By Curtis Spring The common advice for a crisis is to remain calm and try to think clearly. That’s not always possible, but prior planning and preparation – much like with fire drills or tornado drills – can help you to stay focused and make better decisions during an emergency situation. But what if the…
By Curtis Spring Today, everyone knows not to trust an email from a “Nigerian prince” asking for financial assistance. Scams like this still exist, but may not be as blatant, and unfortunately, older adults are oftentimes the victims because criminals believe them to be easier targets. Read more…
By Curtis Spring The definition of what constitutes an “active” older adult has changed over the past few decades. It was once all about book clubs and golfing, but now seniors are joining clubs, re-learning old hobbies and participating in athletic events such as the Senior Games. More activities are available now than ever before…
By Curtis Spring It’s a cliché to imagine a senior looking to a grandchild for help with their new iPhone or TV. New technology is always presumed to be a baffling experience for older folks, but that’s not necessarily the case anymore. A whole new tech sector has begun exploring ways to improve the lives…
By Curtis Spring Retirement is commonly referred to as the “golden years” due to the freedom afforded to seniors after decades of working. Transitioning to this stage of life may also include relocating from a family home, and there are many options available. Choosing a new living situation requires taking stock of current physical and…
By Curtis Spring As we age, our physical abilities change. One day you’re taking stairs two at a time, the next it’s a pain to go up even a dozen. Those challenges are amplified if you’re in a house that wasn’t designed with those capabilities in mind. The choice to remain in a home that…
In the mid-20th century, the United States faced a growing crisis in healthcare accessibility and affordability, particularly for its elderly and low-income populations. This led to the creation of two landmark programs: Medicare and Medicaid. These programs, signed into law in 1965 as part of the Social Security Act, have since become integral parts of…
Entering assisted living can be a significant financial commitment, but with careful planning and budgeting, you can make the most of your resources. By implementing smart budgeting practices, you can ensure a comfortable and secure living arrangement without compromising your financial well-being. Here are some best budgeting practices for assisted living that can help you…
As our population ages, the design of spaces for seniors becomes increasingly important. Architecture and interior design play crucial roles in ensuring that the built environment is not only functional but also supportive of the unique needs and preferences of older adults. From retirement communities to nursing homes and assisted living facilities, thoughtful design can…
As people age, maintaining social connections and staying active become increasingly important for overall well-being. For seniors, living in a community that offers a variety of social activities can have a profound impact on their quality of life. These activities not only provide opportunities for social interaction but also contribute to mental, emotional, and physical…
In recent years, senior living communities have undergone a significant transformation, especially when it comes to dining experiences. Gone are the days of bland, institutional meals; instead, these communities are now offering culinary delights that rival those of high-end restaurants. This shift is not just about providing delicious food but also about recognizing the importance…
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the profound impact that pets can have on the lives of seniors living in retirement communities. From providing companionship and emotional support to encouraging physical activity and social interaction, pets play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for older adults. Companionship is…
Gone are the days when Super Bowl parties were exclusive to rowdy gatherings at sports bars or in the living rooms of young adults. Today, retirement communities across the nation are embracing the spirit of the big game by hosting their own watch parties. These events not only foster a sense of community and camaraderie…
The decision to move into a senior living community is a significant life transition that involves careful consideration of various factors, with financial planning playing a crucial role. Senior living communities offer a range of options, each with its own associated costs. In this article, we will explore the essential aspects of financial planning that…
The decision to move to a senior retirement community is a significant life transition that involves careful consideration of various factors. As individuals age, the need for specialized care, enhanced social opportunities, and a supportive living environment becomes more apparent. In this article, we’ll explore key signs and considerations that indicate it may be time…
As our population ages, the demand for senior living options has spurred innovative advancements in retirement communities. Today’s senior retirement communities are a far cry from the traditional image of quiet nursing homes. With a focus on enhancing quality of life, the latest features and advancements in senior retirement communities offer a diverse range of…
In recent years, the field of Alzheimer’s and dementia research has witnessed groundbreaking advancements that bring hope to millions affected by these debilitating conditions. Researchers worldwide are unraveling the mysteries surrounding the diseases, uncovering potential treatment options, and offering fresh insights into prevention and early detection. In this article, we will explore some of the…
by Louise Kramer, AARP When it comes to our health, medical emergencies and illnesses like the flu always get seen to — STAT. Routine medical appointments … not so much. Annual exams are easy to shrug off, but it’s important to fit those physicals, mammograms and dental cleanings into our busy lives. A regular screening can identify…
by Sari Harrar, AARP The Magazine The good news in your 60s: Making healthy changes will have a greater impact today than at any other time in your life. The reality check in your 60s: Better get to know your blood pressure and blood sugar numbers now. You have a long, healthy life ahead. Indeed, men turning…
by Kim Ferraro, AARP What do cliff diving and moving to a retirement community have in common? Both require a leap of faith to trade the comfort of the familiar and the routine for a risk that, if successful, will yield an exhilarating reward. By far the more prevalent adventure, though, is packing up a…
by David Levine, USNews.com THE INSTITUTE OF Medicine (now the National Academy of Medicine) issued a report in 2012, “The Mental Health and Substance Use Workforce for Older Adults: In Whose Hands?” that said 14 to 20 percent of U.S. adults over age 65 have one or more mental health or substance use conditions. That’s about 8 million people. Yet…
by Kent Allen, AARP As the weather turns significantly warmer, older adults are especially vulnerable to heat-related ailments, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is warning. “As we age,” NIH notes, “our ability to adequately respond to summer heat can become a serious problem. … Hyperthermia can include heat stroke, heat edema (swelling in your ankles and feet when you…
The American Red Cross is closely monitoring the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and following the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).We know this is a stressful time and people want to know what they can do right now to protect themselves and their families. That’s why the Red Cross is highlighting some everyday steps that people in the U.S. can take now. In addition, stay informed about what’s happening in your local community and always follow the directions of state and local authorities.LIMIT THE SPREAD OF GERMS AND PREVENT INFECTIONThe Red Cross recommends the following…
