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AARP Bulletin: How to Stay Safe and Fight Back Against the Latest Scams

March 10, 2025/in Medicare News /by mgl

Readers Stay Informed and Protected with the Annual Fraud Prevention Guide from AARP Bulletin

WASHINGTON—AARP Bulletin today announced its annual Fraud Prevention Guide, a comprehensive resource aimed at helping readers stay vigilant against the latest scams, leading the March/April issue. As artificial intelligence becomes more sophisticated, scams are becoming more difficult to spot. AARP Fraud Watch Network pros detail the ways criminals are constantly innovating, how they can more easily manipulate the emotions of potential victims, and what can be done about it.

The guide highlights several pressing issues, including the alarming rise of AI-driven scams, stories of real-life fraud, and professional tips on how to fight back against scammers.

Also in this year’s edition:

Simple tricks to secure your phone if you fear you’ve been hacked;
Resources for victims of fraud;
And much more.

Other stories in the March/April issue of AARP Bulletin:

Medicare Made Easy: We help readers navigate the often complex world of Medicare policies. This month, the Bulletin highlights key enrollment periods and deadlines to ensure you don’t get fined with a late fee. Plus: What you can do if a prescription drug previously covered by Medicare is no longer covered.

Great Ways to Save on Vacation Lodging: Planning a vacation doesn’t have to break the bank. This month, Bulletin editors offer savvy tips on how to save on your next vacation, ensuring you get the most out of your travel budget.

Published bi-monthly, AARP Bulletin is the definitive news source for AARP’s members, delivering the story behind the key issues confronting Americans 50 and older, including health and health policy, Medicare, Social Security, consumer protection, work, personal finance, and AARP state and national news. Learn more at http://www.aarp.org/bulletin/.

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About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

Exclusives From AARP The Magazine: Drew Barrymore on Parenthood and The Peace That Comes With Turning 50, Daily Routines For Lifelong Strength and Mobility, and Ed Dwight’s Historic Journey Toward Space Exploration

January 29, 2025/in Medicare News /by mgl

Exclusives From AARP The Magazine: Drew Barrymore on Parenthood and The Peace That Comes With Turning 50, Daily Routines For Lifelong Strength and Mobility, and Ed Dwight’s Historic Journey Toward Space Exploration

Plus: Navigating Dating in Your 50s and Building Fulfilling Relationships with Confidence; Kevin Bacon Shares Surprising Experiences That Shaped His Career; Rosanne Cash Reflects on Life at 69; Stories of Overcoming Financial Disruption from Illness, Betrayal, and Disaster

WASHINGTON—The February/March 2025 issue of AARP The Magazine (ATM) gives readers a closer look into the lives of their favorite celebrities and reveals some of the biggest trends of 2025.

The exceptional, award-winning actress Drew Barrymore captivates the cover as she reflects on the joyous feeling of contentment as she approaches her milestone 50th birthday, a feeling she had never anticipated given the stress and constant worry in her earlier life. The actress-turned-talk show host discusses her vulnerability both on and off the screen, and how her priorities have shifted, to focus on parenthood The issue’s Upfront series showcases five surprising things about actor Kevin Bacon – like being the youngest of six siblings, with an eight-year gap between him and the next oldest. Award-winning singer-songwriter Rosanne Cash, at 69, reveals memories of her parents and the importance of legacy. Additionally, ATM relationship experts share intentional dating rules for individuals in their 50s.

Plus: One ATM health and fitness specialist provides seven easy exercises to help you thrive and live your best life; learn about three shocking stories of perseverance in financial crises; and former NASA recruit Ed Dwight reflects on his experience in space.

In this issue of AARP The Magazine:

Is Drew Barrymore Really All Grown Up?
Drew Barrymore reflects on her decades-long career in the spotlight, from childhood fame in E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial and 90s rom-com hits like Charlie’s Angels to her Emmy-winning talk show, The Drew Barrymore Show. She discusses how throughout her career she has reshaped the narratives of her personal life through the characters she has portrayed. Now, as she celebrates her 50th birthday, Barrymore shares how with age, she has developed the superpower of not overthinking, gaining a deeper trust in herself and learning to let go of things that no longer serve her. She also shares how her approach to her career and life has evolved, emphasizing the profound joys of motherhood and how it remains the most important role she will ever have.

The A List: 5 Surprising Things About Kevin Bacon

Golden Globe-winning actor Kevin Bacon, now 66, reflects on his early upbringing as the youngest of six children. He recalls the pivotal moment in his career when he realized he no longer needed to worry about waiting tables – which was around 1982, following the release of Diner. While he doesn’t often discuss it, Bacon speaks warmly about his 36-year marriage, describing the relationship with his wife, Kyra Sedgwick, as a deep friendship. This year, he will star in two highly anticipated TV shows: the Amazon series The Bondsman and Netflix’s Sirens.

What I Know Now: Rosanne Cash
AARP The Magazine explores a rare glimpse into the life of four-time Grammy winner Rosanne Cash, as she reflects on life at 69. From stepping into adulthood early for her younger sisters, to spending six transformative months in London at 20 years old with a record company, Cash discusses the milestones that influenced her creative and personal growth. She opens up about navigating her evolving relationship with her parents and the profound impact of community.

The New Rules for Dating In Your 50s
ATM collaborated with a team of dating experts, including licensed psychotherapists, relationship therapists, and clinical sexologists, to explore the dynamics of dating and intimacy for individuals aged 50 and older. These professionals shared valuable tips on navigating the challenges of dating later in life, such as shifting priorities, fewer prospects, and evolving obligations. While these factors can make dating more complex, they also present opportunities to enrich brain health and embrace new experiences. By expanding preferences, exploring connections beyond dating apps, and gaining clarity on personal desires, individuals in their 50s can discover fresh ways to meet potential partners and build fulfilling relationships.

SHOCK! BETRAYAL! DISASTER! Three True Stories of Resilience in Financial Crises
AARP The Magazine shares the powerful stories of three older Americans whose financial security was disrupted by illness, marital betrayal, and natural disaster, highlighting their resilience and how new perspectives helped them recover. John Clements was recently diagnosed with cancer at 61. Despite a grim prognosis, his thoughtful financial planning gave him the security to face the uncertainty ahead. Mary Anderson uncovered years of financial deception by her husband, including unpaid taxes and emptied accounts, leaving her to rebuild her financial independence from scratch. Similarly, Christopher Fielden lost everything in Hurricane Helene, but his thorough insurance coverage and emergency planning enabled him to recover his life. ATM provides practical guidance on how preparation and financial awareness can help prevent setbacks, along with strategies for crisis recovery and achieving long-term financial resilience.

The Ride of His Life

At 90 years old, former NASA recruit Ed Dwight became the oldest person to travel to space, surpassing William Shatner’s record. In this article as told to John Rosengren, Dwight reflects on his experience, describing the awe-inspiring view of Earth from space. He noted how the planet appeared unified and beautiful, with no visible division between countries or states. With this perspective it prompted him to question why humanity struggles to coexist peacefully and why so many fail to care for such a beautiful world. Ed Dwight is currently based in Denver, working in his art studio producing bronze sculptures of historical figures.

Get Fit for A Better Future

One ATM health and fitness specialist provides seven simple exercises to help you live your best life for years to come. This article explores ways to maintain strength, flexibility, and balance, essential for enjoying life’s activities – whether it is playing with grandkids or handling daily tasks with ease. Incorporating these practices into your routine can reduce health risks and support lifelong mobility.

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About AARP:
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

AARP The Magazine EXCLUSIVE: Drew Barrymore, Moved to Tears, Finally Finds Peace at 50 and Embraces Happiness

January 23, 2025/in Medicare News /by mgl

AARP The Magazine EXCLUSIVE: Drew Barrymore, Moved to Tears, Finally Finds Peace at 50 and Embraces Happiness

The talk show host opens up about staying positive, her current attitude on dating, and growing up in front of the cameras.

WASHINGTON—After decades of being in the spotlight, Drew Barrymore couldn’t be happier about where her long-lasting career has taken her in life. In the February/March 2025 issue of AARP The Magazine (ATM), the actor-turned-talk show host discusses growing up in front of the cameras, staying positive, and celebrating her 50th birthday.

With her sudden rise to fame after her 1982 breakout role in E.T., Barrymore’s teen years proved to be tumultuous. She continued to feel “worried and stressed” throughout adulthood, she tells AARP in a digital exclusive video. However, Barrymore tearfully confesses her life has improved with aging: “I would have never guessed that I would feel peace. Thank you 50. Thank you, AARP.”

She also opens up about her family, and her decision to swear off men, alcohol, and acting – in an effort to continue being present for her daughters. Working on the fifth season of her Emmy-winning talk show The Drew Barrymore Show, she tells ATM, “I date occasionally, but no way am I ready to open that door.”

The following are excerpts from ATM’s February/March 2025 cover story featuring Drew Barrymore. The issue is available in homes starting in February and online now at www.aarp.org/magazine/.

On her upcoming 50th birthday:

“It can’t come soon enough. I feel like Frodo [in The Lord of the Rings]. I see that brass ring and I’m so excited! I have no issues with aging—this is the happiest I’ve been in my life.”

On being open about PMS and menopause, both on and off-camera:

“In one day, we covered gynecology, hot flashes, pooping in your pants, PMS—and we weren’t even doing a medical show! Sometimes when I’m waiting to walk out, I’ll have a lot of stuff on my plate—I’m worried about my parent-teacher conference meeting that didn’t go perfectly. Or I just fell 3 feet and hurt my ankle, and I’ve got to go to an MRI that afternoon. But then I limp out and say, “Can we just be real about this? Let’s put it all out there. Let’s cheer each other on. Let’s laugh.””

On dating:

“My girls say I should go on dates, but I also know how I felt when men were around when I was little—it didn’t feel safe to me, so I’m probably overcautious from those experiences.”

On prevailing over negativity while hosting The Drew Barrymore Show:

“I’m so sick of the guilt and sadness. It’s the greatest habit I will ever break in my life. When I talk about beating myself up, I see heads nodding and I’m like, “We can’t do this to ourselves anymore. I’ve seen the light.” It doesn’t mean I’ve got it mastered, but I see the light enough to know that this isn’t good.”

On enduring her divorce with Will Kopelman in 2016:

“My dream family was falling apart and I didn’t know how to put one foot in front of the other. And I had grown up so fast but now I didn’t know what age to feel—I just knew that my life was heavy, and painful and sad—and I sat in that for a while. Eventually, thank goodness, I lifted myself out of it. I had two kids and I had to figure it out.”

On taking a step back from acting to focus on parenthood:

“I was in my early 40s, and not learning how to be my own healthy, independent individual, how to be the parent I dream to be. Being other people doesn’t help me figure that out right now. And the long hours of doing films were hours I wouldn’t have with my kids. I wasn’t going to do that.”

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About AARP:

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

AARP Bulletin: Health Care Systems Under Duress, What to Do After a Data Breach, and Tips for Flying with a Medical Device

January 9, 2025/in Medicare News /by mgl

AARP Bulletin: Health Care Systems Under Duress, What to Do After a Data Breach, and Tips for Flying with a Medical Device

WASHINGTON—The first issue of AARP Bulletin in 2025 examines the physician shortage crisis and what it means for older adults. Additionally, this month’s issue provides insights on how to handle data breaches, tips for traveling with a medical device, a spotlight on the work of ombudsmen in nursing homes, and a message to our members from new AARP CEO Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan.

In the January/February 2025 issue of AARP Bulletin:

Cover Story: Where Have All the Doctors Gone?
America is facing an unprecedented shortage of physicians, which can lead to longer wait times and less attention provided to patients. With over 70 million Americans on Medicare, many with chronic conditions, longer wait times can mean worse health outcomes. This month’s cover story details the consequences of a smaller nationwide pool of physicians and the potential danger it presents to older Americans – plus, tips from top medical professionals on how to get the care you need if you are an older patient.

Is Your Personal Information Under Attack?
A record-setting 1.3 billion American consumer records – including Social Security, driver’s license, credit card, and health-related account numbers – were stolen in data breaches in 2024. What’s worse, a study co-sponsored by AARP indicates that most people do not know what to do after receiving an alert about fraudulent activity. Learn the critical steps to take after a data breach in this month’s Fraud Watch column.

Tips for Traveling with a Medical Device
This month’s issue of “Your Life” details how a simple bag mix-up at the airport left one Bulletin writer without her CPAP machine for days, leading to restless nights in a foreign country. Read how one simple step would have prevented the situation and other must-know tips for caregivers and travelers who fly with a medical device.

The Ombudsman Crisis in Nursing Homes
A long-term care ombudsman advocates on behalf of older residents and those with disabilities. They investigate and resolve complaints within residential facilities, and their work is crucial to ensuring individuals are treated correctly and with dignity. However, with increasingly limited funding, resources, and staff since the COVID-19 pandemic, a crisis is emerging nationwide. Read this month’s issue to get the latest on the situation and how to get in touch with your ombudsman.

Meet New AARP CEO Dr. Myechia Minter-Jordan
In her career as a practicing physician, public health advocate, and a business leader, Dr. Minter-Jordan has devoted herself to improving the health and wellness of individuals. Writing for the Bulletin, she says, “I am determined to meet this moment. In many ways, I feel like my life and career have prepared me for it.” Learn more about AARP’s new CEO in this month’s issue.

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About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest-circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

Exclusives From AARP The Magazine: Michelle Yeoh on Perfecting Her Craft and Honoring Her Community, Naomi Watts Opens Up About Perimenopause, and How To Spot Six Commonly Misleading Financial Statements

December 4, 2024/in Medicare News /by mgl

Exclusives From AARP The Magazine: Michelle Yeoh on Perfecting Her Craft and Honoring Her Community, Naomi Watts Opens Up About Perimenopause, and How To Spot Six Commonly Misleading Financial Statements

Plus: Next Year’s Must-See Destinations, Travel Expert Picks for Your Bucket List; Accessible Ride-Hailing and Barcode Apps Made Convenient For Caregivers; and Danny DeVito on His Legendary Roles

WASHINGTON— The December 2024/January 2025 issue of AARP The Magazine (ATM) gives readers a closer look into the lives of their favorite celebrities and reveals some of the biggest trends of 2024/2025.

The incomparable Academy Award-winning actress Michelle Yeoh graces the cover in all her elegance, opening up about her journey and trailblazing career. With a historic win under her belt, Yeoh’s continued rise to global stardom is nothing short of inspiring. Yeoh enthuses about the star-studded adaptation of Wicked, and the thrilling roles she has to come. The issue’s Upfront series showcases six surprising things about actress Naomi Watts – like how she struggled with infertility due to perimenopause in her mid-30s. Multiple-award-winning actor and filmmaker Danny DeVito, at 80, discusses his iconic roles in Taxi and Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and the joy of being a family-focused grandfather. Additionally, ATM travel experts select the ideal cities you need to go to in 2025.

Plus: One ATM money pro spills six “Tricky Truths” when it comes to investment costs, life insurance, and other financial situations; discover how scanning barcodes and checking nutrition info can make your shopping experience even better; and ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft support caregivers.

In this issue of AARP The Magazine:

Michelle Yeoh’s Cover Story

Michelle Yeoh reflects on her remarkable journey from aspiring ballet school owner to becoming an award-winning actress, sharing how she honors the Asian actresses who paved the way for her success. In her interview with AARP The Magazine (ATM), Yeoh discusses her career, including her Oscar win for Everything Everywhere All at Once, and her new projects, such as the musical adaptation of Wicked and upcoming roles in Avatar 4 and Star Trek: Section 31. She also opens up about her personal life, finding love again with her husband Jean Todt, and her desire to slow down and focus on family while continuing to grow in her acting career.

The A List: 6 Surprising Things About Naomi Watts

British actress Naomi Watts reflects on the pivotal moments that have shaped her life, from the heartbreaking loss of her father to an apparent heroin overdose when she was only seven years old, to finding love and marrying, for the first time, at 54, actor Billy Crudup. She also delves into her journey through perimenopause, which began in her mid-30s, a topic she explores in depth in her upcoming book Dare I Say It, set to release in January.

What I Know Now: Danny DeVito
Danny DeVito, the beloved actor celebrated for his iconic roles in Taxi and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, reflects on the defining moments that have shaped his life and career. He shares candid insights about his upbringing in a lively, close-knit Italian family, his unexpected journey into acting, and his rapid rise to fame—all while remaining grounded in the spotlight. Now relishing his role as a grandfather, DeVito reveals how aging has emboldened him, giving him the confidence to speak his mind while staying true to his values of respect.

Money Report: Tricky Truths That Can Lose You Money

A financial expert examines six “tricky truths”—popular financial advice that, while well-meaning, may not apply to everyone’s unique situation. From the misconception that higher fees guarantee better returns to the pitfalls of overvaluing past investment successes and misunderstandings about life insurance, the discussion highlights the importance of tailoring financial strategies to individual needs and long-term goals.

Where To Travel In 2025
Seven must-visit travel destinations for older Americans to explore in 2025 have just been unveiled. AARP The Magazine has a list featuring a diverse mix of locations tailored to history, culture, and value. From the awe-inspiring aurora borealis in Fairbanks to Argentina’s favorable exchange rates, this guide highlights must-see sites and recommended activities to help plan one’s next unforgettable adventure.

Scan That Barcode

ATM offers insights on how apps like MyNetDiary, ShopSavvy, and Yuka, can be utilized to enhance daily grocery shopping experiences. By scanning product barcodes with your phone, you can instantly access nutritional information, compare prices, and check ingredient safety, making the process of informed shopping decisions much easier.

Ride-Hailing For Caregivers

Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are highlighted by ATM for their role in simplifying transportation for caregivers. With features like ride scheduling and three-way communication among caregivers, drivers, and passengers, these services make it easier to ensure loved ones get where they need to go, no matter the distance.

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About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

Get ready! Medicare’s Open Enrollment starts October 15.

October 1, 2021/in Medicare News /by mgl

You can enroll in Medicare health and drug plans from October 15 – December 7. Get ready for Medicare’s Open Enrollment with these 5 tips:

Check your mail. You may get important notices from Medicare or Social Security. If you’re in a Medicare plan, you’ll get an Annual Notice of Changes (ANOC) telling you of any changes in coverage, costs, or service area. Note any 2022 changes to your health coverage or any Extra Help you may get to pay for prescription drugs.
You may also get brochures and other marketing materials from insurance companies that offer Medicare health and prescription drug plans. Remember — plans aren’t allowed to call or come to your home without an invitation from you. Find out how to protect yourself from Medicare fraud.
Think about your Medicare coverage needs for 2022. Carefully review your current Medicare coverage, and note any upcoming changes to your costs or benefits. Decide if your current Medicare coverage will meet your needs for the year ahead. If you like your current coverage, and it’s still available for 2022, you don’t need to take any action to keep it.
Review your 2022 “Medicare & You” handbook. It has information about Medicare coverage and Medicare plans in your area. If you want to get your handbook electronically, you can go paperless by logging into (or creating) your secure Medicare account.
Preview 2022 health and prescription drug plans. We make it easy to compare coverage options and shop for health plans. For a personalized search, log in or create an account (if you have a Medicare Number) to create or access a list of your drugs, compare your current Medicare plan to others, and see prices based on any help you get with drug costs.
Get personalized help in your community. You may be able to find free information and events online, or get help from health insurance counselors in your area by phone, like your State Health Insurance Assistance Program.

Visit Medicare.gov to sign up to get important news & updates by email from Medicare.

Guard your card: How to protect your Medicare card

September 15, 2021/in Medicare News /by mgl

Protect yourself by protecting your Medicare card!

The next Medicare Open Enrollment Period (October 15 – December 7) is coming fast, which means con artists may try to steal your identity and commit Medicare fraud. Medicare has taken actions to make Medicare cards safer by replacing Social Security Numbers with more secure ID numbers. But even with those efforts, fraudsters may still try to take advantage of you during Open Enrollment.

Medicare fraud results in higher health care costs for taxpayers just like you. That’s why it’s so important to know how to protect your Medicare card and Number.

What can you do to protect yourself and prevent Medicare fraud?

The most important thing you can do is guard your Medicare card like it’s a credit card. Don’t give your Medicare card or Number to anyone except your doctor or people you know should have it.

You can also:

Keep your Medicare Number to yourself. If you get a call from people promising you things if you give them your Medicare Number — don’t do it. This is a common Medicare scam.
Refuse any offer of money or gifts for free medical care. A common ploy of identity thieves is to say they can send you your free gift right away — they just need your Medicare Number.
Use a calendar to record all of your doctors’ appointments and any tests you get. When you check your Medicare statements, look out for any items and services listed and other details that don’t look correct. If you see a charge or service that you think is incorrect and you know the provider, call their office and ask about it.
Learn how a Medicare plan works before you join.
Stay alert for fraud during the coronavirus disease 2019 (or COVID-19) national emergency. Con artists like to take advantage of people when they’re distracted.

Committing Medicare fraud is illegal & you should report it

If you suspect fraud, call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048. If you’re in a Medicare Advantage Plan or Medicare drug plan, call the Medicare Drug Integrity Contractor (MEDIC) at 1-877-7SAFERX (1-877-772-3379).

Learn how to protect yourself from health care fraud. Visit Medicare.gov/fraud for more information on how to help fight Medicare fraud.

Prevention is key—protect yourself with vaccines

August 9, 2021/in Medicare News /by mgl

More than 79% of people 65 and over are fully vaccinated for COVID-19—but are you defending yourself from other life-threatening illnesses, like pneumonia and the flu? Getting vaccinated is a simple, safe, and effective way to protect yourself.

According to the CDC, “vaccines greatly reduce the risk of infection by working with the body’s natural defenses to safely develop immunity to disease.” They strengthen your immune system and train it to create antibodies, like it does when it’s exposed to a disease.

Medicare covers a variety of vaccinations, including:

COVID-19 vaccine—helps protect against Coronavirus disease 2019
Flu shot—helps prevent the influenza virus
Hepatitis B shots—helps protects against the Hepatitis B Virus
Pneumococcal shots —helps protect against pneumococcal disease and its potentially serious complications, including infections like pneumonia and meningitis
Shingles shot—helps protect against reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus that causes varicella (chickenpox)
Tdap shots—helps protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (“whooping cough”)

Also, you no longer need to wait 14 days between different vaccines. According to the CDC, you can get a COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccines, including flu and shingles, at the same visit.

Adults need to keep their vaccinations up to date because immunity from childhood vaccines can wear off over time. Talk to your doctor to help you decide which vaccines are right for you.