• Get your flu vaccination: Everyone six months old or older should get the annual vaccination. Age 65 and older: The high-dose vaccine is almost 25% more effective than the standard dose. Children ages two to eight should get the nasal spray.
  • Review Medicare plans: Medicare plans and prescription drug coverage can be changed from October 15 to December 7 (the “open-­enrollment period”). 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227)…Medicare.gov.
  • Prepare for a dangerous medical emergency: October is Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month. Find out whether you are at risk—and what to do if a cardiac emergency strikes. SCARisk.orgSCA-aware.org/about-SCA.
  • Check smoke alarms: Fire Prevention Week is October 5 to 11. Install alarms on each level of your home, outside each sleeping area and inside each bedroom. Be sure to test them monthly.
  • Get ready for winter: Fix air leaks in windows and doors. Clean chimneys and gutters. Check your car battery, heater and tires.
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