Three simple rules for whole-body health
Why you should never skip dental, vision, and hearing appointments.
Your teeth, eyes, and ears all serve important functions. But did you know they’re also critical to overall wellness?
Regular checkups for vision, hearing, and oral health can help protect not just how you function day to day, but also your long-term brain and body health.
When it comes to protecting your all-important senses, here are some rules to live by.
Rule #1: Address hearing and vision loss early
It’s common to notice changes in vision and hearing as you get older. About a third of adults age 65 and over experience hearing loss, and many also notice changes in eyesight. Research suggests that these changes are closely linked to brain health.
That’s why it’s important to address hearing and vision loss early. When left untreated, both have been associated with a higher risk of dementia. Changes in hearing and vision can also make it harder to stay socially connected, which may further affect brain health.
“When those senses get worse, people can become dependent on others,” says Logan DuBose, MD, MBA, who works to improve senior care services. Maintaining independence plays an important role in overall well-being.
Pay attention to changes in your vision or hearing and talk with your doctor promptly if you notice any. Early treatment may help support overall mental and emotional health.
Hearing and brain health
When hearing changes occur, it’s important to have your hearing checked and follow recommended treatments, such as using hearing aids. Older adults with moderate to severe hearing loss who do not receive treatment have a significantly higher rate of dementia.
By contrast, those who use hearing aids have a lower prevalence of dementia, highlighting the importance of early care.
Your plan includes a $0 copay for one in-network routine hearing exam, and covers hearing aids and related services like fittings and evaluations.
Vision and brain health
Vision changes are also common with age. Studies suggest that vision impairment is a strong risk factor for dementia. Vision problems can make it harder to stay active, socially engaged, and emotionally well — all factors that support brain health. Treating vision loss may help reduce these risks.
Your IBX plan covers one routine eye exam every year at a $0 copay. You also have coverage and annual allowances for eyeglasses or contact lenses.
Dr. Ramos says: Proactive dental, vision, and hearing care helps detect serious issues early, such as cataracts, hearing loss, and oral cancer. Learn about your plan’s coverage in your Evidence of Coverage (EOC) at ibxmedicare.com/eoc.
Rule #2: Protect eyes and ears
Not all age-related changes can be prevented, but there are steps you can take to protect your senses.
To safeguard your hearing, limit exposure to loud noises and use hearing protection when needed. To protect your peepers, wear sunglasses that block ultraviolet rays and give your eyes regular breaks during screen time.
Rule #3: Oral health impacts overall health
Regular dental visits do more than keep your smile healthy.
Good oral hygiene matters because bacteria in the mouth can travel to other parts of the body and contribute to health problems, from heart disease to Alzheimer’s.
Brushing and flossing daily, along with regular dental cleanings, help reduce harmful bacteria and support both oral and overall health.
Caring for your eyes, ears, and teeth is an important step for protecting your independence, brain health, and quality of life in the years ahead.
Your IBX benefits include a $0 copay for one in-network routine oral exam and cleaning every six months and an annual allowance (available on some plans) for comprehensive in- or out-of-network dental services, including extractions, fillings, root canals, crowns, and more.
Independence Blue Cross offers PPO, HMO-POS, and HMO Medicare Advantage plans with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Independence Blue Cross PPO, HMO-POS, HMO Medicare Advantage plans depends on contract renewal.
Website last updated: 05/15/2026
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