How to Protect Your Health and Wallet Amid Medicare Cuts

Medicare has long been a lifeline for millions of older Americans. But with new proposals like the “Big Beautiful Bill” threatening to cut benefits and shift costs to individuals, many are left wondering: What now? How will I afford the care I need? Will my prescriptions still be covered? Will my parents be okay?

These are valid concerns—and they’re shared by both Medicare recipients and their loved ones who often help manage their care. The good news is that there are practical steps you can take right now to protect your health and your finances, even if Medicare changes are on the horizon.

Take Control of Your Health Now—Before You Need to

The best health care is the kind you don’t have to use. While none of us can prevent every illness, making intentional choices now can reduce your risk for major conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and even cognitive decline. Commit to a preventive lifestyle: get regular checkups, eat mostly whole foods, exercise daily, and keep stress in check.

If you’re not already doing these things, start small. Walk 20 minutes a day. Add more fruits and vegetables to your meals. Drink more water. Prevention isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a money-saver. The less you rely on medical intervention, the less vulnerable you are to coverage cuts.

Review Your Medicare Plan—Every Single Year

Many people assume their Medicare plan is “good enough” and let it automatically renew year after year. Plans change—coverage, costs, and provider networks shift from yearly. That’s why the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 to December 7) is crucial. It’s your chance to compare plans, shop around, and make sure you're not overpaying or missing out on better options.

Take the time to sit down (with a trusted friend or family member, if needed) and go over your current plan. Are all your prescriptions still covered affordably? Are there better plans in your area? Many Medicare Advantage plans offer benefits like vision, dental, or fitness memberships that can help offset other costs—so don’t leave money or care on the table.

Use Free and Low-Cost Resources in Your Community

Even if Medicare cuts limit access to certain services, there are still plenty of ways to get help and stay healthy without going broke. Many local health departments, nonprofit clinics, and community centers offer free or low-cost resources—like wellness checks, exercise classes, nutrition counseling, and mental health support.

Ask your pharmacist about discounts or prescription assistance programs. Explore sliding-scale clinics. Tap into local senior centers that often host wellness workshops and screenings. The support is out there—you just have to know where to look.

Build or Join a Wellness Network

Isolation can be expensive. When we’re disconnected from others, we’re more likely to neglect our health, skip appointments, and fall into unhealthy routines. Staying connected to a community—even a small one—can help you stay consistent and motivated.

Start or join a walking group. Check in weekly with a friend about healthy habits. Attend community wellness events. If you’re more comfortable online, there are virtual groups and workshops focused on senior health. Togetherness can help you stay strong—physically and financially.

Speak Up and Stay Informed

Too many seniors feel powerless when it comes to changes in government policy. But your voice matters. Stay informed by following organizations like AARP and Medicare Rights Center. They break down policy changes in easy-to-understand language and often provide opportunities to make your voice heard.

Write or call your local representatives. Tell them how these proposed cuts would affect you or your loved ones. The more we speak up, the harder it becomes for decision-makers to ignore the real-life impact of their policies.

Help Your Loved Ones Navigate Medicare

If you’re the adult child of a Medicare recipient, now is the time to get involved. Don’t wait until there's a medical emergency to start asking questions. Sit down with your parent or loved one and review their Medicare plan. Help them understand their options. You don’t need to be a health policy expert—just someone who cares enough to help them plan ahead.

Whether it’s finding a better prescription plan, researching supplemental insurance, or helping them eat better and move more, your support can make a huge difference. It can mean fewer surprises—and fewer expenses—down the road.

Medicare cuts, like those proposed in the “Big Beautiful Bill,” may be out of your control. But how you prepare isn’t. Now is the time to get ahead by prioritizing preventive care, reviewing your coverage, finding support in your community, and staying informed.

You don’t have to navigate this alone. Whether you’re a Medicare recipient or someone who loves and supports one, these practical steps can help you stay strong, stay healthy, and stay ready for whatever comes next.

Teresa