Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period is underway, and the November FISH Friendly Faces luncheon will give participants an opportunity to learn more about their options and changes coming in 2027.
Camilita Aldridge, SHINE Program Manager at the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida, will lead the presentation on Tuesday, Nov. 10, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at Sanibel Community Church, 1740 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel.
Aldridge will discuss Medicare options, ways beneficiaries may be able to save on Part D prescription drug costs and important changes taking effect in 2027. The timing gives participants an opportunity to ask questions and gather information before Medicare Open Enrollment ends Dec. 7.
“Medicare decisions can have a real impact on someone’s health care and monthly expenses, and this year there are changes people need to understand as they look ahead to 2027,” said Erika Arnowitz, FISH Senior Services Director. “Having Camilita here during Open Enrollment gives our community access to someone who can explain the information clearly and help people know what questions they should be asking before they make their choices.”
The presentation is provided through SHINE, or Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders, a free and unbiased Medicare counseling and education program. SHINE counselors assist Medicare beneficiaries, their families and caregivers with understanding coverage and making informed decisions.
Aldridge has more than two decades of experience in the insurance industry as well as experience in elder care. At the Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida, she oversees more than 40 volunteer SHINE counselors serving communities throughout the region. She also serves as a trainer for the statewide SHINE Program and provides ongoing training and support to local volunteers.
Friendly Faces is offered through FISH Senior Services and is open to everyone, regardless of age. The monthly gathering provides an opportunity to enjoy lunch, meet others and hear from guest speakers on topics connected to the community.
The November luncheon begins at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 10 at Sanibel Community Church, 1740 Periwinkle Way. Lunch is provided. Reservations are requested by November 6 and can be made at https://friendlyfacesnov2026.rsvpify.com.
Questions about Friendly Faces and other Senior Services may be directed to Erika Arnowitz, FISH Senior Services Director, at erika@fishofsancap.org.
