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How Tai Chi for Arthritis Can Benefit Your Health

Arthritis can be a painful and debilitating condition, but there are gentle, holistic approaches that can help manage its symptoms. One such practice is Tai Chi, particularly tailored for arthritis. This ancient Chinese exercise promotes health and well-being through slow, deliberate movements and controlled breathing. Here’s how Tai Chi for Arthritis can positively impact your overall health:

1. Improved Muscle Strength

Muscle strength is crucial for maintaining joint health and supporting your body. Strong muscles act as stabilizers, protecting your joints from undue stress and injury. When you engage in Tai Chi, you perform movements that gradually build and tone muscles. This strength not only contributes to better joint support but also promotes greater physical function, enabling you to carry out daily activities with more ease.

2. Enhanced Flexibility

Flexibility is key to moving comfortably and avoiding stiffness, a common challenge for those with arthritis. Regular practice of Tai Chi improves your range of motion, helping you move more freely. The gentle stretches in Tai Chi encourage the circulation of blood and body fluids, aiding in healing and reducing stiffness. Many people with conditions like fibromyalgia, scleroderma, and ankylosing spondylitis, which often cause joint stiffness, find that Tai Chi helps release tight joints and muscles, offering relief and improving their mobility.

3. Boosted Fitness Levels

Fitness plays a critical role in your overall health, including the proper functioning of your heart, lungs, and muscles. Incorporating Tai Chi into your routine is a low-impact way to enhance cardiovascular health, improve lung capacity, and increase endurance. Over time, Tai Chi for Arthritis can lead to better balance, posture, and overall physical fitness. It’s a safe and effective way to build fitness without the strain associated with more intense workouts.

Conclusion

Tai Chi for Arthritis offers a gentle, effective way to manage arthritis symptoms while improving overall health. Through consistent practice, you can experience greater muscle strength, improved flexibility, and enhanced fitness, all of which contribute to a better quality of life. Whether you’re looking to alleviate pain or simply move with more ease, Tai Chi may be the exercise solution you’ve been seeking.

For a more in-depth article on the benefits of Tai Chi from the Tai Chi for Health Institute, visit: https://taichiforhealthinstitute.org/why-tai-chi-for-arthritis/.

Medicare Minute: Medicare and Immigration

You don’t have to be a U.S. citizen to be eligible for Medicare. If you are not a U.S. citizen, but are lawfully present, you may be able to get Medicare coverage, depending on your situation.  There are two ways non-citizens can be eligible for Medicare. Let’s learn how.

Do you qualify for Federal Disability or Retirement benefits?

You will qualify for Medicare if you qualify to receive or currently receive:

  • Social Security retirement benefits
  • Railroad Retirement Benefits (RRB)
  • Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)

Regardless of your citizenship or how long you have lived in the U.S., if you qualify for these benefits, you qualify for Medicare.

These benefits are tied to your U.S. work history, or the work history of a spouse or sometimes family member. Even if you have not been in the U.S. long or have not worked long enough, you may still qualify based on your spouse’s work history or benefits.

If you aren’t sure if you qualify for these benefits or have enough work history, contact the Social Security Administration (SSA).

*If you’re eligible and ready to enroll, or have questions about Medicare eligibility and enrollment, you should contact SSA. You can call the national helpline (800-772-1213), go to www.ssa.gov, or visit your local branch to enroll.

Are you a lawful permanent resident who has lived in the U.S. for 5+ years?
If you meet both of these requirements—you are a lawful permanent resident and have been in the
U.S. for 5 years prior to enrolling in Medicare—you are eligible for Medicare:

  • Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) – LPRs are non-citizens who are allowed to live in the U.S. indefinitely. To get LPR status and a “green card,” you must apply with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
  • Five-Year Residency Requirement – The five years begins the day someone arrives in the U.S. with the intention of establishing a home, not just visiting. You can still leave the U.S. temporarily, meaning for no more than six months.

*Use the National Immigration Legal Services Directory to find immigration service providers in your area. You can find the directory at www.immigrationadvocates.org/legaldirectory/.

Be aware of people trying to steal your Medicare number
Medical identity theft happens when someone steals your personal information and uses it to get medical treatment or equipment and bills your insurance for it. Healthcare companies can try to reach people in various ways, like television commercials, radio ads, events, mailings, phone calls, and text messages. Some of them may be legitimate, but some could potentially be scammers trying to steal your personal and/or medical identity information.

  • Protect your Medicare and/or health ID number and only share it with your health care provider or trusted person. Protect your Medicare card like you would a credit card. Scammers have various ways of stealing someone’s Medicare number and other personal information.
  • Detect medical identity theft by reading your Medicare statements often. If you see services or prescriptions that you didn’t know about or receive, your Medicare and/or health ID number could be considered “compromised.”
  • Report potential medical identity theft to your local SMP. It can affect your medical and health insurance records, and your ability to receive services or equipment in the future when it is medically needed. It can also lead to incorrect costs for both you and the Medicare program. Reasons to report:
    • You gave out your Medicare and/or health ID number:
      • Over the phone or internet to someone offering additional benefits, durable medical equipment, genetic testing, COVID-19 testing/supplies, back braces, etc.
      • At a fair or other gathering as a check-in or to receive free services
      • In response to a television or radio commercial, Facebook ad, postcard, or print ad requesting a Medicare number
    • You are contacted by a debt collection company for a provider bill  you do not owe
    • You received boxes of bracers, testing kits, or other medical supplies in the mail that you did not request
    • A Medicare and/or a Medicare Advantage plan denies or limits your coverage or benefit because of a medical condition you do not have

Download the full handout with local SHIP/SMP contact information to resources and directories (pdf).

For more information call 866-413-5337 or email shineinfo@aaaswfl.org for assistance in Southwest Florida.

The Medicare Rights Center is the author of portions of the content in these materials but is not responsible for any content not authored by the Medicare Rights Center. This document was supported, in part, by grant numbers 90SATC0002 and 90MPRC0002 from the Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official Administration for Community Living policy.

Set a Reminder! Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period Runs from October 15 – December 7

Don’t miss this important opportunity! Take time to consider your options, SHINE can help you make an informed decision for your Medicare coverage in 2025. To learn more, register today for our webinar on October 18.

For those currently enrolled in Medicare, SHINE will be offering in-person counseling events this fall.

SHINE is here to help. To learn about other counseling options, call the Helpline at 866-413-5337.

SHINE counselors are available Monday – Friday to assist you with Medicare’s Open Enrollment and all matters related to Medicare including access to preventive services, cost-saving programs and identifying and reporting Medicare fraud.

Tropical Storm Helene – Prepare Now

Ahead of Tropical Storm Helene, make good use of the following resources to help you prepare:

We will continue to share updates and resources via our social media accounts. You can find the Area Agency on Aging for SWFL on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Want to know how you can help local seniors in crisis? Donate to the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida! Your contribution will help us continue our work in the community by meeting the known and emerging needs of seniors.

Medicare Minute: Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period

Medicare’s Open Enrollment runs October 15 through December 7 and is the time of year when you can make certain changes to your Medicare coverage. The last change you make will take effect on January 1. Take action during Medicare’s Open Enrollment to make sure your coverage will meet your needs in 2025.

What changes can you make during Medicare’s Open Enrollment?

  • Joining a new Medicare Advantage Plan or Part D prescription drug plan
  • Switching from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage
  • Switching from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare (with or without a Part D plan)

Call 1-800-MEDICARE (633-4227) or visit www.Medicare.gov to make changes.

Review your coverage for 2025

Medicare Advantage and Part D plans usually change each year. Make sure that your drugs will be covered next year and that your providers and pharmacies will still be in the plan’s network.

  • Original Medicare: Visit www.Medicare.gov or read the 2025 Medicare & You handbook to learn about Medicare’s benefits for the upcoming year.
  • Medicare Advantage or Part D plan: Read your plan’s Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) and Evidence of Coverage (EOC).

What to consider when choosing a new plan:

Ask yourself the following questions before choosing a Part D drug plan:

  • Does the plan cover all the medications I take?
  • Does the plan have restrictions on my drugs?
  • How much will I pay for monthly premiums and the annual deductible?
  • How much will I pay at the pharmacy (copay/coinsurance) for each drug I take?
  • Is my pharmacy in the plans’ preferred network? Can I fill my prescription by mail order?
  • What is the plan’s star rating?
  • If I have other drug coverage, will the Medicare drug plan work with this coverage?

For a full checklist of questions to ask before choosing a Medicare Advantage Plan, where to find Medicare’s Plan Finder tool, and tips on protecting yourself from marketing violations and misleading marketing, download SHIP’s full handout here.

Where can I go for more help?

State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP): Contact your SHIP if you have questions about any notices you receive or have experienced a potential marketing violation. SHIP counselors can help you review your options and pick a plan that meets your needs. SHIP counselors provide trusted, unbiased, and individualized Medicare counseling. Contact information for your local SHIP is below. 

Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP): Contact your local SMP if you believe you have experienced a potential marketing violation. SMP team members can help you to prevent, detect, and report potential Medicare fraud, errors, or abuse.

In Southwest Florida, SHIP/SMP are also known as SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders), to contact your local SHINE Medicare Counselors, call toll-free 866-413-5337 or visit floridashine.org.

The Medicare Rights Center is the author of portions of the content in these materials but is not responsible for any content not authored by the Medicare Rights Center. This document was supported, in part, by grant numbers 90SATC0002 and 90MPRC0002 from the Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official Administration for Community Living policy. [September 2024]

Volunteers Needed for SAVVY Caregiver Program

Are you passionate about supporting our community? The Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL) is seeking enthusiastic individuals to step into a pivotal role as Volunteer for our SAVVY Caregiver program.

The SAVVY Caregiver program is a comprehensive 6-week training designed to support caregivers of individuals with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. As a Volunteer, you will:

  • Master Essential Skills: Gain in-depth knowledge about managing the complexities of dementia and Alzheimer’s care, including understanding caregiver roles, managing chronic illnesses, and navigating resources.
  • Enhance Communication and Problem-Solving: Learn effective communication techniques and problem-solving strategies tailored to the unique challenges faced by caregivers of those with cognitive impairments.
  • Guide Caregivers: Equip yourself with the tools to provide critical training to other caregivers, helping them navigate their caregiving journey with confidence.

Your role as a Volunteer will include:

  • Leading Training Sessions: Facilitate the SAVVY Caregiver program sessions, guiding participants through the curriculum.
  • Your involvement will be instrumental in making this program a success. By becoming a Volunteer, you will play a key role in improving the lives of caregivers and their loved ones.

For more information on how you can become a SAVVY Caregiver Volunteer and make a meaningful impact, please contact the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida Elder Helpline at (866) 413-5337 or via email: Clorivel.Lappost@aaaswfl.org.

Together, let’s lead the way in empowering caregivers and supporting our elders with compassion and expertise.

Protecting Older Adults

The Adult Protective Services Program, a division of the Florida Department of Children and Families, is dedicated to preventing further harm to vulnerable adults who are victims of abuse, neglect, exploitation, or self-neglect, as outlined in Chapter 415, Florida Statutes.

The Florida Abuse Hotline plays an important role in this process by screening allegations of adult abuse or neglect. It assesses whether the information meets the criteria for an abuse report. If the criteria are met, a protective investigation is initiated to determine if there is evidence of abuse, neglect, or exploitation; to assess immediate or long-term risks to the victim; and to identify any additional services needed to ensure the victim’s well-being.

If you see or suspect anyone one of being abused or neglected. Please reach out via the Abuse Hotline 1-800-962-2873 or via this link: https://reportabuse.myflfamilies.com/s/

Elder Abuse Prevention Training

The AAASWFL provides complimentary training on Elder Abuse Prevention for both professionals and community members. Participants will receive a certificate of completion upon finishing the training. For more information or to schedule a training session, please contact Gloria Lappost at (239) 652-6914 or via email at Clorivel.Lappost@AAASWFL.org.

We’re Looking for Volunteers in Rural Areas of SWFL!

Attention residents in rural areas of Southwest Florida: AASWFL is looking for volunteers to lead health and wellness workshops near you!

Program trainings available for:

AFEP-Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program
The Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program is a community-based, recreational exercise program developed by the Arthritis Foundation. Trained AFEP instructors cover a variety of range-of-motion and endurance-building activities, relaxation techniques and health education topics. All the exercises can be modified to meet participant needs. The program’s demonstrated benefits include improved functional ability, decreased depression and increased confidence in one’s ability to exercise. Classes typically meet two or three times per week for an hour.

TCA – Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention
Tai Chi for Arthritis helps people with arthritis to improve all these and more. It improves balance both mentally and physically thus significantly reduces the rate of fall of older adults. Additional benefits include improving relaxation, vitality, posture, and immunity.

SAVVY Caregiver
Savvy Caregiver is recognized nationally as a leading evidence-based dementia family caregiver training program.

Savvy programs are designed to provide the most relevant dementia knowledge, skills, and mastery to support family members as they provide care for their relative or friend living with dementia. Savvy Caregiver programs have been proven to decrease family caregiver distress, burden, and depression, while increasing caregivers’ sense of competence and confidence in their care role.

If you are looking for free programs to participate in or volunteer for, please reach out to us through the Elder Helpline 1-866-413-4337.

Medicare Minute: Common Fall Open Enrollment Notices

In the month or two leading up to Medicare’s Open Enrollment that runs from October 15 to December 7, expect some important letters about your Medicare! These notices will tell you how your coverage and costs are changing next year. During this Medicare Minute, you’ll learn what to look out for in these notices so that you can evaluate how well your coverage will meet your needs in 2025. For details and a quick reference guide, a handout by the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) is available for download.

Common Open Enrollment Notices include:

  • Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) and Evidence of Coverage (EOC) – sent to people who have a Medicare Advantage Plan or Part D plan, look for any changes to the plan’s provider network, costs, and formulary (list of drugs)
  • Medicare & You Handbook – sent to everyone enrolled in Medicare, it includes information about Medicare-covered services and lists Medicare Advantage Plans and Part D plans in your area
    • If you did not receive a Medicare & You handbook, you can call 1-800-MEDICARE to request that your region’s copy be sent to you.
  • Plan Non-Renewal Notice – you will receive this notice in October if you are enrolled in a plan that is leaving the Medicare program in the coming year
  • Consistent Poor Performance Notice – you will receive this notice in late October if you are enrolled in a plan that has received a low rating for three or more years in a row and is sent to encourage you to look at other plan options in your area

Reminder to Read Your Medicare Statements

It is important to read your Medicare statements especially during Open Enrollment as you may be switching plans.

You should receive Medicare Summary Notices (MSNs) if you have Original Medicare (You can also review your MSNs on your online Medicare.gov account).

You should receive Explanation of Benefits (EOBs) if you have a Medicare Advantage Plan or Part D plan.

MSNs and EOBs provide a summary of the services and items you have received and how much you may be billed for them. Remember that MSNs and EOBs are not bills. If you need help reviewing your Medicare statements, you can contact your local SHIP or Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP). 

Reading your MSNs and EOBs is an important strategy for detecting potential Medicare fraud, errors, or abuse. Keep the following tips in mind:

  • Review yours or your loved one’s Medicare statements as soon as they arrive.
  • Keep notes of your medical appointments and compare these to your statements to ensure that your MSN or EOB is accurate.
  • Confirm that everything listed on the statement is accurate—in other words, that you actually received all listed services or items.
  • Contact your health care provider or plan if you have any questions or notice any mistakes on your MSNs or EOBs.
  • Contact the SMP for a My Health Care Tracker (helps you keep track of your appointments) or to receive assistance on how to read your Medicare statements.

For more help, contact your local SHIP, also known as SHINE in Florida (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders). Call 866-413-5337 or email shineinfo@aaaswfl.org.

Contact your local SMP if you receive any notices or Medicare statement charges that seem suspicious. SMP representative can teach you how to spot and protect yourself from potential Medicare fraud, errors or abuse. Your local SMP can be reached at 66-413-5337 or by emailing shineinfo@aaaswfl.org.

The Medicare Rights Center is the author of portions of the content in these materials but is not responsible for any content not authored by the Medicare Rights Center. This document was supported, in part, by grant numbers 90SATC0002 and 90MPRC0002 from the Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official Administration for Community Living policy. [July 2024]