Senior Attitude - Fall 2019

ATTITUDE +

Senior SOCIAL SECURITY

5 Useful Online Tips

VISION HEALTH As You Age Your guide to

PAYING FOR SENIOR LIVING

A Reporter-Herald Publication October 27, 2019

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SENIOR ATTITUDE

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WELCOMING WELLNESS at any age

For many Coloradoans, non-psychoactive CBD alleviates pain, anxiety

By Sarah Huber for Senior Attitude

About a year ago, when agonizing pain radiated nonstop through his hip and down his leg, Scott Ritchie, now manager of CBDepot in Fort Collins and Estes Park, turned to cannabinoid products. “I wanted a natural, effective and safe alternative to opiates and overthe-counter pain relievers,” he said. Nonpsychoactive cannabidiol, or CBD, tinctures and salves mollified the intensity, yet soon Ritchie was diagnosed with the bone cancer chonrdrosarcoma. In January, his doctor performed the second surgery of its kind on Ritchie, which involved creating a titanium model of Ritchie’s pelvis with a 3-D printer, removing the tumor in his pelvis and replacing part of his bone with the corresponding part of the 3-D printed pelvis.

“I actually got into a fight with the pharmacists at the hospital,” Ritchie recalled.

“I did not want opiates, but finally I had to allow them to give me a six-millimeter drip. I turned it off after 36 hours and went back to my oils to control the pain and inflammation.”

Nine months later, with the sole use of cannabinoid products, Ritchie “feels awesome,” he said. A perpetual outdoorsman, Ritchie swims and exercises and merely relies on a walking stick when tired.

“I continue to get better,” he said. “I’ve had no pain other than sore muscles and after the surgery, burning and inflammation from the incision, but the topical CBD really helped with the scar.”

CBDepot marketing manager Amanda McCaulay explained that CBD is made from the flowers, leaves and stalks of plants of the cannabis genus 2 SENIOR ATTITUDE

and unlike tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, in marijuana, is not psychoactive. CBDepot employee and former educator Tao Valentine added, “CBD is not going to make you feel weird. It can help you feel calm and centered.

Most importantly, there is no overdose potential.”

As a safer alternative to pain medication, CBD helps seniors manage many conditions that go hand in hand with getting older. Though CBD differs from THC in its effects, seniors may worry about interactions with their current medications.

“You most definitely want to be careful with interactions, just like you would any other nutritional supplement. It’s always best to check with your doctor,” McCaulay said. The caveat to that is to make sure that the consulting doctor is actually familiar with CBD and any contraindications, even if that means getting a second opinion.

“Most people’s primary care physicians will steer people away, simply because they do not know how to properly answer the questions,” McCaulay says says. Finding a practitioner who has knowledge of CBD is key.

The family who owns the CBD and THC dispensary Kind Care of Colorado opened CBDepot in Fort Collins in 2017.

“We wanted to build a place that is approachable to people who might not otherwise be comfortable in a dispensary with THC products,” McCaulay said.

They also plan to open a second location in Loveland at 1505 N. Lincoln Ave. “CBDepot is a place for people who want to learn more about how CBD can help them with pain, anxiety and sleeplessness and to achieve wellness

CBDepot offers Northern Colroado residents relief from many conditions.

(Photo courtesy CBDepot)

and homeostasis, or balance throughout the body.” Valentine noted that some customers take CBD to wean themselves from smoking cigarettes or marijuana.

CBD is sold in the form of gels, gummies, oils, oral syringes, supplements and extracts, among other offerings, and products contain less than 0.3 percent THC, Valentine said. CBDepot’s in-house line, Vida, is prepared with “highquality plants grown in Colorado,” McCauley said, “and is an affordable option.” She continued, “We are selective with the brands we carry and spend a lot of time on in-house training so that our staff can help customers in consultation and make recommendations.”

Valentine, who has been working at CBDepot for about a year, first tried cannabinoid products on her 16-year-old dog, Ziggy. “She was experiencing lots of join pain and was moving from cushioned surface to cushioned surface. I started her on CBD about six months ago, and she’s a different dog, moving about and obviously feeling much better.”

Valentine gives Ziggy CBD via oral tinctures and dog treats. In

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fact, CBDepot hosts a full line of CBD products for pets.

Ziggy’s success convinced Valentine to treat her back pain from a fused disc with CBD. “I researched CBD for six months before I tried it on my dog and was happy to find, based on the research, that this is a product that can really help without the side effects of pharmaceuticals. For my back, I’ve chosen to do the topical with the strongest pain bomb that we have. I rub it on my back twice a day, and this enabled me to get off any kind of pain medication.”

As manager of CBDepot, Ritchie has “heard of CBD helping people with Parkinson’s, MS, autism, rheumatoid arthritis, all kinds of pain and cancer.” He said, “The positive outcomes vary, and everyone is different. CBD is gentle on the body and promotes wellness and balance.”

CBDepot is located in Fort Collins, Estes Park and coming soon to Loveland.

Select products are listed at cbdepot.com, and orders may be placed by calling 970-5685440.

October 27, 2019

SOCIAL SECURITY:

5 useful online tips

REPLACE YOUR CARD

Have you lost or misplaced your Social Security card? Find out how to get a new, replacement, or corrected card at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber. In fact, you may be able to quickly request a replacement card online with a my Social Security account, if you meet certain qualifications, at www. socialsecurity.gov/myaccount.

CHECK YOUR STATEMENT

Want access to our latest news, retirement planning tips, and helpful information? Social Security Matters is our blog at blog.socialsecurity.gov. From there, you can also connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube, where you can watch our popular videos.

ONLINE CALCULATORS

Our online calculators, such as the Retirement Estimator, the Life Expectancy Calculator, and the Early or Late Retirement Calculator, can be found at www.socialsecurity.gov/ planners/calculators.

Do you have to pay taxes on Social Security benefits?

How do you apply for Social Security retirement benefits?

What is your full retirement age? Discover the answers to your Social Security related questions at our Frequently Asked Questions page at www. socialsecurity.gov/faq.

With so many services available online, Social Security is here for you when your schedule allows. And we’re the authority for Social Security program and benefits information. Be sure to tell friends and family about all the business they can do with us from the comfort of their home or office at socialsecurity.gov.

——— Nicole Tiggemann, Social Security spokesperson.

A C C E P T I N G N E W PAT I E N T S !

Are You a Dry Eye Sufferer?

See all that you can

Social Security is here for you, not just when you need us financially, but when you need accurate information about our programs, retirement, and more. There are many online sources for Social Security information, but you need to make sure you’re getting the right information.

By using www.socialsecurity.gov, you know that what you’re reading and watching is approved by our experts and specifically created for you.

Here are five of our resources that can offer you invaluable information.

SOCIAL SECURITY MATTERS BLOG

Kirk Eye Center

By Nicole Tiggemann Tribune News Service (TNS)

Verify your annual earnings and review estimates of your future Social Security benefits when you access your Social Security Statement, one of the many services available with a my Social Security account at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount.

ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS

Dr. Asay at the Dry Eye Center of Excellence at Kirk Eye Center has solutions for you!

Our innovative, specialized approach gets to the root cause of your dry eye and facilitates an effective treatment program customized to you.

MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY! 3650 East 15th Street Loveland, Colorado

669-1107

KirkEyeCenter.com • Facebook.com/KECLoveland October 27, 2019

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SENIOR ATTITUDE

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From Twenty-Somethings to Eighty-Somethings,

EVERYONE SHOULD HAVE AN ESTATE PLAN Q

What’s the difference between a will and a trust?

You should seek a legal advisor for a complete comparison of wills and trusts. There are many considerations to make, such as whether a minor child is a beneficiary, whether you are married, and whether you want to control distribution of property before death, at death or afterwards.

By Lucy Ewing for Senior Attitude

It’s a step that is essential to your peace of mind and providing for your loved ones, burden-free. Yet, many people put off estate planning because they think it can wait, or that they have few assets, or that the process sounds daunting.

None of these are reasons to delay--and property distribution is not the only reason to make an estate plan.

“People need to come to grips with their mortality,” says Kevin Dunnigan, a certified financial planner at the Investment Center Advisor Group in Loveland. “If you don’t do something, imagine the strife you can cause for your children.”

Despite the serious subject, it’s nice to know that it doesn’t take a lot of time or money to safeguard your possessions and make important decisions about your healthcare at end of life, if you become incapacitated, or if you have younger children. Here are some basics to help prepare you for a conversation with an estate planner.

Q

What is an estate?

An estate is all the

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money and property you own.

This includes homes, cars, bank accounts, and investments/retirement accounts, also known as assets.

Q

What are estate plans?

Estate plans help ensure that your wishes for yourself and your family are carried out in the event of your mental incapacity or death. They provide the legal documents to transfer your assets to your beneficiaries, with the goal of creating the smallest possible tax burden for them. They also set forth your decisions about medical care and treatment at end of life or in the event of incapacity, designate a legal representative to act on your behalf, and provide for guardianship of any minor children.

Estate plans begin with a will or trust.

Q

What is a beneficiary?

Your beneficiary is the person or organization you designate to receive something from your estate upon your death.

Q

What happens if I don’t have an estate plan?

If you are ever incapacitated or when you die, the absence of an estate plan when you have more than $50,000 in personal property and accounts will lead to your assets and heirs being settled through probate court. The probate judge will make sure that a deceased person’s creditors are paid, and that any remaining assets are distributed to the proper beneficiaries. A simple probate will run $5,000 in fees and court costs. Additionally, in probate court, there is a lack of privacy. Anything in your estate becomes a matter of public record. And, your wishes for certain beneficiaries can be contested.

Q

When should a person start estate planning?

When you acquire assets, even as young as the age of 18, you should have plans in place. This is important for the young and old, and it’s worth a nudge to your adult children to make sure they have provided for guardianship of their minor children through an estate plan.

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Q

What if I change my mind about different aspects of my estate plan?

You can easily make an amendment (“codocile”) to a trust or will, with or without an attorney. So, estate plans should be as regular as other provisions you make as an adult.

Q

What can I expect from the estate planning process with an attorney?

Good preparation can save you time and money. You will be asked to gather information on your assets and potential beneficiaries for your first meeting, where your attorney will provide you with the information you need to decide whether to a will or a trust best serves your needs. After this initial meeting, your attorney will start preparation of documents.

If you have chosen a will, you will have a signing and review meeting. If you have chosen a trust option, you will have an in-depth meeting to structure your trust and then a followup meeting for signing, review meeting and funding of your trust, which transfers some or all of your assets in the trust that you or an appointee will control. There are also “ancillary” documents you will sign that safeguard your financial affairs in the event of mental incapacity, medical and health care decisions, such as advance health directives or “living wills,” guardianship designations for minor children, and financial power of attorney to handle your affairs.

October 27, 2019

time to start singing

a new tune!

Worry-free living is coming soon to Loveland.

The Village Cooperative of Loveland is for active adults (55+) who want home ownership with no maintenance, repair bills or worries! Why delay? There’s never been a better time to make your best move!

Call Kate at (970) 699-5454 to schedule a personal appointment to learn more!

SEE WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT

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October 27, 2019

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OF LOVELAND SENIOR ATTITUDE

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ASK THE EXPERT:

VISION HEALTH AS YOU AGE sion. If caught early, there are potential benefits from certain prescription medications and nutritional supplements.

Late-stage AMD is much more difficult to treat.

Certain factors like heredity, ultraviolet light exposure and smoking may increase the risk of AMD. Consult with your eye doctor to determine if a preventive treatment plan is right for you.

Cataracts

(BPT) - Many people expect their eyesight to decline with age - perhaps requiring a stronger eyeglass prescription or “readers.” Some vision changes are linked to age, but there are steps to consider to help our eyes stay as healthy as possible.

Dr. Linda Chous, OD, chief eye care officer, UnitedHealthcare, answered the following questions:

1

Are my eyes going to keep getting worse as I age?

While your eyesight is not guaranteed to deteriorate with age, it is normal to notice changes to your vision as the years pass, including: • Minor adjustments to your eyeglasses prescription or needing to use “readers” for the first time; • Trouble distinguishing col6 SENIOR ATTITUDE

ors, such as blue from black; and • The need for more light to see well.

Although these changes are often normal, they can also be signs of conditions like cataracts or even diabetes. It is important to maintain regular appointments with your eye doctor to help identify pressing concerns. If you experience sudden vision loss or any rapid change to your eyesight, contact your eye care provider immediately.

2

What are the tiny spots or specks that float across my vision?

These tiny threads of protein float across the gel-like substance between your eye’s lens and retina.

Usually there is no need to worry if you notice these spots occasionally and they disap-

pear after a few minutes, but only a dilated eye examination can determine the cause of the “floaters.”

If your vision is overcome by these specks or you notice vision loss, contact your eye doctor, as it could be a symptom of a sight-threatening condition.

3

What are some common vision-related diseases that come with age?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

AMD is the leading cause of vision loss in people over 65. AMD causes damage to the macula, the small spot on the retina that enables people to see clearly and view things straight ahead of them.

Common symptoms are distortion and blurring of the center of your field of vi-

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A cataract is the clouding of the lens in your eye, blocking the flow of light to the back of your eye (retina), which ultimately causes loss of sight.

Most form slowly and do not cause pain. Significant clouding can form in some people and, ultimately, negatively impact vision.

Cataracts are treatable via surgery that replaces the clouded lens with a clear plastic lens. Cataract surgery is generally safe and one of the most common surgeries in the U.S. Once a cataract is removed, it cannot grow back.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is caused by increased pressure inside the eye, which can cause permanent vision loss and blindness if untreated. The most common form usually has no noticeable symptoms in the early stages - the only way to detect it is routine testing.

Treatment may include prescription eye drops, oral medications, laser treatment surgery or a combination of any of these. It is important to find glaucoma early because once vision is lost, it cannot be regained.

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What are the best ways to keep my eyes healthy as I age?

Some of the best ways to

October 27, 2019

protect your eyes include: • Stop smoking. Smokers are up to four times more likely to develop AMD and may contribute to development of cataracts.

• Maintain a healthy weight.

Conditions associated with being overweight, like diabetes and heart disease, increase your risk of vision loss from cataracts, glaucoma and retinopathy.

• Wear sunglasses. Help protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays.

• Be physically active.

People who are physically active experienced less vision loss over 20 years compared to those who are less active.

• Eat a healthy diet. Colorful fruits and vegetables contain nutrients that can keep your eyes healthy and reduce AMD risk.

5

Do sunglasses really protect my eyes?

Sunglasses act as a buffer between your eyes and the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Exposure to these rays can put you at greater risk of cataracts and AMD. Look for a pair that blocks 99% to 100% of UV rays.

Note that polarization is different from UV protection; however, most polarized sunglasses also provide UV protection. Check the product tag or ask for assistance in choosing the right pair.

6

How often should I see my eye care doctor?

Eye exams are crucial to maintaining eye health as you age. Many eye diseases, like glaucoma, have no symptoms in early stages.

And many systemic condi-

tions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, can be first found during a routine eye exam. Aim to see your eye doctor annually even if your vision hasn’t changed, so your doctor has a record of your eye health. See your doctor immediately for sudden changes.

For UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage members, many plans include routine vision services as well as additional services not covered under Original Medicare. It’s helpful to learn how to take advantage of these and other benefits.

Plans insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare.

*

Seeing things more clearly doesn’t have to be a thing of the past. Kirk Eye Center is happy to help diagnose and treat your vision problems, then help you maintain your vision health.

Visit Dr. Kirk and his team for a friendly and professional exam today.

KIRK EYE CENTER 3650 E. 15th St. Loveland (970) 669-1107 kirkeyecenter.com

Thanks Loveland!

We appreciate your votes making us “Best Financial Services” and “Best Investment Services” Investment Center Advisor Group has a team of dedicated professionals whose goal is to make your investing experience extraordinary.

Call us today for a FREE, no obligation investment review.

We are all now in our new location together at

Paul Hummel

ChFC® Chartered Financial Consultant

970-669-9720

www.PaulHummel.com paul.hummel@lpl.com

Kevin Dunnigan

290 W. 25th Street Loveland 80538

CFP®, MBA CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM Professional

970-622-2366

www.HelpWithMyInvestments.com kevin.dunnigan@lpl.com

Securities offered through LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC.. Insurance products offered through LPL Financial or its licensed affiliates. Investment Center Advisor Group (ICAG) is not affiliated with National Planning Holdings, Inc. or with Investment Centers of America, Inc. *Award based on newspaper reader votes

October 27, 2019

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SENIOR ATTITUDE

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Your guide to

PAYING FOR SENIOR LIVING plains.

It’s important to know what is offered and what will be extra when planning for future costs.

Tips for keeping things less stressful when choosing senior living.

By Julie Kailus for Senior Attitude

Securing the right living scenario for a senior can come with a variety of challenges and questions. Families must weigh numerous considerations to ensure the wellbeing of a loved one. But often the most pressing concern is money.

Private and long-term care is expensive. So it’s important to leave no stone unturned when looking at offsetting senior living expenses. Knowing every option can put everyone at ease. Likely you’ll be evaluating Medicaid/Medicare options, long-term care insurance, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), lines of credit, and individual alternatives such as veteran’s benefits, life settlements and private funding.

To get some answers, we asked Holly Turner, director of senior living, Good Samaritan Society Loveland Village, about the most pressing concerns among families.

When does insurance kick in versus out-of-pocket fees?

Standard health insurance won’t cover costs associated

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with senior living. Long-term care insurance is what you would need, though plans can vary and seniors should be aware and well-informed of the details of their specific policy.

“Insurance, i.e. Medicare or an advantage plan, usually kicks in when there is a medical need. Long-term care insurance plans vary and apply to some expenses depending on the need and the plan,” says Turner.

What are the options for those who need financial assistance or a financing alternative?

Reverse mortgages, Medicaid, and VA assistance, are just three of the financing options available for senior housing, depending on individual situations. The best course of action is to get started planning for the expense early and consult a financial planner or senior advocate to see what is available. If there’s a specific community of interest, speak with their representatives directly for additional guidance.

“Most communities along the Front Range offer housing

“Knowledge is key to making the most optimal choices.” options for those with a financial need. One must apply and costs are based on income. But be aware that there is often a waiting list for availability, so it’s better to be proactive and know your options,” Turner says.

What are some possible unexpected costs one might incur with different senior living options?

In addition to the cost of housing, there can often be unexpected costs for things such as healthcare and supplies, medical devices, assistance with daily living tasks and more. Some communities may include these things in their costs, some may not.

“Someone may need extra help with dressing, running errands, housekeeping, or companionship. These costs are generally not included in monthly fees,” Turner ex-

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The most important thing one can do, is to get ahead of the game. As time goes by, options may begin to narrow, meaning difficulties finding placement, and more abrupt transitions.

“Be prepared ahead of time.

Learn the various options and discuss with loved ones what would work best around finances, lifestyle and needs.

Knowledge is key to making the most optimal choices,” Turner advises.

Begin planning finances, select a communinty or two based on possible need, and start planning for the physical transition to make your senior years as stress free as possible.

More senior living resources

You can start gathering baseline information on senior living from the comfort of your own home. For example, medicare.gov lists all Medicare facilities in your community so you can narrow your search.

You can also read up on the Seniors BlueBook (seniorsbluebook.com), a helpful guide to aging well.

Additionally, each county has an office on aging with a great deal of resources. Local senior centers and medical offices usually have resource guides as well.

When you do get face time with a professional, come prepared with questions so you can gather all the information to make the best decisions for your family and senior in need.

October 27, 2019

How hearing implants for the elderly can

IMPROVE QUALITY OF LIFE CENTENNIAL/ PRNewswire/ --

If you or your loved one is over 65, straining to hear even when using powerful hearing aids, unable to understand what is being said in conversation and pulling away from once treasured personal and family activities, it may be time to explore a different hearing solution.

A cochlear implant is one option of hearing implants for the elderly to treat hearing loss. Cochlear implants are different from hearing aids.

Hearing aids only amplify sounds, and unfortunately as hearing loss progresses, sounds need not only to be made louder, but clearer. Cochlear implants can help give you that clarity because they are designed to help you hear better and understand speech in all situations, including noisy environments.1 A recent study found 93 percent of people who had received cochlear implants improved their speech understanding compared to their hearing aid, 70 percent demonstrated significantly improved hearing in noise compared to hearing aids, and 83 percent reported a statistically significant improvement in quality of life after receiving their cochlear implant.2 The good news is the sooner October 27, 2019

hearing loss is addressed with the appropriate hearing solution, the sooner impacts to everyday life can be overcome. For those with severe to profound hearing loss, studies show people with cochlear implants experience reduced anxiety and depression and see improvements in their overall health.3 Gay Miller, 73, regained her confidence and enjoyment of life when she got her cochlear implant, including being able to hear her grandchildren, drive them around and be part of their activities.

“There’s nothing I can’t do.

There is nothing I can’t hear,” says Gay. “I can go to games, I can go to meetings, I can hear people talking across the street, and it’s wonderful.”

You are never too old to hear. Take the first step to better hearing with hearing implants for the elderly at www.Cochlear.com/US/HearingImplants.

1. Hirschfelder A, Gräbel S,

Olze H. The impact of cochlear implantation on quality of life: The role of audiologic performance and variables.

Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg.

2008 Mar;138(3): 357-362.

2. Clinical Evaluation of the Cochlear Nucleus CI532 Cochlear Implants in Adults.2019 Jan; Data on file.

3. Manrique-Huarte R et al (2016) Treatment for hearing loss among the elderly: Auditory outcomes and impact on quality of life. Audiol Neurotol, 21S1:29-35. © Cochlear Limited 2019. All rights reserved. Cochlear, Hear now. And always, Nucleus,

+

Baha, the elliptical logo and marks bearing an ® or ™ symbol, are either trademarks or registered trademarks of Cochlear Bone Anchored Solutions AB or Cochlear Limited (unless otherwise noted).

Please seek advice from your health professional about treatments for hearing loss. Outcomes may vary, and your health professional will advise you about the factors, which could affect your outcome. Always read the instructions for use. Not all products are available in all countries. Please contact your local Cochlear representative for product information.

Views expressed are those of the individual. Consult your health professional to determine if you are a candidate for Cochlear technology.

SOURCE Cochlear

If you have concerns about hearing loss or would like more information on solutions, visit one of these hearing care professionals for information about all of the options available to you.

Hearing HealthCare Centers

2902 Ginnala Dr.,#3, (970) 999-1839 hearinghealthcarecenters.com

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SENIOR ATTITUDE

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Are you a Maverick? A Dreamer?

Find your financial personality

(BPT) - When it comes to managing your finances, are you more likely to be spontaneous and optimistic or stick to a formal plan? Understanding your financial personality can be important on the journey to reaching your financial goals, whether it’s something short-term like buying a home or longer term like your dream retirement.

For some of us it’s simply about finding a better balance between spending and saving.

According to Charles Schwab’s Modern Wealth Quiz, designed to help people get a better grasp on their saving, spending and investing habits, about 43% of Americans are “Dreamers” when it comes to their finances - they tend to live in the moment but can also feel unprepared for certain life events.

Only 10% are considered financial “Architects” - they not only imagine the future but take pen to paper and map out a plan to make it a reality.

Other personality types, according to the quiz, are Improvisers (18%), Organizers (11%), Mavericks (10%) and Philosophers (8%).

Here are some key themes the quiz explores to determine your money personality and provide tips to help you achieve your goals:

1

Is juggling your monthly bills a breeze or a tornado?

Half of Americans say they’re able to pay their monthly bills on time and even put money into savings regularly, according to Schwab’s 2019 Modern Wealth Survey, but a third of Americans say they typically don’t have any extra cash to put into savings after their basic expenses. The remainder say they even struggle to pay those expected monthly bills and often end up with unpaid balances.

Terri Kallsen, CFP®, head of Schwab 10 SENIOR ATTITUDE

Investor Services, said that automatically depositing part of your income into a savings account each month can help make it a habit.

“Our survey shows about 40% of Americans set up an automatic transfer into their savings or investment accounts each month,” she said. “That way, they don’t have to make a decision to ‘spend or save’ each month they’ve already made it.”

2

SELF-CARE ROUTINE

Do you set goals or go with the flow?

While most Americans say they’ve thought about their financial goals, only 28% have taken the time to put their goals in writing, the survey shows. Another 25% say they don’t have any plan at all.

“Planning can be a key indicator of your money personality, because how much you engage with your finances is often closely tied to how confident you feel about reaching your goals,” Kallsen said.

3

3 ways to improve your

Are you an engaged investor or a sideline saver?

Most Americans have a traditional checking and savings account, according to the survey, but only about half have some kind of investing account.

“Savings accounts are often seen as a safe place to put your money, but to keep up with inflation and the rising cost of living, it’s also critical to invest,” Kallsen said. “The sooner you start investing, the longer your money has time to gain from rises in the market and the power of compounding and to recover from any downturns.”

Once you’re invested, it’s important to stay engaged to stay on track. Keep an eye on your investment fees and make sure to rebalance about once a year, added Kallsen.

Take Charles Schwab’s Modern Wealth Quiz and learn more about your money personality and tips and tricks to help reach your goals.

This article is sponsored by Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., Member SIPC. This sponsored article is presented by Brandpoint. (0719-998W) Reporter-Herald – ReporterHerald.com

(BPT) - Self-care - the practice of taking care of oneself - has become a hot topic across generational groups, with sleep, stress management and fitness as key areas to build better habits. But where to start? Here are three tips for practicing better self-care.

1) Get a sleep routine

Only 11% of Americans say they get excellent sleep on a regular basis while 18% report poor/not good sleep quality, and the rest are somewhere in between. (Survey methodology: An omnibus survey of American adults 18+ conducted online by Finn Partners Research between May 15 and 18, 2019, on behalf of Tranquility/American Textile Company.) Commit yourself to good sleep hygiene habits like going to bed and waking up at the same time daily, avoiding food and beverages within two hours of bedtime, and limiting nighttime stimulants like electronics to an hour before bedtime.

“People are more aware of their sleep quality these days thanks to better sleep science and sleep trackers,” says lifestyle expert Jenn Falik. “But better sleep solutions remain elusive to many.

In addition to routinizing wakeup and bedtime, look at your bedding and October 27, 2019

wind down routines.”

2) Manage stress

Managing stress is critical to overall wellness. Experts recommend setting aside time each day for relaxation activities, which could include meditation, a walk in nature or even chilling out with a good book or TV show. The survey found that 62% of Americans say that chilling out at home and watching/streaming TV is part of their de-stress routine.

“One way to help you relax and unwind is to use a weighted blanket like Tranquility while resting or sleeping,” says Falik. “The blanket uses heavy glass beads distributed evenly across the box-woven design to stimulate deep touch pressure, which has been shown to decrease the stress hormone cortisol while increasing the release of sleep-promoting serotonin.

I love that these weighted blankets are affordable and that they’re available at popular retailers like Target and Walmart.”

3) Set aside time for fitness

The American Heart Association recommends adults strive for at least 150 minutes of heart-pumping physical activity each week.

Exercise not only staves off illness but is correlated to better sleep and stress management, making it essential to good selfcare habits.

Experts also recommend thinking about self-care as an ongoing approach rather than a one-time fix.

“I’ve found setting time aside to unwind after a long day helps me stay balanced,” says Falik. “I also use the time to reflect on what I’m doing for myself so I can make sure I am prioritizing self-care.”

October 27, 2019

Active aging: 5 important questions to ask to

HELP PREVENT FALLS

(BPT) - Despite common belief, falls are not a normal part of aging, and they are largely preventable. In fact, the best way to prevent falls is with a proactive approach.

Be empowered and engage your health care professionals, community providers and family by asking these five important questions recommended by the National Council on Aging (NCOA).

1. What are my chances of falling?

When you visit your doctor, you likely bring up concerns about how your body feels. Be sure to also ask about your risk of falling - especially if you have fallen, have a fear of falling or are unsteady. By asking to assess your risk, you’ll learn more about what you can do to prevent injury. These can include physical activity, medications and proper footwear. A doctor can help you understand any concerns and provide helpful advice.

2. What home updates can I make to help prevent falls?

Most falls happen at home, but there are simple changes you can make to reduce risk.

Increase lighting, particularly at the top and bottom of stairs, bathrooms and walkways from the bedroom to the bathroom. For stairs, install a railing on both sides for balance. Many falls occur in bathrooms, so install grab bars in the tub/shower and near the toilet. For even greater safety, consider using a shower chair and handheld shower. Ask family or friends to assist with home modifications or consult with an occupational therapist who can do a home safety assessment.

NCOA provides 18 steps to fall-proofing your home.

3. Do the medications I take impact my likelihood to fall?

The next time you pick up your medicines, discuss possible side effects with your pharmacist. Ask which ones might increase your risk of falling and what you can do to prevent accidents. Side effects can include dizziness, drowsiness, blurry vision and even confusion. Keep in mind, it’s not just prescription medications that can impact your fall risk. Other over-the-counter medicines can make you drowsy or dizzy, which can increase likelihood of a fall. Keep a record of your medications and take the list with you when you visit your doctors and pharmacist.

4. When was my last eye checkup?

Vision is essential to balance and preventing falls.

That’s why it’s important to have your eyes checked every year. If you wear glasses, remember that tint-changing lenses can be hazardous when going from bright sun into darkened buildings. A simple strategy is to change glasses upon entry or stop

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until your lenses adjust. Bifocals also can be problematic on stairs, so it’s important to be cautious. Eye diseases such as cataracts and glaucoma can increase risk for falling, too. Talk with your eye doctor about these concerns.

5. How can I improve my balance and strength?

Ask your physician about exercise programs that can help build stability, strength and flexibility. While some exercises can be done at home, consider signing up for a local program. Joining a group is a lot of fun and a great way to meet new friends. Some exercise programs, like Tai Chi and EnhanceFitness, have been shown to improve balance and strength and reduce falls.

Contact your local senior center or Area Agency on Aging for more information.

Now is a great time to make a plan to prevent falls.

To see what’s happening in your community, contact your state falls prevention coalition.

By being proactive, you can reduce your risk of falling and maintain independence now and in the future.

Learn more at www.ncoa. org/FallsTips.

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ome places have a policy of S providing excellence in retirement living. Others have a histor y of it.

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To learn more, call (970) 669-3100.

The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society provides housing and services to qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, gender, disability, familial status, national origin or other protected statuses according to applicable federal, state or local laws. Some services may be provided by a third party. All faiths or beliefs are welcome. © 2016 The Evangelical Lutheran Good Samaritan Society. All rights reserved.

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October 27, 2019