The idea supposedly started with a Methodist minister in Virginia. After visiting a parishioner distraught over being forced into a nursing home, he decided America could do a better job helping seniors find alternative housing solutions. He consulted with a research center at Virginia Tech, and voila: the MEDCottage, also called the Granny Pod, was…
We’ve said it many times, in our printed materials and on the radio: few conflicts can become more contentious than family conflicts. Tragically, this is especially true when it comes to issues relating to elder care. We think that’s because, in conflicts over how to care for Mom or Dad (and how to divide the…
A new study has shown a dramatic new benefit from what is commonly called the “Mediterranean Diet” – it can actually improve the health of your brain. For years the advantages of the Mediterranean Diet have been touted as a way to improve physical health. This eating pattern, emphasizing high concentration of seafood and plant-based…
For most American retirees, Social Security benefits form a vital part of their income – in fact, for many these benefits provide most if not all of the funds retirees live on. That’s why older Americans need to make careful decisions about when to take their benefits – and which benefits to take – so…
The death of “America’s DJ” Casey Kasem in 2014 may seem like old news. But the issues raised by the tawdry controversy surrounding Kasem’s passing from side effects of debilitating dementia still reverberate. As we tell our clients frequently, and explain to our radio listeners, the death of Casey Kasem carries lessons for all of…
You’ve prepared a Last Will and Testament to make certain your inheritance goes to your heirs in accordance with your wishes. So you think that you’ve done enough to avoid family squabbles over your estate, right? Maybe – but maybe not. According to estate planning experts, even a simple will that divides a significant estate…
After several years of modest increases, 65 million people will miss out on something this month: a cost of living adjustment, or COLA, applied to their Social Security benefits. And this will spell financial pressure for many. This is the first time in five years that Social Security benefits, adjusted for inflation each October, remain…
If history is any guide, 90% of those who die in the months ahead from the flu will be 65 years old or older. Because flu is such a serious threat to seniors, getting your annual flu shot is a must – and the time to act is now. That’s the strong advice from an…
The majority of older Americans worry about running out of money in retirement. Based on a study published a few months ago, these seniors and their families are right to be worried. The study, conducted by the University of Michigan, analyzed data from some 1,200 people who died between 2010 and 2012. Among those 85…
It seems that every day we learn of some new living option for retirees. And as the Boomer generation ages, we predict those choices in retirement living choices will proliferate even more. But maybe you’re facing a housing choice now, for an older parent or aging loved one. We found this helpful article at the…
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