UnitedHealthcare invited African-American seniors and other Medicare beneficiaries to the A Better You events in Chicago on May 20 and 21 in the Chicago Theological Seminary. The events kicked off the initiative nationwide.
Participants had the opportunity to hear from Rev. Dr. Otis Moss, of Trinity UCC, who provided guidance to achieve optimal health by embracing a healthy, natural nutrition.
“Aging shouldn’t be an obstacle to taking care of our bodies and be healthy,” said Rev. Dr. Moss. “As part of the A Better You initiative, I hope to encourage others to plan for a healthy living.”
Ernestine Shepherd, the 79-year-old bodybuilder, shared her inspirational story to encourage attendees to stay physically active and healthy at all ages.
“I’m honored to be part of this program and touch so many lives with a healthy, inspirational message,” said Shepherd. “Attendees will gain a better understanding of their insurance coverage options, and learn that it is never too late to start planning for a healthy life. Age is only a number!”
Attendees also had the opportunity to hear from Bishop Horace Smith, of Apostolic Faith Church and enjoyed the live music and high-energy performance of legendary vocal group The Persuasions.
“Poor health is not a consequence of aging,” said Bishop Smith. “A better you is to be aware of who you are, and how important you are.”
UnitedHealthcare developed A Better You, a series of health and wellness educational events, to help African-American seniors and other beneficiaries learn more about Medicare and their health care coverage options through a celebration of health and wellness.
Attendees also learned about the basics of Medicare – including the different parts of the program, eligibility requirements, and enrollment windows – to help them make confident health care coverage decisions.
According to the Medicare Made Clear Index, a 2013 survey conducted by UnitedHealthcare, more than 1 in 5 older adults describes Medicare as confusing, and two-thirds of beneficiaries have never shopped around for Medicare coverage or haven’t shopped in more than three years.
“These interactive events are aimed at helping Medicare beneficiaries live healthier, more secure lives,” said UnitedHealthcare’s Rita Tolbert, who facilitated the Medicare education portion of the events. “Understanding the Medicare program is a key component of making more informed health care coverage decisions and achieving optimal health and wellness.”
The events are open to the public and there is no cost to attend. For more information or to RSVP, beneficiaries may call 1-888-385-1995 or visit http://www.abetteryou.info.
