The dreaded 65 is fast approaching and I have

[Hoyt]

10. I wouldn't automatically write off Advantage plans.

However, if you can swing it, traditional Medicare with a supplement and drug plan is more flexible if you want to have freedom to choose any doc you want. Advantage plans can eat you up with copays.

A supplement and a drug plan are going to cost you at least $200 month, likely more.

Some of the Advantage plans have limited coverage for glasses, hearing aids, and dental. But it’s minimal.

I would check with some of the senior organizations near you. They often have a counselor to help. There are some insurance agents who are helpful if they won’t steer you to policies that pay bigger commissions.

You are not necessarily stuck for life if you later find out your plans aren’t working for you, but switching can cost more than than you would otherwise pay.

Good luck.