Medicare Open Enrollment: What People with Parkinson’s Need to Know in 2025

Medicare Open Enrollment: Why It Matters for People with Parkinson’s
For individuals living with Parkinson’s disease (PD), navigating Medicare Open Enrollment can feel overwhelming. With so many options, rules, and annual changes, it’s easy to miss opportunities that directly impact your care and financial well-being. Preparing ahead is one of the best ways to make sure you get the coverage you need.

👉 Medicare choices aren’t one-size-fits-all—especially when you’re living with Parkinson’s. The right plan can help cover specialized care, medications, and therapies that support quality of life. But the wrong plan may leave gaps in coverage and unnecessary expenses. Keep reading to discover the unique considerations for Parkinson’s and how to prepare for Open Enrollment with confidence by attending a free Zoom session on Thursday, October 9, 2025 @ 3 pm

Why Medicare Planning Is Especially Important for Parkinson’s
Parkinson’s disease often requires long-term, specialized care that can include:

• Neurology visits and movement disorder specialists
• Prescription medications, sometimes at high cost
• Physical, occupational, and speech therapies
• Durable medical equipment (walkers, wheelchairs, home modifications)
• Mental health support and counseling

Because PD care can be complex, choosing the right Medicare plan is essential. For example, not all Medicare Advantage plans cover every specialist, and some prescription drug plans may not cover certain Parkinson’s medications or may require higher copays.

What to Consider When Choosing a Plan
If you or a loved one has Parkinson’s, here are a few key things to review during Medicare Open Enrollment:

• Medication coverage: Check that your plan covers Parkinson’s drugs like Levodopa and other prescriptions without excessive costs.
• Network of providers: Ensure your neurologist, therapists, and other providers are included in the plan’s network.
• Therapy and rehab benefits: Look at coverage limits for physical, occupational, and speech therapy.
• Durable medical equipment: Confirm coverage for mobility aids, home safety devices, and other PD-related needs.
• Out-of-pocket costs: Compare deductibles, copays, and annual maximums to avoid unexpected expenses.

Free PD Talk: Medicare Open Enrollment Guidance
To help you prepare, the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida invites you to a free PD Talk: Shine Zoom Presentation – Getting Ready for Medicare Open Enrollment with Hallie Devlin, SHINE Coordinator/Counselor.
📅 Thursday, October 9, 2025 – 3:00 pm
📍 Via Zoom
✅ Register by October 7 at 4 PM: Click here to register
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/1mN50UGgQFOi06SHSNEPoQ#/registration
This session will cover 2025 healthcare plan updates, tips for making the most of Medicare benefits, and steps to avoid costly mistakes.

Why Support Matters
A diagnosis of any form of Parkinson’s can feel overwhelming. But with the right support and resources, individuals can maintain independence, quality of life, and emotional well-being.
For resources, referrals, and support in navigating Parkinson’s and related conditions, contact the Parkinson’s Association of Southwest Florida at www.paswfl.org or call 239-417-3465.

For over 25 years, PASWFL has provided free, high-quality services to families touched by Parkinson’s in Southwest Florida. Weekly programs include:

• Wellness and fitness classes
• Speech exercise classes
• Educational seminars
• Support for care partners
• Support groups

There are no fees to become a member, and PASWFL welcomes anyone touched by Parkinson’s.

Take the First Step Toward Living Well
If you suspect early Parkinson’s or have been recently diagnosed, you don’t have to face it alone.
👉 Sign up for the PASWFL newsletter
👉 Become a free member today
Discover the power of support, education, and community at www.paswfl.org.