|By Gale Staff|
Medicare Open Enrollment is here—and for many older adults, it can feel overwhelming. With so many options, deadlines, and unfamiliar terms, making informed decisions about healthcare coverage can be a challenge. That’s where your public library can make a powerful difference.
Through Gale Presents: GetSetUp, libraries can offer older adults free access to live, interactive classes that simplify Medicare and empower them to make confident choices.
Why Medicare Education Matters
Every year, from October 15 to December 7, older adults across the country face the critical task of reviewing and selecting their Medicare plans. But navigating the system isn’t easy. Many struggle to understand the differences between Parts A, B, C, and D, or worry about missing deadlines and incurring penalties.
Libraries are uniquely positioned to support their communities during this time—offering trusted, accessible resources that help patrons cut through the confusion and take control of their healthcare decisions.
What Is Gale Presents: GetSetUp?
Gale Presents: GetSetUp is an online learning platform designed specifically for older adults. It offers hundreds of live and on-demand classes led by peers, covering topics from technology and wellness to finance and lifelong learning.
Available through participating public libraries, GetSetUp helps older adults stay connected, informed, and engaged—from the comfort of home or within the walls of your library.
Spotlight on Medicare Resources
This year, GetSetUp is offering a dedicated Medicare Series to help older adults navigate Open Enrollment with clarity and confidence. These classes cover:
- Understanding Medicare Parts A, B, C, and D
- How to enroll or change plans
- Avoiding late enrollment penalties
- Comparing coverage options
- Answers to common questions in real time
Each session is designed to be approachable, interactive, and supportive—perfect for learners who want to feel empowered, not overwhelmed.
Here are just a few of the classes offered:
- How Do I Find a Good Medicare Agent?
- Paying Medicare Premiums: A Simple Overview of Your Costs
- Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP): What You Need to Know
- What Is Original Medicare? Parts A & B Explained
- Tips to Manage Your Medicare Costs and Reduce Expenses
- Original Medicare vs Medicare Advantage: What’s the Difference?
- Switching Medicare Plans: Things to Consider Before AEP Ends
- Quick Tips for First-Time Medicare Enrollees
- Tips for Reviewing Prescription Drug Coverage During AEP
- How Do I Add Part B When I’m Ready to Retire?
Meet the Medicare Series GetSetUp Guides
Philip Castagnet
Philip spent his career in the insurance field, primarily in various aspects of claim management. Responsibilities included leading training sessions for new and veteran team members. This led him to discover how much he enjoys helping others expand their knowledge base. His lifelong appreciation for business and numbers combined with his warm, friendly approach are valuable assets when communicating financial details. Since “retiring,” he continues his mentoring activities by helping military officers transition into the private sector. Other volunteer opportunities include assisting the underserved in his community to leading tours of architecturally significant buildings.
Janine N. Davis
Janine N. Davis is a seasoned financial and insurance expert specializing in Medicare and retirement planning. With over 20 years of experience, she leads Lifestyle Safety, LLC as the principal agent, where she simplifies complex insurance and financial topics for older adults. Holding degrees in mathematics and theology, Janine is deeply committed to educating and empowering her clients to navigate Medicare effectively and secure a stable financial future in retirement. Based in Metro Detroit, she is a dedicated resource for anyone seeking guidance on retirement and Medicare optimization.
Joanne Giardini-Russell
Joanne, a seasoned Medicare expert with over a decade of experience, has successfully guided thousands of beneficiaries through their transition into retirement coverage. Since 2018, she and her team have owned and operated their own agency, specializing exclusively in Medicare.
Why Libraries May Consider Adding GetSetUp
By offering access to GetSetUp, libraries can:
- Support health literacy in their communities
- Empower older adults with timely, relevant education
- Strengthen community engagement through trusted services
- Bridge the digital divide with accessible online learning
This is more than just a resource—it’s a meaningful way for libraries to demonstrate their commitment to the well-being and lifelong learning of older adults.
Interested in learning more? Connect with your Gale representative to explore how GetSetUp can complement your library’s programming and outreach.
