LiveWell & Benefits

Retiree Newsletter

 
 

The Power of Prevention

MotivateMe Incentive Reward Program


Preventive care is one of the best ways retirees can stay healthy, active, and independent. Routine checkups and screenings can help detect potential health issues early, when they are often easier to treat and manage. That is why Fairfax County Governments encourages members to complete recommended preventive care through the MotivateMe program.


MotivateMe is an incentive reward program for employees and retirees enrolled in an eligible Fairfax County Government medical plan (Cigna 80%, 90%, and MyChoice), offering $250 each year for completing healthy activities that promote engagement in personal health and wellbeing.


Participants must complete all of the following:

  • 1-annual physical
  • 1-screening (A1C, colon cancer, prostate cancer, mammogram, or a well-woman exam)
  • 1-dental exam
  • 1-vision exam


All MotivateMe activities are self-reported by the subscriber on the 2026 MotivateMe Submission Form; however, the annual physical will be confirmed by Cigna prior to reward distribution, therefore the claim must be submitted to Cigna in a timely manner and must be coded appropriately. Medicare enrollees will be asked to submit verifying documentation for their annual physical on the submission form.


All MotivateMe submissions must be successfully submitted via the 2026 MotivateMe Submission Form by the FIRM deadline of November 30th, 11:59 PM EST to earn rewards.


Subscribers to a Fairfax County Government Kaiser Permanente plan, Kaiser Medicare Advantage plan, or United Healthcare Group Medicare Advantage plan has access to plan specific wellness programs and/or resources. Please contact your plan carrier for more information.

Healthy Body, Healthy You

Eat Good To Feel Good


According to the American Diabetes Association, healthy eating for prediabetes and diabetes not only helps to manage your blood glucose (blood sugar), it also helps you have a better relationship with food. When you nourish your body with quality foods, it helps your body function at its best.  


Informed food choices are essential to living well. Food fuels the body and is a key part of diabetes management. However, no matter what eating plan you follow, there are some basic guidelines that apply across the board. 


What all healthy eating plans have in common:

  • Non-starchy vegetables as a foundation for the plate
  • Lean proteins and plant-based sources of protein 
  • Quality carbohydrates like starchy vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and low-fat milk
  • Less added sugar
  • Healthy fats
  • Less processed foods
  • Water or zero-calorie beverages


Needing additional guidance on getting started? Check of the American Diabetes Association live and on-demand cooking classes.

Vendors Corner

Becoming Medicare Eligible


Fairfax County Government provides retirees and their dependents with several medical plans to choose from when becoming Medicare eligible due to turning age 65 or disability. Election of a county sponsored medical plan is a personal decision based on the retirees’ and/or family needs.

 

Medical plan options that are Secondary to Medicare:


  • Cigna OAP Coinsurance plans (90% or 80%)


Once a retiree or dependent(s) are enrolled in Medicare, these Cigna Coinsurance medical plans sponsored by Fairfax County Government become secondary to Medicare. Secondary insurance means Medicare would pay for medical services first, and one of these Cigna plans would pay second if there is a portion still to be paid. These Insurance options may cover some items Medicare does not, and may help offset the costs of some services, but they do not eliminate all out-of-pocket costs. You will always be responsible for your coinsurances and deductibles.

 

Medicare Advantage plan options:


  • United HealthCare Group Medicare Advantage (PPO) plan
  • Kaiser Medicare Advantage (HMO) plan

 

These are fully insured plans that have separate networks. For assistance with coverage questions or provider search in one of Medicare Advantage plans we recommend you contact the plan carrier directly. 

 

Visit our Becoming Medicare Eligible page on the county’s public website where you will find contact numbers along with benefit plan summaries, and more.

Upcoming Session with Kaiser Medicare- August 13th at 1:00pm  


Understanding your health benefits in retirement should be simple — and with the right tools, it can be. Kaiser Permanente is here to support you. Whether you’re a member, or are thinking about joining, we’ll help you get the information you need to make an informed decision about your health coverage when becoming Medicare eligible in retirement. We invite you to connect with us and take advantage of this virtual education opportunity wherever you are. No registration required. Log in here at the time of meeting. 

Retiree Resources

Healthcare Enrollment Fraud


Tricking seniors into signing up for health insurance is a common form of elder financial abuse, often referred to as Medicare or healthcare enrollment fraud. Rogue insurance brokers and scammers heavily target older adults—especially during the fall Medicare Open Enrollment period—to steal personal identity data, pocket unauthorized commissions, or trick victims into fake, high-cost medical plans.


Avoid Healthcare Scams:



  • Don’t give out your personal information (name, address, social security number, credit card number, etc.) and medical information to anyone other than your health care provider or insurer. Be careful about the personal information you share on social media.
  • Many seniors turn to social media for health and wellness advice, often using platforms like Facebook or Instagram to discuss insurance options, chronic conditions and share support. Beware of the information even “trusted” individuals share online. This includes updates and news shared by individuals and Facebook Groups.
  • Government representatives from Medicare and Social Security will never call you uninvited to demand personal information. If you are contacted unexpectedly, do not provide personal information. Instead, call Medicare directly at 1-800-MEDICARE to verify the legitimacy of communication. 
  • Phishing Emails and Texts can look very legitimate, with official-looking logos and urgent requests to “update your information” by clicking a link, but these links often lead to fake websites designed to steal personal data. Avoid clicking links in emails. Instead, access Medicare information directly at Medicare.gov. Delete unsolicited emails or texts claiming to be from Medicare. 
  • When looking for health insurance online, bypass the top "Sponsored" search results. Always type the official addresses directly into your browser: Medicare.gov or HealthCare.gov.


Always actively research health insurance information and contact providers and insurers directly. If you suspect you've been the victim of enrollment fraud or identity theft, you should take action immediately. 

Classes & Events

Retiree Benefits Academy



This program is designed for current and soon-to-be retirees from Fairfax County Government, providing opportunities to connect with the Benefits Division in the Department of Human Resources and our vendor partners to learn more about your benefits, your health, and the resources available to support you after your career.


Find the latest schedule and our Video Library on the Retiree Benefits Page’s Resource and Video Library section. 

LiveWell Virtual Classes



Explore LiveWell’s virtual classes designed to support your overall health & wellbeing. From physical activity and nutrition to stress management and lifestyle habits, there’s something for everyone. Stay informed about the latest programs, monthly highlights, and special events by joining the LiveWell Listserv.

July

7/16: Chair Yoga: Noon

7/16: Hip Pain: 4 PM

7/23: Reflective Journaling: Noon

7/30: PIYO- Pilates Meets Yoga: Noon

7/31: Sunshine & Savor: Noon


August

8/3: Finding Peace Meditation: Noon

8/5: Revitalize Your Relationship: 2 PM

8/13: Neck Pain: 4 PM

8/19: Flu Awareness: Noon

8/28: Functional Movement for Health & Fitness: Noon

September

9/9: Retirement- Navigating Common Risks: 2 PM

9/14: Guided Walking Meditation: Noon

9/17: Sciatic Pain: 4 PM

9/18: Chair Stretch: Noon

9/23: Osteoporosis Prevention: Noon