Start 2026 Strong: A January Health Checklist for Medicare Beneficiaries

New Year’s resolutions aren’t just about gym memberships or diet fads. For Medicare beneficiaries, the start of a new year is the perfect time to reset, organize, and ensure you are getting the most out of your healthcare benefits.

Now that the holidays are behind us and we are settling into 2026, it is time to focus on you.

Preventative care is the secret to maintaining your independence and enjoying your retirement to the fullest. To help you stay on track, our team at Trusted Senior Specialists has put together this simple 2026 Health Checklist.

1. Schedule Your "Annual Wellness Visit"

Did you know Medicare covers a dedicated "Annual Wellness Visit" once every 12 months with $0 copay? This is different from a standard physical. It is a conversation with your doctor to create a personalized prevention plan.

• Action Item: Call your primary care doctor this week to get on their schedule.

• Why? Use this time to update your medical history, check your vitals, and screen for any cognitive or safety concerns.

2. The "Brown Bag" Medication Review

Over the years, prescriptions can pile up. You might be taking medications prescribed by different specialists who don't always talk to each other.

• Action Item: Gather all your pill bottles (prescriptions, vitamins, and over-the-counter supplements) into a bag and take them to your pharmacist or primary doctor.

• Why? They can check for dangerous interactions, expired meds, or prescriptions you may no longer need. This simple step can prevent side effects and save you money.

3. Mark Your Calendar for Screenings

Preventative screenings are much easier to handle when you plan them early. Depending on your age and history, 2026 might be the year you are due for:

• Bone Density Scan: To check for osteoporosis and prevent fractures.

• Colonoscopy or Cologuard: Crucial for digestive health.

• Mammogram: Usually an annual occurrence.

• Vision & Hearing Exams: Vision and hearing changes can happen gradually; don't wait until you notice a problem to get checked.

4. Update Your Vaccines

It’s not just about the flu shot. 2026 is a great time to verify you are protected against other risks.

• Action Item: Ask your doctor about the Shingles vaccine (Shingrix), the Pneumonia vaccine (pneumococcal), and the latest updates for RSV or COVID-19.

• Tip: Many of these are fully covered under Medicare Part D.

5. Focus on Balance and Mobility

Instead of a vague goal like "exercise more," focus on functional movement.

• Action Item: Look for local classes or online videos focused on balance (like Tai Chi) or strength training.

• Why? Improving your balance is the #1 way to prevent falls and maintain your independence at home.

6. Review Your Coverage (The "Second Chance" Window)

As you go through this checklist, you might realize your current health plan isn’t working as well as you hoped. Maybe your doctor is no longer in-network for 2026, or your copays for those new prescriptions are higher than expected.

Here is the good news: We are currently in the Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (Jan 1 – March 31).

If you are unsatisfied with the plan you started the year with, you have a one-time opportunity right now to switch to a better fit for the remainder of 2026.

How We Can Help

Don't let a confusing health plan stop you from checking off these boxes. If you have questions about which preventative screenings are covered, or if you want to double-check that your plan matches your 2026 health goals, give us a call.

Contact Trusted Senior Specialists today at 1-855-952-1941 (TTY: 711). We are available Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 8 PM (CST) and Saturdays by appointment. Let’s make 2026 your healthiest year yet!