Seniors Are Speaking Up to Protect Medicare Advantage: “We Shouldn’t Have to Fight for It.”
For millions of older Americans, Medicare Advantage isn’t just a health plan; it’s coordinated, affordable coverage that helps them save money, stay healthy and independent. As budget debates continue in Washington, seniors remind leaders that behind every proposal are millions of people trying to manage their care on a fixed income.
Across the country, beneficiaries are speaking out with one message: Don’t cut coverage that works.
Peggy W. from Seymour, Indiana, said: “Seniors need this. They shouldn’t have to fight for it. They deserve it.”
Kathleen H. from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, who has suffered three falls in the last 5 years added: “My Medicare Advantage plan has been a godsend to me…they covered all my surgeries and rehab with a small copay. I can’t say enough about how wonderful they have been!”
One Million Letters to Congress and Counting— Standing Up for Medicare Advantage
After consecutive years of cuts and disruptions to their Medicare Advantage plans, seniors have mobilized. They’ve surpassed one million personal letters sent to Congress, communicating to lawmakers that choices in Washington touch everyday life: monthly costs, essential benefits, and access to reliable care. Many of these voices come through Better Medicare Alliance’s senior advocate network—hundreds of thousands of people standing up for the 35 million Americans who choose Medicare Advantage for affordable, high-quality care.
Why Seniors Care Deeply About Protecting Medicare Advantage
- Receive $17 average monthly premium
- Spend an estimated $3,500 less per year in premiums and out-of-pocket costs versus Fee-for-Service Medicare
- Access to supplemental benefits such as dental, vision, transportation, and in-home supports
- 95% of seniors in Medicare Advantage are satisfied with the quality of their health care
These are the things that keep people healthy, connected, and aging with dignity in their own homes.
Medicare Advantage Provides Better Care and Better Health — Not Just Lower Costs
Seniors in Medicare Advantage are more likely to receive preventive care and screenings, benefit from care coordination and disease-management support for chronic conditions, and experience fewer avoidable hospitalizations and readmissions. That means more time at home and less time in the hospital — exactly what seniors say they want.
What’s at Stake Right Now
Beneficiaries are especially concerned about the No UPCODE Act, which would weaken care coordination and cut critical benefits, including nutritious meals and transportation, that seniors rely on.
Barbara S. from Westland, Michigan, is firm: “I’m asking Congress to oppose the No UPCODE Act. I’m 71 years old. I rely on Medicare Advantage. I will certainly not vote for you if you don’t oppose it.”
Patricia D. from Flagler Beach, Florida, is also concerned: “My husband and I are both 84 years old, and we depend on Medicare Advantage. It’s been very helpful to us. We’re on a very, very low income. So, I’m hoping that you won’t cut Medicare Advantage because that has been a wonderful plan for us, and we appreciate immensely.”
Seniors aren’t asking for more — they’re asking to protect what works.
A Clear Message from Seniors During Open Enrollment
Now through December 7, millions of seniors on Medicare are making their coverage decisions. They want affordability. They want benefits that help them live independently. They want care that puts their health first.
As open enrollment continues, they are asking Congress to keep Medicare Advantage strong and stable — so seniors can focus on their health, not on uncertainty or political debate.
Seniors have earned their Medicare, and they choose Medicare Advantage because it works. Now they are standing up to protect it.