureen and kids in Laos.
While in Laos, we connected with my cousin Arjan and his family, including my Aunt Nureen. Do you think she enjoyed the time with her grandchildren?

They were volunteering at Big Brother Maus, a drop in English Class center that also publishes books and improves local schools. It was a really nice way to connect and do something small that may help others.

Arjan and Karl together.
I only see Arjan every 5-10 years so when we do see each other, it is meaningful to catch up.

Vendor with bracelets made from bombs.

We thought this was a pretty cool way for the Lao people to take something painful and turn it around, turning bomb metal into souvenirs for the night market.

Sunset with The Big 65.

Our daughter Sus tells us it’s super cold back home in Colorado, so we are appreciating the warmth here.

Vendor selling sticky rice treats.

While returning from a visit to the bridge over the river Kwai, we stopped at a roadside gas stop and sampled these delicious sticky rice treats, filled with banana, sweet potato and other surprises. Ten Thai Baht each, 31 cents, so they were fun and inexpensive to sample.

Vehicle in Thailand.

Please remember the reason for this newsletter is to make sure your Medicare coverage is working the way you expected it to be working.

So if you’re having issues, reach out to Gray, my right hand man, Gray@thebig65.com, and we’ll make sure things get taken care of.

And if you or someone you know has any questions about Medicare insurance, visit theBig65.comThere are plenty of slots on my calendar.

 

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


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

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


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

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

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

The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Broker logo

Paperwork That Matters

May this blog post find you in good health with your Medicare Coverage working properly.  Today, I want to discuss paperwork that matters.  But first …

Aren’t these kids cute? I’m a sucker for dinosaur jammies, must be the grandpa instinct kicking in, eh?

Karl Bruns-Kyler holding cute kids in Vietnam

Many of you tell me about the joy you receive from your grandvarmints and how important they are to you (at least till they start being teenagers).

Some clients hope to leave something to the next generation. Others say their plan is to spend it all and enjoy life to the fullest.

Either way, most of us hope we will never be a burden to our spouses, our children, or our grandchildren. And yet…

I speak with clients REGULARLY who may be leaving their loved ones in a tight spot if they don’t get this right. Click on the picture below to make sure this isn’t you.

If we live long enough, we are going to die. Therefore, it is essential to have these documents in place long before we need them:

    1. Last Will & Testament
    2. Trust (if necessary)
    3. Power of Attorney
    4. Healthcare Power of Attorney
    5. Living Will
    6. HIPAA Release
    7. Letter Of Intent

 

Not having these documents in place can cause terrible difficulties for your family, so take the time to leave them in a good situation.

If you already have them in place, make sure they are up to date. If you haven’t done them, look for an Eldercare Attorney or consider these forms as a starting pointThis is paperwork that matters to everyone.

New friends Tim and Kate in Cambodia with The Big 65.
While travelling in Cambodia, we met and made friends with Tim and Kate, a father/daughter duo from South Carolina exploring the world together.

Tim is and his wife are retired and Kate is engaged and plans to start working when they return from their adventure. What a great way to build a lifelong memory.

Pol Pot Killing Tree_The Big 65 Colorado Insurance Broker

When I’m not working, Q always makes sure we visit places of historical interest. In Cambodia, we visited the killing fields where millions were killed by Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge. It was such a sobering experience and an important reminder of how things can go wrong in the world.

Chum Mey, typewriter repairman with Karl Bruns Kyler and The Big 65.

In the capital, Phnom Penh, we had the privilege of meeting Chum Mey, a typewriter repairman, and one of only seven (out of 20,000) who survived Pol Pot’s murderous prison, S-21. The reason the the seven were kept alive is they had specific skills the Khmer needed. What a miracle to have survived. Chum is such an inspirational person and so kind despite the darkness he lived through. What a lesson for us all.

Man watering garden in Vietnam.

We have so enjoyed getting out of the cities and seeing the countryside.

Farmer with small crabs in Vietnam with The Big 65 Medicare Broker.

Asia is graying faster than almost any other part of the world. People are working longer and also staying active, which is a good thing. This farmer showed us the small crabs she gathered from the dry rice paddy on her farm.

Oliver the owl in Vietnam with The Big 65.

While visiting some caves near Luang Prabang, we met a group of children illegally selling wildlife to tourists. Buying this owl, we named him Oliver, was probably the wrong thing to do, he cost three dollars, but we did it anyway.

Oliver the owl on balcony with The Big 65.

We brought him back to the hotel and uncaged him on the balcony (of course he bit Quantz, because no good deed goes unpunished.)

Oliver stayed till night fall and then disappeared. Of course it won’t change the world, but it made us feel better.

Vietnam scene_Karl Bruns-Kyler of The Big 65.

That’s it for now. The reason I’m here is to make sure your coverage is working the way you expected it to be working.

So if you’re having issues, and you’ve already called your insurance carrier, reach out to Gray, my right hand man, Gray@thebig65.com, and we’ll make sure things get taken care of.

PLEASE forward this newsletter to anyone you know who needs help with their Medicare coverage.


Karl Bruns-Kyler

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


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

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


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

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

“We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov or 1-800-MEDICARE to get information on all your options.”

The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Broker logo


 

The Annual Election Period ended December 7th but …

May this blog post/newsletter find you in good health with your Medicare coverage working properly.

The Annual Election Period ended December 7th and Plato is ready to dance!

Karl and Plato dancing_The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Broker

It was a pleasure to catch up with so many of you all over the country and I am excited to have a little down time.

Karl and Plato watch soccer_The Big 65

Even though most of my teams are out of the World Cup, I’m having fun seeing some of the games now.

The Annual Election Period ended December 7th but … just remember, if you meant to book a time but didn’t, we can still review your coverage and put an action plan together for next year.

Don’t be like Georgia and hold it in (Georgia dug up and swallowed a mole). If you are having issues, please reach out.

Georgia-Friend of The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Broker

The end of the year is always a perfect time to look back and consider opportunities to make small changes that can improve our lives and the lives of everyone we touch.

This article captures some of the bigger ways to live well but this quote below says it all:

Ashley Montagu on aging_The Big 65

We get smarter as we age, but if we are not careful, we get crankier. Our logical minds focus on everything that isn’t working well instead of the things that are working well.

I could get angry and blame the Air Force for cancelling our son’s vacation or…

The Big 65 Celebrates in Colorado_The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Broker

I could give thanks that one of our former exchange students surprised us with a visit from Mexico. Santiago just finished his fall semester at the University of Puebla studying business.

Having him around has been great fun: playing ping pong (now he beats me), hiking and maybe skiing next week. I’m doing my best to keep up and Q is making sure Santi eats like a king (which means the house is filled with good stuff she would only get to spoil our kids.)

The static wall sit is the only thing I’ve beat him at so far!

Santiago, Karl, and Plato_The Big 65

The purpose of this newsletter is to helps us stay in touch and to inspire each of you to live your own best life. You don’t need to read it every week, just know it’s here so you can get a hold of me when you need me.

I’m constantly inspired by my brother Robert. He severed his spinal cord four years ago, but instead of defining him, this event has been a catalyst for growth. I will not minimize how challenging it has been, but Robert still practices medicine and is more connected to his patients and life as a result of this experience. He continues to push himself mentally, physically and spiritually.

He is my role model. This is him on the beach of Lake Erie over Thanksgiving.

Robert Kyler by Lake Erie_The Big 65

As we continue into the holidays, look for joy and adventure in every encounter. It’s not what happens to us but… how we choose to respond.

Have a great week, be safe, and call me if you need me.

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


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

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

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

The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Broker logo

Medicare Supplement or Medicare Advantage Plans – Which Are Better?

May this blog post/newsletter find you in good health with your Medicare insurance working properly. 

Thank goodness, less than two weeks left in the Annual Election Period.

Most of the promises are bogus, but if you do have questions, feel free to book a time on my calendar.

In the meantime, Dan and Sam hope everyone had a…

Dan and Sam with Happy Thanksgiving sign_The Big 65

Today, I’ll touch on the question: Medicare Supplement or Advantage Plans – Which Are Better?  But first … 

In reviewing plans with clients all over the country, it has been fun to hear how different folks celebrated the holiday.

You can tell by the smiles that Jack, Adrienne and her Mamma lived large and enjoyed the day. What a handsome family.

Jack, Adrienne and her Mamma portrait_The Big 65

One of the questions I get every day is:

Medicare Supplement or Advantage Plans – Which Are Better?

Honestly, it’s kind of like asking which is better, being Catholic or being Protestant?

My job is to present the good, the bad, and the ugly of each type of plan. Much depends on how you use healthcare services.

I love the simplicity of Medicare Supplements, but I dislike that the premiums continue to rise.

I love the value based model of Medicare Advantage plans, but I dislike how hard it can sometimes be to navigate the networks.

Each person’s situation is different so the important thing is to draw your own conclusions. If you want to go deep, here’s an interesting article.

Karl, Quantz, and Plato - Thanksgiving fun_The Big 65

Thanksgiving in our house was pretty quiet. Florence, our exchange student, was out of town, Sus, our daughter traveled on Thanksgiving, so we ate ham and postponed the dinner till after my busy season.

Sus did stop by the evening before Thanksgiving and crushed me in board games. Remember when you used to let them win? The tide has shifted :).

Sus dominates on board game_The Big 65

Perhaps you know the value I place on trying new things, keeping your brain active, living a life of service? Well, I’ve started a new hobby, tutoring English.

Karl online teaching English_The Big 65

Every Sunday morning, I share a screen with my French faux grandchildren (the sons of our first exchange student from twenty years ago) and we practice English. It is exhausting and fun. What are you doing to improve the lives and the brains of your grandvarmints?

If you don’t have grandkids, there are plenty of local programs desperate for volunteers. Okay, I’ll say it again (Q says I’m a nag) but, the secret to living well is living for others.

Frog tree from Karen in Michigan_The Big 65

Now we move on to Christmas. Client Karen in Michigan sent this picture of her frog tree. Years ago, one of her bosses got it into his head that she was crazy about frogs (she wasn’t) and somehow everyone around her glommed onto the idea and started giving her frogs and voila! Ain’t life funny? Please send pictures of what’s going on in your life and…

Feel free to forward this newsletter to friends and family with Medicare questions! Referrals are the lifeblood of my business.

Have a great week, be safe, and call me if you need me.


Karl Bruns-Kyler

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


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

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

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

The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Broker logo