New York City has so much to offer – great food, vibrant culture, and accessible public transit. It can be a great place for older adults to live, especially those who want to enjoy an active retirement. Here are some key health and safety tips for older adults living in such a big city.

Make Sure Your A/C and Heat Are Reliable

New York can get very hot in the summer and cold in the winter. It’s very important for older adults to have a heating and cooling system they can rely on. This prevents health problems that are related to extreme temperatures.

Take Advantage of Discounts

There are plenty of organizations in New York City that offer discounts for older adults. You will qualify for a reduced fare Metrocard once you turn 65, which makes it much more affordable to get around. Additionally, you may qualify for reduced or free tuition at local colleges. Many of the city’s most popular museums and other attractions will also provide a discounted entry fee for older adults.

Get Involved in Your Local Community

One of the biggest benefits of living in a large city like New York is that it’s easy to meet other people. Community is so important for older adults. Having a strong support network prevents isolation and is very good for your mental health. No matter what you like to do, chances are there’s a community for it in New York City, so be sure to take advantage of this.

Maintain a Monthly Budget

New York City can be a very expensive place to live. It’s very important for anyone living in the city to maintain a dedicated, careful budget to avoid overspending.

Medicare in New York

It’s very important for older adults to have a health insurance plan that they can rely on. Medicare provides healthcare coverage for over 3.6 million adults over the age of 65 and disabled adults in New York. Original Medicare covers 80 percent of your healthcare costs, with Part A covering inpatient hospital costs and Part B covering outpatient costs.

Many people opt to supplement Original Medicare with a Medigap plan, which covers the majority of remaining healthcare costs. New York differs from other states in that every Medicare recipient has the option to add a Medigap plan to their coverage. You can also opt to add a Part D prescription drug plan to your coverage. Alternatively, you can select a Medicare Advantage plan, which is provided by private insurers and may offer additional benefits.

New York is an amazing city to call home, no matter how old you are. If you’re interested in learning more about your Medicare options in New York, contact Time For 65’s licensed partnered agents today. Fill out this form or give us a call to see how we can help.