
Blog post
Outsmart Unplanned Medical Costs: 10 Steps for Managing the Unexpected
Older adults can safeguard themselves from the physical, mental and emotional toll of unexpected medical costs.
As many states begin to relax COVID-19 guidelines, it is important for seniors to stay informed and keep their physical and mental health a priority.
Embrace Telemedicine
During this pandemic, seniors may be reluctant to see a medical provider in-person, but many appointments can be held by phone or by a video app such as Facetime. In addition, Landmark providers are visiting patients at home, while wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect patients and themselves. If you don’t feel comfortable with an in-home visit, don’t cancel your appointment. Contact Landmark to change your appointment to a visit by phone or video.
Create a Plan
How will your family respond if a family member gets sick? Decide on a care plan in advance. Select an emergency contact, stock up on two weeks of groceries, and have a one-month to three-month supply of medications on-hand. This can reduce stress and help you be more prepared.
Ensure You Are Well-Informed
For your health and safety, stay current on factual information on COVID-19 and the current local guidelines. If you have questions about what guidelines to follow, reach out to your primary care physician or Landmark provider for recommendations on proper precautions for older adults with chronic conditions.
Learn How to Use Technology
Caregivers and younger family members can sometimes support older adults by helping them stay connected through technology, such as video chat on smartphones, computers or tablets. Video chat can help seniors who are struggling with social isolation. Read more on how to stay connected to seniors during this time.
Resources
Learn more about Landmark’s response to Coronavirus.
Resources:
Older adults can safeguard themselves from the physical, mental and emotional toll of unexpected medical costs.
Optum Care Network – Monarch has teamed up with Landmark to deliver in-home medical care to members with multiple chronic conditions.
Optum Care Network – Utah has teamed up with Landmark to deliver in-home medical care to members with multiple chronic conditions.