In Texas Medical Care Plans, we take pride in highlighting that the majority of our dedicated workforce is composed of exceptional women. On this International Women’s Day, we extend our sincerest gratitude to all the women on our team for their loyalty and commitment to our company.

Their invaluable contribution is the essence of our success.

We also want to express our gratitude to all our clients who trust us to guide them in choosing a health insurance plan that suits their needs. Your trust inspires us to continue providing quality service and to remain committed to your well-being.

Remember that at Texas Medical Care Plans, our services are completely free, and we can help you and your family find a Medicare or Obamacare health insurance plan that fits your needs.

La entrada International Women’s Day 2024 se publicó primero en Texas Medical Care Plans.

We share some tips for leading a healthier lifestyle during this beautiful stage of life.

At Texas Medical Care Plans, we take pride not only in being leaders in finding the best Medicare insurance options for adults over 65 in El Paso, Texas but also in promoting a healthy lifestyle during this beautiful stage of life. Through our blog, we dedicate ourselves to providing valuable recommendations for the elderly, addressing not only medical aspects but also practices to promote physical, mental, and emotional health.

Light Weight Lifting

Staying active is essential for optimal quality of life. For our seniors, we recommend a balanced combination of exercises addressing resistance, flexibility, and balance. Including resistance exercises, such as light weight lifting, is fundamental to preserve muscle strength and bone density, reducing the risk of falls and fractures.

Aerobic Exercises

Moderate aerobic activities also play a crucial role in maintaining cardiovascular health and endurance. Walking, swimming, or cycling are friendly options that not only strengthen the heart but also improve overall mobility and energy.

We are committed to guiding our seniors toward a full and healthy life.

Yoga and Pilates

We cannot overlook the importance of flexibility and balance in old age. Introducing practices like yoga or tai chi into daily routines not only promotes physical flexibility but also contributes to mental serenity. These disciplines not only strengthen the body but also offer significant benefits for emotional and cognitive health, helping to maintain a sharp and balanced mind.

Balanced Diet

The importance of good nutrition transcends age barriers, being a fundamental pillar for maintaining a healthy lifestyle at any stage of life. Beyond providing energy and contributing to weight control, proper nutrition plays a crucial role in preventing various diseases. From osteoporosis to high blood pressure, heart diseases, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer, proper nutrition acts as a protective shield against a variety of medical conditions. Therefore, regardless of age, investing in healthy eating habits translates into significant long-term health benefits.

Encouraging Learning

Stimulating the mind through continuous learning can be beneficial. Whether learning new skills, taking courses, or engaging in cognitively challenging activities, this can keep the mind active and agile. We recommend the following games. Not only are they entertaining, but they also contribute to the physical and mental well-being of seniors:

• Dominoes
• Chess
• Sudoku
• Card Games (Bridge, Poker)
• Memory Games (Simon, card games)
• Board Games (Scrabble, Trivial Pursuit, Pictionary)
• Bingo
• Puzzles
• Table Bowling
• Painting or Crafts

Maintaining a Healthy Sleep Routine

Maintaining a good sleep habit in old age is essential for well-being. Adequate sleep helps strengthen the immune system, improve memory, and prevent health problems. It also contributes to managing stress and maintaining a positive mood. Establishing a regular sleep routine not only benefits health but also promotes active and full aging.

Engaging in Recreational and Social Activities

Explore the Senior Games from the City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department, a series of competitive events for individuals aged 50 and over. This program includes various fitness and sports activities, promoting physical activity and sportsmanship among seniors in the El Paso area. The Senior Games of 2024 started on February 17 but will continue until September 25, 2024.

To register or learn more about recreational options, you can explore the activities offered by the El Paso Senior Centers or visit the nearest Senior Center:

• Officer David Ortiz Sports Center (565 N. Carolina)
• Nations Tobin Sports Center (8831 Railroad Dr.)

Regular Medical Checkup

Scheduling regular medical checkups is key to ensuring healthy aging. These checkups provide the opportunity to detect and address potential health issues early, making a difference in the treatment and management of chronic diseases. Follow the recommendations of your healthcare professionals, as their expertise and guidance are essential to maintaining constant monitoring of your well-being. Through these regular exams, you can take preventive measures and maintain a proactive approach to your health in old age.

Remember that your active participation in your medical care significantly contributes to a fuller and healthier life.

Hydration

It is essential to ensure that your body is well-hydrated by consuming enough water throughout the day. Maintaining adequate hydration is crucial for several vital bodily functions, including proper food digestion and effective regulation of body temperature. Water also helps transport nutrients to cells and eliminate toxins from the body, contributing to the optimal functioning of all body systems. Remember that good hydration not only benefits your physical health but also your overall well-being and daily energy.

Avoid Stress

Dedicate time to activities that provide relaxation, such as meditation or gardening. These practices are not only effective in reducing stress but also have a positive impact on emotional well-being. Meditation provides a space for mental calm and reflection, while gardening connects with nature and offers a therapeutic way to take care of yourself. These activities not only act as antidotes to stress but also promote emotional balance that contributes to a fuller and healthier life in old age.

At Texas Medical Care Plans, we are committed to guiding our seniors toward a full and healthy life. Through these tips, we seek to inspire our community to adopt a proactive approach to their well-being, ensuring that old age is a stage full of vitality and enjoyment. Remember that our services are completely free, and we are here to address all your questions regarding your Medicare medical insurance.

Take care of your health and live fully at every stage of life!

La entrada 10 Tips for a Healthy Life in the Third Age se publicó primero en Texas Medical Care Plans.

At Texas Medical Care Plans, we prioritize your well-being, especially as we commemorate World Cancer Day. In this blog post, we aim to highlight the significance of preventive healthcare and wellness initiatives, underlining our strong commitment to creating a healthier and happier community.

According to recent research, In the United States for 2023, nearly half of the estimated 609,820 cancer deaths are linked to modifiable risk factors. Making positive lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of cancer, including quitting smoking, avoiding secondhand smoke, maintaining a healthy weight, moderating alcohol intake, adopting a balanced diet, staying physically active, protecting against ultraviolet radiation, and preventing cancer-associated infections. These efforts empower individuals to take charge of their health and minimize the impact of these factors on their well-being. Additionally, cancer screening tests can play a crucial role in preventing thousands of additional cancer cases and deaths by detecting and addressing potential issues early on. You can find Cancer Screenings Guidelines by Age here.

Our mission is to make quality healthcare, especially preventive care, accessible to everyone in our community of El Paso, Texas. If you don’t have health insurance, please remember that our services are entirely free. Let us explore various options together and be a part of your journey toward achieving optimal health and well-being—not just on World Cancer Day but beyond.

La entrada World Cancer Day 2024: Understanding the Power of Preventive Healthcare se publicó primero en Texas Medical Care Plans.

The Obamacare Enrollment Period is About to Start

The enrollment period starts on November 1st and is an opportunity for people to enroll in a health insurance plan that fits their needs and financial situation. In particular, if you are currently a client of Texas Medical Care Plans, please be aware that we will contact you in the early days of November to renew your health plan.

It’s essential to mention that, in the midst of this process, it’s important to exercise caution. With the rise in fraud and scams, it’s crucial not to respond to calls from unknown sources or share personal information without verifying the source’s authenticity. You can find tips in this article on how to prevent fraud.

If you are not a client of Texas Medical Care Plans, don’t hesitate to contact us at 915-781-1603. Our services are entirely free, and, best of all, we provide assistance in your language. We are committed to helping you find the health insurance that best suits your needs, providing you with peace of mind and security for your health and that of your loved ones. The benefits of having health insurance, like the one provided by Obamacare, are numerous. It not only grants you access to a wide range of medical services, including doctor visits, hospitalization, and prescribed medications, but it also shields you from unforeseen medical expenses that could jeopardize your financial stability. Moreover, having health insurance can be especially valuable in times of emergency, as it ensures timely access to necessary medical care.

The Obamacare enrollment period is an opportunity you shouldn’t miss. Healthcare is a fundamental right, and ensuring you have appropriate health insurance is a decision that benefits both you and your family. Contact us and get ready to enroll in health insurance that provides you with peace of mind and security for your well-being.

La entrada The Obamacare Enrollment Period is About to Start se publicó primero en Texas Medical Care Plans.

La entrada Do you have Medicare? se publicó primero en Texas Medical Care Plans.

If you are interested in a new or different Medicare Advantage Plans, we recommend you to contact us by phone, text, or WhatsApp or to attend any of our informational events to find a new plan that fits your needs for 2024:

125 N. Glenwood St. Ste. E.
El Paso, TX 79905

October 16 to October 31

Monday to Friday: 
9am, 11am & 2pm

Saturday: 
9am

462 N Yarbrough Dr. Ste. B.
El Paso TX 79915

October 16 to October 31

Monday to Friday: 
9am & 11am

Saturday: 
10am & 12pm

Space is limited; please reserve your spot.

(915) 777-8729

We also can assist you in our offices Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM or schedule an appointment at your home:

125 N. Glenwood St. Ste. E, El Paso, TX 79905

462 N. Yarbrough Dr. Ste. B, El Paso, TX 79915

Texas Medical Care Plans offers all Medicare Advantage Plans available in the area. If you know anyone without health insurance or who needs help with their health insurance or Medicare, please share our contact information. We are here to serve you and ensure that you receive the best possible healthcare coverage. Remember our services are completely free of charge. 

Lastly, we want to remind you of the importance of being cautious regarding Medicare-related communications. Fraud and identity theft have been on the rise in recent years. We invite you not to share your personal or Medicare information with anyone not on our team to avoid changes to your Medicare benefits or any type of fraud. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

La entrada Informational Meetings about Medicare Advantage Plans for 2024 se publicó primero en Texas Medical Care Plans.

Respect and cherish the elders on National Senior Citizens Day on August 21.

In 1988, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed a holiday to raise awareness about issues affecting senior citizens. Today, seniors remain active and have a strong presence in the workforce thanks to improved health services and technology. We owe senior citizens our gratitude for their contributions to our communities.

60 is the age after which a person is considered to be a senior citizen. 

Acknowledging the vital role senior citizens play in our city is essential. Our elders possess invaluable experience and wisdom, and how we treat them reflects our culture as a city. Take advantage of the contributions of elders and make the time to contact them, listen to their stories, and enrich your life today as a parent, adult, and community member.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately 78 million people aged 65 and older will reside in America by 2035. This figure will surpass the number of the population under the age of 18 for the first time in the nation’s history. 

Approximately 92 percent of older adults have at least one chronic condition, and 77 percent have two or more.

Source: American Psychological Association
https://www.apa.org/pi/aging/resources/guides/older 

We want to take advantage of this special date to remind you that Medicare is an essential resource for older adults to take control of their health needs. Medicare is a national government program providing health insurance to Americans 65 and older. It covers hospital visits, doctor appointments, prescription drugs, dental care, OTC medications, and Healthy Food Cards, among other things, at little or no additional cost. If you know someone who is about to turn 65, please share this information with them. We are here to help and answer any questions you may have related to Medicare.

La entrada National Senior Citizens Day 2023 se publicó primero en Texas Medical Care Plans.

Please take care of yourself and your loved ones during the heat wave.

Learn more about tips to reduce the risk of extreme fatigue or heat stroke from high temperatures. It’s important to know that high temperatures can cause illness and even death. When the temperature rises to extreme levels, please consider the following tips:

1. Stay indoors and in an air-conditioned environment as much as possible unless you are sure your body has a high tolerance for heat.
   
   
2. Drink plenty of fluids but avoid drinks that contain alcohol, caffeine, or excessive sugar.
   Keep in mind that alcohol and caffeine are diuretics, causing dehydration. To prevent this, limit consumption. Additionally, eating smaller portions, particularly those high in carbs and protein, can reduce body heat production.
   
   
3. Eat more frequently but make sure your meals are balanced and light.
   Eating large, heavy meals can be difficult to digest and create more body heat. Consuming rich foods in one sitting can also make you feel sluggish and tired in hot weather. You can find some quick and healthy recipes at BBC Good Food.
   
   
4. Do not leave a person or pet in a closed and parked vehicle.
   During hot weather conditions, it is crucial that you refrain from leaving anyone, including your furry friends, in a parked vehicle. The temperature inside a car can rise rapidly and become dangerously hot, severely threatening the health and well-being of those inside. Therefore, it is always best to err on the side of caution and ensure that everyone is safe and comfortable when traveling during hot weather, even if you are just going for a quick grocery stop.
   
   
5. Avoid dressing babies in warm clothing or wrapping them in thick blankets.
   According to Jan Montague, M.D., director of pediatrics at Good Samaritan Hospital in Suffern, NY, babies are more vulnerable to overheating. They cannot sweat like adults, which makes it difficult for their bodies to cool down. In addition, babies can become dehydrated more quickly than adults, leading to heat rash. Overheating is also linked to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), a fatal sleeping disorder. Bruce Epstein, M.D., a pediatrician in Pinellas Park, Florida, explains that babies who are hot may sleep deeply and be difficult to arouse, increasing the risk of SIDS. Please find more information about how to keep babies safe and comfortable in the summer heat here.
   
   
6. Keep updated on the health status and conditions of the elderly, the sick, or those needing help.
   Too much heat is unsafe for anyone, especially if you have health problems. It is important to get relief quickly when you’re overheated. Otherwise, you might start feeling sick or risk a heat-related illness that could cause serious health issues. To learn how to care for older adults in the hot weather, you can visit National Institute on Aging.
   
   
7. If you need help, ask family, friends, or neighbors to come by your house at least twice daily during hot weather.
   
   
8. Make sure your dog has plenty of fresh, clean water.
   As a pet owner, ensuring that your furry companion has access to clean and abundant water is crucial. Providing fresh water quenches their thirst and plays a significant role in maintaining their overall health and well-being.
   
   
9. If you take prescription medications that are diuretics, antihistamines, antispasmodics, or that cause changes in behavior, consult your doctor regarding the effects of the sun and heat exposure.
   
   
10. Cover windows that get morning or afternoon sun. Awnings or blinds can reduce the heat entering the home by up to 80 percent.

We would also like to share with you that the city of El Paso and the Office of Emergency Management activated its community cooling centers with accessible and completely free cooling systems at the following locations:

• Galatzan Recreation Center (700 E. 7th)
• Marty Robbins Recreation Center (11620 Vista Del Sol)
• Valle Bajo Community Center (7380 Alameda)
• Nations Tobin Sports Center (4435 Maxwell)
• Chalio Acosta Sports Center (4321 Delta)

Free cooling centers’ opening hours:

• Sunday through Monday from 11 am to 8 pm
• Tuesday through Thursday from 9 am to 9 pm
• Friday through Saturday from 9 am to 8 pm 

The community can also visit any of our City Public Libraries, which are open Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm, Tuesday through Thursday from 10 am to 7 pm, and Friday from 1 to 6 pm.

• Armijo Library (620 E. 7th)
• Clardy Fox (5515 Robert Alva)
• Esperanza Moreno (12480 Pebble Hills)
• Irving Schwartz (1865 Dean Martin)
• Jose Cisneros/Cielo Vista (1300 Hawkins)
• Judge Marquez (610 N. Yarbrough)
• Memorial Park (3200 Copper)
• Richard Burges (9600 Dyer Ste. C)
• Sergio Troncoso (9321 Alameda)
• Westside (125 Belvidere)

Residents who require after-hours/overnight assistance can dial 311 to receive information about the shelter network partners.

In El Paso, TX, the temperatures can soar up to 110 degrees, making it one of the highest recorded temperatures in the country. We invite you to keep in mind and share our recommendations with your loved ones to avoid falling sick or facing worse consequences. 

We hope these tips and information are helpful to you. 

*The information about cooling centers available in El Paso, TX., was retrieved from KFOX14 News. For more information about this heat wave, please visit Risk Factor.

La entrada Excessive Heat Warning in El Paso, Texas se publicó primero en Texas Medical Care Plans.

8 Benefits of Choosing a Vacation or Embracing a Staycation!

At Texas Medical Center, we take a holistic approach to wellness that celebrates self-care and family time. Summer is finally here! During this time of year, it’s a beautiful opportunity to spend more time outdoors, connect with nature or take a well-deserved break from the routine with your loved ones. This blog post lists eight essential benefits you may gain by scheduling a summer getaway or just taking a Staycation here in our beautiful city of El Paso:

Reduce Stress Levels 

Stress is a significant problem in America. Our busy lifestyles always pull our attention in multiple directions. It can often feel like there is always too much to do but not enough time in a day. Although some stress can be a healthy motivator, too much stress increases your risk of depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, and heart disease. A summer break or a healthy staycation allows you to take some well-deserved time off and stop worrying about your to-do list for a little while. Even just a three- or four-day weekend can significantly lower stress levels. During this time, it’s a good idea to participate in activities that bring you joy. Whether reading a book, going to the pool, or hiking at Castner Range, it’s best to get outside, boost sun exposure, and enjoy the warm weather. It is also important to take proper care of yourself when spending time outdoors, especially during the hottest parts of the day.

Get Better Sleep

Up to 40% of American adults have trouble falling asleep at some point. Insomnia can disrupt your daily life, making concentrating or being fully present difficult. You can catch up on much-needed Zs during summer vacation and reset your sleep schedule. Here are some tips for rebooting your sleep over this summer:

• Avoid screens (TV, phone, laptop, etc.) at least one hour before bed.
• Develop a relaxing bedtime routine, like stretching and meditating. 
• Head to bed at the same time every night.
• If you can’t sleep, get up after 30 minutes, and do a quiet activity that helps soothe your mind, like reading a book or practicing some gentle yoga.

Improve Your Physical Health

Summer is all about getting outside and enjoying the sun. You can swim at a community or hotel pool, go hiking, spend time outdoors with your family and pets, and enjoy being active more. During our busy working schedules, most of us spend much of our day seated in front of a computer. While we may not be able to eliminate desk work from our lives entirely, we can combat long periods of sitting with some extended activity. Even just 10 minutes of physical activity can elevate your mood and reduce your risk of health problems.

Spend Time With Loved Ones 

Family time is one of the best ways to combat stress, depression, anxiety, and more. Close relationships with loved ones can help prevent many mental health disorders. For example, consider ways to connect with your loved ones this summer; you could visit somewhere new or focus on relaxing together at home with backyard BBQs and movie nights.

Whichever way you choose to unwind, the most important thing is making room in your schedule to spend more time together.

Become More Patient

People who take time to recharge have a better time coping with stress. This means you can return to work rejuvenated and be more patient in your relationships. Being patient helps reduce stress, lowering your risk of stress-related health problems.

Summer is the perfect time to disconnect from some of your everyday problems and enjoy uninterrupted “me time.” When you take time to care for yourself, it’s much easier to be there for others, too.

Improve Cognitive Function

Restful acts make it easier for your mind to function. Doing actions mindfully—focusing entirely on the present moment—eases stress and anxiety. As a result, your stress hormone levels decrease. Because these hormones have a sedative effect, lowering them makes it easier for you to think, concentrate, and problem-solve.

If you wrestle with symptoms of burnout, a vacation is the perfect time to step back and recharge. Consider taking a digital detox where you avoid social media and heavy electronic use for a week.

Reconnect With Your Body, Mind, and Soul

In all the hustle and bustle of work, family, and life, many of us are caught up in our thoughts and endless responsibilities. It can be challenging to stay active, move regularly, and make sure we’re giving our bodies the care they need and deserve. You can prioritize activities that are good for your entire being. Strengthening the mind-body connection can improve your mood, fight off depression and anxiety, regulate stress, and even help reduce physical pain.

Mindfulness is the best way to strengthen your mind-body connection. Mindful activities allow you to focus on the sensory experience- what you hear, see, touch, and feel in the present moment. Doing some yoga outdoors, taking a slow, peaceful walk, and practicing tai chi are good ways to enhance your mind-body connection.

A Summer Break Can Help You Stay Healthy All Year

It may only be a short vacation, but a summer vacation is a great way to give yourself time to relax, decompress, and rejuvenate yourself. The start of a new season is an excellent time to introduce healthier habits into your routine. Some activities you practice during summer could become a part of your everyday routine. However, it’s never the wrong time to discover fun forms of exercise and self-care that help you stay happy and healthy!

We appreciate the time you took to read our posts and look forward to continuing to assist you with everything related to your health coverage. Call us today at (915) 781-1614 to get a consultation free of charge.

La entrada Discover the Hidden Advantages of Summer se publicó primero en Texas Medical Care Plans.

As we approach the half-year mark, I wanted to take a moment to remind you of something we usually forget: to

1.  Stay active and practice self-care:
   Make time for activities you enjoy and help you relax, such as reading, bathing, walking, or running early in the morning before the heat hits up! 
2. Stay connected:
   Keep in touch with friends and family. Even a quick phone call or text is enough to connect with your loved ones. Remember that social support can make a big difference in how we feel. 
3. Get enough sleep:
   To get a good night’s sleep, remember to avoid using electronic devices for at least an hour before bedtime, ensure your bedroom is calm, dark, and quiet, and get 7-9 hours of sleep per night. According to recent studies:
   • Adults need seven or more hours of sleep per night for the best health and wellbeing
   • Adults who were short sleepers (less than 7 hours of sleep per 24-hour period) were more likely to report being obese and physically inactive (Source:cdc.gov)
4. Eat well:
   A healthy diet can help improve mood and energy levels. Aim for a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. You can find some good inspiration for recipes at EatingWell.com. You can also download the Benefits of Healthy Eating for Adultspdf icon [PDF-631KB] from the CDC.
5. Get preventive checkups:
   Staying on top of your health and preventing potential issues from becoming full-blown diseases is important. That’s why preventive health checkups are so crucial. And if you have health insurance, you can take advantage of these services without any out-of-pocket costs. Some of the health checkups covered include everything from women’s care visits to detecting family violence, supporting breastfeeding, and preventing pregnancy. 

We appreciate the time you took to read our posts and look forward to continuing to assist you with everything related to your health coverage. Call us today at (915) 781-1614 to get a consultation free of charge.

La entrada This is a Friendly Reminder to Take Care of Yourself se publicó primero en Texas Medical Care Plans.