ICSMedicare

On Medicare

by NCRO

The Insurance Committee is pleased to share that valuable resources are now available to assist Members as they navigate important healthcare decisions. Following the September 11 webinar, updated Medicare and Health documents have been posted on ncro.org, offering guidance and support during the upcoming Medicare Open Enrollment period. Members can now access these helpful materials on the On Medicare, Pre-65, and Social Security web pages to stay informed and prepared.

Understanding Medicare Advantage vs Medigap  (September 2025)

DOCUMENT: Understanding Medicare Advantage Plans and Medicare – September 2025

VIDEO: Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap

Understanding Medicare Part D Rx (September 2025)

DOCUMENT: Medicare Part D on Prescription Drugs

VIDEO: Understanding Medicare Part D

MEDICARE RESOURCES

Medicare Website

Health care consultants available (September 2025)

DOCUMENT: Healthcare Consultants Available for your Decision Making

VIDEO: Healthcare Consultants Available for your Decision Making

  • Michigan Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP)
  • State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) – for states other than Michigan –

Butler Capital Advisors (September 2025)

DOCUMENT: Butler Presentation to NCRO

Visit the website at Butler Capital Advisors

Double Health USA (September 2025)

PRESENTATION: Doublehealth – NCRO Sept. 2025 | Aging Into Medicare

Visit the website at DoubleHealthUSA

My Senior Specialists – Laura Camacho (September 2025)

PRESENTATION: Laura Camacho Medicare Consultant

Visit Laura Camacho

Via Benefits Accounts (2025)

PRESENTATION: Via Benefits – FCA – U1C-EG-NODV – 2025

Visit the website at Via Benefits

Did you miss the Webinar?

NCRO 56th Breakfast Meeting | February 19, 2025 | with Bill Golling

Golling is a dedicated industry leader, Michigan Auto Dealers Fund Trustee. His focus on customer satisfaction and community involvement defines the Golling Difference.  
WATCH THE VIDEO ON YOUTUBE

Via Benefits AccountsWebinar Presentation December 11, 2024

NCRO VBA Webinar
DOWNLOAD PRESENTATION
VIEW THE WEBINAR VIDEO

Understanding Medicare Advantage vs Medigap  (September 2025)

Have a Question, Send Us an Email

If you have a question for the Insurance Committee, you can send an email or, feel free to leave a comment below.

SEND AN EMAIL

Feel Free to Leave a Comment:

5.4K views
0 FacebookLinkedinCopy LinkEmail
ICSMedicare

Pre-65

by NCRO

Pre-Medicare | 2024 Retiree Choice Enrollment Guide

Helpful Information in Your Preparing for transition from Chrysler’s Retiree Choice to Medicare

Medicare Action Timeline (September 2025)

Presentation: Paul Gritt Medicare Presentation 2025

VIDEO: Medicare Overview

helpful Information

  • Mailings from FCA US LLC starting at age 64

    • First mailing at age 64 and 0 months

    •  Second mailing 64 and 5 months

    •  Third mailing 64 and 9 months (enrollment guide)

    •  Last Chance Postcard or Email

    •  4th mailing the month you turn 65 (Health Care
      Retirement Account (HRA) personal report)

  • Multiple Medicare Enrollment Periods

Feel Free to Leave a Comment:

7.1K views
0 FacebookLinkedinCopy LinkEmail
Pension

Social Security

by NCRO

Social Security Action Timeline – September 2O25

SLIDES: Paul Gritt on Social Security Security September 2025 Seminar

VIDEO: Social Security

Have a Question, Send Us an Email

If you have a question for the Insurance Committee, you can send an email or, feel free to leave a comment below.

SEND AN EMAIL

Feel Free to Leave a Comment:

7.4K views
0 FacebookLinkedinCopy LinkEmail
ICSReimbursements

Retirement Healthcare Account

by NCRO
NCRO VBA Webinar
DOWNLOAD PRESENTATION
VIEW THE WEBINAR VIDEO

Did you miss the VBA Webinar?

On December 11, 2024, the NCRO’s Insurance Committee presented a webinar by VIA Benefits Webinar on:

  • Filing Claims online and by paper,
  • Setting up Direct Deposit (if not already done),
  • and requesting VBA assistance, including a 40-minute Q&A session. 

Retirement Health Care Account (RHCA) | For any retiree/surviving spouse with an account, and Healthcare Retirement Account (HRA) | For retirees/surviving spouse age 65+

An Introduction to your Retiree Health Care Account (RHCA), Heathcare Retirement Account (HRA), and Via Benefits (September 2025)

SLIDES: Your RHCA and HRA Accounts

VIDEO: RHCA and HRA Accounts

Feel Free to Leave a Comment:

7K views
0 FacebookLinkedinCopy LinkEmail
BlogInsurance Committee BlogMedicare

Understanding Medicare Enrollment Periods: What Retirees Need to Know

by Insurance Committee

Understanding The Different Medicare Enrollment Periods

For retirees, Medicare provides peace of mind and essential health care coverage. But as many members of the National Chrysler Retirement Organization (NCRO) know, Medicare enrollment periods can be confusing. Understanding when you can make changes to your Medicare plan is critical for making the best decisions about your health care and financial well-being.
 
To help, the NCRO Insurance Committee has planned a free webinar on September 11. This session will cover the key enrollment periods, explain how they work, and provide you with the chance to ask questions directly to knowledgeable presenters. Mark your calendar—this is your opportunity to gain clarity on a topic that impacts all retirees.
 

Medicare Enrollment Periods Explained

Medicare has several distinct enrollment periods, and each comes with its own rules. Missing a deadline could mean delays in coverage or late enrollment penalties, so it is important to know the differences.
 
1. Initial Enrollment Period (IEP)
This is your first chance to sign up for Medicare. It begins three months before you turn 65, includes your birthday month, and extends three months after. During this time, you can enroll in:
    • Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance)
    • Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance)
    • Medicare Advantage (Part C)
    • Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage)
If you miss this window and do not qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, you may have to wait until the General Enrollment Period and could face higher costs.
 
2. General Enrollment Period (GEP)
If you did not enroll in Medicare during your Initial Enrollment Period, you can sign up during the General Enrollment Period, which runs from January 1 to March 31 each year. Coverage begins on July 1, and late penalties may apply.
 
3. Special Enrollment Period (SEP)
Special Enrollment Periods apply when you experience certain life events, such as moving to a new state, losing employer health coverage, or qualifying for Medicaid. These periods allow you to make changes outside the regular enrollment windows without penalty.
 
4. Medicare Open Enrollment Period (OEP)
The most well-known period is Medicare Open Enrollment, which runs from October 15 to December 7 each year. During this time, you can:
    • Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan, or vice versa
    • Change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another
    • Join, drop, or change Medicare Part D drug plans
Any changes made during this period take effect on January 1 of the following year.
 
5. Medicare Advantage Open Enrollment Period
From January 1 to March 31, individuals enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan can switch to another Medicare Advantage plan or return to Original Medicare. This is a valuable second chance if your plan does not meet your needs.
 

Why Enrollment Periods Matter

Your health and financial situation can change from year to year. A plan that worked well last year may no longer fit your needs. Premiums, drug coverage, provider networks, and out-of-pocket costs can also change annually. That’s why it is important to review your options every year during Medicare Open Enrollment and make adjustments if necessary.
 

NCRO Free Webinar: Your Opportunity to Learn and Ask Questions

To support members, the NCRO Insurance Committee is hosting a free Medicare Webinar on September 11. This session will provide:
  • A detailed overview of Medicare enrollment periods
  • Guidance on how and when to make changes to your coverage
  • Insights on avoiding penalties and unnecessary costs
  • Time for members to ask questions and receive clear, practical answers
This webinar is your chance to hear directly from experts, gain confidence in your Medicare decisions, and make sure your coverage is aligned with your needs for 2026 and beyond.
 

Take Action

Medicare is one of the most important benefits retirees rely on, but it requires careful attention to deadlines and rules. Do not wait until the last minute—educate yourself now and plan ahead.
Join the NCRO Insurance Committee’s free Medicare Webinar on September 11 to get the information you need, ask questions, and prepare for Medicare Open Enrollment starting October 15.
 
Your health and financial well-being are worth it.
01
Content Generated with AI...

...with Edits and Modifications

At NCRO, we are proud to uphold the highest standards of accuracy and quality in all our content. Our articles are meticulously crafted by advanced AI technology, rigorously reviewed, and approved by our dedicated NCRO committees before being shared on our website. This thorough process ensures that our readers receive reliable and credible information they can trust.
255 views
0 FacebookLinkedinCopy LinkEmail
AgingAging Information Committee BlogBlog

Rethinking the Definition of Old Age: A New Perspective for a Changing World

by Dale Koch
For generations, “old age” has been measured by the number of years we have lived. Traditionally, turning 60 or 65 was seen as the milestone that marked the beginning of later life. Retirement, Medicare eligibility, and social expectations reinforced this definition. But today, as lifespans increase, health improves, and society evolves, the meaning of “old age” is being redefined.
 

The National Chrysler Retirement Organization’s Aging Information Committee is committed to helping members understand these shifts and their implications. More than ever, age is about vitality, contribution, and perspective—rather than a fixed number.

Why the Traditional Definition No Longer Fits

In the mid-20th century, the average life expectancy in the United States hovered around 65 to 70 years. Reaching retirement age meant stepping into the final chapter of life. But today, many individuals live well into their 80s and 90s, with growing numbers surpassing 100. Improved healthcare, advances in technology, and greater awareness of lifestyle choices have extended both lifespan and healthspan—the years of life spent in good health.
 

Because of these changes, calling someone “old” at 65 no longer makes sense. Many retirees in their 60s and 70s are active volunteers, caregivers for grandchildren, and even entrepreneurs. They are healthier, more engaged, and contributing more than ever before.

A Shift Toward Functional Age

Experts are now shifting from “chronological age” (how many years we’ve lived) to “functional age” (how we feel and function). Functional age considers physical health, cognitive abilities, independence, and emotional well-being.
For example, one 75-year-old may still run marathons, while another might face significant health challenges. Labeling both as “old” based on their birth date alone overlooks the wide spectrum of experiences and capabilities.
 
This shift acknowledges that aging is not uniform—it’s deeply personal. It allows for a more realistic and empowering view of what later life can look like.
 

Cultural and Global Perspectives

The definition of old age also varies across cultures. In some societies, elders are respected as keepers of wisdom and tradition. Age is not seen as decline but as a time of honor and contribution. In Japan, for instance, where life expectancy is among the highest in the world, aging is often embraced as a natural stage of life that brings respect.
 
Meanwhile, in many Western cultures, “old age” has historically been associated with decline and dependency. However, attitudes are beginning to shift as more older adults live active, meaningful lives. This cultural evolution is reshaping how aging is viewed not only in families, but also in workplaces, communities, and policy-making.

What This Means for Retirees

For NCRO members, this new definition of old age offers both freedom and responsibility. It means:
  • Staying engaged: Whether through volunteering, mentoring, or part-time work, retirees have more opportunities to stay active contributors.
  • Prioritizing health: With longer lifespans, maintaining physical and mental health becomes more important than ever.
  • Adapting expectations: Retirement may no longer mean “slowing down.” Instead, it can be a launchpad for new experiences and personal growth.

Importantly, it also means challenging outdated stereotypes. Aging does not automatically mean frailty or irrelevance—it can mean wisdom, resilience, and purpose.

Looking Ahead

As our society continues to age, redefining “old age” has practical implications. Policies around retirement, healthcare, and social services must adapt to reflect the realities of longer, healthier lives. Employers are also rethinking the value of older workers, and communities are exploring ways to be more inclusive of multi-generational participation.
 

The Aging Information Committee will continue to share updates, research, and resources to help members navigate these changes. Through our website, newsletters, and free webinars, we provide tools and insights to support members in embracing aging as a dynamic, fulfilling stage of life.

Conclusion

“Old age” is no longer simply a matter of counting years. It is about how we live, how we adapt, and how we continue to contribute. By moving beyond outdated definitions, we can view aging not as an ending but as an evolving opportunity.
 
For NCRO members, this new perspective is empowering. With health, community, and purpose at the center, the future of aging is not about growing old—it’s about living well.
01
Content Generated with AI...

...with Edits and Modifications

At NCRO, we are proud to uphold the highest standards of accuracy and quality in all our content. Our articles are meticulously crafted by advanced AI technology, rigorously reviewed, and approved by our dedicated NCRO committees before being shared on our website. This thorough process ensures that our readers receive reliable and credible information they can trust.
137 views
0 FacebookLinkedinCopy LinkEmail
ICSReimbursements

Health Savings Account

by NCRO

What is a Health Savings Account?

HSAs are tax-advantaged member-owned accounts that let you save pre-tax dollars for future qualified medical expenses. You can invest in mutual funds tax-free—and funds never expire.

Have a Question, Send Us an Email

If you have a question for the Insurance Committee, you can send an email or, feel free to leave a comment below.

SEND AN EMAIL
9K views
0 FacebookLinkedinCopy LinkEmail
AgingAging Information Committee BlogBlog

Frontotemporal Dementia: What Retirees Should Know

by Dale Koch
When we think about dementia, most of us picture Alzheimer’s disease — memory loss, confusion, and difficulties with daily living. But there’s another type of dementia that is far less common, yet equally important to understand, particularly as we age. It’s called Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD), and it affects the brain — and the people living with it — in unique ways.
 

What is Frontotemporal Dementia?

 FTD is a group of brain disorders caused by the progressive degeneration of the frontal and temporal lobes — the parts of the brain responsible for personality, behavior, decision-making, and language. Unlike Alzheimer’s disease, which primarily affects memory early on, FTD often begins by changing how a person acts, speaks, and interacts with others.
 
Because of these distinct symptoms, FTD is sometimes mistaken for a psychiatric condition like depression or bipolar disorder. It can be particularly challenging for families when personality and social behavior change before memory does.
 

Who is at Risk?

 Frontotemporal Dementia accounts for roughly 10–20% of dementia cases, making it the second most common dementia in people under 65. While it can develop later in life, its average onset is earlier — often in one’s 50s or 60s — which can be a surprise to those who think dementia is strictly a condition of very old age.
 
Researchers are still working to understand the exact causes. In some cases, FTD is linked to genetic mutations, meaning there may be a hereditary risk. For others, there’s no clear family connection.
Signs and Symptoms
 

Early signs of FTD can vary widely, but they usually fall into two categories:

  • Behavioral Changes – These can include inappropriate social behavior, loss of empathy, poor judgment, impulsiveness, or a decline in personal hygiene.
  • Language Difficulties – Known as Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA), this type affects a person’s ability to speak, understand, or find the right words.
Memory loss may not appear until later in the disease, which is why FTD can be misdiagnosed. Loved ones are often the first to notice these subtle but impactful changes.
Diagnosis and Treatment
 

Diagnosing FTD can take time. Doctors may use neurological exams, brain imaging (MRI or PET scans), and sometimes genetic testing. Because FTD is not caused by plaques and tangles like Alzheimer’s, the approach to care is slightly different.

Currently, there is no cure for FTD, but treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This can include medications for mood or behavior changes, speech therapy, and occupational therapy to maintain independence as long as possible.

Caring for Someone with FTD

 FTD can be especially challenging for caregivers. The personality and behavioral changes can feel personal, even when they are not. Support groups, counseling, and respite care can help caregivers avoid burnout.
 
If you or someone you know is facing FTD, early diagnosis and a strong support network can make a meaningful difference. Connecting with organizations like the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration can provide valuable resources.
 

Helpful Resources

  • Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (AFTD) – www.theaftd.org
    Provides education, caregiver guides, and a helpline.
  • Alzheimer’s Association – FTD Information – www.alz.org/ftd
    Offers resources and support for all dementias, including FTD.
  • Family Caregiver Alliance – www.caregiver.org
    Support, tips, and respite care resources for caregivers.
  • National Institute on Aging – www.nia.nih.gov/health/frontotemporal-disorders
  • Research-based articles and updates on FTD and other cognitive disorders.
01
Content Generated with AI...

...with Edits and Modifications

At NCRO, we are proud to uphold the highest standards of accuracy and quality in all our content. Our articles are meticulously crafted by advanced AI technology, rigorously reviewed, and approved by our dedicated NCRO committees before being shared on our website. This thorough process ensures that our readers receive reliable and credible information they can trust.
168 views
0 FacebookLinkedinCopy LinkEmail
MembersObituary

Obituary

by NCRO

In Memoriam - Obituary

Karen Swanberg Brown
March 5, 1948 - September 7, 2025
Karen Swanberg Brown, age 77, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2025. Born on March 5, 1948, in Detroit, Michigan, Karen was the daughter of Georgia and Irving Swanberg and the second-oldest of six children. She grew up in Southfield, MI. On August 11, 1974, Karen met the love of her life, Burke, and from that day forward the two were inseparable. They married on September 25, 1976 at Martha-Mary Chapel in Greenfield Village. They built a beautiful life together. Karen poured her heart into raising their children, Jason and Audra, who remained her pride and joy. Later, she delighted in becoming “Grannie” to Kerrigan and Nolan, a role that filled her with immeasurable happiness. Karen is survived by her devoted husband of 49 years, Burke; her daughter Audra and son-in-law Tal; her son Jason and daughter-in-law Jamie; and her beloved grandchildren, Kerrigan and Nolan. She is also survived by her siblings Alan, Sue, and Claire. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Doug and Carl. A celebration of Karen’s life will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, at Elton Black & Son Funeral Home, 3295 E Highland Rd, Highland Township, MI 48356.
Wendell Williams Jr.
May 15, 1932 - April 2, 2025 - CLICK the icon below to view the obituary:
Robert Henry Lees Jr.
April 26, 1933 – June 19, 2025 - CLICK the icon below to view the obituary:
Frederick C. Maloney
November 21, 1945 - May 31, 2025 - CLICK the icon below to view the obituary:
Donald McLean
September 3, 1950 - April 12, 2025 . CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
David Joseph Bartlo
February 7, 1947 - March 12, 2025 CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
Glenn Williamson
October 25, 1942 - January 12, 2025 CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
Jerry Lindsay
March 2nd, 1932 - August 6th, 2024 CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
Raymond Harold Tilly
August 18, 1956-December 10, 2024 CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
Berthold 'Bert' Martin
July 27, 1940 - March 17, 2025 CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
Angeline Kaiser
July 27, 1940 - March 17, 2025 CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
Richard Norman Harper, Jr.
October 3, 1926 - November 16, 2023
CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
David Charles Van Raaphorst
Transitioned September 23, 2023
CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
Michael "Mike" Steven Smith
February 28, 1943 - October 22, 2023
CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
James Don Bowman
November 8, 1947 - August 20, 2024
CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
Dale Ernest Dawkins
July 3, 1934 - February 1, 2024
CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
Sebastian Joseph Giuffrida
February 20, 1932 - November 25, 2023
CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
Robert J. Nankee II
August 10, 1956 - May 24, 2023
CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
William D. Scarbro
May 4, 1946 - September 3, 2023
CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
Carl Anthony Pace
May 2, 1937 - August 3, 2023
CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
John McLay Murray
July 16, 1931 - July 30, 2023
CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
Shamel Thomas Rushwin II
Dec. 3 1947 - Jul 12 2023
CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
Wenzel F. Koch
July 27, 1928 - April 27, 2023
CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
Ara Basherian
March 18, 1935 - May 15, 2023
CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
James "Jim" Albert Watson
Apr. 14, 1944 - Mar. 18, 2023
CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
Stephen Allen Alcock
Jan. 21, 1955 - Mar. 13, 2023
CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
Janet E. Poxon
Jan. 2, 1951 - Feb. 24, 2023
CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
Robert Floyd Roush
Oct. 12, 1940 – Feb. 19, 2023
CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
Donald Paul Hilty
Mar. 17, 1929 - Feb. 12, 2023
CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
Michael F. Michel
Sep. 2, 1954 - Jan. 30, 2023
CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary.
S. Duane Ogden
May 22, 1932 - Dec. 30, 2022
Click the icon below to view the obituary.
Arthur M. Peach
Jan. 1, 1930 - April 27, 2021
CLICK the Icon below to view the obituary:
We have over 1,200 deceased members since we started the NCRO back in 2008. The list of those who have left us was getting too large to not only manage, but also too long of a list to scroll through on a webpage.
 
This is the Official Obituary Page where we can share all submitted loved one’s current obituaries. Then, after the memorial services have passed, those listings will rotate to the archives after 30 days.
 
We hope you understand and if you were asking about a posting of an obituary for a loved one, please accept our deepest condolences.
 The NCRO Team
To have a listing, complete the form below.

Obituary Posting Submission Form:

Click Here
9.8K views
0 FacebookLinkedinCopy LinkEmail

Medicare 101: Information for Pre-65 and 65+

by Insurance Committee

On Thursday, September 11th at 9:30 AM, the Insurance Committee of the NCRO will again present “Medicare 101: Information for Pre-65 and 65+”, our annual webinar that focuses on issues of importance to all retirees (and their spouses). While this webinar is designed for those retirees (and/or spouses) who are getting ready to enroll in Medicare (ages 62-64), it also provides very valuable information for those who are already 65+ and currently on Medicare. You need not be a member of NCRO to participate in this free webinar.

The agenda includes speakers on:

  • Overview – Social Security
  • Overview – Medicare and Medical Insurance
  • Understanding Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplemental Plans (Medigap Plans)
  • Break
  • Understanding Medicare Part D Rx Drugs
  • An Introduction to your Retiree Health Care Account (RHCA). Healthcare Retirement
  • Account (HRA), & Via Benefits Accounts (VBA)
  • Healthcare Consultants Available for your Decision Making
  • Questions and Answers

It is anticipated that the webinar will last approximately 3½ hours and end around 1:00 pm.

REGISTER HERE: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/4799418181819484512

307 views
0 FacebookLinkedinCopy LinkEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts
National Chrysler Retirement Organization
©2022 – National Chrysler Retirement Organization (NCRO) | All Right Reserved

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More