Growing Bolder Digital Digest 63.6_Be Brave Issue

BeandBrave Create Your Own Dream Job with Ned Johnson

with Ned Johnson

Romantic Florida Charming getaways are just a drive away

Fitness for Life The importance of functional fitness

MEDICARE

Stay Updated on All Things GB

DA I LY S TO R I E S O N L I N E Visit GrowingBolder.com daily for inspiring stories to help you start Growing Bolder

PUBLISHER Jackie Carlin CREATIVE DIRECTOR Ashley Heafy GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Katie Styles, Sarah Brown EXECUTIVE EDITOR Doris Bloodsworth PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Jill Middleton SENIOR DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Emily Cummings CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

W E E K LY G R O W I N G B O L D E R N O W S H OW S Watch new in-depth conversations each Friday on Growing Bolder’s Facebook, YouTube and Twitch channels

Jean Statler, Chef Collette Haw, Dan Ritchie PH.D., Amy Sweezey, Doris Bloodsworth GROWING BOLDER PRESS CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Marc Middleton PRESIDENT Robert Thompson NEWSLETTERS

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CONTENTS in every issue 6

YOUR TAKE

7

NOTE FROM THE CEO

9

GROWING BOLDER WITH

10

ORDINARY PEOPLE LIVING EXTRAORDINARY LIVES

Planting the seeds of a new tomorrow

13

TRANSLATING TECH

Finding love in the age of longevity

feature

22

32

WHAT’S SUP?

Be brave and create your own dream job

florida travel 36

ROMANTIC FLORIDA

Charming getaways are just a drive away

heal 16

GRILL OUTSIDE THE BUN

Turn up the heat on these new summer classics

22

TRACING TRAUMA

Naome Bradshaw’s story of overcoming childhood abuse

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MYTHS VS. FACTS: COVID-19 VACCINE

What you need to know about the vaccine

finance 15

WHAT’S YOUR RISE SCORE

Know the importance of your credit score

26

HOW DOES YOUR PERSONALITY RELATE

TO YOUR RETIREMENT PLAN

Take a quiz to find out

move

32

18

FITNESS FOR LIFE

The importance of functional fitness

create 24

AGE OF ENLIGHTENMENT

Curiosity, creativity have no expiration date

the art of caregiving 29

TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF

How to not lose sight of self-care as a caregiver

YOURTAKE What words of wisdom, inspiration or humor from your mom do you hold most dear?

“Don’t be so heavenly minded that you are no earthly good.”

“There is a child inside each adult.

We never grow older.”

—Carolyn Richardson

—Natalia Leizer

“Not everyone is good at the same thing.”

—Sue Rhodes

“I can still hear my Mom saying this to me, ‘Honey, there will be people who don’t like you just because you breathe and take up space in the universe. They aren’t important - all the more reason to be your authentic self!’”

—Gretchen Smith

“After catching her talking to herself her response was always, “I wanted to talk to an intelligent person for a change.”

—Kathleen Becherer

“When you offer to help someone with a task, do it the way they do it, not the way you do it.”

—Marsha Hopkins Bartenhagen

“My mother always said, ‘There are two important words to live by: moderation and toleration.’

She was right! “ —Sally Ann Harding

“Use it up & wear it out.”

— Vickie Bragg

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NOTE FROM THE CEO

In 1963, President Kennedy designated May “Senior Citizens Month.” In 1980, President Carter changed the name to “Older Americans Month.” Its purpose is to recognize Americans ages 60 and over for their contributions and provide them with information to help stay healthy and active.

Maybe 60 was old in 1963 or 1980, but it certainly doesn’t qualify today. As they did 40 and 50 years old, many Older Americans Month events offer bingo games, free box lunches, and information on falls prevention. I get it. Bingo is fun.

Who doesn’t love a free box lunch? And falls prevention saves lives.

But what many of us over the age of 60 really need is help building new careers, starting new businesses, and finding new relationships. We need encouragement to pursue our passions, to reinvent ourselves, to take up new activities, and to give back to our communities. Leading a socially, physically, and mentally active life will not only improve the quality of our lives but will drastically delay or even prevent the need for many of the services Older Americans Month provides.

We need to stop thinking that 60 is old. It isn’t. Or at least it doesn’t have to be. So we’re declaring May Bolder Americans Month – not to compete with Older Americans Month but to supplement it. To make sure that 60+ adults not only get the help they need but equally important, the inspiration they need to seize the unprecedented opportunity for decades of active, engaged, happy and healthy life beyond the age of 60. Happy Bolder Americans Month.

Maybe 60 was old in 1963 or 1980, but it certainly doesn’t qualify today.

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Join Growing Bolder for an

INTERGENERATIONAL

GAMING TOURNAMENT!

10 teams of 2 — each consisting of one member over 50 and one member under 50 — will play the popular game Among Us live on the streaming platform Twitch, competing to win an epic prize package worth over $5,000.

H O S T E D BY:

To learn more, head to GrowingBolder.com/BolderX

TOURNAMENT SPONSORED BY:

8

GROWING BOLDER / APRIL 21

Marc Middleton

Matt Heafy

Growing Bolder Founder and CEO

Musician and Twitch Streamer

GROWING BOLDER WITH

Carol Burnett

87

Carol Burnett is a comedy pioneer and inspiration. Her sketch comedy show debuted in 1967 and ran for 11 seasons.

She was class and elegance, clever and outrageous. And she did the best Tarzan imitation of them all.

Now 87, she’s as vibrant as ever. Before the global pandemic hit, she was touring the country, playing to sellout crowds. In 2019, the Golden Globes Awards saluted her with the inaugural Carol Burnett Award, which is now given annually to honor lifetime achievements in television. The namesake award is only the latest accolade for the woman who’s also been honored with the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom and a Kennedy Center Honor.

New audiences are discovering her classic show, thanks to streaming platforms, with new episodes uploaded weekly to the official “Carol Burnett Show” YouTube channel.

All of this for a woman who grew up in poverty and began her career during a time when the powers that be didn’t believe a woman could carry a comedy show. She says her secret to success and longevity is staying busy.

“When you’re engaged with life, it keeps you going,” Burnett told Growing Bolder. “As part of my Q&A tour, I was doing 20 appearances a year. It’s just me on stage for 90 minutes with a few clips, and I field questions from the audience. It keeps the old gray matter ticking, because I

have to be on my toes, I have to be in the present and I think that’s healthy.”

Burnett said life is about finding balance.

“I’m healthy, thank God, and I think it’s important to keep busy. But I am able to relax and be lazy, which I think is OK, too -- as long as it’s not constant,” she said.

Throughout her life, Burnett has experienced the highest of highs and the lowest of lows, especially with the loss of her 38-year-old daughter, Carrie, who died from cancer. Burnett said that even though she’ll never get over losing Carrie, she learned an important lesson: She had to cope and learn to live with it. There’s no alternative.

“I’m grateful for the time I had with her,” Burnett said.

“I wouldn’t trade that for the world. She’s with me every day, and I welcome that. You just have to take life one day at a time. Appreciate each and every day, because you don’t know what’s going to happen tomorrow. It’s a waste of time to fret over it. Good things happen, bad things happen.

That’s life. You have to accept that and get on with it.”

She said she also tries to live by the advice she received first-hand from actor Jimmy Stewart — be kind.

“His advice was to always be nice to people. That’s who he was,” she said. “When you smile at someone who might be having a bad day, you might cheer them up. And that’s good for you, too.”

Christopher Polk / Staff via Getty Images

IN E VERY IS SUE : GROWING BOLDER WITH

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Plant seeds. Whatever those seeds may be for you.

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G R O W I N G B O L D E R / M AY D I G I TA L D I G E S T 2 1

Bill Shafer

Ericka Cotton PLANTING THE SEEDS OF A NEW TOMORROW

The television is on, but no one is watching. Ericka Cotton doesn’t much like being inside, because that’s where the reminders are. You see them with every glance: a photo on the wall, a keepsake on the shelf — cherished memories of Renault Layer, the love of her life. Flashes remind her of the long, futile fight against a rare form of pancreatic cancer.

Cotton looks closely at each plant, inspecting the leaves, looking for new blooms. She senses that if she can nurture them until they blossom and thrive, perhaps she’ll be able to do the same. It’s one of the few thoughts she hangs onto. She thinks about how gardening is much like the time she spent as her husband’s caregiver. She never expected to have to do that; but then again, she never liked gardening either. But now, it’s different. She planted flowering purple pentas, flowing vines and an assortment of herbs, both in tribute to what’s left behind and to whatever comes. New growth.

“I believe that you have to feel to heal,” she explains. “And this is a place I can pour my pain into. The salt of my tears nourishes new life. I feel him here; and I can feel me, too.”

Recovery has been especially difficult for Cotton.

Weeks after Layer’s death, she lost her job due to the pandemic. It was too much to bear, and she knew she’d never get over it alone.

“First, I was in denial,” she said. “And I was also ashamed of the physical and emotional toll that it has taken on me.”

She sought out therapy, and it has made a big difference.

The shame began to fade, replaced by understanding and acceptance of what she’s experienced.

“I’m tear stained, I’m in pain and that’s okay because I am grieving,” she said. “Meet me where I am. I’m still going to show up for you. I’m not going to run, but I am broken and doing what I can to make repairs.”

The garden has been the place where those repairs can take root.

“I remember many of the last conversations we had were about planting a garden out back,” she said. “We’d just lay around and fantasize about what we were going to do.”

Layer never had the chance, so Cotton did it for him — a legacy or tribute garden. An area that once felt so empty was now bright and full, with the promise of better days ahead.

Sometimes, it helps to do something special to honor the person you’ve lost. It’s made a big difference for Cotton, who is just starting to feel the sunlight again on her face.

She’s learned what it takes to move on.

“Plant seeds. Whatever those seeds may be for you,” she said. “Understand that you have to create a new future.

Have those seeds in your pocket and be ready to water and nourish them in hopes that you can move past the trauma and see new life.”

Photos: Jacob Langston

I N E V E R Y I S S U E : O R D I N A R Y P EO P L E L I V I N G E X T R AO R D I N A R Y L I V E S

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When things get difficult, just keep on floating!

FOR MORE DAILY MEM E S :

@GrowingBolder simonapilolla via Getty Images

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G R O W I N G B O L D E R / M AY D I G I TA L D I G E S T 2 1

Finding Love in The Age of Longevity Emily Thompson

Love looks different in our era of increased longevity and active aging. Many people, who married early in life, find themselves back on the market after divorce or the death of a spouse. Others who didn’t feel at liberty to openly explore same-sex relationships, because of cultural taboos, finally may feel empowered to live their truth.

While marriage is the goal for some, others want something more casual. Commitment, without the legal entanglements of marriage, may be preferable for others.

There are online dating platforms for active adults that cater to all kinds of connections. Safety is a primary concern for anyone meeting strangers online, and most platforms that cater to a 55+ audience take extra precautions. Here are a few of the platforms that aim to serve the unique needs of active adults looking for love or companionship.

eHarmony

Match

eHarmony is designed for those looking for a serious commitment and marriage. Every user is required to fill out a lengthy personality and values questionnaire.

Afterward, eHarmony will provide you with matches with the highest chances of compatibility and long term success.ceHarmony was founded in 2000, has a satisfaction guarantee and was responsible for 4% of all marriages in the United States in 2013.

Match is the original online dating site, founded in 1995.

They have the highest number of monthly users, at 35 million. Users create a profile, which pops up in other users’ feeds. There is no extensive personality test, and Match sends five suggested matches per day. Users are free to browse all profiles. The most popular time to join is between Dec. 26 and Feb. 14, as people look for love before Valentine’s Day, causing registrations to spike 42% during that period.

Silver Singles This sister site to Elite Singles is designed especially for people 60+, meaning most users have been previously married. It uses the same personality profile as Elite Singles, measuring users on five personality traits — openness to experience, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness and neuroticism. It also encourages users to be as specific as those of Elite Singles, but it’s tailored to older adults. The site sends users five matches per day, and you can’t search through a pool of people. This forces users to seriously consider the people with whom they are matched based on the personality test instead of photos and first-person bios. Safety is a primary feature, allowing users to block or report any suspicious or unwanted behavior.

Elite Singles For people who know exactly what they’re seeking, Elite Singles may be a fit. The site caters to professionals looking for someone with similar interests. Most users are college graduates, with 67% holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. Users take an extensive personality test, and the site’s algorithm creates matches, allowing both parties to see their own results and the results of the people with whom they match. Elite Singles uses a fraud detection system to manually verify profiles. This is to help ensure that people are who they say they are and to prevent scams.

Illustrations: Alina Kvaratskhelia / iStock / Getty Images Plus

I N E V E R Y I S S U E : T R A N S L AT I N G T EC H

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UNLIMITED ACCESS: Download the Growing Bolder streaming app on your devices and experience our inspirational content any time of day or night.

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G R O W I N G B O L D E R / M AY D I G I TA L D I G E S T 2 1

What’s Your RISE Score?

By Jean Statler, CEO of Alliance for Lifetime Income

From the moment we get our first job or move away from home, Americans learn almost immediately the importance of a credit score. Yet, millions of Americans retire each year without knowing their “RISE Score®.”

Let’s start with why it’s such a big deal. Your RISE Score, also known as Retirement Income Security Evaluation Score, can tell you whether you’re on track with your retirement income, and how well it will cover basic living expenses. Simply put, it will gauge how likely you are to outlive your money.

To determine your RISE Score, simply use the free and easy online calculator developed by the Alliance for Lifetime Income and answer some basic questions about your income, expenses, savings and investments. It takes no more than 10 minutes. Don’t worry, the information you provide is completely anonymous, strictly confidential and never shared with other parties.

Like a credit score, the RISE Score uses a scale from zero to 850 and like a credit score, the results may be a rude awakening or a reassuring pat on the back. If there’s a gap between what you have and what you’ll need for retirement, it’s not too late to print out your score and take it to your financial advisor to discuss how to cover that gap.

Our research consistently shows that a great many Americans have significant questions and concerns about having too little monthly income to cover their basic expenses in retirement, things like a mortgage or rent, utilities, food or a gym membership. The RISE Score is a powerful tool for anyone planning for retirement or already retired. So, if you’re even a little concerned about running out of money in retirement, knowing your RISE Score could be a simple first step to re-thinking your retirement plan with a financial advisor, and putting you back on track to living the life you want.

Is an Official Personal Finance Partner of Growing Bolder

FINANCE

Jean Statler is CEO of the Alliance for Lifetime Income, a non-profit educational organization based in Washington, D.C., that creates awareness and educates Americans about the value and importance of having protected lifetime income in retirement. As a Boomer herself, she’s passionate about living life boldly each day, and loves to help educate people about the planning it takes to live the retirement they want.

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Grill Outside the Bun Turn up the Heat on These New Summer Classics Chef Collette Haw

It’s grilling season! If you’ve only been using your grill for some burgers and dogs, you don’t know what you’ve been missing. Take advantage of the smoky flavors of your backyard grill to create some healthy dishes you’ll crave all year long.

I love these quick and easy Margherita Pizzas. The grill gives the homemade dough (it’s easier than you think!) a deep and crispy flavor that your oven can’t touch. And this recipe for grilled peaches will let you truly savor the summer’s freshest flavors. Plus, with the addition of protein-packed Greek yogurt, antioxidant rich honey and heart-healthy pistachios, this is a dessert that not only tastes great, it’ll make you feel good.

Want more tips? Visit WellbeingNetwork.org to watch me make this recipe on my grill!

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G R O W I N G B O L D E R / M AY D I G I TA L D I G E S T 2 1

Grilled Margherita Pizza

DIREC TIONS

2 servings

Dough

INGREDIENTS

Dough

2 cups flour, divided 2 1/4 teaspoons instant dry yeast 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar 3/4 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons olive oil

Margherita Pizza

1/2 the dough ½ cup fresh basil chiffonade Salt and pepper to taste ¾ cup crushed tomatoes 1 teaspoon garlic oil 6 slices fresh mozzarella

Place 1 cup of flour into a mixing bowl. Add the instant dry yeast, sugar, salt and olive oil to the 1 cup of flour and mix thoroughly. Slowly mix in the other 1 cup of flour, mix thoroughly and knead for about minutes.

Place in a warm spot, cover and allow to double in size.

Margherita Pizza

Preheat the grill on medium high heat. Roll out the pizza dough until it’s ¼ inch thick. Brush with garlic oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the oiled side of the pizza dough down on the grill. While that side is cooking on the grill, brush the garlic oil on the side facing toward you and season with salt and pepper.

Once there are grill marks on the side of the dough facing the grill, flip it over. After flipping the dough, spread the crushed tomatoes over the pizza and top with the sliced, fresh mozzarella. Once the mozzarella melts and the pizza dough is cooked through, take the pizza off the grill and sprinkle the basil all over.

Serving size: ½ pizza 408 calories, 52g carbs, 7.8g fat, 14.3g protein, 290 mg sodium

Grilled Peaches 4 servings INGREDIENTS 4 ripe peaches 1 cup nonfat Greek yogurt 1 tablespoon honey 2 tablespoons chopped pistachios

Preheat the grill. Once the grill is hot, spray it with avocado oil or any non-stick spray you have. Cut the peaches in half and remove the pits. Place the peaches, cut side down, on the grill. Grill the peaches until warmed through. Mix the Greek yogurt and honey together and set aside. Once the peaches are warmed through, place them on a platter, top them with the Greek yogurt and sprinkle with pistachios.

Serving size: 1 peach 203 calories, 5.4g fat, 35.3g carbs, 5.4g protein Photos: Jacob Langston

HEAL

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fitness for life Dan Ritchie PH.D.

Functional fitness is the term we use to describe fitness as it relates to our body’s ability to function, performing the tasks we ask of it. And it’s so much more than what we traditionally think of when it comes to fitness.

Our functional fitness level impacts our ability to continue to enjoy the most important things in life as we get older.

Most people think about exercise in its most basic form — as a function of cardio, muscle strength, and weight management. But, what we now know about the body is that to be “fit” means so much more than being able to climb stairs and wear the same dress size you did 10 years ago.

When assessing functional fitness, we measure your power, aerobic energy, balance, response time, joint function, coordination, agility, and more. The goal is to make you better than fit — you need to be functionally fit to ensure that you can do all the things you want to — for as long as you can! Have you ever really considered how functionally fit you are at the moment? We have a short little quiz for you to take and then one exercise you can begin using right away either at home or the gym.

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G R O W I N G B O L D E R / M AY D I G I TA L D I G E S T 2 1

What’s Your Current Functional Fitness Level?

Rate yourself on the following 10 common functional activities with 1 being “no ability” and 5 being “fully capable.” ________

Ability to climb a flight of stairs without using railing for support.

________ Ability to dash in the rain to your car in a parking lot without thought/concern. ________ Ability to go on a brisk 20-minute walk while talking with a friend. ________ Ability to stand up from a chair without using your arms for lift or balance. ________ Ability to get up off of the ground easily, without rolling to a crawl position first. ________ Ability to pick up and carry a 20-pound toddler for 5 minutes. ________ Ability to play your favorite sport as well as you did 5 years ago. ________ Ability to travel wherever you’d like to go without thought/concern. ________ Ability to balance on one foot for 10 seconds with your eyes closed. ________ Frequency of nights you get a 'good night's sleep.' ________ Total

Next, add up your answers and compare your totals:

40-50

Congrats! You’re probably at the higher end of the spectrum for your age!

20-39

Uh oh. Your functional abilities are declining, and perhaps you haven’t even noticed.

0-19

Caution. Your current abilities expose you to a greater risk of injury, falling, and losing the ability to live independently.

Here’s one simple exercise that can help you function better and even improve your score on this test.

We call it the Get up Exercise. It really is as simple as the name implies, basically you are getting up from the floor using your hands as little as possible. If you need a wall, or chair nearby to help that is fine to start, but eventually you want to be able to get up with something in your hands! Repeat this for a series of 5 repetitions. Lance is doing it with a 10 lb dumbbell in his hand at the age of 78 so he is functioning at a pretty high level. You might need to use both hands at first, but eventually try to get up with the use of only one hand.

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Dan Ritchie received his Ph.D. in Kinesiology with a minor in Gerontology. from Purdue University.

He’s the co-founder and President of the Functional Aging Institute with expertise in personal training for special populations: athletes, stroke recovery, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, Fibromyalgia, Alzheimer’s, etc.

He regularly presents at national and regional conferences and has been active on committees for the American College of Sports Medicine.

M OV E

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Mothers hold our hands for a short while, but they hold our hearts forever.

FOR MORE DAILY MEME S :

@GrowingBolder

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G R O W I N G B O L D E R / M AY D I G I TA L D I G E S T 2 1

The Growing Bolder

Bookstore Check out our carefully curated list of some of our favorite authors who are dedicated to providing the tools you need to rebrand aging.

E X P LO R E M O R E AT G R OW I N G B O L D E R .C O M/ B O O K S TO R E

Tracing Trauma Amy Sweezey

Naome Bradshaw describes herself as a mom, wife, singer and friend. But mostly she’s a survivor. The trauma she survived in her past colors everything about her present.

After years of neglect and abuse, Bradshaw was raped at the age of 4 by an older boy, but her parents didn’t believe her. Her mom and grandmother both suffered from mental illness; and after her parent’s divorce, her stepmom was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. She bounced between foster homes and living on the streets throughout her teen years, struggling with managing her emotions and alcohol abuse.

“I was just pressing everything down and it was like a powder keg,” Bradshaw said. “Eventually, everything just exploded.”

Photo Courtesy of Naome Bradshaw

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Not only did she endure a lifetime of childhood trauma, Bradshaw also made her living as a full-time singer and entertainer. Every night, she was surrounded by alcohol and drugs in a career that made it easy to hide behind makeup and a microphone.

“My life was set up to be an alcoholic,” she said. “Not expressing my feelings, pretending everything was OK, only showing people my best side and not reaching out for help.

These are the ingredients for disaster.”

It wasn’t until 2017 that Bradshaw finally sought help after being diagnosed with complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (c-PTSD) due to childhood trauma. She began a rigorous regiment of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) therapy, used to relieve psychological stress in people with emotional distress resulting from disturbing life experiences. She said the therapy made life worse at first, before it got better.

“It reminded me of a fish tank when you stir the bottom of it and all the sediment is stirred up,” she said.

Bradshaw’s daughter caught her mother drinking alone in the middle of the day and confronted her.

“That was the worst,” Bradshaw said. “The next day I doubled up on therapy. I went two times a week and went to AA (Alcoholics Anonymous) meetings every day for 90 days.”

#NotAlone In America, nearly one in five adults live with a mental illness. May is National Mental Health Awareness month, dedicated to fighting the stigma and educating the public about mental health.

Help spread the word through awareness, support and advocacy of mental health issues. By using the hashtag #NotAlone, when connecting to others or sharing your personal story, you’re promoting a nation where no one feels alone in their struggle.

FO R M O R E I N FO R M AT I O N , V I S I T T H E N AT I O N A L A L L I A N C E O N M E N TA L I L L N E S S W E B S I T E : N A M I .O R G .

HEAL

Bradshaw admits the therapy and healing were scary but acknowledges it was worth it.

“The benefits are worth the pain and uncomfortableness because the growth can only happen in that uncomfortable place,” she said.

Bradshaw recognizes that healing takes time.

“So often we get impatient with ourselves. I want to be healed yesterday, but I have to be patient. It doesn’t just turn into a perfect world because I stop drinking,” she said and emphasized that she alone is in charge of her recovery.

“I didn’t cause my c-PTSD, but I sure am responsible for my own healing.”

Part of Naome’s healing comes from sharing her story in her blog “Tracing Trauma” (tracingtrauma.com) and her podcast “Recover Your Joy.” Her message is clear to fellow survivors: “You are enough. You’re worth it. If you reach out and ask for help, you will be surprised what you find. You might find a whole new world. It’s not going to be easy. It’s going to be tough. It’s going to be a battle. But it’s going to be the best battle of your life. It was for me.”

To find out more about Naome and her blogs, podcast and music videos, visit her website: naomebradshaw.com

Naome’s thoughts on self-care: “When they say ‘self-care’ people always think of bubble baths and going to the spa.

But self-care is about boring stuff, like taking my medicine, exercising, eating vegetables, drinking enough water and just basically caring for myself.

Also, not burying my emotions is important. Talking about things. Expressing my opinion.

Authenticity is very important, saying what I feel in the moment.”

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AGE OF ENLIGHTENMENT Curiosity, creativity have no expiration date Doris Bloodsworth

G R O W I N G B O L D E R / M AY D I G I TA L D I G E S T 2 1 24Sources: Staff research

Despite the stories of Silicon Valley whiz kids, some studies show that people are their most productive and creative in their later years.

Benjamin Franklin invented bifocals at 78. The American statesman asked his optician to cut a long-distance lens in half and do the same to a reading lens.

He put them together in a glasses frame and called the new eyewear “double spectacles,” which became known as bifocals.

Josephine Cochrane’s automatic dishwasher invention went into production when she was 58.

Widowed at 45, Cochrane developed the first commercially successful automatic dishwasher. The Cochrane Dishwasher eventually became the brand KitchenAid.

George Weiss invented the board game Dabble at 84. He later helped develop the app. Dabble was named Game of the Year and won other awards. Weiss’ success came after 45 years and 80 failed inventions.

C R E AT E

Experts say that older people have many advantages, when it comes to invention. In addition to decades of workplace experience and problem-solving skills, scientists say we can see patterns better in later years. Some inventors are driven by curiosity and competitiveness, while others are motivated by social concerns.

Here are just a few examples of 45+ inventors who have made an impact:

Charles Greeley Abbot invented the solar cooker at 99. Abbot remains the oldest person to receive a patent with his invention that uses direct sunlight to cook food and to heat beverages.

Yvonne Brill invented a rocket propulsion system at 48. Brill was a rocket engineer who invented the hydrazine resistojet, which increased engine performance and allowed for larger payloads.

Bob Nepper invented a solarpowered water purifier at 82.

The retired 3M engineer and humanitarian invented the purifier for missionary groups going to Haiti.

Steve Jobs spearheaded invention of the iPad at 50. Jobs’ storied career with Apple included many inventions that continued up through his later years before he died of cancer.

James West invented a smart stethoscope at 88. West’s smart stethoscope is aimed at helping doctors treat children with pneumonia in third-world countries. West holds more than 60 U.S. patents and 200 foreign patents. His most famous invention is the electret microphone, a technology used in computers, mobile phones and hearing aids.

Grace Hopper invented COBOL, the first universal computer programming language used in business and government, when she was 53. Hopper was a mathematician and rear admiral in the U.S. Navy Reserve.

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Illustrations: Mykyta Dolmatov Via Getty Images Plus

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What Does Your Personality Say About Your Retirement Strategy And Plans?

The number of online personality quizzes often range from the mundane to the highly irrelevant. But if you’ve ever wanted a personality quiz to tell you something that you can take to the bank — literally — we’ve got you covered.

Our quiz will help you identify the financial planning personality and style that best suits you and your needs as you plan for retirement. As we know, there is no retirement plan that fits everyone. Each of us has a different dream for retirement based on the level of risk we’re willing to take with our savings and investments and the amount of expenses we’ll need to cover throughout retirement, which could last 20, 30 or more years. But one thing is common: we all want to live a full life in retirement, filled with happiness and possibilities.

Through one of the most extensive studies of Americans planning for retirement, the Alliance for Lifetime Income found that people typically fall into five personality types: Optimistic Dreamer, Cautious Preparer, Hopeful Striver, Purposeful Planner and Ambitious Risk-Taker.

SO, WHICH ONE ARE YOU? Find out by taking the quiz.

You’ll: → Understand your financial

planning personality and tendencies. → Have clear direction for

improving your financial planning. → Be able to work with your

financial professional

to design a custom

retirement income plan.

After taking the quiz, study the results to better understand your style and talk to a financial professional about how to secure your essential expenses so that you can live the life you want in retirement.

Is an Official Personal Finance Partner of Growing Bolder FINANCE

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Growing Bolder airs on public broadcasting stations nationwide, so check local listings to find it in your area.

Taking Care of Yourself As a caregiver it is vital that you care for yourself. Too often caregivers think they are being selfish when they put themselves first.

It’s important to discern between selfishness and self-care. Sometimes caregivers forget to breathe and come up for air. They are so busy doing the caring that the basics of a healthy life get pushed by the wayside.

The National Institute on Aging recommends being realistic about how much you can do and what you are willing to do.

Think about your schedule and how it might be adapted to give respite to a primary caregiver. For example, you might try to coordinate holiday and vacation times.

Remember that over time, responsibilities may need to be revised to reflect changes in the situation, your care recipient’s needs, and each family member’s abilities and limitations.

Sometimes the caregiving team may live in the same area but sometimes the team (siblings, parents, friends) may live far away.

Long-distance caregivers can have an important role, too, providing relief and support to the primary caregivers.

What Are Your Strengths?

What are you good at and how can that help with the caregiving responsibilities? →

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What Are Your Limits?

Once you decide what you’re willing to do, you must then figure out what you aren’t able to do.

What tasks would be better suited to someone else on the caregiving team? →

→

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THE ART OF CAREGIVING

Are you good at finding information, keeping people up-to-date on changing conditions, and offering cheer, whether on the phone or with a computer?

Are you good at supervising and leading others?

Are you comfortable speaking with medical staff and interpreting what they say to others?

Is your strongest suit doing the numbers — paying bills, keeping track of bank statements, and reviewing insurance policies and reimbursement reports?

Are you the one in the family who can fix anything, while no one else knows the difference between pliers and a wrench?

How often, both mentally and financially, can you afford to travel?

Are you emotionally prepared to take on what may feel like a reversal of roles between you and your parent — taking care of your parent instead of your parent taking care of you? Can you continue to respect your parent’s independence?

Can you be both calm and assertive when communicating from a distance?

How will your decision to take on caregiving responsibilities affect your work and home life?

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A daily dose of daydreaming heals the heart, soothes the soul, and strengthens the imagination.

- Richelle E. Goodrich

FOR MORE DAILY MEM E S :

@GrowingBolder Grant Faint via Getty Images

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Live Boldly Postcard Book Our inspiring set of 20 tear-and-share postcards features original artwork and bold messages for any occasion.

BRIGHTEN A LOV E D O N E ’ S DAY WITH SOME SNAIL MAIL MERRIMENT!

To purchase, visit growingbolder.com/shop 31

SUP? What’s your be own brave dream and job

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byMarc Middleton

Eleven years ago, in the midst of a down economy, 46-year-old Ned Johnson made a bold move: He quit his job of 19 years to chase a dream.

Johnson bought a small stand-up paddleboard business, because he loved the water and believed that the sport’s many health benefits represented a major business opportunity. That was especially true in his home state of Florida, which is surrounded by ocean and has countless rivers and lakes.

“I had a passion for SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) and a belief in my ability to build a business around it,” he said.

It helped that his wife, Marla, agreed.

“Ned works very hard; and if he’s excited about something, he gets everyone to be excited about it,” she said.

When Ned Johnson took over the business, it had four boards and a few regular customers. He began personally leading tours in any body of water he could navigate. His passion for teaching, and his contagious energy, resulted in one satisfied customer after another — the kind of unsolicited, word-ofmouth recommendations that money can’t buy.

Today, Johnson is 57 and has more than 30,000 customers that include individuals, families and businesses. If it has anything to do with stand-up paddleboarding, he’s done it or is willing to try it.

Why has interest in the sport grown exponentially over the past decade?

“Because the learning curve is really simple,” he said. “It’s a gentle activity that anyone can pick up quickly and safely. And other than being a lot of fun, the benefits are three-fold and immediate: It’s good for your body. It’s good for your mind. And it’s good for your soul. It’s a great core exercise that requires some mental focus, while being a calming activity. There’s nothing better for our overall wellbeing than reconnecting with nature, and SUP is a great way to do it.”

In addition to giving lessons, leading tours and corporate outings, hosting private parties and staging races, Johnson has become the exclusive SUP vendor at Wekiva Island, a unique recreation complex on the pristine, spring-fed Wekiva River in Central Florida.

“Just walk up and SUP up,” Johnson said. “It’s the perfect place to paddleboard. There are no boats and it’s wind-protected.“

It’s been a fun and successful decade for Johnson. His business is booming, and a smile rarely leaves his face.

“I honestly didn’t think it would be possible to enjoy my 50s as much as I did my 20s, 30s or 40s,” he said. “Was I wrong! My 50s have been incredible. The risk I took 11 years ago was definitely worth it.

Every day, I get to do what I love to do. Every day I have an opportunity to meet, influence and bring joy to people’s lives. And I have two healthy children and a loving and supportive wife. If all of that doesn’t make me a rich man, nothing can.”

While it has been a successful decade for Johnson, it’s not been an easy one. His story is not about luck or simply being the right guy, in the right place, at the right time. It’s about passion and persistence.

It’s about a lot of hard work.

“Nothing that I’ve done has ever come easily,” he said. “Everything has literally taken me 10 to 20 years. It takes a long time to figure something out. But that’s OK. I enjoy the process. I never let my early defeats define me. I’ve always been willing, even anxious, to take a step back in order to take two steps forward.”

F E AT U R E

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Unlike many entrepreneurs, who become over-stressed and develop unhealthy habits, Johnson has never lost his focus on or his love for fitness.

“It’s actually what led me to SUP in the first place,” he said. “It was a fun way to challenge my body and develop both endurance and strength, an amazing form of cross-training. I work out every single day, one way or another, and I have since I was a teenager. I’m also super conscientious about what I eat. I try to eat as close to the earth as possible, avoiding processed foods. But let’s be honest. I’m not a fanatic. I regularly enjoy stuff that I shouldn’t.”

Johnson’s Growing Bolder move 11 years ago was a big risk. They always are.

But driven by his passion and a remarkable work ethic, he’s become a great example of an ordinary person living an extraordinary life. His advice for other would-be entrepreneurs?

“Belief in yourself, above all else, will help you get where you want to go,” he said. “But you have to take that first step. You have to try. Otherwise, it will just remain a dream. And it helps to have someone by your side to encourage you. I couldn’t have done this without my wife. I’ve been blessed to have a partner who says, ‘Yes! Be brave. Go for it. Take that step!’”

Ned Johnson loves the life he’s created and has no plans to make another big change.

“This is it. I’m gonna ride this horse into the sunset,” he said. “Life just keeps getting better and better, so why stop doing what I love? Right now, I can’t wait for my 60s!”

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P H OTO G R A P H Y BY MIKE DUNN FO R G R OW I N G B O L D E R

“Life just keeps getting better and better, so why stop doing what I love?

Right now, I can’t wait for my 60s!”

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R omantic Florida

Wanna get away for a romantic interlude in Florida? It’s easy, despite the logistical restrictions of COVID-19. Florida’s natural beauty and beaches provide welcoming pit stops across the state for locals and tourists, so please note these are only five favorites among a list that could span into the hundreds. Just consider it a microcosm of “Romantic Florida.”

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Little Palm Island Resort & Spa, A Noble House Resort Little Torch Key |

littlepalmisland.com

Located 27 miles northeast of Key West, this resort offers a cozy romantic interlude for couples who value quality time: no TVs, no Wi-Fi access, no telephones.

The resort is only accessible by seaplane or boat (the latter covered by the 12.5 percent daily resort fee).

Accommodations include British West Indies-inspired bungalow suites, vaulted ceilings, plantation shutters, private decks and indoor-outdoor showers.

“This is Thurston Howell III’s version of Gilligan’s Island,” a reviewer wrote on tripadvisor.com.

If you are looking to get away from everyday stress, especially in these pandemic times, check it out.

Be prepared for a bit of sticker shock.

Nightly rates can hover in the $1,800 range and up.

The Don CeSar St. Pete Beach |

doncesar.com

Known as Florida’s “Pink Palace,” the iconic Don CeSar was built in 1928 at the tail end of the first Florida boom.

F. Scott Fitzgerald was among its early guests.

It’s definitely the place for lovebirds, newlyweds, and marriage ceremonies.

It now includes 277 luxurious rooms (and 36 suites), many with stunning views of Gulf beaches or Boca Ciega Bay.

Some of the culinary highlights for guests include the crab cake sandwich at Rowe Bar and The Un-Berrybull cocktail with fresh fruit.

The hotel has undergone some challenges in 2020 with the pandemic and renovations for all the rooms, but the good news is that it’s still standing and remains a Florida favorite.

Rates can vary by hundreds of dollars but lower prices hover around $250 per night.

White Orchid Inn & Spa Flagler Beach |

whiteorchidinn.com

Although only rated a three-star hotel, we would like to call this one a “hidden gem.”

It’s a cozy, little enclave, just an eight-minute walk to the Flagler Beach Municipal Pier, but you might want to stay awhile.

White Orchid features two outdoor pools, a full-service spa, and massage/treatment rooms. There are only seven rooms available, some including hot tubs and poster beds.

A two-night stay is required. Low season rates are $162, with a high season rate of $289.00.

Port d’Hiver Bed and Breakfast Melbourne Beach |

portdhiver.com

The Port d’Hiver is set in a 1916 house situated across the street from the beach along the Atlantic Ocean. “Port D’Hiver offers 10 charming rooms and a bougainvilleafilled courtyard that creates a warm, inviting atmosphere,” says a review in U.S. News & World Report.

Amenities include afternoon wine reception, an onsite fitness center, outdoor fire pit and a bubbling spa pool in lush tropical landscaping.

It also provides freshly baked cookies all day with light bites. Rooms include poster beds, spa tubs and porches.

Prices fluctuate, with lower pricing around $290.

The Palms Hotel & Spa Miami Beach |

thepalmshotel.com

You can’t have romance if you don’t include the sex and the sizzle of Miami Beach.

“An oceanfront sanctuary in the heart of Miami Beach,” the Palms is a quaint boutique hotel with a great beachfront location. Amenities and ambiance include a colonial flair that features a lush tropical garden oasis with secluded relaxation areas. Or as the website touts, “tropical serenity.”

Rooms are cozy and high-tech functional with flat-screen TVs, AVEDA toiletries, coffee makers and iPod docks.

Average daily rates are between $209 and $473.

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Myths vs. Facts:

COVID-19 Vaccine The COVID-19 vaccine holds a critical role in helping us fight COVID-19. Florida Blue Medicare is here to help with any questions, every step of the way. Kelli Tice Wells, M.D., Florida Blue’s senior medical director of medical affairs, has broken down the myths vs. facts for quick and reliable information about the COVID-19 vaccine.

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M Y TH : I C AN GE T COVID -19 FROM THE VACC INE S .

Fact: You can’t get COVID-19 from the vaccines. It’s impossible. But you may feel some side effects for a day or two. You may have pain, including pain and/or swelling in the arm where you got the vaccine, a lowgrade fever, chills, tiredness, headache or muscle aches. These side effects may hit you even harder after you receive the second dose of the vaccine. But don’t worry. These are normal signs that the vaccines are working and building protection to the virus.

M Y TH : THE VACC INE S WERE DE VELOPED TOO FA S T TO B E S AFE .

Fact: Thanks to existing infectious disease research, along with increased financial support and focused scientific efforts, the vaccines were developed quickly. Vaccines only receive emergency use authorization from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) when they’ve determined that the expected benefits outweigh any potential risks. Plus, the vaccines have been tested on a diverse group of people. Adults of all races, ages, cultures and ethnicities, as well as those with underlying health conditions, were included in the clinical trials.

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A DV E R T O R I A L C O N T E N T

M Y TH : PEO PLE WITH ALLERG IE S S HO U LD N OT GE T VACC INATED. Fact: While there have been a few reports of severe allergic reactions to the COVID-19 vaccines, not only are these instances extremely rare, but they are also easily treated. That’s why you’ll be asked to stay for 15–30 minutes after you get your vaccine so you can be watched to make sure you don’t have a reaction. If you’ve had a severe allergic reaction in the past, talk to your doctor for reassurance that the vaccine is safe for you.

M Y TH : G E T TIN G THE COVID -19 VACC INE MAK E S M E MORE V U LN ER AB LE TO OTHER ILLNE S S E S .

Fact: It won’t. However, it’s possible to still become ill from exposure to other viruses.

It’s best to fully protect yourself by getting recommended vaccines, such as the flu and shingles vaccines or the COVID-19 vaccine, and to stay away from people who are sick.

Safety is a top priority and vaccines are developed under strict guidance from the FDA. The FDA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are continually monitoring the safety and quality of authorized vaccines.

As with any vaccine, you should talk to your doctor about its safety and effectiveness for you.

Visit www.floridablue.com/ covid19/vaccine for more information.

Together, we’re getting through this and with Florida Blue Medicare Advantage plans, all members can receive the COVID-19 vaccine at no additional cost.

Florida Blue and Florida Blue Medicare are independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. We comply with applicable Federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. For more information visit floridablue.com/ndnotice. ©️ 2021 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc., DBA Florida Blue. All rights reserved.

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64& MEDICARE

Make Medicare an opportunity to live BOLDER.

SO MUCH MORE! Go to growingbolder.com/Medicare to download your free, easy to understand guide to Medicare.

To speak to a representative call 1-844-396-2579.

Florida Blue and Florida Blue Medicare are Independent Licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ©️2021 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc. DBA Florida Blue. All rights reserved.

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