Adults Age 65 and Older Can Enroll in Medicare through December 7

Are you turning 65 soon and losing your employer-based health insurance coverage? Are you currently receiving Medicare and interested in updating your coverage? Medicare’s Open Enrollment period will run through December 7, 2024. It is the only time of year that Medicare enrollees can review coverage, compare benefits and premiums, and make changes based on current health status, medications and finances.

The Serving Health Information Needs of Everyone (SHINE) Program is a state-wide program that provides free health insurance information and assistance for Medicare-eligible adults and their caregivers. To find a SHINE Counselor, view the state’s SHINE Program webpage.

The Cambridge Council on Aging has three staff members who are certified SHINE counselors and provide free consultations to Cambridge residents who are eligible to enroll in Medicare throughout the Open Enrollment period. In addition to advising on healthcare plan options, COA’s SHINE Counselors can refer Cambridge residents to COA’s Client Services team to access additional resources and services for older adults.

Older adults and caregivers can also access information about healthcare plans, providers, and other resources by visiting Medicare.gov or calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) to speak with someone on the phone. The phone line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (except for some federal holidays. TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.

If Cambridge residents have a question about Medicare Open Enrollment or the SHINE Program, they can also call the Council on Aging at 617-349-6220.