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While aging is part of life, your lifestyle choices may affect how you age. We champion a preventive and holistic approach to health care that encompasses physical, mental, and well-being activities/screenings.
CarePlus rewards our members for taking care of their health. You can earn a $50‡ gift card just by completing eligible activities. These screenings include having a wellness visit, getting a flu shot, completing a depression screening, classes to help you learn more about how to manage your blood sugar (diabetes self-management training), and more. Click here for more information about CarePlus Rewards, or call Member Services at 1-800-794-5907 (TTY: 711).
‡ In accordance with the federal requirements of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), no amount on the gift card shall be redeemable for cash and no amount may be applied toward the purchase of any prescription drug under your plan. Rewards (gift cards) must be earned and redeemed in the same plan year. Rewards not redeemed by 12/31 will be forfeited.
The below resources and information may help you on your healthcare journey. Please see the Physical Well-being section below for information about our SilverSneakers® Fitness Program.
Seeing your primary care physician (PCP) at least once each year may help prevent or identify concerns before they become problems. Your CarePlus plan covers one routine annual physical exam every year at no additional cost. During this exam, talk to your PCP about screenings and medicine you may need, as well as activities to introduce into your life.
Use the list of recommended screenings and vaccinations below as your guide to preventive health. Discuss with your PCP if one or more of the following services/exams are right for you:
Preventive Services/ Screenings* | Adults | Adults Ages 65+ | Additional information | Qualifying CarePlus Rewards Preventive Care Activity |
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Physical Exam/Health Guidance Includes:
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Annually | Annually | Talk to your doctor about ways to increase physical activity and reduce your risk of falls | Yes |
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Cholesterol/Lipid Screening | Every 4-6 years; more often if you are at risk or have above-normal levels1 | Every 4-6 years; more often if you are at risk or have above-normal levels1 | 9- to 12-hour fast may be required; if you have cardiovascular problems, you may need annual tests | Yes |
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Diabetes Screening and Tests | Every 3 years; more often if you are at risk or have above- normal levels2 | Every 3 years; more often if you are at risk or have above- normal levels2 | If you have diabetes, the following tests are recommended at least annually: A1C, LDL cholesterol, kidney test, and eye exam | Yes |
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Blood Pressure Test | Each regular healthcare visit or at least once every 2 years if blood pressure is less than 120/80 mm Hg3Each regular healthcare visit or at least once every 2 years if blood pressure is less than 120/80 mm Hg3 | Normal is considered less than 140/90. Ideal is 120/80; high blood pressure can be controlled through lifestyle changes and/or medication | Normal is considered less than 140/90. Ideal is 120/80 | No |
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Colorectal Cancer Screening | Depends on screening test4
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Depends on screening test4
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Talk to your doctor about your risks and which colorectal cancer screening test(s) and schedule are best for you | Yes |
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Bone Mass Measurement (Osteoporosis Screening) | Periodically as directed by your doctor (depending on your risk) | Begin at age 65 and older and periodically as directed by your doctor5 | Used to detect osteoporosis; may need screening more often after bone fracture and if at high risk for osteoporosis | Yes |
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Routine Eye Exam | Every 1-2 years6 | Every 1-2 years6 | Test your vision and screen for glaucoma and macular degeneration – two common, often age-related conditions; if you have diabetes, test for diabetic retinopathy annually | Yes |
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Flu Shot Influenza Virus Vaccine | Annually7 | Annually7 | Annually in the fall or winter | Yes |
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Pneumococcal Vaccine (Pneumonia) | Usually once in a lifetime8 | Usually once in a lifetime8 | A booster shot may be recommended after you get the first shot | No |
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Breast Cancer Screening (Routine Mammogram) | Annually9 | Annually9 | Talk with a healthcare provider about your risk for breast cancer and the best screening plan for you | Yes |
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This above general health-related information is not a substitute for professional health care. For individualized medical guidance, talk to your doctor. Please refer to your Evidence of Coverage for detailed information about the tests and screenings that CarePlus covers.
1Getting Your Cholesterol Checked. (2020, September 8). Retrieved December 23, 2020, from Centers for disease Control and Prevention, https://www.cdc.gov/cholesterol/cholesterol_screening.htm (link opens in new window)
2Abnormal Blood Glucose and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Screening. (2015, October 26). Retrieved June 1, 2020, from United States Preventive Services Taskforce, http://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/Page/Document/RecommendationStatementFinal/screening-for-abnormal-blood-glucose-and-type-2-diabetes (link opens in new window)
3Heart-Health Screenings. (2017, June 1). Retrieved June 1, 2020, from American Heart Association, www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/Heart-HealthScreenings_UCM_428687_Article.jsp#.V8R1ak32bvU (link opens in new window)
4Colorectal Cancer Screening Tests. (2018, May 30). Retrieved June 1, 2020, from American Cancer Society, http://www.cancer.org/healthy/findcancerearly/cancerscreeningguidelines/american-cancer-society-guidelines-for-the-early-detection-of-cancer (link opens in new window)
5Osteoporosis to Prevent Fractures: Screening. (2018, June 16). Retrieved June 1, 2020, from United States Preventive Services Taskforce, https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/osteoporosis-screening (link opens in new window)
6Recommended Eye Examination Frequency for Pediatric Patients and Adults. (2020). Retreived June 1, 2020, from American Optometric Association, http://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/caring-for-your-vision/comprehensive-eye-and-vision-examination/recommended-examination-frequency-for-pediatric-patients-and-adults?sso=y (link opens in new window)
7Key Facts About Influenza (Flu). (2019, September 13). Retreived June 1, 2020, from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/keyfacts.htm (link opens in new window)
8Adults: Protect Yourself with Pneumococcal Vaccines. (2019, September 18). Retrieved June 1, 2020, from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, http://www.cdc.gov/features/adult-pneumococcal/ (link opens in new window)
9American Cancer Society Guidelines for the Early Detection of Cancer. (2018, May 30). Retrieved June 1, 2020, from American Cancer Society, https://www.cancer.org/healthy/find-cancer-early/cancer-screening-guidelines/american-cancer-society-guidelines-for-the-early-detection-of-cancer.html (link opens in new window)
While diabetes can be a serious and potentially deadly disease, proper management can help prevent and/or delay serious complications. Controlling your blood sugar level is key to managing diabetes, but you also should watch for other conditions, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, eye diseases, and kidney issues. The most conventional ways of controlling, preventing, and overcoming diabetes and associated complications include:
Self-Test
Measure and track your blood sugar and glucose level on your own.
CarePlus covers and makes available diabetic monitoring supplies (e.g., lancets, blood glucose strips, glucometers, etc.) through your plan’s retail network pharmacies, via your plan’s preferred mail-order pharmacy, or through other pharmacies in our network. Authorization rules may apply. Refer to your Evidence of Coverage for more information.
A1C Test
Diet and Exercise
Regular exercise and weight loss can help prevent diabetes-related conditions and complications.
CarePlus plans include access to the SilverSneakers® Fitness Program, which offers classes geared toward older adults to help improve strength and flexibility. Talk to your doctor before beginning any fitness and/or exercise program. Click here for more information about the SilverSneakers Fitness Program.
Blood Pressure Test
Cholesterol Screening
Medication Adherence
Dilated Retinal Eye Exam
Nephropathy Screening
The above refers to general health-related information and is not a substitute for professional healthcare. For individualized medical guidance, talk to your doctor.
References
Conquer High Blood Pressure. (2020). Retreived June 1, 2020, from American Diabetes Association, http://www.diabetes.org/are-you-at-risk/lower-your-risk/bloodpressure.html (link opens in new window)
Diabetes and High Blood Pressure. (2019, May 18). Retreived June 1, 2020, from WebMD, http://www.webmd.com/hypertension-high-blood-pressure/guide/high-blood-pressure (link opens in new window)
Cholesterol Abnormalities & Diabetes. (2016, January 31). Retreived June 1, 2020, from American Heart Association, http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/Diabetes/WhyDiabetesMatters/
Cholesterol-Abnormalities-Diabetes_UCM_313868_Article.jsp (link opens in new window)
What Is Diabetic Neuropathy? (2019, May 4). Retreived June 1, 2020 from WebMD, http://www.webmd.com/diabetes/tc/diabetic-nephropathy-topic-overview (link opens in new window)
Almost 50 percent of American adults suffer from high blood pressure, which can be difficult to detect because it has no obvious symptoms. Undetected high blood pressure can adversely affect your overall health and injure vital organs like your heart, brain, and/or kidneys. You and/or a medical professional should check your blood pressure regularly.
Blood Pressure Category | Systolic Mm Hg (Upper Number) | Diastolic Mm Hg (Lower Number) | |
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Normal | Less than 120 | And | Less than 80 |
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Elevated | 120-129 | And | Less than 80 |
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High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Stage 1 | 130-139 | Or | 80-89 |
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High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Stage 2 | 140 or Higher | Or | 90 or Higher |
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Hypertensive Crisis: CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY | 180 or Higher | And/Or | 120 or Higher |
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Note: A medical professional must make or confirm a diagnosis of high blood pressure, which may vary based on age and diagnosis. The above chart categorizes blood pressure values recognized by the American Heart Association. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with high blood pressure, taking medication as prescribed and making adjustments to your lifestyle such as eating healthier and exercising* can help lower the risks associated with high blood pressure.
*The above refers to general health-related information and is not a substitute for professional healthcare. For individualized medical guidance, talk to your doctor.
For more information:
The Facts About High Blood Pressure. (2017, November 30). Retreived June 1, 2020, American Heart Association, http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/HighBloodPressure/
GettheFactsAboutHighBloodPressure/The-Facts-About-High-Blood-Pressure_UCM_002050_Article.jsp#.WntVN5WWxIm (link opens in new window)
Changes You Can Make to Manage High Blood Pressure. (2017, November 30). Retreived June 1, 2020, American Heart Association, https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/changes-you-can-make-to-manage-high-blood-pressure (link opens in new window)
Cholesterol is a waxy substance that your liver produces and that is found in many foods. Cholesterol plays an important part in keeping our bodies working, but having too much (or high) cholesterol is bad.
Cholesterol 101
The Three Parts of Cholesterol
Controlling Cholesterol
What You CAN Control: | What You CANNOT Control: |
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Avoid eating foods high in fat, like pre-packaged baked goods and processed meat (e.g., hot dogs, sausage, bologna, etc.). | Family history – Genetics plays a large role in your health. |
Eat healthy food, like fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and food high in fiber. | Age – As a person ages, LDL cholesterol levels tend to rise. |
Exercise regularly – the American Heart Association recommends between 30 and 45 minutes of moderate-intensity activity at least three times every week. |
Cholesterol Goals
Cholesterol Levels | Normal/Optimal | Borderline High/Increased | High |
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Total | <200 mg/dL | 200-239 mg/dL | ≥ 240 mg/dL |
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Triglycerides | <150 mg/dL | 150-200 mg/dL (Mildly increased) 200-499 mg/dL (Moderately increased) |
> 500 mg/dL |
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LDL* | <100 mg/dL | 100-190 mg/dL | > 190 mg/dL |
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HDL | 60 mg/dL or above (the higher the better) | 60 mg/dL or above (the higher the better) | 60 mg/dL or above (the higher the better) |
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* If you have other health problems that may increase your risk for heart disease, heart attack, and/or stroke, your goal may be less than 70. Talk to your physician about your risk factors and your specific cholesterol goals.
Cholesterol Medication
References
LDL and HDL: “Bad” and “Good” Cholesterol. (2020, January 31). Retreived June 1, 2020, from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov/cholesterol/ldl_hdl.htm (link opens in new window)
Knowing Your Risk for High Cholesterol. (2020, January 31). Retreived June 1, 2020, from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov/cholesterol/risk_factors.htm (link opens in new window))
Prevention and Treatment of High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia). (2017, April 30). Retreived June 2, 2020, from American Heart Association, www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/prevention-and-treatment-of-high-cholesterol-hyperlipidemia (link opens in new window)
National Cholesterol Education Program. Third Report of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults (Adult Treatment Panel III) Final Report.
Hypertriglyceridemia Management According to the 2018 AHA/ACC Guideline. (2019, January 11). Retreived June 2, 2020, from American College of Cardiology, https://www.acc.org/latest-in-cardiology/articles/2019/01/11/07/39/hypertriglyceridemia-management-according-to-the-2018-aha-acc-guideline (link opens in new window)
Cholesterol Numbers; What Do They Mean. (2018, June 28). Retreived June 2, 2020, from Cleveland Clinic https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/11920-cholesterol-numbers-what-do-they-mean (link opens in new window)
Cholesterol Medications. (2018, November 10) Retreived June 2, 2020, from American Heart Association, https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/prevention-and-treatment-of-high-cholesterol-hyperlipidemia/cholesterol-medications (link opens in new window)
Lifestyle adjustments such as exercising* may be hard to make, so we offer plan benefits that may help you on your well-being journey. The SilverSneakers® Fitness Program is a fitness benefit we include in all of our plans. The program includes classes, fitness events, and social activities at no additional cost.**
SilverSneakers makes it convenient to exercise when, where, and how you want:
For details, visit SilverSneakers.com (link opens in new window) or call SilverSneakers Customer Service at 1-866-584-7389 (TTY: 711), Monday - Friday, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST.
*It is highly recommended that you consult your doctor before participating in any fitness program and/or exercise regimen to ensure amount of physical activity is appropriate based on your individual health status/condition. The above is general health-related information and is not a substitute for professional healthcare. For individualized medical guidance, talk to your doctor.
**Tivity Health and SilverSneakers are registered trademarks or trademarks of Tivity Health, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates in the USA and/or other countries. © 2020. All rights reserved.
***Classes and amenities vary by location.
Social activities can provide a wealth of benefits to your emotional, physical, and mental health. The emotional benefits may include happiness, laughter, and a boost to your mood. Research indicates that laughter just might be the best medicine for some people. It has a range of physiological benefits, including:
Social activities can also help reduce stress. They work on balancing hormones and increasing the production of the feel-good chemicals in the body.1 Social activities also decrease stress-related hormones, like adrenaline, that produce cortisol and can affect your physical and emotional well-being.1
Consider setting a goal for yourself or participating in activities you may enjoy with others.
Stay connected:
There are plenty of ways you can stay connected, be active, and maintain meaningful relationships with others. Here are a few suggestions.
Source
1Laughter is the Best Medicine (2019, November) Retreived June 2, 2020, from HelpGuide, https://www.helpguide.org/articles/emotional-health/laughter-is-the-best-medicine.htm (link opens in new window)
An advance care plan captures your wishes in case you become ill
This might be a good time to begin putting your preferences, goals and values of care into writing. An advance care plan, or ACP, can make sure your voice is heard in the event you unexpectedly become too ill to speak for yourself.
CarePlus has teamed up with MyDirectives®, a digital advance care plan that can be accessed anywhere in the world at any time. MyDirectives allows you to create a digital ACP online, or if you prefer, to upload existing paper documents. You can also identify the individuals you would like to speak on your behalf if it comes to that.
MyDirectives offers video tutorials, a printable conversation guide for family discussions and a wallet card to print, complete with a Quick Response (QR) code to make it easy for your providers to find your plan. If you have an Apple device, you can download the MyDirectives mobile app and take pictures of paper documents to upload or record a video message to your family and/or providers.
Examples of preferences covered in an ACP
In emergencies, doctors have a variety of treatment options. Near the end of life, they can sometimes use artificial or mechanical ways to keep someone alive, or they can focus more on relief of pain and anxiety, depending on the patient’s wishes. With an ACP, you can make your feelings known in advance on such questions as:
You may be familiar with a POLST—a Physician Order for Life-Sustaining Treatment. This is also an important document—but it is not an ACP. A POLST is more focused on the very end of life and is completed by a doctor. On the other hand, an ACP is completed by you and captures details you consider important regarding your care. It is appropriate for everyone over the age of 18 and can be easily updated as your health status or perspectives change.
Important things to know about CarePlus and MyDirectives
Creating your MyDirectives plan helps ensure your wishes will be known when you cannot speak for yourself—and it provides peace of mind for your family that your wishes are being honored.
Sign up and complete a MyDirectives plan online today(link opens in new window)
If you are a CarePlus member enrolled in a Special Needs Plan (SNP), such as CareNeeds PLUS (HMO D-SNP), you may also contact your CarePlus Case Manager to create an advance care plan (ACP).
Please keep your advance care planning documents in a safe, secure, and accessible location. If you have an Apple device, you can download the MyDirectives mobile app and take pictures of paper documents to upload or record a video message to your family and providers.
Sources
1 “Advance Care Planning: Healthcare Directives,” National Institute on Aging, last accessed April 22, 2020, https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/advance-care-planning-healthcare-directives (link opens in new window)
2 “Providing Care and Comfort at the End of Life,” National Institute on Aging, last accessed April 22, 2020, https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/providing-comfort-end-life (link opens in new window)
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