Are your parents are more than 65 years old? If so, There is almost a 100% chance that they have experienced enough to be smarter than you. In fact, even nowadays, our elders of 65 years and above of age, are connected to the Internet. They are up-to-date with almost everything.
However, unfortunately, some elderly parents are not quite as modern. Also, they are not acquitted with technology. You will, ofcourse, need to help them understand certain subject matters. But if the subject is Medicare, we are here to help you get through this process seamlessly.
So how may you go about doing this?
We are going to teach you how you can talk to your parents about Medicare Supplement. Following are certain steps that should be able to get you through successfully.
Answer the Most Burning Questions about Medicare Supplement
First and foremost, start by answering one of the most burning questions that may arise as soon as you start the conversation. For instance, What is Medicare Supplement? So in an easy tone and in simple terms, tell your parents that the Medicare Supplement plan or insurance policy is designed as the name suggests to be a supplement. Carry on with the description and explain that a Medicare Supplement is actually a supplement to Original Medicare. Mention that it pays for cost-sharing for Medicare Parts A and B, but not Medicare Part D. The Medicare Supplement Plan is purchased from private insurance carriers and there is no annual open enrollment period.
Explain the Benefits
Consequently, go on and help them see the benefits of Medicare Supplement. After all, any sort of advantage tagging along with something they are already paying for is bound to help them see how important it is and worth it to be paid for. Hence, tell your parents about the amazing benefits of Medicare supplements like:
- You wouldn’t have to change your doctors or the hospital that you are comfortable with as long as they accept Medicare.
- You can have a one-on-one relationship with your doctor without an insurance company intervening.
- With Medicare paying 80% and Medicare Supplement taking up the remaining 20%, you owe $0.
Differentiate Between Medicare Supplement & Medigap for Them
Even many knowledgeable people can sometimes get confused between Medicare Supplement and Medigap, so your parents getting doubtful is understandable. However, make sure you understand this first and then explain what Medicare Supplement and Medigap are. Hence, Medicare Supplement and Medigap are indeed two different terms but for the same health insurance product. Because some organizations prefer one over the other or use both interchangeably doesn’t make them any different. So getting doubtful if you are paying for the wrong one or have acquired the other one is unnecessary because they are the same.
Make Them a Part of the Decision Making Process
You must make your parents a part of the decision-making process even though you are the one to finalize it at the end. This shows to them that they are in control of whatever the decision is going to be and that their input is relevant. If you will not make them part of the decision-making process, then there is a high chance they would not even want to understand anything about the Medicare Supplement, to begin with. However, if you will, they will be eager to learn and provide their input to influence the outcome.
Have Your Discussion As Early As Possible
Last but not least, it is important to have this discussion as early as possible. Don’t wait too long until a crisis occurs, and then you talk to your parents about a likely acquisition of Medicare Supplement. Instead, start the dialog now when they are in the best of their physical, mental and financial health. Not to mention that a late discussion would mean a late step in the right direction that can significantly reduce your options of acquiring Medicare. So don’t wait up too long and get talking to your parents right away.
Final Thoughts
Our elderly parents can sometimes be very difficult to sit down and talk to. However, clarification and participation are key to make them understand something as important as Medicare Supplement, and they will be sure to come around.
United Insurance is a national company helping members of the community choose the best Medicare options available. United’s mission is to guide seniors proactively by offering a clear picture of today’s healthcare coverage options like Medicare. We bestow a true family environment built on honor and trust. Focus on dedication to professionalism, knowledge, and follow-through is our recipe for winning the hearts of our customers.
Contact us to get started on your Medicare journey right away!