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?

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

Here’s a Little Food For Thought

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

Remember to reach out if you are having issues with your coverage. That’s why I’m here and also the purpose of this newsletter:  to keep us connected.

Here’s a Little Food For Thought …

Child in traditional costume on horseback_via The Big 65

Meanwhile, my wife Quantz is still in Burma exploring the cultural sites while I work from Thailand where the internet makes it much easier to run daily appointments and to help clients with their Medicare issues.

Quantz pets the big elephant in Burma via The Big 65.

Q tells me she is one of the first (and perhaps the only) American tourist in Burma since the coup.

Quantz with two boys in Burma_via the Big 65 and Karl Bruns-Kyler.

I didn’t want Q to go on this part of the trip, but there is no stopping her when her mind is made up.

Burma scene from afar with compliments of The Big 65.

Now that Burma is open to tourism again, the regime is trying hard to keep visitors safe (while they oppress their own people).

Quantz carrying hay in Burma.

Apparently the police call her daily to make certain she is ok and are doing everything they can to make sure my crazy wife Q doesn’t cause an international incident.

Busful of monks in Thailand_via The Big 65 and Karl Bruns-Kyler.

Q is having an amazing adventure in Burma and I have zero regrets about staying in and working from Thailand.

Water scene in Thailand from The Big 65.

My meaning and purpose come from being a good husband, a good provider, and always being available to clients no matter where we are in the world, even if Q and I need to be apart from time to time.

Quantz wearing neck ring in Burma.

Q was told the Karen people wear these neck rings either to: protect them from tigers, make them look less attractive (making the women less likely to be kidnapped) or as a symbol of beauty. There are many theories.

In life (and in marriage) perspective is everything.

Cute kid on horseback via The Big 65.

As we age, maintaining mental flexibility and constantly challenging our assumptions and beliefs is essential to long term happiness and proper cognitive function.

Monkey posting in Thailand with The Big 65.

When I encounter new situations or someone with different beliefs, I often find myself defaulting to a negative mindset, assuming the worst about a person or a situation.

There are so many Russians on vacation in Thailand, and to most of us Westerners, they appear cold, insensitive, and very different.

They seem so pushy that it’s often hard to avoid a negative response.

I’m guessing some people in the world think the same about us. Nevertheless, we know the majority of Americans, regardless of beliefs, are incredibly generous and kind.

Karl translating Russian language on iPhone_The Big 65.

After realising how negative I was becoming, I finally pushed myself to challenge this assumption.

Using google translate, I introduced myself to two young Russians and ended up spending an hour in a fascinating conversation that gave much more empathy for the Russian people who have lived under horrible despots since time out of mind.

Karl riding with man on motorcycle_Karl Bruns-Kyler.

It doesn’t mean that I like the way they live, it means I have a better understanding of why they are this way.

Challenging default assumptions brings perspective. As we age, maintaining a flexible mind will certainly make life more pleasant for each of us and can improve the quality of our daily encounters.

Here’s an article you may find of interest, some of the keys to aging well. Check it out because you are probably doing many of these things already.

Woman using makeup from Thanaka tree in Burma.

One of the things Q sees in Burma is that the Thanaka tree is pulverized and used as a cosmetic by men and women to protect the skin and to look beautiful.

Two boys with makeup on made from Thanaka tree in Burma.

I’ll never wear it, but I’m glad I understand why they do it.

That’s what travel does, it opens us up to new perspectives. Never stop being curious!

Tulip magnolia in South Carolina from friends of The Big 65 and Karl Bruns-Kyler.

Back in my favorite country, Claire in South Carolina assures me Spring is on the way. Aren’t these tulip magnolias beautiful?

This week, I received a ton of emails asking about our dog Plato back in Colorado.

Don’t worry! Plato, our mighty Bernedoodle, is living the life of Riley with our daughter Sus (and all of her animals.)

Sus had Plato groomed and he sends his regards to everyone!

Plato in Colorado_friend of The Big 65 Colorado.

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

 

 

Quantz left me again!

May this blog post from The Big 65 find you in good health with your Medicare Insurance working properly. 

Quantz left me again!

Quantz left me again!

Don’t worry, though Quantz did leave me, it isn’t permanent.

Quantz visits Myanmar temples_photo via The Big 65

She took off for Myanmar to see the temples, one of her lifelong dreams.

Holding a bird_via The Big 65

We’ve been married for 34 years and it’s always good to have a few days apart so that we continue to appreciate each other. Though I do miss her already.

Karl and Quantz on the water via The Big 65 Medicare Insurance Broker

Quantz is all about seeing new things and constantly learning.

Table with food and beer_via The Big 65

Me? If the Wi-Fi is good and the food is inexpensive, I’m a happy camper.

Shrimp on a dish_via Karl Bruns-Kyler

What I love about being a Medicare Insurance Broker is the daily contact I have with clients.

It keeps me connected and gives me a sense of purpose.

Colorful scene on a beach_via The Big 65

More importantly, I learn things from you all every day that make life better.

Thanks to Judith in Virginia, for sharing this fantastic book, From Strength to Strength, by Arthur C. Brooks.

From Strength to Strength by Arthur Brooks_via The Big 65

Fluid intelligence is how we build our lives and careers when we are young.

From Strength to Strength summary_The Big 65

Crystalline intelligence is the wisdom we have accumulated over our lifetime and if we can learn to leverage it, the second half of life can be incredibly meaningful and fulfilling.

Wayne in Colorado, to me, personifies moving from Strength to Strength.

Landscape photography by Wayne_via The Big 65 and Karl Bruns-Kyler

After a highly successful career in the Air Force, Wayne shifted his attention to becoming an award-winning nature photographer (click on the picture above to see more of his work).

David holding a fish on a dock_The Big 65

David in Ohio continues to run a web design business, (he runs my website, theBig65 ), but he puts much of his energy into service work, like Oceanites.org, a non-profit trying to monitor Antarctica.

David with friends on the dock_via Karl Bruns-Kyler

Even more importantly, David stays connected to family and lifelong friends, seen here with his elementary school buddies.

Dave and Warren definitely are moving from Strength to Strength!

Stunning photography of sunset_The Big 65

Think about ways you can use the wisdom you have accumulated over your lifetime to find meaning and to help others and to squeeze the juice out of life.

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

I’m always available if you need me.

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

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


 

Riley Moynes TED Talk: The 4 Stages of Retirement

One of my favorite TED Talks …

The 4 phases of retirement | Dr. Riley Moynes  |  TedX Talks

Dr. Moynes interviewed hundreds of retirees and from those interviews, he recognized the four phases of retirement.  This is a great Ted Talk for anyone who is retired or considering retirement. 

Dr Riley Moynes is the author of The Four Phases of Retirement: What to Expect When You’re Retiring.

The four phases of retirement as identified by Dr. Moynes:

Phase 1 – The Vacation Phase
Phase 2 – Disillusionment
Phase 3 – Trial and Error
Phase 4 – Reinvent and Rewire

As Dr. Moynes says … “imagine squeezing all the juice out of retirement! I wish I knew then what I know now about the psychological challenges that accompany retirement. It would have made things much clearer and easier.


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