The 2026 Open Enrollment period runs from October 15, 2025-December 7, 2025.

Medicare Open Enrollment Is Coming: Help Older Adults Make the Most of Their Options

Medicare Open Enrollment runs from October 15 through December 7, giving beneficiaries the opportunity to review, compare, and make changes to their coverage for the coming year. For the communities we serve, this is one of the most important times of the year to ensure that older adults understand their options, the changes to Medicare programs, and how to get help navigating new benefits.

As trusted service providers, advocates, and partners, we play a vital role in helping older adults make informed decisions about their health and prescription drug coverage. Many individuals rely on our organizations for education, guidance, and reminders about critical deadlines.

Plan options and coverage details look different every year. Additionally, this is the second year the Medicare Prescription Payment Program is available, so beneficiaries should carefully review their current plan and compare new options before making decisions.

Vital Tools and Info

· NANASP has created several tools that can be shared with services providers, caregivers, and older Americans to assist them in understanding recent changes to the program and sign up for coverage.

· NANASP Webinar on Preparing for Medicare Part D Open Enrollment: Program Changes, Best Practices, and Resources for Older Adults on October 21 at 2 PM ET. View the recording and slides 

How You Can Help

· Spread the word early. Share reminders about Open Enrollment in your newsletters, at meal sites, and through social media.

· Host informational sessions or one-on-one support. Many older adults appreciate hands-on help reviewing their coverage.

· Provide educational handouts. Feel free to utilize the linked documents above as handouts in your community. Printouts can be provided during in-person events or included in meal drop-offs. · Share reliable resources. Encourage individuals to visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE and connect them to their local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) for personalized counseling.

By getting the word out now, we can help ensure that older adults understand their options, avoid gaps in coverage, and take advantage of programs that can reduce out-of-pocket costs in 2026.