Medicare & You Hanbook is Arriving soon!

Each fall, Medicare mails an updated Medicare & You Handbook to beneficiaries across the country. The 2026 editionwill be sent in late September, and it’s time to give it a careful look.

What is the Medicare & You Handbook?

The Medicare & You Handbook is the official guide published by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). It provides the latest details about Medicare coverage, costs, rights, and available options for the coming year.

In the 2026 edition, you’ll find:

• Updates on Medicare Part A & Part B costs and coverage.

• A summary of your Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Prescription Drug Plan (Part D) choices.

• Information about new programs and resources available to help beneficiaries.

• Step-by-step guidance on how and when to enroll or make changes.

Why this matters for you

The release of the Handbook is a reminder that the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is right around the corner — from October 15 through December 7. During this time, you can:

• Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan (or vice versa).

• Change Medicare Advantage or Part D plans.

• Review your current coverage to ensure it still meets your needs for 2026.

How to use the Handbook

1. Look for it in your mailbox in late September. Most beneficiaries will receive a printed copy around this time.

2. Use it as a reference tool. It won’t tell you which plan to pick, but it explains your options clearly.

3. Bring your questions. If you find the information overwhelming, that’s where guidance can help.

4. Access it online. The electronic version is available at medicare.gov as soon as it’s released.

We’re here to help

At Senior Choice Consulting, we simplify Medicare so you don’t have to navigate it alone. We can walk you through what the Handbook means for your situation and help you prepare for AEP with clarity and confidence.

📞 Have questions about Medicare & You 2026? Contact us today to schedule a review session before AEP begins on October 15th.

Fall Into Medicare Confidence: Preparing for AEP

As the leaves change and cooler weather settles in, it’s also time to prepare for one of the most important seasons for Medicare beneficiaries — the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP).

From October 15 through December 7, Medicare beneficiaries have the opportunity to review, compare, and make changes to their Medicare Advantage (MAPD) and Prescription Drug Plans (PDP). Any changes made during this window will take effect on January 1, 2026.

Why is AEP important?

Even if you’re happy with your current plan, it’s worth reviewing your coverage each year because:

• Plan benefits and costs may change. Premiums, copays, and drug coverage can shift from year to year.

• Your health needs may have changed. New prescriptions, doctor visits, or treatments might mean your current plan is no longer the best fit.

• New plans may be available. Insurance carriers often add or update plans that could offer better coverage or cost savings.

What you can do to prepare:

1. Review your Annual Notice of Change (ANOC): This document, sent by your current plan each fall, explains what will change in your plan for next year.

2. Make a list of your needs: Include your doctors, prescriptions, and preferred pharmacies.

3. Explore your options: Use Medicare.gov to compare plans, or work with a trusted licensed agent to guide you through your choices.

4. Don’t wait until the last minute: The earlier you review, the less stressful your decision will be.

Need help?

At Senior Choice Consulting, our mission is to make Medicare simple, clear, and stress-free. We’re here to educate you, answer your questions, and guide you through the options so you feel confident in your decisions.

📅 AEP begins October 15 — don’t miss this important window to ensure your coverage is the right fit for 2026.

Contact us today to schedule your Medicare review session

Heading Into Summer: A Perfect Time to Prepare for Medicare

As we welcome the sunshine, longer days, and family get-togethers that summer brings, it’s also the perfect time to pause and prepare for something incredibly important — your Medicare coverage.

Whether you’re turning 65 this year, are already enrolled in Medicare, or helping a loved one navigate their options, summer is a smart season to get organized before the rush of fall’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP).

Here’s how you can use this time to get ahead:

✅ 1. Know Your Eligibility

Are you turning 65 soon? Have you been receiving disability benefits? Now’s the time to understand when you’re eligible to enroll and avoid penalties or missed opportunities.

💡 Tip: You can enroll up to 3 months before your 65th birthday — don’t wait!

✅ 2. Understand Your Options

Medicare isn’t one-size-fits-all. During the summer, take time to learn the differences between:

• Original Medicare (Parts A & B)

• Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C)

• Prescription Drug Plans (Part D)

• Supplemental (Medigap) Plans

Each choice impacts your doctors, costs, and coverage — and Senior Choice Consulting is here to help you compare them clearly and confidently.

✅ 3. Watch Out for Unsolicited Calls

As the year progresses, many people begin receiving sales calls or mailers promoting Medicare plans. Be cautious of aggressive marketing. You should never feel rushed, confused, or pressured.

🔒 Remember: I don’t sell plans. I educate and empower you to make the right choice — without sales pressure.

✅ 4. Book a Medicare Consultation

Summer is the ideal time to schedule a personal Medicare review — before the busy fall season.

At Senior Choice Consulting, we:

• Explain your Medicare choices in plain language

• Help you plan for your Initial Enrollment or Annual Enrollment

• Make sure you're not paying more than you need to

• Give caregivers the guidance they need to support loved ones

🌞 Let’s Make This a Summer of Smart Decisions

Enjoy the sunshine — and take a little time to prepare for peace of mind. If you or a loved one need help with Medicare, I’m just a call or click away.

📅 Schedule a free consultation today at
🌐 www.seniorchoiceconsulting.com

Let’s make Medicare make sense — together.

Warmly,
Shante Walker
Founder, Senior Choice Consulting

Empowering Our Seniors: Senior Choice Consulting at TSU Alumni Reunion Weekend

On May 2, 2025, I had the honor of attending Tennessee State University’s Alumni Reunion Weekend — a celebration of legacy, connection, and community. I was invited to represent my business, Senior Choice Consulting, and share my passion for empowering seniors through Medicare education and advocacy.

Connecting Purpose with Community

During the weekend, I co-hosted a special session, Healthcare Management in Today’s Time, designed to inform and inspire alumni, their families, and members of the TSU community about the importance of making informed decisions when it comes to Medicare. Whether someone is nearing eligibility, helping a parent navigate the process, or simply wanting to understand the basics, the response made it clear: there is a true need for clear, compassionate guidance.

What I Shared

During the session, I focused on practical, real-world guidance to help seniors and their families confidently navigate Medicare. Key topics included:

• How to Handle Unsolicited Medicare Calls: Many attendees shared their frustration with frequent, confusing sales calls. I explained how to identify legitimate sources, protect personal information, and report deceptive marketing — empowering attendees to stay in control.

• Understanding Medicare Eligibility: I reviewed who qualifies for Medicare, when to enroll, and how missing deadlines can lead to penalties. Whether you're turning 65 or qualifying due to a disability, it’s important to know your rights and options.

• Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage Plans: I broke down the differences between the two main types of coverage. Original Medicare offers flexibility but may require separate drug and supplemental plans, while Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) combine services and often include extras — but may limit provider networks.

• How Senior Choice Consulting Can Help: My business is dedicated to taking the stress out of Medicare. I offer personalized, one-on-one guidance to help individuals choose the right coverage, avoid costly mistakes, and feel confident in their decisions. I don't sell plans — I help you understand them.

I started Senior Choice Consulting because I saw how overwhelming Medicare could be for many seniors and their loved ones. With over 20 years in the healthcare and Medicare space, I’ve made it my mission to be a trusted guide — offering clarity, peace of mind, and a listening ear during what can be a very confusing time.

Why This Weekend Mattered

Presenting at TSU was not just a professional opportunity — it was deeply personal. My mother was the first in our family to attend college, and through her determination, she graduated with her nursing degree from TSU. I did not go the nursing route, but I found my passion in the healthcare field serving seniors. I am her legacy, and to be able to come back and serve her fellow alumni was a full-circle moment. The engagement, thoughtful questions, and warm support I received reaffirmed that our seniors deserve the best, and that we’re doing meaningful work.

Let’s Stay Connected

To everyone I met during the weekend — thank you. If you or a loved one needs guidance with Medicare, I’d love to connect. Visit www.seniorchoiceconsulting.com or follow us on Facebook to learn more about how we can support you.