Ed had visited with us five years ago when he turned 65 to research Medicare plans and has been very happy with his choice for all this time. Now he called to make an appointment for his wife who is turning 65 in three months, and he wanted her to have the same wonderful experience he had learning about all the different choices of plans.
As they sat down Ed said that he just had a few questions before we got started. I laughed and said "I'm not the one you have to ask as this is Cheryl's appointment. This is her time." He gave his wife of 40 years a small nervous glance and without missing a beat, Cheryl somewhat humorously told him, "Well, it is my turn but go ahead and ask your questions, because if you don't, you'll probably forget them if you wait."
After getting Ed all buttoned up, it was now time to focus on Cheryl. As it turned out it was a good refresher course for Ed as he commented a few times that he had forgotten some details he learned in his first meeting.
Finding the Right Plan for Each Person
Since Ed had a Medicare Advantage plan, he was gently pushing Cheryl to get the same. Cheryl wanted to know, are there any pros and cons to them both having the same Medicare Advantage plan? I quickly reminded them that all Medicare plans were individual and that we do mixed marriages all time, but more importantly was finding a plan specific to Cheryl's needs.
Cheryl was quick to comment that a few chronic conditions run in her family. She may need to see specific specialists, and based on my research she may have more choices with Medigap and a Part D drug plan, or a Medicare Advantage PPO. We discussed a few more details making sure she understood the coverages and then I glanced at Ed who merely said, "Happy wife, Happy life!" We all had a good laugh and they both were happy with their choices.
I also reminded them that Medicare's Annual Enrollment Period occurs every year from October 15th through December 7th, giving them the chance to change their choices if needed. If you're approaching 65 or want to review your current Medicare options, give us a call!
By David Edge
David Edge is a retirement lifestyle writer and contributor to the ARA monthly newsletter. His articles blend personal stories with practical insights on living well in retirement.
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Easy Eddie's Take
David's story about Ed and Cheryl really shows how personal Medicare planning needs to be. A lot of people ask me, "Should my spouse and I have the same Medicare plan?" The answer is maybe, maybe not. Each person's Medicare coverage should match their own health needs, preferred doctors, and budget. In 2026, you have several paths: Original Medicare with a Medigap policy and Part D prescription coverage, or a Medicare Advantage plan that bundles everything together. If you have chronic conditions or want to stick with specific specialists, Medigap plus Part D often gives you the most flexibility to see any doctor who accepts Medicare.
Here's the good news about that Annual Enrollment Period from October 15th through December 7th each year. You can switch from Medicare Advantage back to Original Medicare, change Medicare Advantage plans, or modify your Part D prescription coverage. Most people are surprised when they learn this, but you're not locked into your first choice forever. A little preparation today can make a big difference tomorrow.