Northeast Kingdom Council on Aging in Vermont
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A Fresh Start to 2025: Heartfelt Connections and Healthy Living

Melinda Martin • January 6, 2025

Start the Year Strong with Simple Steps for Health, Wellness, and Connection

A Fresh Start to 2025: Heartfelt Connections and Healthy Living

Happy New Year! As we kick off 2025, we're embracing the theme "Heartfelt Connections: Real Stories, Real Impact" to guide our work at the Northeast Kingdom Council on Aging. This month, we’re focusing on how small steps in health and wellness can make a big difference in our lives and our communities.

Caring for Your Eyes This Glaucoma Awareness Month

Did you know that the foods you eat can help protect your vision? Leafy greens, citrus fruits, and omega-3-rich fish like salmon are just a few examples of how nutrition supports eye health and may reduce the risk of glaucoma. Share this knowledge with a neighbor or include these ingredients in your meals for a healthy start to the year!

Fiber: A Key Ingredient for Healthy Aging

Fiber is often overlooked, but it’s essential for digestive health, managing cholesterol, and even supporting heart health. Incorporating whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, and legumes like lentils and chickpeas into your diet can make a big impact. Remember, the meals we deliver to your door are designed with your health in mind, including plenty of fiber-rich ingredients.

Stay Active, Stay Connected

For those snowy winter days, don’t forget about simple at-home exercises like seated marching. It’s an easy way to improve circulation, strengthen your legs, and boost your coordination—all from the comfort of a sturdy chair.

Let’s Stay Connected

This year, we’re celebrating the power of community. Whether it’s by sharing a healthy recipe, calling a neighbor to check in, or even lending a helping hand, your actions make our community stronger.

Let’s make 2025 a year of health, wellness, and heartfelt connections. Together, we can create real impact in the lives of our neighbors.

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Navigating Medicare Open Enrollment: We’re Here to Help! Medicare Open Enrollment is just around the corner, and if you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone! Whether you’re new to Medicare or simply reviewing your current plan, understanding your options and choosing the right coverage can be a daunting task. That’s where the Northeast Kingdom Council on Aging comes in. We want to make sure you have all the support and information you need to make the best choices for your health and budget. What Is Medicare Open Enrollment? Medicare Open Enrollment happens every year from October 15th to December 7th. During this time, Medicare beneficiaries can make changes to their health and prescription drug coverage for the upcoming year. This includes switching from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan, changing Part D (prescription drug) plans, or even switching between Medicare Advantage Plans. With so many options and updates to plans each year, it’s crucial to review your coverage and see if your plan still meets your needs. Why It’s Important to Review Your Plan Even if you’re happy with your current coverage, changes to your plan’s premiums, co-pays, covered medications, and provider networks can have a big impact on your out-of-pocket costs. That’s why reviewing your options annually is so important. Making the right changes now can save you money and ensure you have the coverage you need. We’re Here to Help You Make the Best Choice The Northeast Kingdom Council on Aging is offering two walk-in Medicare Open Enrollment Clinics to assist you in navigating your options and making informed decisions. Our certified Medicare counselors are trained to provide unbiased, honest guidance and will work with you one-on-one to find the best plan for your situation. Here’s where you can find us: 📅 Monday, November 4th from 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM Goodrich Memorial Library 202 Main Street, Newport, VT 📅 Wednesday, November 20th from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM NVRH Conference Room 127 1315 Hospital Drive, St. Johnsbury, VT What to Bring To make the most of your visit, be sure to bring: Your red, white, and blue Medicare card. A list of your current medications and dosages. Any notices you’ve received from your current plan. No appointment is needed, and all our services are free. Our counselors will sit down with you, listen to your concerns, and help you weigh the pros and cons of each option. We’re here to help you feel confident in your Medicare choices. If You Can’t Make It In Person… If attending one of our clinics isn’t convenient, don’t worry! You can call us at (802) 748-5182 or reach our helpline at (800) 642-5119 to speak with a Medicare counselor over the phone. We want to ensure every older Vermonter has access to the support and resources they need. Your Health, Your Choice Choosing a Medicare plan is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your health. Let us help you find the right fit and feel good about your coverage for the coming year. Join us at one of our walk-in clinics, or give us a call. We’re here to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible. For more information, visit our website or stop by one of our walk-in clinics in November. We look forward to seeing you!
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