The Medicare Authority - May 2023

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AGING IS A PART OF LIFE! You Have So Much Knowledge to Give the World

Every day, we speak with clients about their Medicare and retirement plans. But that’s not all we discuss. As we continue to nurture our relationships with you, we learn more about your personal life — your loved ones, your hobbies, and the amazing things you’ve experienced. With each day, our connection grows stronger, and the more we learn about you, the more you feel like a part of our family. You play such a valuable role in our lives, and we can’t thank you enough for allowing us to assist you as you get older and your wishes and needs change. We enjoy hearing your stories and learning more about you because you’re more than just a client — you’re an individual with a voice and a lifetime of knowledge we could all learn from. As we age, we can’t perform activities like we’re used to. While we may believe we’re still young in our minds, our bodies tell us something different. Because of this, you may need assistance with daily tasks. We understand how frustrating it can be to feel as though you’re losing a part of your independence. But it’s okay to ask for help! We all need it from time to time. However, we also understand you might feel less appreciated or valued as you age. According to research by Age Scotland, only 1 in 5 older people feels valued by society, while more than a third feel like they are a burden. Although this study focuses on Scotland, older adults in America may feel the same. Additionally, you may experience ageism and negative attitudes toward getting older. An essay from Scientific Research surveyed 154 people in Southern California and noted that most older adults feel like society as a whole has a negative view of aging.

You’ve endured so much in your life, and you continue to strive for greatness. Your strength is admirable — we could all learn something from you. In honor of May

“Your strength is admirable — we could all learn something from you.”

being Older Americans Month, here are a few activities you can do with your family. 1. SHARE YOUR FAMILY’S HISTORY.

Your children, grandchildren, and other relatives wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for you and your ancestors. If you have stories about where your family came from or family trees, share those with your loved ones. When we have a deeper understanding of who we are, we begin to appreciate the things in our lives and the people who made it all possible. 2. TALK ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCES. As mentioned previously, you’ve endured a lot in your lifetime! You had a chance to see the evolution of technology and other products, how society has changed over the years, and the aftermath of war on groups of people. Share stories about your childhood and what life was like when you were younger. You can also provide strategies your loved ones can use as they venture through life and take on different roles and responsibilities. 3. CONNECT WITH OTHER OLDER ADULTS. If there is any group of people who understand the life phase you’re in, it’s other older adults. You can attend dozens of clubs and organizations and connect with people and learn about their experiences. When you’re with people who understand you, you gain a sense that you’re not alone — you find a community. To all the older adults we have the honor of working with, thank you for everything you do for us, your families, and your communities. Your hard work will never go unnoticed by your friends at the Medicare Authority!

But we’re here to tell you that aging is perfectly normal — we will all experience it at some point. Aging should be viewed as a positive experience because of your abundance of knowledge and experience. There is so much insight and information you can share with the world. And that deserves to be celebrated every day.

–Lenore and Scott Mizenko

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THE TELEMARKETERS ARE CALLING! How to Spot Medicare Scams Recently, we’ve had multiple people inform us that they are receiving phone calls and emails from scammers acting as Medicare representatives. Unfortunately, this is a common situation that many people find themselves in. According to NBC, 2.4 million instances of fraud, identity theft, and other scams were reported to the Federal Trade Commission in 2019. Over 332,000 of these scammers were Medicare impostors! There are dozens of various moving parts within Medicare. Understanding its concepts and benefits can be confusing due to the wording and prerequisites you must fulfill. Because of this complicated process, many people are susceptible to Medicare scams. Here are a few strategies you can use to help you navigate through various Medicare scams. WILL MEDICARE CALL YOU? Typically, Medicare will not call you unless you call them first and ask someone to call you back. If you receive a phone call from a number other than 1-800-MEDICARE , it is most likely a scammer claiming to be a representative. Additionally, if someone from Medicare returns your call, they will never ask for your Medicare card or Social Security number — they already have this information on file. So, if someone calls you claiming to be a Medicare representative and asks for your personal information, please hang up! DON’T TRUST EVERYTHING YOU READ ON THE INTERNET. As you scroll through social media or listen to commercials on TV, you may see ads about Medicare offering various benefits and incentives. However, most promotions you read and hear that aren’t coming directly from Medicare or a trusted advisor are fake. Be cautious when receiving phone calls, emails, text messages, and fliers regarding Medicare. Scammers have gotten incredibly good at looking authentic, so please be careful! WHAT ARE THE COMMON MEDICARE SCAMS? We know of seven popular Medicare scams many people are experiencing right now. These include:

As we approach the summer months, Americans will spend more time in their outdoor spaces than at any other time of the year. From barbecues to pool parties, your patio will likely host many guests in the coming months — and there’s nothing worse than having an unprepared space that leaves your guests feeling uncomfortable. So, before your guests ever arrive this summer, refresh your patio by using these four trends. TREND NO. 1: AN UNEXPECTED TOUCH OF WICKER Wicker is common for outdoor spaces and a great way to make them feel casual yet comfortable. However, a complete wicker ensemble can sometimes feel overwhelming. You can still achieve this relaxed atmosphere by adding wicker in unexpected places, like a bar cart or small side table. This will help maintain a cozy atmosphere without making the entire patio look uniform or bland. TREND NO. 2: CONVERSATION-CENTRIC SEATING We sometimes assume that our guests want to move around when we host in outdoor spaces. But oftentimes, people actually enjoy staying in one place and getting to visit in a single area, like a patio that is both functional and fun. You can create this environment by organizing your outdoor furniture so the seats face each other. This cozy setup allows people to relax while catching up and is perfect for summer living! TREND NO. 3: SPACE-FOCUSED SERVEWARE While you may have a table or two on your patio, this surface area is limited — and serving trays or dishware can take up space fast. So, use clever serveware made to save space. These dishes are either tiered or boast deep basins to hold more food without taking up too much room. TREND NO. 4: BOLD LEAF PRINTS Many outdoor spaces feature concrete or brick flooring. While these materials can look appealing for a while, they eventually become damaged, faded, or dull. So, spice up your outside space with rugs, seat cushions, or pillows with leaf prints that can make your space feel natural yet exciting. These large-scale patterns and green prints can make your outdoor space fun and cozy. These outdoor design trends are easy ways to make your patio space come alive and ensure your guests will be talking about more than just the warm weather. HAVE YOUR GUESTS BEGGING TO COME OVER With These Summer Patio Trends

Medicare issuing new cards

• Informing you that your Medicare coverage is going to be canceled • Receiving early access to special vaccines • Offering an opportunity for free genetic testing • Qualifying for free medical supplies • Notifying you that you’re eligible for a refund • Being preapproved for a cheaper or better plan If you ever have any questions regarding Medicare or if someone claims to be a Medicare representative, please don’t hesitate to contact us! We will be happy to review your plan and ensure everything is accurate.

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DON’T LOSE SLEEP OVER YOUR RETIREMENT PLAN!

Allow the Retirement Authority to Help

The biggest fear people have when considering retirement is running out of money. No one wants to return to work or get a part-time gig to make ends meet while in retirement. Because of this, thinking about retiring can become a bit overwhelming — and some even lose sleep over it! However, if you create a retirement plan that outlines your needs, wants, goals, and financial strategy, you can make the most out of your retirement without worrying about those pesky “what if” questions. Here are three strategies you can use when creating your retirement plan so you can return to receiving a good night’s rest. OUTLINE WHAT YOU WANT YOUR RETIREMENT TO LOOK LIKE. Do you have bucket list items you want to cross off when you retire? Are you planning on traveling or downsizing your home? Have you considered your monthly expenses and other financial factors? You should ask these questions when determining the dollar amount you want to save. When you outline what you want your retirement to look like, it can help you pinpoint the funds needed to make your dreams a reality. RESEARCH VARIOUS RETIREMENT INVESTMENTS. When you create a retirement account, you can access various investments such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. However, deciding on the right kind of investment depends on how long you need the money and how

comfortable you are with risk-taking. Therefore, research your options, examine the pros and cons, and see which investments will help you reach your retirement goals. YOU CAN START SAVING AT ANY TIME! Some may be concerned that it’s “too late” to save

for retirement. But that’s not the case! While it’s best to start saving money early in life, you can adjust your retirement savings goal to compensate for the missed time. You can increase the amount you save in your 401(k), make catch-up contributions, or create a traditional or Roth IRA. It’s about finding the best process and strategy for you and your lifestyle! If you or someone you know needs help creating or updating their retirement plan, please allow The Retirement Authority to assist! We will be happy to learn more about your goals and help develop a plan that works best for you and your family. To book an appointment with Scott Mizenko, go to BookLTCcall.com , or you can email him at Scott@scottmizenko.com or call 800-570-1396.

Inspired by FoodNetwork.com

TAKE A BREAK

RHUBARB CRISP

With this recipe’s sweet center and crispy top, you’ll find yourself springing for seconds.

INGREDIENTS

Topping: •

1/4 cup roughly chopped walnuts 1/4 cup old-fashioned oats (not instant)

• • • • •

1/4 tsp cinnamon

Filling : •

3/4 cup flour

2 1/2 lbs rhubarb, cut into 1/2-inch pieces

1/3 cup light brown sugar

• •

1/2 cup plus 2 tbsp sugar

1 tbsp sugar

3 tbsp all-purpose flour

4 tbsp unsalted butter

1. Preheat oven to 400 F. Set rack in the center of the oven. 2. In a food processor, place all topping ingredients. Pulse until the mixture is crumbled to the size of small peas. Do not over-process. Set aside. 3. Into a large, shallow baking dish, pour the rhubarb and sprinkle with sugar and flour, coating the rhubarb evenly. Spread crisp topping over entire filling mix. 4. Bake until crisp is bubbly and the top is golden brown, approximately 30–40 minutes. Serve warm or room temperature. Enjoy! DIRECTIONS

Blossom Derby Emerald Fertilize Gemini Horse

Lightsaber Mother Nature Parade

Seedling Veterans

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PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411

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3 Ways to Celebrate Older Americans Month

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7 Medicare Scams to Look Out For

Give Your Patio a Summer Refresh!

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Is It Too Late to Begin Saving for Retirement?

Rhubarb Crisp

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Potbellied Pig Terrifies Burglars

A HAM-FISTED ATTEMPT AT ROBBERY

Intruders Flee From Ludwig the Pig

On the night of New Year’s Eve in 2014, a group of burglars experienced the fright of a lifetime. Expecting to rob a quiet home in Derby, England, the intruders instead came face to snout with Ludwig, a 240-pound potbellied pig. Abandoning all thoughts of crime once they spotted the pig, the burglars instantly fled the scene and ran for their lives. The “hero ham” had already become a popular figure in his town and was well-loved for his gentle demeanor. In fact, Michael Maughan, Ludwig’s owner, is confident that Ludwig wouldn’t have harmed the intruders, even if he does look quite intimidating. Local officers believe the robbers must have heard Ludwig’s Rottweiler-like “growl” and immediately hit the road, leaving the door wide open behind them. The story of this heroic potbellied pig became a sensation throughout Europe. Countless fans have applauded the Canadian-born hog for his loyalty to his owners. But the owners want to ensure people understand that Ludwig would never hurt anyone. Some fabricated web

stories made Ludwig sound more dangerous than he is, so Maughan spoke to the Toronto Star to dispute any defamations against Ludwig’s kindness. “He’s being painted as a vicious creature when he’s actually quite a sweet animal,” he explained. “He didn’t exactly bare his tusks and charge, I don’t think. I think he got absolutely, ‘Arrgh,’ and they just ran for it.” In fact, Maughan detailed that after a two-month separation during their move to England, the pig shed tears during their reunion. Adorable and affectionate, Ludwig would have probably become friends with the intruders in no time. Even if his “bark” is worse than his bite, Ludwig succeeded in keeping his owners safe while also protecting their home. This 240-pound potbellied pig continues to enjoy his comfortable home in Derby and is considered a town hero. Anyone looking for a guard dog may want to consider a hefty hog instead!

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