Medicare Advantage Plans often provide more than just basic healthcare coverage. Depending on the specific plan you choose, you may have access to a variety of additional benefits that can enhance your overall health and well-being. These extras can range from fitness programs to home modifications. Let’s explore some of the valuable perks that might be available through certain plans.

1. Supporting Your Physical Health

Many Medicare Advantage plans offer benefits designed to help you maintain and improve your physical health, though the specifics can vary by plan. Here are some common offerings you may find.

  • Hearing Services: Some plans cover hearing exams, hearing aids, and ongoing maintenance, helping you manage hearing loss and maintain a better quality of life.
  • Fitness Programs: Programs like SilverSneakers, available with certain plans, offer free gym memberships, fitness classes, and discounts on wellness products to help you stay active.
  • Podiatry Services: Depending on your plan, routine foot care such as toenail trimming and treatment of foot conditions may be covered, reducing discomfort and preventing mobility issues.
  • Blood Pressure and Glucose Monitors: Some plans provide these monitoring devices at no cost, along with training to help you track chronic conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes at home.

2. Convenience and Assistance for Daily Living

Medicare Advantage plans often include services that support your daily living, though these can differ depending on the plan. These benefits are designed to help make your daily routine more manageable.

  • Over-the-counter (OTC) Allowances: Some plans offer monthly or quarterly allowances for purchasing essential health-related items like pain relievers, vitamins, and first-aid supplies.
  • Transportation Services: If available, transportation services can help you get to and from medical appointments or the pharmacy, ensuring you don’t miss important healthcare visits.
  • Pet Care Assistance: Certain plans may offer temporary assistance with pet care if you’re unable to do so due to a health condition, helping with tasks like walking or feeding your pet.
  • Meal Delivery Services: Some plans provide meal delivery after a hospital stay or for those managing chronic illnesses, offering nutritious meals without the need to cook.

3. Home Safety and Comfort

For many people, staying independent and safe at home is a top priority. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer home safety and comfort features, though not all plans include these options.

  • Home Modification Services: Depending on the plan, you may be eligible for home safety assessments and modifications like grab bars or wheelchair ramps to make your home safer and more accessible.
  • Bathroom Safety Devices: Plans that include home safety features might offer items like shower chairs or raised toilet seats to help prevent accidents in the bathroom.
  • Pest Control Services: A few plans offer pest control services for members with certain health conditions, ensuring a clean and healthy living environment.

4. Wellness and Preventive Care

Preventive care is an important part of maintaining good health, and many Medicare Advantage plans offer services aimed at helping you stay on track. However, availability varies by plan.

  • Wellness and Health Education Programs: Some plans provide access to programs like nutritional counseling, smoking cessation, and weight management to help you maintain a healthier lifestyle.
  • Telehealth Services: Virtual doctor visits, offered by many plans, allow you to consult with your physician from home, making healthcare more accessible.
  • Alternative Therapies: A few plans include coverage for treatments like massage therapy or acupuncture, giving you more options for managing pain and improving your overall health.
  • Healthy Food Programs: Some plans provide discounts or monthly allowances for purchasing nutritious food, helping you maintain a balanced diet.

Learn more about wellness benefits offered by Medicare Advantage plans.

5. Caregiver Support and Emergency Assistance

For those who need extra care or support at home, some Medicare Advantage plans offer resources for both caregivers and members, though these benefits are not universal.

  • Caregiver Support: Certain plans offer services like respite care or caregiver training, providing support to those who help care for you.
  • Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS): Available with some plans, these systems allow you to call for help with the push of a button, offering peace of mind if you live alone or have a chronic health condition.

Maximizing Your Medicare Advantage Plan

These additional benefits, if offered by your plan, can significantly enhance your health, comfort, and quality of life. It’s important to review your specific Medicare Advantage plan to understand what’s available to you. If you’re not already taking advantage of these services, now is a great time to explore what your plan offers. Join a Medicare class on GetSetUp to learn more about maximizing your Medicare Advantage plan.

Learn more about Medicare Advantage plans and their additional benefits.

Reviewed By: Keith Gilbert