Helping Your Parents Choose the Right Medicare Advantage Plan

With Thanksgiving next week, it is not only important to take time to be thankful but also review health insurance options for 2026.

Matt Gerrell,

Fractional Chief Marketing Officer

Founder & President Gerrell Collective

When I first became President of a Medicare Advantage plan, I made myself a promise: every decision I made would be through the lens of whether I’d be proud for my parents to have that plan.

The irony was my plan wasn’t even available in the county where they lived. But it didn’t matter. I still treated every member as if they were my mom or dad.

When my mother was scammed by a bad actor and money was stolen from her bank account, I felt that personally. In response, I asked the team to build a cyber awareness program, bringing in experts to teach seniors how to protect themselves.

During COVID, when my parents shared how hard it was to miss church and lose connection with friends, I realized thousands of my members were in the same position. We started a weekly call where I sent a voicemail to every senior — just to check in, share updates, and remind them they weren’t alone. The feedback was overwhelming.

I gave my cell phone number to every member and took hundreds of calls over the years helping members get doctor appointments, navigate their health insurance, and at one time helped a member’s child get a job. I had a few members I spoke to every week and took to breakfast or lunch just to chat.

Health insurance isn’t just about premiums and networks; it’s about people.

That’s why I believe we as adult children (Gen X talking to you) play a critical role in helping our parents navigate Medicare Advantage. It’s complicated, and the stakes are high. Here’s a simple checklist to use when you sit down with your parents after Thanksgiving Dinner to talk about their health insurance needs.

Checklist: Talking to Your Parents About Medicare Advantage

1. Price vs. True Cost

   
   

   Don’t just look at the monthly premium. Ask: What will doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescriptions actually cost out-of-pocket? Sometimes paying $50–$100 a month can save thousands later.

   
   

2. Doctor and Hospital Access

   
   

   Confirm their primary doctor, specialists, and preferred hospitals are in-network. Narrow networks are one of the biggest surprises seniors face. Not just the typical physician services but also does the plan cover acupuncture, physical therapy, and home care services. All of these can help avoid costly surgeries.

   
   

3. Prescription Drug Coverage

   
   

   Pull together a list of their medications. Then check each plan’s formulary to see if those drugs are covered affordably. Make certain you review 2026’s formulary. Many prescriptions change on January 1 and the cost in 2025 might not be the same in 2026. This step alone can prevent big financial stress.

   
   

4. Extra Benefits That Matter

   
   

   Dental, vision, hearing, and fitness programs may not sound urgent until they’re needed. Some health plans offer driving services for seniors to visit their doctor. Others provide Over-the-Counter cards where seniors can use to pay for items like groceries, bandages, and toilet paper. Don’t forget to check on Medical Equipment. Many MA plans cover beds and equipment which can vastly improve your parents health outcomes. Ask your parents which of these would improve their quality of life and compare plans which include them.

   
   

5. Safety and Security Programs

   
   

   After what happened to my mom, I believe plans should protect more than health. Some offer fraud awareness, fall prevention, or telehealth access. Ask what extras are built in.

   
   

6. Community and Connection

   
   

   Isolation can be just as harmful as illness. Check whether the plan supports local activities, clubs, or wellness events. There are many studies which prove seniors who stay active and social have healthier outcomes.  

   
   

7. Customer Service and Trust

   
   

   Finally, ask: If something goes wrong, will this plan stand by my parents? I cannot stress this enough. Health Insurance is not about pushing paper. It is about using our knowledge and resources to help our members live the best life possible. Look for a company with a track record of service and stability, not just a shiny $0 premium ad.

Closing thoughts.

Helping your parents choose a Medicare Advantage plan isn’t just about checking a box during open enrollment. It’s about making sure they’re supported physically, emotionally, and financially.

When I led a health plan, I always pictured my mom and dad as the members on the other side of the table. After the turkey is eaten and the deserts are finished, take a few moments to sit with your parents and go over their health insurance options for 2026. It will not only give them (and you) peace of mind but ensure their health needs are met.