Counteracting internalized ageism
October 9 is Ageism Awareness Day. Prejudice against older adults is so widespread we often inflict it upon ourselves without even thinking about it. See what you can do to counteract this way of thinking.
Estate planning for blended families
September 16 is National Stepfamily Day. This month we look at the issues of blended families when you consider how to divide up the estate fairly between the "new" spouse, first-union children, and any subsequent children born from the new marriage.
Writing a memoir, with a twist
If you are thinking of writing a memoir, consider a different approach, one that recounts how you came to hold the values you believe are important in life. Rather than a chronological recounting, it provides a view of you through the lens of the wisdom you have gathered and the lessons learned.
Key screening tests covered by Medicare
"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." Next after that is early detection! Learn about key screening tests that Medicare covers to help you catch problems before they go into full bloom.
Do you have “helicopter kids”?
Much as your kids mean well, do you worry they are going to step in and start making decisions about your life? You're not alone! Rather than distance yourself from them, consider strategies to address their concerns while also maintaining your independence.
Disclosing a dementia or MCI diagnosis
Once you have come to terms with your diagnosis, it's a big step to let others know. You can't control their reactions, but you can help them learn more about your condition and how best to support you.
Choosing a healthcare power of attorney
April 16 is National Healthcare Decisions Day. To honor the importance of advance planning, we present issues to consider when you appoint someone to make healthcare decisions for you should you become unable to voice your own wishes (a coma, dementia, under anesthesia during surgery). This person is known as your "healthcare power of attorney."
What is a “life plan community” (aka “CCRC”)?
If you want to make one last move to where you can receive all the levels of care you might need all in the same place, you may want to consider a continuing care retirement community (CCRC). From independent living with high-end amenities to assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing, it's all available on a single campus.
Living apart together
If you don't wish to remarry or live together, there is a growing trend of older adult couples keeping their respective homes while enjoying a romantically exclusive and intimate relationship. They are freed from expectations of domestic chores and eventual caregiving, yet enjoy more emotional support and companionship than if they were simply dating.
Medicare: Wellness and prevention
Medicare provides a yearly opportunity to address prevention and wellness with your doctor. These visits are 100 percent paid for by Medicare. But they are NOT the "annual physical" you were accustomed to in younger years. It's wise to understand the difference.
Making friends in later life
We tend to think friendships should grow organically. They don’t. Particularly in our later years, when we often lose friends—to death, illness, or moving away—we need to be much more intentional about making new ones. …
What is IRMAA?
When Medicare first began in 1965, the idea was that it was for everyone over age 65, not just those who were poor. There would be no stigma. Things are different now. We live longer. …
What is an Aging Life Care™ Manager?
Imagine your life as a movie. If you are the director, an Aging Life Care Manager is your production manager. He or she is a deeply knowledgeable guide (usually a nurse, social worker, or allied …
Home care
It’s possible to “age in place” with paid caregivers and a mix-and-match of community services. Such one-on-one attention is one of the most expensive options. And finding caregivers can be challenging.
Crime proofing your home
Seniors experience property crime thirteen times more often than violent crime. Burglary is the most common. (Interestingly, it typically occurs between noon and 4:00 pm!) The average loss is roughly $3,000, although that does not …