Northern Utah Coalition

12/19/2025

Reference: SAMHSA.org

For some, the shorter days and colder temperatures can bring on symptoms of a type of depression. Learn more about seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and how to get help if you’re experiencing symptoms this season: samhsa.gov/mental-health/seasonal-affective-disorder

12/19/2025

Reference: HIV.gov

The more you know ... know the facts!

One of the most common myths about is how it is transmitted. HIV cannot spread by casual contact through hugging, surfaces in the environment, saliva, sweat, tears, or insect bites. To learn more, read the new HIVinfo fact sheet: https://go.nih.gov/H49i2rD

12/19/2025

Reference: SMP National Resource Center

It's better to be safe than sorry 😔. You are your best advocate.

Be careful when you get texts with links, especially ones that ask for payment.
Stay safe and protect your finances:

🚫 Never click links or call numbers from unexpected texts.
💡 Contact the company directly using the number on your bill or their official website.
🔒 Do not share personal or payment information through text.
📞 Report suspicious messages to your phone carrier or the Senior Medicare Patrol.
Stay alert and keep your information secure this holiday season!

12/19/2025

Reference: SHIP National Technical Assistance Center

Everyone with Medicare faces the same question at some point—should I enroll in Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage Plan? Although both are part of the Medicare program, they differ in important ways. Here's a quick overview comparing these two options. You can read more about choosing between the two at : shiphelp.org/medicare-and-medicare-advantage

12/18/2025

Reference: SHIP National Technical Assistance Center

Does your Medicare Advantage plan no longer "fit?"
The Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period (MA OEP) happens from January 1 to March 31 every year. If you are already in a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan, you can change to a different MA plan, leave MA and go back to Original Medicare, or add a Part D drug plan. (This period is different from the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), which is from October 15 to December 7 and lets you make any Medicare changes.) If you make a change during the MA OEP, it takes effect on the first day of the next month. You can only make one change during this time if you are already in an MA plan.
Talk to a State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) counselor if you need guidance comparing plans or understanding your coverage. www.shiphelp.org

12/18/2025

Reference: SMP National Resource Center Christmas holiday Medicare scam reminder!

12/12/2025

Reference: SMP National Resource Center

Cashiers, you can save the holidays! Did you know that scammers trick seniors to buy gift cards for fake emergencies? You can play a huge role in stopping these scammers and protecting people.

Here’s how cashiers can help:

🚫 Pause the purchase: If a customer seems confused or upset while buying large amounts of gift cards, gently ask if someone told them to make the purchase.
💬 Start the conversation: Explain that government agencies, tech companies, and legitimate businesses never ask for payment with gift cards.
🧾 Post reminders: Display signs near gift card racks warning about scams.
📞 Encourage reporting: Suggest contacting local law enforcement if they are worried.

A simple question at the checkout could save someone from losing their savings.

12/11/2025

Reference: SAMHSA.org

▶️ Christmas holidays isn't always so Merry for some. Please share ◀️

If you're not feeling festive this season, that's okay ☃️ Help is always available if you or someone you know is struggling with or substance use.
❄️ Help yourself and share to help others: samhsa.gov/find-help

12/11/2025

Reference: SHIP National Technical Assistance Center

Retiree insurance is almost always secondary to Medicare, meaning it pays after Medicare and may provide coverage for Medicare cost-sharing, like deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Whether to keep retiree coverage after you enroll in Medicare is a personal decision that depends on your costs and anticipated health care needs. Retiree coverage premiums can be costly, but it may be worthwhile to keep your plan if you anticipate high Medicare costs. Retiree coverage may also pay for care or other items and services that Medicare does not cover, such as vision care, dental care, and/or off-formulary or over-the-counter prescription drugs. Also keep in mind that your spouse and dependents are not eligible to use your Medicare coverage and may need other insurance if you drop your retiree plan.

For more information on the services covered by your retiree insurance plan, contact your benefits administrator or your employer’s human resources department. Chat with your local SHIP if you want one-on-one Medicare counseling and to discuss your coverage options. www.shiphelp.org

12/09/2025

Reference: SMP National Resource Center

12/08/2025

Reference: SAMHSA

We can all take action to prevent su***de.
Understanding the issues concerning su***de and mental health is an important way to take part in help others in crisis, and change the conversation around su***de: 988lifeline.org/learn/

12/08/2025

Reference: SMP National Resource Center

SMPs are warning about an increased amount of scam calls about chipped Medicare cards. Medicare beneficiaries are reporting calls from "Medicare representatives" or "agents" that are calling to help them get new Medicare cards with a chip in it. These don't exist. This is a scam to steal the Medicare number so they can bill Medicare and get money.

Report these calls to the SMP. Be sure to review your Medicare statements for charges for braces. If you find something, say something.