40,000 Medicare members rely on annual Flushing expo as open enrollment confusion rises

VillageCareMAX, a health plan serving approximately 40,000 Medicare and Medicaid members in New York City, convened its fourth annual Healthy Aging and Wellness Expo at the Sheraton LaGuardia East in Flushing on Tuesday, Oct. 27. The event brought together older adults, caregivers, and family members to connect with healthcare providers and community organizations.

The organization aims to clarify healthcare coverage and prevention strategies during the open enrollment period. Shaun Ruskin, VillageCare President and CEO, stated that the goal is to connect participants with resources that support independent living. "When we bring trusted organizations together in one place, we help strengthen the entire community," Ruskin said.

VillageCare Chief Operating Officer Vanessa Fernandez noted that the event serves to educate members who often face confusion regarding their care options. "We’re having a presence when there is confusion among our elderly," Fernandez said. She emphasized that the staff reflects the diversity of the communities served, with many members speaking the same languages as the residents they assist.

New York State Sen. John Liu attended the event, citing the rapid growth of the older adult population as a driver for increased service needs. "We need more services to keep people healthy," Liu said. He described the gathering as a tradition that offers vendors the opportunity to provide services on the spot.

Exhibitors included NewYork-Presbyterian, the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and the Queens Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing. Financial institutions such as FourLeaf FCU, First Federal Savings Bank, and Popular Bank were also present. Law firms Meltzer, Lippe, Goldstein and Breitstone and Napoli Shkolnik offered guidance on elder law and rights.

Rebecca Abraham of the New York City Department for the Aging emphasized the focus on financial wellness alongside physical health. Ronald Fatoullah, chair of Meltzer, Lippe, Goldstein and Breitstone’s Elder Law Practice Group, discussed how trusts can direct asset distribution. David Lee of Popular Bank and Leslye Almonte of Napoli Shkolnik addressed the prevention of physical and financial elder abuse.

VillageCareMAX operates community centers, including one at 41-80 Main St. in Flushing, where members receive ongoing support. The plan offers preventive services such as hearing and vision tests, mammograms, and dental work to reduce avoidable hospitalizations. Fernandez stated that the organization aims to deliver personal care by working directly with providers and listening to member needs.

The expo continues an annual commitment to the Flushing community. Interested parties can register or sponsor future events through SchnepsEvents.com.