Your Health Checklist at 60: How to Prepare for Medicare the Right Way (Especially if You're Turning 65 Soon)

Arnett Evans
5 days ago
5 min read

Hand holding a pen checks a box on a white checklist. Blurred background creates focus on the action, conveying decisiveness.

If you’re 60 or older and live in Texas, now is the perfect time to get serious about your health—and your Medicare strategy. Too many people wait until the last minute to think about their coverage and miss important opportunities to protect their well-being and avoid financial surprises.

In this article, we’ll walk you through a practical Medicare checklist and include health tips for seniors that can help you feel confident, prepared, and in control. Whether you’re 60, 62, or just months away from turning 65, this guide will help you lay the foundation for a healthy transition into Medicare, with telephonic and virtual help available every step of the way.

Why 60 Is the New Starting Line for Medicare Planning

You might be wondering: why should I worry about Medicare if I’m only 60 or 61?

Here’s why it matters:

Planning early prevents costly mistakes like missing your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP), which can lead to lifelong penalties.
Health needs often change between the ages of 60–65, so reviewing your options early ensures you choose the right plan.
Your Medicare coverage impacts your retirement budget, and understanding your potential out-of-pocket costs can help you prepare financially.

In short, 60 isn’t too early—it’s smart timing.

Medicare Enrollment: What You Need to Know if You’re Turning 65 Soon

If you're turning 65 within the next 1 to 3 months, you're in the Medicare Initial Enrollment Period (IEP). This is a 7-month window that starts 3 months before your birthday month and ends 3 months after.

Failing to enroll during this time could result in:

Delays in coverage
Monthly late enrollment penalties
Gaps in prescription drug access

That’s why our Medicare checklist is designed to help Texans prepare in advance—with virtual and phone-based assistance that fits your schedule.

✅ Your Medicare Checklist: What to Do Before You Turn 65

Use this comprehensive Medicare checklist to stay on track.

1. Understand Your Enrollment Window

Mark your Initial Enrollment Period on the calendar (3 months before to 3 months after your 65th birthday).
Schedule your Medicare review early—we recommend starting at least 90 days before your 65th birthday.

2. Decide if You Need to Enroll

Are you currently receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits?

If yes, you’ll be auto-enrolled in Medicare Part A and B.
If no, you must enroll manually at Medicare.gov.

If you're still working at 65 and covered by employer health insurance, you may qualify to delay Part B—but it’s important to confirm this before making any assumptions.

3. Learn the Basics of Medicare Coverage

Medicare has four key parts:

Part A – Hospital insurance
Part B – Outpatient/medical insurance
Part C (Medicare Advantage) – Private plans that often include drug coverage and extra benefits
Part D – Prescription drug coverage

You’ll choose between:

Original Medicare (Parts A and B) with optional Part D and Medigap
Medicare Advantage (Part C), which combines hospital, medical, and often drug coverage in one plan

We can help you understand the pros and cons of both during your free virtual consultation.

4. Review Prescription Drug Needs

Make a list of your current medications, including:

Dosage and frequency
Pharmacy preference
Brand vs. generic usage

Many people turning 65 find that prescription drug costs catch them off guard, so don’t overlook this part of your Medicare checklist.

5. Estimate Your Out-of-Pocket Costs

Even with Medicare, you may be responsible for:

Deductibles
Copayments
Coinsurance

If you're on a fixed income or planning for retirement, you’ll want to explore Medicare Advantage plans that offer low premiums and caps on yearly out-of-pocket expenses.

🩺 Health Tips for Seniors in Texas: Start Strong at 60

Medicare isn’t just about paperwork—it’s about your health. Taking care of yourself now will make the transition to Medicare much smoother.

Here are a few health tips for seniors you can act on today:

1. Book a Preventive Care Appointment

Even before Medicare kicks in, schedule an annual checkup. This helps establish a baseline for:

Blood pressure
Blood sugar
Cholesterol
Heart health
Bone density

2. Track Family Medical History

Knowing your family’s health risks (like diabetes, heart disease, or cancer) will help you and your provider choose the right Medicare plan, especially if you’ll need frequent specialist visits or prescription drugs.

3. Start a Wellness Routine

Texas weather gives you plenty of opportunities to walk, swim, or garden. Even 20–30 minutes of moderate activity can improve:

Blood circulation
Mood
Joint flexibility
Cognitive function

4. Prepare for Dental, Vision, and Hearing Costs

Original Medicare doesn’t cover these services, but many Medicare Advantage plans in Texas do. Review plans that include routine cleanings, hearing aids, and annual eye exams.

Why Virtual and Telephonic Medicare Help Works Best

Many people turning 65 prefer telephonic or virtual Medicare consultations—and for good reason:

Convenience: No need to drive or schedule in-person meetings.
Privacy: Ask questions from the comfort of your home.
Efficiency: Get a personalized plan comparison in 30–45 minutes.
Local insight: Licensed Texas agents understand county-specific plans and options.

At Arnett Evans and Company, we offer virtual Medicare reviews by phone or video for Texans who want clarity, without the pressure.

📍 A Special Message for Texans Turning 65 in the Next 1–3 Months

Your Medicare decision is too important to rush. With the right help, you can:

Avoid late penalties
Keep your preferred doctors
Get prescription coverage that fits your needs
Understand how Medicare fits into your retirement goals

If you’re just 60 days from turning 65, now is the best time to schedule a review and avoid last-minute decisions.

Final Thoughts

Turning 65 should be an exciting milestone, not a stressful one. With this Medicare checklist and a few key health tips for seniors, you can prepare with confidence, protect your health, and get the right coverage at the right time.

Remember: