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Into the Great Outdoors Managing Your Money
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Choices for
long-term care Being able to care for oneself independently can be a source of pride. However, illness or age can affect people in ways that require them to seek assistance with medical needs or daily activities for an extended period of time. In such instances, long-term care services can fill a need. Long-term care assists people in their homes, in the community or in various types of facilities with various daily and medical requirements. According to WebMD, research shows that many people are unaware of long-term care options or may be misinformed about what’s out there.
Explore long-term care insurance Individuals plan for many different scenarios: buying a home, putting kids through college and saving for retirement, among them. Quite often the concept of making arrangements for one’s golden years is placed on the back burner. However, that can be an expensive mistake. According to AARP, by the time a person reaches age 65, he or she has a 50-50 chance of needing long-term care at some point in the future. Medicare, the federal health insurance program for people who are 65 or older in the United States, does not cover custodial care, which is the primary form of care in nursing homes. Therefore, many people must find alternative ways to finance nursing home and other long-term care options. Those who must pay out-of-pocket spend an average of $85,000 per year on a nursing home in the U.S., and this is often an expense that has not been included in retirement budgets. Long-term care insurance can be the best option to offset the high costs of nursing home and other care in most instances. It helps cover the costs of services that aren’t covered by regular health insurance, namely assistance with routine daily activities like bathing, dressing or getting in and out of bed, advises the financial resource NerdWallet. Such care may be administered at home by a private health aide or in a skilled nursing facility. Most policies also will reimburse for services rendered in an assisted living facility or an adult day care center.
HOME CARE Various services can be utilized in the comfort of home. According to the Knoxville-Knox County Community Action Committee Office on Aging, services can include home-delivered meals, pest control, minor home modifications, or visiting nurses and health aides. Other benefits may include shopping or physical therapy.
COMMUNITY CARE Community services can include adult day care centers, meal programs, senior centers, community transportation, and others. Community services enable people to continue to live in the community with some support. They also may help family or friends serving as caregivers enjoy a break from the According to a study revised in 2016 by the assistance they have been providing. Urban Institute and the U.S. Department of CARE FACILITIES Health & Human Services, about 14 percent of Long-term care may be mistaken as strictly nursing homes, but facilities extend to places that provide people age 65 and older will require care for other services. Here’s a look at the care facilities. more than five years. Getting the facts about longservices, and other forms of assistance • Independent senior living: Independent term care insurance can help individuals make in a home-like setting. Types of services living facilities may provide assistance only important decisions for their futures. include laundry, housekeeping, medication when needed. Amenities are designed to • The earlier a person buys a long-term dispersal, and dressing. make things easier and more convenient care insurance policy the lower the rates for residents. Fitness centers, pools, • Skilled nursing homes: Nursing homes tend to be. The American Association of dining venues, and transportation may be provide care for those who cannot care for Long-Term Care Insurance says a 65-yearincluded. These facilities tend to provide themselves at home or in the community. old couple can typically buy a policy for the most independent form of senior living. These facilities offer many services all under $4,800 per year to offer base benefits of Some independent living facilities are one roof, like rehabilitative services, meals, $180,000 plus 3 percent inflation growth. part of larger continuing care retirement activities, and around-the-clock care. Some That plan price more than doubles if communities that have staged care that goes skilled nursing homes offer temporary care purchased at age 75. from independent to skilled nursing. after an injury or illness and are used in lieu • Cost also is based on the maximum of an extended hospital stay. • Assisted living: These homes provide amount the policy will pay per day and the 24-hour supervision, meals, healthcare number of years the policy will pay. Many It is never too early to begin planning for elder care that may include long-term care possibilities. policies limit how long or how much they Individuals are urged to work with an elder care lawyer to help navigate the complexities of planning for will pay, some between two and five years, medical care and their potential financial needs. states the Administration on Aging. • Policies require some medical underwriting, so not everyone will qualify. Design/Layout Publisher AARP suggests seeking out an independent agent who sells policies from multiple companies Falicia Elom Jim Bonn rather than a single insurer. For Advertising: Advertising Managers Long-term care insurance can be an effective 814.368.3173 Jill Henry and Preston Cochran way to pay for the often high cost of skilled 43 Main St. – P.O Box 365. sales nursing care. Lucy Nuzzo, Jenn Mong
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The Bradford (PA.) era| Saturday, JANUARY 29, 2022
How aging adults can maintain a healthy weight Calorie-counting and watching one’s weight is often seen as a young person’s game. But even aging men and women should recognize the importance of maintaining a healthy weight. Older adults may experience weight gain or unintentional weight loss. Understanding how to address each in healthy ways is important. WEIGHT LOSS TIPS More than two-thirds of Americans, including adults age 65 and older, are overweight and obese, according to U.S. News & World Report. A combination of factors can contribute to weight gain in older adults, including a slower metabolism and a tendency to be more sedentary with age. Empty nesters also may be less likely to cook their own meals, relying on convenience foods — some of which may be high in fat and/or calories. Sustained healthy weight at any age is linked to improved heart health, mental health benefits like increased self-confidence, healthy joints, and much more. These tips can help aging individuals maintain healthy weights. • Incorporate strength or resistance training into your weekly routine. Hormone production slows down as the body ages, and that may result in a loss of muscle mass. Lifting weights or engaging in resistance training with elastic bands or body weight can restore muscle tone and speed up metabolism. Adults should aim for strength training twice a week. • Monitor sugar and starch intake. Many older adults have elevated blood sugar levels due to insulin resistance. When cells become resistant to insulin, glucose doesn’t get used up and remains in the blood. Eventually this can lead to pre-diabetes, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. Many people with these conditions have a hard time losing weight. Avoiding added sugars and extra carbohydrates could help. • Practice portion control. A 60-year-old can’t eat the same way he or she did at age 30 or 40. Nutritionists say that, with every decade that passes, people generally need about 100 fewer calories a day to maintain their weights. Cutting calories slowly and
steadily helps people maintain healthy weights, especially when they couple this with exercise. Avoiding malnutrition-related weight loss Malnutrition is a common component in unintentional weight loss in aging populations. Reduction in senses of small and taste, smaller appetites and lack of desire to make meals can contribute to malnutrition and weight loss. Underlying health problems also may lead to unwanted and unhealthy weight loss. Tracking weight loss and getting sufficient nutrients is vital to aging adults’ overall health. A 2014 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that having a body mass index at the lower end of the recommended age for adults increased risk for mortality more so than being overweight. Individuals whose BMI is less than 23 could be putting themselves in jeopardy.
Older adults need to adjust their routines as they age in order to maintain healthy weights. Such adjustments can reduce seniors’ risk for disease and improve their quality of life.
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Exercise ideas for people with mobility issues
Physical activity is vital to overall health. The World Health Organization says limiting time spent being idle and taking advantage of opportunities to get moving — even if it’s just a little bit of exercise — can go a long way toward improving overall health. In November 2020, the WHO released new exercise guidelines for people of all ages. Adults should get between 150 and 300 minutes a week of moderate to vigorous aerobic activity, and that includes older adults and those with chronic conditions or disabilities. Individuals with limited mobility due to age or preexisting medical conditions may wonder how they can meet the guidelines for exercise. Those with chronic pain or illness sometimes find that exercising for more than a few minutes can be challenging. Even brief periods of exercise can pay dividends, and there are various approaches people can take to work around mobility and other issues. EXPLORE CHAIR EXERCISES Just because you are seated doesn’t mean you can’t get a workout in. Seated chair exercises can work various muscle groups. Seated arm rows, tummy twists, overhead arm raises, hand squeezes with a tennis ball, inner thigh squeezes, leg lifts and extensions, and many other exercises can be customized to be performed in a chair.
WORK OUT IN THE WATER Exercising in the water can assist with movement and reduce strain on the body. The Arthritis Foundation says the water’s buoyancy supports body weight, which minimizes stress on joints and can alleviate pain. Water provides gentle resistance as well — up to 12 times the resistance of air. That means it’s possible to build strength and muscle even just walking or swimming around a pool. USE RESISTANCE BANDS Resistance bands are like giant rubber bands that can be used to build up strength and flexibility. Resistance bands are effective, low-cost gear that can offer high-impact results for building muscle, staying fit and increasing mobility. Resistance bands can be used in lieu of hand weights for many exercises and be ideal for those who find barbells and dumbbells are challenging to maneuver. MIND-BODY EXERCISES ARE AN OPTION Elder Gym®, a fitness from home service for seniors, suggests exercises like Tai Chi and yoga for those with limited mobility. These exercises integrate awareness of body movement with the exercise through coordinated breathing. The exercises encourage people to focus on slow, fluid movements and deep stretching.
Seniors and others with limited mobility are advised to first discuss fitness regimens with a physician to get a green light to proceed. Then exercise regimens can be started gradually and altered to become more vigorous as the body acclimates to exercise. Increase duration and frequency as strength and endurance builds.
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The Bradford (PA.) era| Saturday, JANUARY 29, 2022
How active seniors can
lower their injury risk Physical activity is one of the key components of a healthy lifestyle. Though physical activity benefits people of all ages, it can be especially helpful for seniors by making it easier for them to overcome some of the obstacles associated with aging.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, physical activity supports dail living activities and independence. That’s a significant benefit for seniors who are worried that age-related physical and mental decline might one day compromise their ability to
live independently. The CDC also notes that physical activity lowers the risk for early death, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
The CDC reports that physical activity is generally safe for fit individuals who are 65 and older and have no existing conditions. Despite that, it’s best for any senior to consult his or her physician prior to beginning a new exercise regimen. Once doctors give seniors the go-ahead to begin a new workout routine, seniors can take the following steps to reduce their risk for injury. 1. Warm up before working out. Seniors may think they don’t need to warm up before exercising because their workouts are not as high-intensity as they might have been when they were younger. But Harvard Medical School notes that warming up pumps nutrient-rich, oxygenated blood to the muscles and helps increase heart rate. The American Council on Exercise reports that warming up helps reduce workout-related injury risk by improving tissue elasticity. So prior to beginning a workout, regardless of how moderate- or low-intensity that regimen will be, seniors should warm up for five to 10 minutes. 2. Start with a routine that’s commensurate with your abilities. Seniors excited by the prospect of working out must temper that excitement if they’re not accustomed to physical activity. Such individuals should consider working with a personal trainer. Personal trainers design exercise regimens based on each individual client’s fitness levels and goals. As clients make progress and their bodies become acclimated to routine physical activity, personal trainers can then tweak regimens to make them more challenging. Seniors can take on these responsibilities themselves, but are urged to begin slowly and gradually build up their exercise tolerance. 3. Don’t skip strength training. Seniors may think lifting weights is for young people who want to look buff, but the AARP® notes that muscle-strengthening activities protect the joints, reducing seniors’ risk for injury as a result. The Department of Health & Human Services recommends seniors who have been cleared to exercise engage in strength training at least twice per week. 4. Stretch after your workout. Harvard Medical School reports that efforts to cool down after a workout, including stretching, can prevent muscle cramps and dizziness a nd lengthen muscles throughout the body, which improves range of motion. Harvard Medical School recommends holding each stretch for 10 to 30 seconds, as the longer a stretch can be held the more flexible individuals’ muscles will be. Physical activity is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle for seniors. Active seniors can take various steps to reduce their injury risk so they can continue to reap the rewards of exercising for years to come.
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Day trips seniors can enjoy acations to faraway destinations can make lasting memories that families cherish forever. Though day trips might not require the planning of more traditional vacations, these brief getaways can still be a great way to spend a day, especially for seniors. Day trips typically are based around visits to historic attractions, shopping districts, restaurants, or museums. Since they don’t require much in the way of advanced planning, and tend to be easy on the wallet, day trips are ideal for those looking for short getaways. When considering day trips, seniors should look for locales that are no more than two to three hours away. Such proximity ensures travelers will have plenty of time to see the sights and still get home at a reasonable hour. Need day trip inspiration? Here are some ideas to get started. BOTANICAL GARDENS Botanical gardens are beautiful and relaxing places to spend a day. The Botanic Gardens Conservation International reports that there are between 296 to 1,014 botanical gardens and arboretums in the United States, while there are roughly 70 botanic gardens across Canada. People can tour topiaries, exotic plants, butterfly retreats, acres of rolling landscape, and even bonsai collections. SEASIDE TOWNS Visits to the coast make for memorable, scenic excursions. Many boast quaint shops to purchase coastal trinkets or decor. Seaside spots also may boast their share of fishing
charters or sightseeing cruises, and seafood fans will appreciate what these regions have to offer in the way of dining.
One is likely to find a winery to visit and sample the wares close to home. Make a day of it by bringing a picnic lunch.
HISTORIC CITIES AND VILLAGES Touring historic places of register, like Colonial Williamsburg or areas of historic Boston, can be a hands-on way to learn about the country’s history. They can provide more personal experiences than books and movies alone.
MUSEUMS Museums are ideal day trip destinations because many are indoors. That means weather never needs to be an issue while visiting. With historic artifacts, paintings, sculptures, or niche items like pop art or collectibles, there are museums for just about every interest. For example, railway enthusiasts can visit the National Railroad Museum in Wisconsin, one of the oldest railroad museums in the country.
ZOOS AND AQUARIUMS Interacting with wildlife is on the itinerary when visiting zoos and aquariums, and such establishments typically offer discounted admissions to seniors. From the famed San Diego Zoo to the Georgia Aquarium, it’s possible to get up close and personal with many species. WINE TASTING A recent study from Wine & Vines magazine said there are 8,391 wineries in North America, and that number is on the rise.
RESTAURANT CRAWL Certain town centers and tourist destinations organize restaurant events where day trippers can enjoy tasting menus from various establishments for a single price. Day trips also can culminate at one specific restaurant. A new restaurant can be visited each month. Day trips are enjoyable ventures that seniors can enjoy when they want to get out but not necessarily get away.
IT’S YOUR DECISION CHOOSE
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What fully vaccinated seniors should know about travel
RV buyers’ guide A recreational vehicle, also known as an RV or a camper, can be a worthwhile investment for people who want to travel at their leisure. RVs offer the benefit of traversing the open road without having to sacrifice the comforts of home. The RV market has been hot over the last couple of years as people have looked to RVing as a safe way to travel. According to the RV Industry Association, shipments of travel trailers and motorhomes were expected to hit their highest level on record in 2021, with more than 533,000 units sold by year-end. Sizable purchases are seldom easy, and purchasing an RV is no exception. In addition to choosing the right vehicle, RV owners must learn maintenance, how to drive a large vehicle, towing, and campsite etiquette. Buying an RV is a longterm investment. These pointers can help the purchase go smoothly. NEW OR USED? Purchasing a used RV can help people save money. However, upgrades and repairs may be costly. New RVs have the latest technology and no risk of prior wear and tear. Insurance premiums will be higher for a new vehicle, and a new purchase can be expensive depending on the features chosen. FIGURE OUT FEATURES AND SIZE Take a hard look at what you are seeking in a camper. Do you want something that is just an
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alternative to tent camping? Are you interested in an RV that can sleep a crowd? Do you have a tow hitch and a vehicle capable of towing an RV? These questions and more will determine the style and size of the RV that’s right for you. Class A RVs are large, bus-shaped rigs between 20 and 45 feet in length. Class B are sleeper vans and are smaller than Class A. Class C rigs offer size but driveability and are built into a regular truck chassis. For trailer-style RVs, the options are foldable trailers, travel trailers, toy haulers, and fifth wheel trailers. They vary in size and features; but you’ll need a truck to tow them. USAGE FREQUENCY When considering an RV, think about how often it will be used and where it will be stored when not in use. Garage storage may be challenging on a larger rig, and some housing communities frown upon parking RVs in driveways. This may affect the size you choose as well as the features you need, according to KOA, the RV camp site leader. SECURE FINANCING As with other vehicles, shop around for the best rates on financing; you don’t necessarily need to go with the dealer. Also, when buying a trade-in or used rig, hire a third-party inspector to go over systems to ensure they’re in working order. These are just a few things to consider when looking to purchase an RV. Buyers should do their homework to get a vacation vehicle that fits their needs and budgets.
The efforts of researchers and public health officials in developing safe and successful COVID-19 vaccines was nothing short of historic. Vaccines typically take years to develop, but a combination of factors enabled researchers to make COVID-19 vaccines available to vulnerable populations by December 2020, or roughly nine months after the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic. Researchers had already conducted years’ worth of vaccine research on human coronaviruses, which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes were first identified in the mid-1960s. That research proved invaluable as pharmaceutical companies raced to produce COVID-19 vaccines. In addition, a less linear approach to testing and vetting vaccines than was traditionally applied in past outbreaks enabled the vaccine to be rolled out more quickly, potentially saving millions of lives. Men and women over the age of 65 were among the first groups to be given the COVID-19
vaccine. Many people within that group are retired and had looked forward to traveling, only to have those plans interrupted by the pandemic. Now that they’re fully vaccinated, seniors are setting their sights on travel once again. Though the COVID-19 vaccines have made vulnerable groups like seniors less likely to suffer severe illness from the virus, there’s still a few things adults over 65 should know when making travel plans. THE VIRUS Data from the CDC indicated that more than 87 million people in the United States had been fully or partially vaccinated as of April 20, 2021. Among those, just 7,157 had become infected with COVID-19, and only 331 of those required hospitalization. That’s an encouraging figure that illustrates just how effective the vaccines are at preventing infection and serious illness.
Vaccinated Seniors continued on
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Recognizing that efficacy may help calm any concerns fully vaccinated seniors have about traveling.
Travel perks and
discounts for seniors Having made it to their golden years, seniors enjoy not only the privilege of earned wisdom, but also a few perks that come with aging. Many adults who have reached a certain age are entitled to an array of discounts, which take into consideration seniors’ fixed retirement incomes. Discounts are available on various services, including many travel options. Seniors have a lot of time to devote to recreational pursuits. This list of available travel discounts can help seniors get the most bang for their vacation bucks. •
AIRLINE TICKETS Before booking a flight, it is worth investigating if a particular airline carrier offers senior discounts. The global pandemic has changed how some airlines do business, and many have faced significant adversity since early 2020. Airlines may offer more affordable flights to drum up business. In the past, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, British Airlines, and United Airlines have offered various discounts for people ages 65 and older. •
GROUND TRAVEL Flying isn’t the only mode of travel available. AARP partners with various car rental companies to offer senior discounts. Seniors also may be entitled to discounts of 5 percent or more on tickets from Greyhound, Amtrak, and Trailways. Seniors who live in metropolitan areas also may get
reduced fares on public buses and trains through providers like New York City’s Metropolitan Transportation Authority. •
ACCOMMODATIONS Getting there is one thing, but seniors also can receive discounts on hotel stays or cruise cabins. AARP reports that many major hotel and motel chains offer senior discounts between 5 and 15 percent. Royal Caribbean has offered senior discounts on select sailings and stateroom categories. Smarter Travel notes that most chains require travelers to book directly rather than through an online booking agency/deal site to be eligible for discounts. •
DINING OUT Many restaurants, and national chains in particular, offer senior discounts with or without AARP membership. Applebee’s offers 10 to 15 percent off to those age 60 or older. Brick House Tap & Tavern, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Denny’s, IHOP, Outback Steakhouse, and many others provide discounts or special senior pricing. •
TOURS AND MORE Seniors also can speak with travel agents or booking services about discounts on sightseeing tours and other vacation excursions. One of the perks of getting older is the chance to save money on travel-related services.
RESTRICTIONS Though a significant portion of the eligible populations in the United States and Canada had been fully or partially vaccinated by mid-spring, overseas travel restrictions may still be in place. Some countries, such as India, continued to confront devastating waves of the virus and may not be allowing overseas visitors anytime soon. In addition, in mid-spring the European Union was still devising a strategy to allow fully vaccinated foreign tourists to visit the continent. Proposals suggested such travel could be allowed by late June, but it’s important that seniors learn of any potential restrictions before booking trips
When planning a trip, seniors may want to look for areas with plenty of outdoor attractions. The CDC continues to recommend that people, even those who are fully vaccinated, gather outdoors, where the virus is less likely to be transmitted. When traveling, seniors may be spending time around people who have not yet been vaccinated, and despite the efficacy of the vaccines, that might make some travelers nervous. So choosing locales with plenty of outdoor attractions can be a great way to quell any travel-related concerns seniors may have. The remarkable achievements of researchers involved in developing COVID-19 vaccines has helped seniors return to something resembling normal life. Seniors with their eyes on travel can safely book trips after doing some research about their destination and giving careful consideration to their comfort levels.
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Outdoor activities
that are perfect for seniors The great outdoors beckons people of all ages. Fresh air can be hard to resist and the benefits of spending time outdoors are so numerous that it behooves anyone, including seniors, to answer the call of nature. According to researchers with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Forest Service, human beings benefit both physically and psychologically from spending time in nature. Such experiences can reduce stress and help lower heart rates, potentially decreasing individuals’ risk for cardiovascular disease. In addition, the Forest Service notes that spending time outside in green spaces has been linked to a lower risk of depression. Seniors who are retired or even aging empty nesters who are still in the workforce can make great use of their free time by venturing into the great outdoors. The following are a handful of senior-friendly outdoor activities that provide a great reason to get off the couch and take in all that Mother Nature has to offer. •
HIKING: Hiking provides a great workout and an ideal opportunity to spend time in an idyllic setting. The U.S. National Park Service notes that hiking helps individuals build stronger muscles and bones, improves their sense of balance, has a positive effect on heart health, and can decrease the risk of certain respiratory problems. Hiking is an especially attractive outdoor activity for seniors, as many parks feature trails with varying degrees of difficulty, ensuring there’s a trail for seniors whether they’re seasoned or novice hikers. •
WATER AEROBICS: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that
water-based exercises can be especially helpful individuals with chronic diseases, a category many seniors fall into. The CDC notes that one study published in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatology found that improves the use of joints affected by arthritis without worsening symptoms. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services also notes that swimming can lead to improved health for people with diabetes and heart disease. Seniors can reap these benefits by going for a dip in their own backyard pools or a local body of water, such as a lake or ocean. Many swim clubs also offer discounted memberships to seniors, making these another great and affordable way to reap the benefits of swimming. •
FISHING: Of course not all outdoor activities need to make seniors huff and puff. Fishing provides a great reason to get outdoors, and many individuals devoted to fishing report feeling less stressed after a day spent casting for their favorite fish. Individuals who consume what they catch also can benefit by improving their diets, as the American Heart Association notes that consuming certain types of fish has been linked to a lower risk for heart disease and obesity. •
VOLUNTEERING: Local environmental groups often sponsor cleanups at parks and waterfront attractions like beaches and lakes. Volunteering with such organizations is a great way to get outside and give back, and working with like-minded individuals can be a great way for seniors to meet new people. In addition, a national study sponsored
by the Corporation for National and Community Service in 2019 found that 88 percent of Senior Corps volunteers who initially reported a lack of companionship reported a decrease in feelings of isolation after volunteering.
The opportunities for seniors to enjoy the great outdoors are endless. Taking advantage of such chances can benefit seniors in myriad ways.
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Protect yourself from coronavirus Medicare, Medicaid fraud Restrictions implemented to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 have saved untold numbers of lives. The world has adjusted to such restrictions, and many parts of the world have relaxed measures as case numbers have declined. As communities begin returning to some semblance of normalcy, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has warned people against letting their guard down. While many of those warnings pertain to the importance of continuing to practice social distancing as economies reopen, advisories also include notices about fraud schemes related to COVID-19.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General has advised the general public about scams involving Medicare fraud. Such schemes are targeting Medicare beneficiaries in an assortment of ways, including through text messages, social media, telemarketing calls, and even door-to-door visits. When perpetrating such frauds, scammers seek beneficiaries’ personal information, which they then use to fraudulently bill federal health care programs, potentially leaving their victims on the hook for costly unapproved tests related to COVID-19. The CDC notes the importance of being aware of such schemes. Awareness can help consumers avoid being victimized by scammers, and the following are some additional measures people can take to protect themselves from COVID-19-related fraud. • Do not share personal
account information. Scammers need their victims’ personal information to perpetrate their fraudulent schemes. The CDC cautions beneficiaries to be suspicious of unsolicited requests for their Medicare or Medicaid numbers. • Do not take callers or visitors at face value. Unsolicited callers or visitors requesting Medicare or Medicaid information should be met with extreme caution. Be suspicious of any unexpected calls or visitors offering COVID-19 tests or supplies. Compromised personal information may be used in other fraud schemes. • Never click on links in emails or text messages. Do not respond to, or open hyperlinks in, text messages or emails about COVID-19 from unknown individuals. • Ignore offers or advertisements for COVID-19 testing or treatments on social media sites. Offers or ads for testing are one of the ways scammers are accessing personal information. Only a physician or other trusted healthcare provider should assess your condition and approve any requests for COVID-19 testing.
The COVID-19 outbreak has made it easy for criminals to exploit consumers concerned about their health. Consumers who suspect COVID-19 fraud can contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at (866) 720-5721 or visit Justice. gov/DisasterComplaintForm to file a complaint.
Simple strategies to stretch retirement savings Running out of money is a common concern among retirees. And that anxiety is not necessarily unfounded, as a recent study from the Society of Actuaries found that people routinely underestimate just how much money they will need in retirement. Similarly, a 2019 model created by the employee benefit experts at EBRI found that nearly 41 percent of households in which the head of household is between the ages of 35 and 64 are projected to run short of money in retirement. Such figures underscore how important it is for younger professionals to save for retirement, but what about current retirees or those on the cusp of retiring? Individuals who fit those descriptions may need to embrace these strategies designed to stretch their retirement savings. • Downsize your home. Homes are many individuals’ greatest expense, and that does not necessarily change in retirement. Downsizing to a smaller residence allows homeowners to pad their savings with money earned in the sale of their homes and also reduce their monthly overhead, as utilities, property taxes and maintenance expenditures are typically much lower in smaller homes than larger homes.
• Look for other ways to downsize. Individuals also can stretch their retirement savings by downsizing in other areas. Lower monthly expenses by shopping around for less expensive auto insurance policies, downgrading cable television packages or cutting the cord entirely. And though individual streaming services may not be too costly, these expenses can add up for individuals who have five or more subscriptions. Downsizing streaming services to one or two packages at a time can help individuals keep more money in their retirement savings accounts each month. • Be flexible with your withdrawals. The “set it and forget it” model of retirement investing helps professionals avoid the tricky process of trying to predict the markets. Retirees may take the same approach when it comes to withdrawing their money, following the industry standard and automatically withdrawing 4 percent from their accounts each year. But individuals who want to stretch their savings should remain flexible with their annual withdrawals and routinely examine their spending habits. An individualized approach to retirement withdrawals can help retirees avoid
taking more than they need out of their accounts each year. The 4 percent rule has its merits, but retirees should recognize that they may not need to take that much out every year. • Work with a financial advisor. Ensuring you don’t outlive your retirement savings can be complicated, as it often involves navigating fluid concepts such as inflation. A certified financial
professional can help retirees plan for changes that are beyond their control and even recommend when certain risks might be worth taking. Many individuals will need to stretch their retirement savings in the years ahead, and various strategies can help individuals do so.
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The Bradford (PA.) era| Saturday, JANUARY 29, 2022
Did you know? Many people plan to retire by a certain age, but few may actually still be working at their targeted retirement age. In the United States, the age at which working Americans expect to retire has risen to 66. But a Gallup poll showed that most don’t stay on the job that long, instead retiring when they’re about 60 or 61. In addition, according to a 2018 Employee Benefit Research Institute survey, 48 percent of workers wanted to retire after age 65, but only 19 percent of retirees stayed on the job that long. The reasons vary, but one positive outcome is having enough money to live comfortably during retirement. Still, early retirement largely involves unexpected scenarios. These may include poor health, having to care for an aging parent, downsizing, new skills required for the job, or other work-related reasons.
enior perks and discounts Growing older may come with some added way to saving serious money. Keep in mind that laugh lines or a few extra aches and pains, but the starting points for age-based discounts vary, many will attest to the benefits and wisdom earned with some offering deals to those age 50 and up, from a life well-lived. And if that’s not enough, the and others kicking in at 55 or 60-plus. discounts and other perks afforded seniors can The following is a list of some of the discounts make reaching one’s golden years a bit easier to that may be available. Confirm eligibility as embrace. companies change their policies from time to Every day the list of companies offering special time. Also, the editors of Consumer World say deals for people of a certain age continues to that the senior discount might not always be the grow. Individuals willing to do the research or lowest price, so comparison shopping is a must to simply ask retailers and other businesses about find out which discount or coupon is the best deal. their senior discount policies can be well on their 1. Amtrak: Travelers age 65 and older can enjoy a 10 percent discount on rail fares on most Amtrak trains. For those who prefer ground travel but want to leave the car at home, this can be a great way to get around. 2. Fast-food/sit-down restaurants: Establishments like Wendy’s, Arby’s, Burker King, Denny’s, Applebees, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, and Friendly’s offer various senior discounts. Most are 10 to 15 percent off the meal. Others offer free beverages or an extra perk with purchase. 3. Kohl’s: This popular department store provides a 15 percent discount every Wednesday to shoppers ages 60-plus. Other stores like Modell’s, Belk, Bon-Ton, and SteinMart offer similar discounts. 4. Marriott: Travelers age 62 and older are privy to a 15-percent discount on room rates at Marriott brand hotels, subject to availability. 5. Roto-Rooter: Plumbing problems can get expensive, but online sources cite a 10 to 15 percent discount depending on location for this drain cleaning service provider in North America. 6. National Parks: The U.S. National Parks Service offers steep discounts on the annual pass, which provides entry to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites. 7. Grocery store: Food shopping gets a little easier with discounts at Bi-Lo, Fred Meyer, Gristedes, Harris Teeter, Piggly-Wiggly, and Publix. Be sure to check with local supermarkets about senior discounts, as they vary, particularly as to what day of the week and for what age they kick in. 8. AARP membership: It is important to note that many companies require enrollment in AARP for people to get senior discounts. AARP also has its own AARP Prescription Discount Card so that members and families can save around 61 percent on FDA-approved drugs that prescription insurance or Medicare Part D plans fail to cover. 9. T-Mobile: This carrier offers two lines with unlimited talk, text and LTE data for $35 with AutoPay for seniors age 55-plus. Only the primary account holder has to be 55. 10. With a little digging, seniors can find scores of discounts to help them save money while enjoying their golden years.
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The Bradford (PA.) era| Saturday, JANUARY 29, 2022
How to stay connected with loved ones after moving into an assisted living facility Decisions surrounding assisted living facilities are not always easy. Men and women may be reluctant to leave their homes while family members may be worried about how their aging loved ones will adjust to life in an assisted living facility. Though modern assisted living facilities cater to residents with an array of needs and interests, the hesitation about whether or not to move into such a facility is understandable. One of the concerns seniors and their families may have about assisted living facilities is how to remain in touch with loved ones. Thankfully, staying connected is easier than ever before. That ease of connection has been o n full display throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, during which aging men and women have been urged to limit contact with people outside their households in an effort to reduce their risk of contracting the virus. When the pandemic is in the rearview mirror, seniors can continue to employ various strategies to stay connected with their families after moving into an assisted living facility. • Embrace technology. It’s understandable that seniors are sometimes hesitant to utilize technology. Having spent much of their lives without smartphones and Zoom calls, it may seem like adjusting to a world where such things are now widely utilized will be incredibly difficult. However, modern technology is userfriendly, meaning seniors won’t need much, if any, technical expertise or experience to utilize
an assortment of devices that can help them stay in touch. Ask a relative to show you the ropes of a new device or request that staff at the facility teach residents the basics of using devices to stay connected with family. Staff may help set up Zoom calls or help residents learn the ropes of texting. • Make a weekly communication commitment. Work with family members to set up a time each week when you can communicate directly with them. If family lives nearby, this might take the form of a weekly family meal at a loved one’s home. If family lives too far away for routine inperson meals, set up a time each week for a family Zoom call. • Continue to engage with your interests and fellow hobbyists. If you were an avid reader who loved to discuss and recommend books to your loved ones, then continue to do so after moving into an assisted living facility. Sports fans who bonded with their loved ones over a shared passion for a favorite team can keep following their team and discussing the latest big game with their friends and family via email, texts or video calls. Various studies have discovered the positive effects that hobbies can have on long-term physical and mental health. Staying engaged with your passions can keep lines of communication open with friends and family and benefit your overall health. Keeping the lines of communication with loved ones open can help aging men and women as they transition to life in assisted living facilities.
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