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Are You on Top of Your Diabetes Care?

If you have diabetes, it’s important to monitor your blood sugar levels and manage your condition to avoid complications. One way to stay on top of your diabetes care is by following a healthy eating plan. This means eating a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. It’s also important to limit your intake of sugary foods and drinks.

Another way to manage your diabetes is by being physically active. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise. This can help lower your blood sugar levels and improve your overall health.

In addition to healthy eating and exercise, it’s important to take any medications prescribed by your doctor as directed. This may include insulin or other medications to help control your blood sugar levels. It’s also a good idea to check your blood sugar levels regularly, as recommended by your doctor.

It’s important to see your doctor regularly for check-ups and to discuss any changes in your condition. This can help your doctor identify any potential problems early on and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

It’s also important to monitor for any complications of diabetes, such as nerve damage, kidney damage, or eye problems. If you notice any changes in your vision, or if you have tingling or numbness in your feet, be sure to let your doctor know.

Managing your diabetes can be challenging, but it’s important for your overall health. By following a healthy eating plan, being physically active, taking your medications as directed, and regularly checking your blood sugar levels, you can help manage your condition and avoid complications. Talk to your doctor about the best ways to stay on top of your diabetes care.

Are you ready to enroll in a health insurance plan? Here at Healthedly, we’ve got you covered! Get started today with enrollment and a free quote from our team at Healthedly.

December 20, 2022

Packing For a Cruise: What You Need to Bring

General, Travel Medical

Are you planning a cruise next year or in a few months? Cruises offer a fantastic way of seeing a part of the world by luxury liner, whether you want to explore a tropical paradise or see the Northern Lights. Cruise ships are an encapsulated metropolis, but you should still remember the motto “Always Prepared”. Cruise ships sometimes don’t dock for weeks at a time, so you will want to avoid the stress of needing an essential item but having to wait to get on dry land.

So, what do you need to pack for your next cruise? What should you add to your packing list? These are the essentials you will need for your next cruise.

Everyday outfits

Start with figuring out everyday outfits to wear daily on the trip. Choose a pair of your favorite shorts, skirt, or leggings to wear. Then find two or three tops that you can cycle through. Don’t forget comfy shoes, slippers, and sandals. Cruise ships tend to make stops at various tourist attractions along the way. Some of these locations include a place to hike or explore. Make sure you take along some good walking shoes for an excursion on land. If you are going on a Caribbean cruise, you will want a good swimsuit, hat, and other beachwear. For an Alaskan cruise, make sure to pack layers, like a couple of sweaters or a jacket and gloves.

Staying Active

You will want to stay active on board, to work off all those mimosas and all-you-can-eat brunches. Add your favorite activewear outfit to your suitcase so you can take advantage of the ship’s fitness facilities. Be sure to grab an extra sweater or jacket; if you are on an Alaskan cruise, you may want to go hiking and explore the beautiful northwest. It can get chilly that close to the Arctic circle!

Evening outfits

There are a number of cruise lines with relaxed rules around evening wear onboard a cruise ship. However, many of the luxury lines stipulate a more formal dress code in the evening. When planning your wardrobe, be sure to pick out a few business casual outfits, and even a couple of formal looks to wear on the ship at night.

Essentials

If you take a prescription medication, be sure to bring along more than enough for the cruise. It’s always best to have more than you need just in case and divide them into separate containers, in case you lose one. This way, you will not lose all of your medication if you happen to misplace a container.

Of course, grab all your toiletries and essential items you will need for a trip. Travel experts recommend taking along a first aid kit as well.

Are you planning on taking a relaxing cruise in the near future? If so, you should definitely look into travel insurance policies to protect yourself while globetrotting. If you want to get a free quote and chat with an agent about your options, give the team here at Healthedly a call.

December 19, 2022

Can Your Vision Affect Your Long-Term Mental Health?

General, Health, Self-care, Vision

Have you ever wondered if there is a correlation between your vision and your mental health?

Believe it or not, evidence exists that suggests that your eyesight can have an impact on your long-term mental health. For example, studies have shown that people with poor vision are at an increased risk of developing depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.

Poor vision can lead to decreased ability to participate in hobbies:

Poor eye health can limit an individual’s ability to participate in activities that they enjoy such as reading, watching television, or even driving a car. This can lead to feelings of isolation, frustration, and even low self-esteem. This can contribute to the development of mental health issues.

Issues with vision result in becoming accident-prone:

Additionally, people with poor eyesight may be more likely to experience accidents or injuries, which can lead to mental health issues. A person with poor vision may be more likely to trip and fall, resulting in physical injuries and subsequently, emotional trauma. These kinds of experiences can trigger feelings of fear, anxiety, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Eye strain increases fatigue and headaches:

Furthermore, eye strain can also have a negative impact on mental health. The eyes are closely connected to the brain, and the constant strain of trying to see can lead to headaches, fatigue, and even eye strain. These symptoms can be frustrating and can lead to feelings of irritability and stress, contributing to mental health issues.

It is important to note that not everyone with poor eyesight will develop mental health issues. However, if you are experiencing vision problems, it is important to address them and seek treatment if necessary. This can help to prevent any potential negative impacts on your mental health and overall well-being.

In conclusion, your eye health can have an impact on your long-term mental health. People with poor eyesight are at an increased risk of developing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and even PTSD. It is important to address any vision problems and seek eye care if necessary in order to maintain good mental and ocular health.

Vision insurance can cushion any hefty bills incurred by a visit to the eye doctor. Are you looking for a vision insurance plan but have no idea where to start? Agents at Healthedly are standing by to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have. Enroll now so you can get your vision checked as soon as possible.

December 15, 2022

How to Identify Early Signs of a Stroke

General, Health, Health Resources, Medicaid, Self-care

In the U.S. today, strokes cause the majority of health complications. Recognizing the early signs of a stroke could be key in preventing serious injuries or fatalities from occurring. It could mean the difference in life or death, or mitigating severe effects caused by strokes.

Early warning signs of a stroke can be subtle. But equipping yourself with knowledge of these tells is crucial to saving yourself or a loved one.

Keep an eye out for:

Intense migraines
Loss of vision or impaired vision in one or both of the eyes
Numbness in the facial muscles
Numbness or sudden weakness in a leg or arm
Slurring speech or brain fog
Comprehension impairment, difficulty understanding
Increased dizziness or difficulty with walking

Keep the FAST acronym in mind if you suspect the onset of a stroke:

F – Facial muscles drooping or numb

A – Arm weakness or impairment–inability to use an arm or lift it up

S – Slurred speech

T – Time to call 911 and get access to the necessary medical attention

Being able to identify the early signs of a stroke means you can seek medical attention earlier in such a scenario. If you or someone in your family is worried about health insurance coverage and want to learn your options, reach out to a Healthedly agent by calling 855-522-2201.

December 7, 2022

Does Your Small Business Have to Provide Health Insurance?

Group Insurance Plans, Health, Obamacare, Small Business

With Open Enrollment upon us, many individuals and families access the health insurance market seeking the right coverage.

If you are a small business owner, you may be wondering what to expect and what to prepare for as far as supplying your employees with health insurance. You may also be wondering what qualifications you need to meet and what you need to expect as an employer providing benefits for your employees.

Here is what small businesses should know about health coverage for employees.

1) How big is your small business?

Is your company an “ALE”? An “ALE” is an Applicable Large Employer with over 50 full-time employees. If your company is an ALE, you will need to start offering insurance to your employees. If your business does not qualify yet as an ALE, you do not need to offer insurance. However, such a benefit could be an incentive to future employees, and help grow your company.

2) Full-time or part-time employees?

If you have 50 employees or more and they are full-time employees or full-time equivalents, your company would be an Applicable Large Employer. Moreover, at least 50 of your employees need to be full-time equivalents to make you an ALE. If you have 25 full-time equivalent employees and 25 part-time employees, you need not offer insurance benefits.

3) Advantages of offering health insurance as a small business owner

Offering health insurance to your employees offers quite a few advantages that you might have not thought of yet:

Providing health insurance could be an incentive for employees to stay at your company.

Health insurance for employees could give your company a competitive edge and give you the opportunity to stand out among other employers. Adding health insurance as part of a benefits package can help you as a business owner recruit and retain great employees!

4) What about the “Family Glitch”?

Recently, the “Family Glitch” resolved in favor of families seeking health coverage sponsored by employers. In past years, many families fell through the cracks of the healthcare system. Only the employee could afford insurance sponsored by the employer. But the employee’s family members could not afford that coverage. This year, the Biden administration resolved this “Glitch” in the 2013 ACA law. Now, families can access full coverage with employer-sponsored health insurance or through the individual market if dependent coverage is deemed unaffordable.

Are you a small business looking for group plans and coverage for your employees? Reach out to Healthedly to get a free quote and answers to any other questions you may have. Call 855-522-2201 for more information!

December 6, 2022

Does Vision Insurance Cover Lasik Surgery?

Health Resources, Vision

Are you considering getting Lasik eye surgery? Is your fear of no insurance coverage for such a procedure holding you back? You don’t need to wonder anymore; vision insurance allows for some flexibility when it comes to unique situations that make Lasik necessary.

Here are a few key questions to consider as you decide whether or not to get Lasik, and what vision insurance covers.

How much does Lasik eye surgery cost?

Lasik eye procedures typically costs $2,200 per eye or $4,400 for both eyes. Here is a better breakdown of the expected pricing. You have several different options to choose from, depending on what type of Lasik procedure you require.

When would Lasik be medically necessary?

You are considered eligible for Lasik by most insurance companies if you are having eye trouble following an injury or operation. If you are unable to wear glasses or contacts, this also may qualify you for Lasik.

Are there other ways to pay for Lasik?

Vision Insurance plans cover extra expenses other than glasses or contacts or eye exams. If medically necessary, you could get a Lasik procedure covered by insurance. Speak with your eye doctor for more details on what may be available for you. Educating yourself on what vision insurance does and doesn’t cover may help you plan ahead for a Lasik, how you qualify, and how to access the procedures you need.

Don’t have vision insurance yet, and you don’t know where to start? Call 855-522-2201 to get a free quote and your questions answered by a Healthedly Agent.

November 28, 2022

Are you ready for the 2022-2023 Flu Season?

Flu Season, General, Health, Health Resources

What you need to know about flu season 2022-2023

Flu season is back in full swing for Fall of 2022. Are you ready for it? Cool weather is rushing in, holiday festivities are ramping up, and that means more get togethers, more contact with others, and lack of social distancing. So, how are you going to avoid catching the flu?

What is CDC’s recommendation for getting a flu vaccine?

The CDC recommends getting the flu vaccine at least once a year for everyone six months and up! If you are a senior, a new type of flu vaccine exists called the adjuvanted flu vaccine you should consider researching.

When is the best time to get my flu vaccine?

Doctors recommend September and October as the best time to get vaccinated. October should be the latest you get vaccinated. People older than 65 should not get vaccinated earlier than September, in August or July. In special cases, some children ought to get vaccinated twice for better protection against the flu.

Moreover, if you are pregnant, you should look into flu vaccines earlier since generally, your baby will not be able to get vaccinated in the first few months of life.

Is it safe to get a COVID-19 vaccine and a flu vaccine at the same time?

If you are eligible to receive both vaccines, you may be able to during the same visit. However, it is generally recommended that you get the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible. When October comes around, you can then receive the flu vaccine.

When will flu season hit its peak?

The flu season tends to hit its peak in February, so experts recommend that you get ahead of that peak and get your flu vaccine in the fall, in September or October, so your body has time to build up its immune system against this virus.

Wondering about what health coverage that you could be eligible for? Well, look no further than Healthedly. Give us a call at 855-522-2201 so our agents can give you a free quote for health insurance.

November 28, 2022

When should you start taking Social Security?

General, Health, Health Resources, Medicare

You just turned 62. You’ve heard about Social Security, but you don’t know enough about it yet. If you keep reading you will discover the reality of social security and be able to determine when to start taking advantage of these benefits.

How much will the checks be?

The sooner you sign up for Social Security, the smaller the checks you receive will be. Every year you wait to sign up, that check gets larger. The latest you can wait to sign up is when you turn 70 years old. Why is this the case? The government has decided on an average human life expectancy. So, regardless of when you sign up between the ages of 62 to 70, the amount of lifetime benefits generally stays the same from person to person. So, don’t base your decision on the check size, but on your family situation, your finances, or your medical needs.

What are your retirement assets?

The first and foremost important thing to do is to evaluate your current situation, and any other retirement assets that may come into play. Remember that this decision is a personal one. Generally, if you can, it is recommended to wait as long as possible after you turn 62 to start taking social security benefits.

You will need to sign up for Medicare by age 65, and social security benefits can help pay for Medicare coverage. So, if you are planning to retire by age 65 and thus end employment-sponsored coverage, you will need to ensure you have the assets required to sustain Medicare payments.

What is right for you?

You will need to assess your situation, your assets, and your needs, to make an educated decision for when you wish to start taking social security.

If you are a senior citizen with questions about health coverage, Healthedly is here to help. You can call us at 855-522-2201 to get a free quote and learn more about what you are eligible for.

November 23, 2022

Hearing aids now available without a prescription!

General, Health, News

Hearing aids now available over the counter!

If you are a hearing aid user, you will be happy to hear that they just became available without a prescription! Even better, you can purchase a set for prices as low as $199 over the counter. Gone are the days of waiting for a prescription to improve your hearing capabilities or replace broken aids.

So, what does this mean for you exactly?

Before, we could only access hearing aids with a prescription from an auditory specialist. Generally, these devices cost thousands of dollars, even with a prescription. But now companies like Walmart promise to sell these audio-enhancing devices for prices as low as $199.

Dr. Frank Lin of John Hopkins University predicts that the hearing aid industry may need a few years to establish itself and sort out. But rest assured that before long, more and more retailers will make hearing aids available in stores near you. Lin also believes that prices will lower even more significantly in the next few years.

Over-the-counter aids will cost less mostly due to the fact that they will not be specifically tuned and fitted by an audiologist. However, manufacturers will make it possible for users to tune the aids for themselves thanks to phone apps and software.

Sony has announced OTC hearing aids manufactured at a South African-based company called hearX, which also creates Lexie devices.

Bose also plans to collaborate with hearX to develop Lexie hearing devices. Bose will partner with retailers such as Walgreens, Walmart, and Best Buy to develop hearing aids with hearX’s Lexie devices.

So, there will be no shortage of options to choose from, as the over-the-counter hearing aids market expands and grows.

About 37 million Americans struggle with their hearing. However, only 1 in 4 Americans who need these auditory-enhancing devices are able to access hearing aids.

This push to make hearing aids available over the counter will be huge in allowing new demographics of Americans access to better hearing.

If you are looking for health insurance coverage but don’t know where to start, look no further than Healthedly! Call 855-522-2201 for a free quote from our agents! We are here to answer any questions about health insurance enrollment that you might have!

November 22, 2022

What you need to know about Open Enrollment Period

ACA, Obamacare

Everything you need to about Open Enrollment this year

Open Enrollment period, the most wonderful time of the year, is upon us. This period usually happens at the same time of every year, from November to January, and gives people the opportunity to find the right coverage that fits their individual needs, financial situation, and employer network.

Here is everything you need to know about open enrollment for 2023 and finding the right health insurance coverage.

When is Open Enrollment?

November 1, 2022 marks the day Open Enrollment begins this year. Starting November 1, you can enroll or re-enroll in health coverage for 2023, or even change that insurance plan.

Dec 15, 2022 is the last day you can enroll or change up your plan for any coverage set to start on January 1, 2023.

2023 coverage becomes effective on January 1, 2023 for anyone who enrolled by December 15.

February 1, 2023 is the day that health coverage begins for those who enrolled between December 16, 2022 and January 15, 2023.

What do you need for Open Enrollment?

Make sure you have all the information necessary to enroll, as well as information for your dependents if applicable. Ensure you have all your IDs on hand as well as your employer and income information. Also, you may get savings on health coverage.

What is the ACA?

The Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare, makes health insurance accessible to individuals and families who otherwise couldn’t obtain insurance. You can talk with an agent TODAY at 855-522-2201 about what you are eligible for and the kind of healthcare coverage you can access.

Open Enrollment Period is here, and if you aren’t sure where to even start with health insurance, what you qualify for, or the insurance quote you might be eligible for, then you need to know that Healthedly is here to help! Our agents are ready to help you find the best coverage for your individual needs, so don’t hesitate to get started TODAY!

November 1, 2022

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