AARP Hearing Center
Key takeaways
- Learn how the 2027 COLA increase may affect monthly benefits.
- Review Medicare open enrollment options before the December 7 deadline.
- Prepare for daylight saving time changes with healthy sleep habits.
Summary
The 2027 cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), Medicare open enrollment and daylight saving time changes are important updates for older adults. The Social Security Administration announced a 3.6% COLA increase for 2027, which may raise average monthly payments by about $75 beginning in January. Survey findings also show many recipients feel a larger increase would be needed to keep pace with expenses.
The update also highlights Medicare open enrollment, which runs through December 7 and gives beneficiaries a chance to compare plans and make coverage changes. In addition, daylight saving time ends on November 1, and experts recommend getting morning sunlight, staying active and maintaining a regular routine to help ease the transition.
The key takeaways and summary were created with the assistance of generative AI. An AARP editor reviewed and refined the content for accuracy and clarity.
Full transcript
[0:00:04] The Social Security Administration has announced next year’s cost-of-living adjustment, and it’s 3.6%, the highest increase in four years.
[0:00:13] This means retirees may see average payments rise by about $75 a month starting in January.
[0:00:20] But for many, that’s not enough.
[0:00:22] According to a recent AARP survey, 72% of Social Security recipients said they would need a 5 to 8% COLA increase to help keep up with everyday expenses.
[0:00:36] Open enrollment has started for Medicare beneficiaries.
[0:00:40] It’s an opportunity to make important coverage changes or comparison shop for cheaper options, and experts recommend you review your plan every year.
[0:00:49] A few reasons to consider switching plans include if your prescription costs have jumped, you’re spending more time in another state or you’ve been diagnosed with a chronic condition.
[0:01:00] The open enrollment period runs until December 7, with any changes taking effect in January.
[0:01:08] Sunday, November 1 marks the end of daylight saving time, so turn your clocks back an hour and sleep in.
[0:01:15] While the fall time change is generally less disruptive than the spring shift, sleep experts say it can still affect the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle and be harder for older adults and early risers.
[0:01:27] Getting morning sunlight, staying physically active and sticking to a regular routine can help ease the transition.
