The Fall 2022 edition of thrive., a quarterly magazine from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, is now in the hands of members. Missed the print edition? You can find the digital edition here and it includes exclusive content available only online.

The latest edition features an in-depth look on what it means to live with purpose. You’ll meet Jude, a 79-year-old Blue Cross member from Duluth who has found ways to stay active and socially connected – and how that has helped her maintain a healthy lifestyle. You’ll also learn more about how a Blue Cross agent can be a trusted partner in supporting your health and wellbeing goals, especially if you are new to Medicare or looking for different options.

Here is a preview of what you and our members will find in the Fall 2022 edition:

Ask the doctor

Dr. Amy Fendrich shares more about when you should get your COVID-19 booster shots and if you can get them at the same time as your flu shot.

Fore!

Disc golf is a great, low-impact way to get some exercise, fresh air and social time with friends. Learn the basics of how to play, what equipment you’ll need and where you can find a course near you.

Healthy body, healthy mind

The brain is responsible for more than just memory – it’s in charge of our ability to learn, solve problems, understand language and more. Dr. Kathleen Woo-Rippe, medical director of Allina Health’s cognitive and memory program, talks about what to look out for as you age and if certain changes in your brain function could be an early signal of dementia or other cognitive issue.

Ask the pharmacist

Dr. Anita Sharma offers advice on how to choose the right pharmacy for you and your medication needs.

Caring for caregivers

53 million individuals act as a caregiver for a parent, spouse, sibling or friend, according to a 2020 study conducted by the National Alliance for Caregivers (NAC) and the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). Blue Cross has updated its caregivers’ website to better serve the needs of those who care for their loved ones.

Prioritizing play

Blue Cross volunteers spent part of this summer rebuilding a playground at YWCA Midtown in Minneapolis. This location had been without a playground since 2017 due to safety issues. Volunteers helped put together a “dream playground” designed by kids in the YWCA’s early childhood program and created by KABOOM, which focuses on creating equitable play spaces.