Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida
HELPLINE: 866-413-5337
Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey
In June 2025, CMS released the MCBS – Overview Infographic, providing a quick reference guide on the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey (MCBS). Conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago, this ongoing study aims to gather valuable information from Medicare… Read More
Medicare Minute: Choosing Between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage
People with Medicare often wonder whether to choose Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage Plan. Learn the key differences to help you choose the best option for your needs. Original Medicare The traditional program offered directly through the… Read More
Never Sign Anything in Exchange for ‘Free’ Services – It’s a Scam!
Medicare.gov has shared the latest scam targeting older adults! Scammers, sometimes posing as salespeople, are offering “free” services or gifts. Beware, they may be trying to trick you into signing up for hospice care without your knowledge. How… Read More
Medicare Minute: Medigap Policies and Why You Should Be Reading Your Medicare Statements
Original Medicare Part B covers 80% of most services, leaving 20% and other out-of-pocket costs, like deductibles or inpatient copays. Medigaps help cover these costs. What are they? Medigaps are health insurance policies that offer standardized benefits to… Read More
Medicare Minute: Medicare and Employer Coverage
What is the difference between primary and secondary coverage? When you have Medicare and another type of insurance, Medicare will pay primary or secondary for your medical costs. Primary insurance pays first for your medical bills. Secondary insurance… Read More
Volunteer to Become a Trained SHINE Medicare Counselor
Make a difference by helping others navigate Medicare, join our SHINE team!Medicare can be complicated, but as a trained volunteer you can help by answering questions and providing personalized guidance to members of your community as they enroll… Read More
Medicare Minute: Premium-related Appeals and Troubleshooting
Late enrollment in Medicare or a higher income can lead to higher premiums. However, everyone has the right to appeal their premium determination. Understanding how these premiums work can help you assess their accuracy and decide if you… Read More
Medicare’s General Enrollment Period
Typically, individuals enroll in Medicare during the months surrounding their 65th birthday. However, if you missed your seven-month Initial Enrollment Period, there’s still hope. You may be eligible to sign up during the General Enrollment Period (January 1… Read More
Prevent, Detect, Report
Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP) team members help educate and assist Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers to prevent, detect, and report health care fraud, errors, and abuse. To learn more, visit https://smpresource.org/. Ask for help. If you have… Read More
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Last Updated: August 18, 2025 by
Our Third Annual Community Resource Fair is Almost Here!
Our annual community resource fair is back! Last year we had an incredible turnout from the community and we hope to see old and new faces alike this year. Unfamiliar with our popular annual free event? The Area… Read More