Meet Our Members

If a hierarchy or "pecking order" of Medicare champions existed, Bill and Mary B. would top the list. They’re avid Humana supporters who participated in the 2004 Medicare March on Washington and continue to speak out for Medicare reform.

We do everything we can to see that Medicare remains a priority in Washington," says Bill, age 89. "That's why we need to stand up and let our representatives in D.C. know how we feel and what we need. That applies to health plans as well. Plans need to be accountable to their members and consider their concerns first and foremost, like Humana does."

"You don't say a bad word about Humana in our house," says Mary, age 89. "Humana's all about doing what's right for their members, and we’ve been members a long time, since the early 1970s, so we know."

According to Bill and Mary, Humana’s SilverSneakers® Fitness Program is a terrific example of Humana's priorities, their attention to keeping their members as healthy as they can be. "It’s a wonderful program geared just for seniors," says Bill. "We go every Monday and Wednesday and simply love it."

HAO Magazine spoke to Humana member Selma K. on a Monday night during her regular Canasta card game with friends from around the world.

Thanks to her computer, Selma plays cards with friends in such faraway places as Russia, Italy, and Scotland. Online they play everything from Pinochle and Gin to Texas Hold’em and Blackjack.

This is particularly good for Selma, who, at 75, doesn’t get around very well. Selma suffers from several illnesses, including diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. She’s found her medications are often too expensive for her to afford on a limited income.

"Friends tell me I look pretty good for my age, but I can tell you that on the inside I look like a bionic woman," says Selma. "I'm so grateful to Humana for their Medicare advocacy."

At ages 74 and 71, Herb and Dolly are fitness enthusiasts who’ve seen wonderful changes in their health since enrolling in Humana’s fitness benefit, SilverSneakers.

"My cholesterol dropped 30 points," says Herb.

And with few ailments between them, both have the time and stamina to enjoy their other interests that include professional filmmaking, commercials, and photo shoots. "At the gym, Herb is the resident matchmaker, introducing new members to other members," says Dolly. "He’s really pretty good at it, often introducing people who have a lot in common and become friends outside the gym."

Between the two of them, they’ve initiated everything from birthday lists to regular potluck meals for their fitness buddies. And they don’t mind telling you that, when it comes to their healthcare benefits, they trust no other company the way they trust Humana.

"We love Humana," says Dolly.

Herb agrees. "Even with the sweeping changes associated with Medicare, I don’t even think about it. We’ve done the research, and we’re sticking with Humana."