“Mature” Dogs Certainly Can Learn New Tricks
Our family dog was about 8 years old when my dad installed a “doggie door” for him and fenced in our back yard. We were all sure this new freedom and independence would be life-changing for the pooch. What we didn’t predict was his aversion to using this contraption or his consistent need to have a human companion when he was outside.
A couple of boxes of milk bones and many days of coaxing seemed to negate his initial reticence. He also realized the squirrels that teased him when he was standing at the window were now within his grasp … sort of.
It seems our new marketing campaign and good word of mouth about our Health Alliance Medicare plans have resulted in a large increase in inquires coming into our office. That’s obviously great news during the Annual Election Period going on now through December 31, 2008. It’s “all hands on deck” time with me being pulled in to join the party. I am guessing our broker community will be pleased with the results, too. I will be spending more time in our Urbana office to help serve Medicare beneficiaries. This temporary change in my duties requires more training for me, learning additional programs on the computer, getting up to speed on the enrollment process and refreshing my compliance skills. Whew.
I admit I am somewhat intimidated by this re-education but know I have some great resources at hand, and I am looking forward to gaining some new skills. I certainly recognize the importance of enhancing professional expertise, especially for a “mature” employee like me.
There is definitive evidence that keeping an active mind as we age can enhance cognitive skills in later life. In my case it’s definitely not too early to start.
I will certainly miss seeing all you folks with whom I’ve established strong community relationships. The other side of the coin is that I will be in a nice warm office this winter, an obvious advantage. Of course if anyone needs to contact me, the lines of communication are still open—email and phone calls are a great way to keep in touch.
I will be interested in seeing how quickly I pick up the skills I need to do a great job. I’ll let you know how this old dog did when I see you next spring.
Patrick Harness is the community representative for Health Alliance Medical Plans, located at Lincoln Square Village in Urbana. For more information about community resources for seniors or any of the Health Alliance Medicare plans, reach him at 1-800-965-4022 or patrick.harness@healthalliance.org.