Protecting Older Americans from Scams During Medicare Open Enrollment

Are You Prepared to Protect Yourself or a Loved One During Medicare Open Enrollment?  Medicare open enrollment is a busy time and unfortunately also a prime opportunity for scammers to target older Americans. Knowing what to watch for and taking proactive steps can help ensure you and your loved ones are safe from fraud. 

Understand Common Scams.  Scammers often pose as Medicare representatives offering false benefits, free equipment, or low-cost plans. They may ask for personal information or payment over the phone or online. Recognizing these red flags is the first step in protecting yourself. 

Verify Before You Share Information.  Never give your Medicare number or personal information to unsolicited callers. Always verify the identity of anyone contacting you about Medicare. Official communications will come directly from Medicare or your authorized plan and will never demand immediate payment. 

Review Your Health Care Planning Tools.  Have proper and up-to-date health care planning tools and durable powers of attorney in place. These tools will allow trusted family members or advisors to help you make informed decisions if you are approached by a suspicious caller or encounter complicated situations. These documents also provide legal protection and clarity for your wishes. 

Stay Informed About Plan Changes  Medicare open enrollment often comes with plan updates and changes. Carefully review all official notices, plan documents, and updates from trusted sources. Understanding your options prevents you from making rushed decisions that could leave you vulnerable. 

Educate and Communicate with Family  Discuss potential scams and safety measures with your loved ones. Having open conversations about your Medicare plan and who to contact for help adds an extra layer of protection for older adults in your family. 

We know this article raises more questions than it answers. Our firm offers a number of legal services designed to help you and your family. We understand that not everyone can come into our office. Unlike other firms, we can make arrangements to come to you. Let us know when you call us at (502) 348–4873 to set an appointment or fill out our contact form, and we will contact you to coordinate a meeting based on your individual needs.