I have been on the phone with my sister for the last few days. She has some big decisions to make about her Medicare coverage, and it can be a confusing process.

My sister turns 65 in October.  Because she is currently receiving Social Security benefits, she will automatically be enrolled in Medicare Part A and Part B on the first day of her birthday month (October 1st) or the prior month if her birthday falls on the 1st. 

My sister’s concern is her automatic enrollment in Medicare Part B.

Today, she has COBRA medical coverage from her husband’s previous employer. The employer stated that this coverage will remain in effect until January 6, 2026, if she pays her premiums. However, that is somewhat deceiving for two reasons. COBRA coverage is not considered a viable reason to opt out of Part B and generally COBRA benefits end once Medicare begins.

As I sit down to write this column, I’m looking forward to my book club meeting tonight.

I love books. While as a group, we may only read four to five books a year, I read about 40. This year, I am on track to read 50.

Ten years ago, I purchased an e-reader, in my case, a Kindle. An e-reader (short for electronic reader) is a portable digital device designed specifically for reading electronic books (eBooks) and other written content such as newspapers and magazines.

Purchasing in 2015, I was somewhat behind the times, as e-reader sales had taken off in 2010 and started to decline by the time of my purchase as tablets and smartphones gained popularity. However, today, e-readers, like my Kindle Paperwhite, have a loyal following, especially among seniors. There are many reasons for e-readers’ popularity.