Medicare Advantage behavioral health resources

If you are a caregiver for a loved one, it’s normal to feel stressed or burdened by responsibility. Caregivers may neglect their own health while providing support for others. UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage members may be eligible for a variety of caregiver resources. These are designed to help balance the demands of caregiving while taking time for yourself.

As you age, you may have life changes that affect your behavioral health.⁵ These changes may include retiring, losing a loved one or managing a serious illness. Adjusting to these changes may be difficult. If you’re feeling sad or blue, you may benefit from talking to your primary care provider or mental health professional. With virtual visits, you can connect with a health care provider by phone or video in the comfort of your home. Behavioral telehealth services may be covered by your health plan just like an office visit with a provider.

You may find that you no longer enjoy the hobbies or daily activities that were once fun. If you start to lose interest in the things that used to give you joy, a behavioral health program may help. As a UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage member, you may be eligible for Calm Health. This app offers personalized plans to provide support for a range of health conditions, life experiences and mental health challenges. Answer a few simple questions about how you’re feeling to get recommendations that will be the most helpful for you.

Older adults are more likely to experience social isolation for a variety of reasons. Social isolation is when a person has little to no social support due to limited contact or relationships with others. Retirement, losing a loved one, having chronic conditions or experiencing mobility issues may cause a person to become socially isolated. Being alone may make you feel lonely and want more social connection.⁶

While older adults are less likely to use illicit drugs, there’s a rising trend in alcohol abuse and misuse of prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications.^{7, 8} This misuse can involve taking prescription drugs, such as painkillers, in ways not prescribed by a doctor.⁹

Older adults may turn to substance use as a coping mechanism for significant life changes, including the loss of a loved one or retirement. The aging process affects how the body absorbs alcohol and drugs, potentially leading to a stronger impact.⁷

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a diagnosable condition characterized by several key factors:¹⁰

• Loss of control over substance use
• Significant impairment in daily life
• Relationship problems
• Engaging in risky behaviors
• Developing a higher tolerance or greater need for the substance

It’s also common for individuals with SUD to have a co-occurring mental health condition.⁹

Living with a chronic condition or pain may affect your behavioral health. For example, having a chronic condition may increase the chance of having a mental health condition, such as depression.¹¹ UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage members may be eligible for clinical and disease management programs for conditions including:

• Diabetes
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Heart disease
• Kidney disease
• Cancer

These programs are designed to help you find healthier ways to deal with and overcome challenges. They may also help you take charge of your condition and feel better.

The daily recommendation for sleep changes as you age. For adults ages 65 and older, the recommendation is 7–8 hours.¹² Not getting enough sleep may lead to behavioral health problems, such as feeling frustrated or uncomfortable in social situations.¹³ If you have trouble falling or staying asleep, learn about best practices for sleep health.

Over time, hearing may decline for multiple reasons, including repetitive exposure to loud sounds and genetic factors. If you can’t hear well, you may not engage in conversations as much and may avoid being around people. This may lead to social isolation.¹⁴ If you’re experiencing hearing loss, it’s important to seek treatment. UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage members may be eligible for hearing benefits, including a routine hearing exam.

As you age, you may have challenges with your physical mobility due to chronic conditions or low vision. These mobility challenges may impact your ability to drive or leave the home as often as you'd like. Not having a way to get to medical appointments, the grocery store or anywhere else you want to go may add to feelings of loneliness. As a UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage member, you may be eligible for routine transportation at no cost.¹⁵ These services may take you to medical appointments, pharmacies and gyms or grocery stores, depending on your plan.¹⁶