$86…and change

end-of-life care conversations When you consider that death is the one commonality that all humans share, it’s perhaps surprising that this subject has been taboo for so long. But there are definite signs that the prevailing prohibitions about the d-word are slowly falling away, especially as the largest-ever cohort of people over 65 contemplate what … Read more

‘Tis the season…

Some of our seniors won’t have much of a holiday meal on hand; estimates tell us that about 10 million of people over 65 are at risk for hunger. With about 9% of seniors living below the poverty level, and a median income for older women of about $16,000 a year, it can be tough … Read more

Take (care with) Your Medicine

Prepare yourself for the paper deluge! If you are a Medicare enrollee, you will probably notice an uptick in the amount of mail you receive during the next couple of months. That’s because we are about to enter that special time of year designated to be the open enrollment period for Medicare plans. Various Medicare … Read more

Re-framed, Re-thought, Repackaged

Changing How We Think About Aging Our story begins in September of 2012 in a large, impersonal conference room in Washington D.C. Representatives from eight of the country’s most influential organizations in the field of aging are taking their seats around the table. Thought leaders from The American Society on Aging (ASA), The National Council … Read more

Planted

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about where I live. I’ve always considered myself to be a bit of a nomad, having moved a fair number of times. “Bloom where you’re planted” is a sappy phrase that I’ve tried to abide by. I’d like to believe that I’m pretty adaptable to whatever environment I happen … Read more

Carolyn at 108

One week from today, my Aunt Carolyn will begin her 109th year of adventures. Beside the cake, candles and balloons, the inevitable question always accompanies the birthday celebration; “What’s the secret to living to be 108?” When confronted with this query, Aunt Carolyn usually gives a sly smile and doesn’t say a word. On occasion, … Read more

Give and Take

Lots of important financial announcements came down from the government this week that should be of interest to retirees and those looking to retire in the near future. As usual with Washington, there’s some good news and some bad news. Here’s a quick look… For those who are still working and can contribute to some … Read more

Live Long and Prosper

Star Trek fans (especially those of the original TV series that began in 1966) can picture it clearly; the stony-faced, somber man with the oddly pointed ears greeting a fellow crew member with a distinct hand gesture and the phrase, “Live long and prosper.” It seems like a nice sentiment, but, for those of us … Read more