July 2025 | DC Beacon

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Thrill and camaraderie in the air

By Glenda C. Booth

Jumping out of a moving airplane is a white-knuckle thrill. In three to four seconds, your parachute opens, and you start floating down. In two minutes, you’ve dropped 1,500 feet and landed on solid ground.

“When the parachute opens, there’s peace and quiet. There’s no one in the air but you, and the whirr of the airplane is gone,” said Keith Kettell, a U.S. Army veteran who lives in Alexandria, Virginia, and is a member of the Round Canopy Parachuting Team - USA (RCPT).

Kettell, 66, and others in the group perform in air shows to educate the public about World War II paratroopers and those who followed.

Like Kettell, many RCPTers are veterans who parachuted during their military careers. The organization has more than 800 U.S. members. Some jump in Normandy, France, on D-Day every June (200 last year) to honor the soldiers who on June 6, 1944, parachuted behind enemy lines from a C-47 airplane, the Tico Belle, into Nazi-occupied France. In fact, in air shows, these parachuters jump out of the actual 1942 Tico Belle

Adrenaline junkie

Kettell jumped for 16 of his 25 years in the Army, including six years in special operations deployments to the Middle East, Africa and Central America. Now a physician assistant, he jumps around a dozen times a year with RCPT.

Why does Kettell jump out of airplanes?

“I’m an adrenaline junkie,” he said. “I get a thrill, the same thrill I got in 1980, now 45 years later. I still get that little butterfly in my stomach.”

In the Army, Kettell carried a parachute, reserve parachute, 70-pound rucksack, medical equipment, a weapons case, food and water.

Today, with RCPT, he carries a parachute and a reserve parachute and wears a helmet, a 1942 Army uniform and brown jump boots.

Kettell is also a jumpmaster, the person in charge who gives commands and scouts for the release point. When over the drop zone, the pilot turns on a green light, and Kettell yells to the team, “Green light, go!” One by one, the parachuters propel themselves out the open door.

ARTS & STYLE

Parachuters train to avoid landing feet first and instead make contact with the ground with five points, he explained: the balls of the feet, calf, thigh, buttocks and side.

He’s landed in rivers and lakes and can float for 30 minutes with the flotation device under the harness. “I always have a backup parachute, but I’ve never used it,” Kettell said.

In his 45 years, he’s had one broken ankle and a few scary moments, like two parachutes almost becoming entangled and once landing in a pine tree.

This hobby is much more than jumping, Kettell says. It’s about camaraderie. Some veterans have post-traumatic stress disorder, and being with former colleagues feels safe.

Those who can’t jump help the ground team.

“It gets them back in the groove. I jump so I can hang out with these guys. One week is worth six months of therapy,” Kettell said.

Support group and more

In many ways, RCPT is a “veterans’ support organization,” said parachuter Rick Randall of King George, Virginia.

“I don’t hang out with these guys because we jump. I jump because I get to hang out with these guys, many from the Washington, D.C., area. I track success not by jumps, but how many veterans we save from suicide.”

Golden Girls learn to surf in Studio Theatre’s Wipeout; plus, Julius Caesar in the park, and Bob Levey on turning 80 page 16 FITNESS & HEALTH

k DMV’s low dementia risk

k Psilocybin studies nearby LEISURE & TRAVEL

k Mansions of Newport, Rhode Island k Beat the heat in Michigan

& MONEY

Members of the nonprofit Round Canopy Parachuting Team jump in France every year to honor the heroism of Allied paratroopers. The group’s local members, many of whom are veterans, say they jump for the adrenaline rush and kinship with fellow parachuters.

…As others see us

When I sit down to write one of my columns, I often find that I have more to say than the space allows and I need to make cuts.

This month, I want to weave together some of those previously omitted thoughts to deliver a message of their own.

In my April column (“Say cheese!”), I noted that we tend to behave differently when we’re being watched or recorded. The mere act of being observed has a big impact.

ing closely and critiquing how you played, as if hearing someone else play it.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

In my June column (“Practice makes (im)perfect”), I noted that practice only makes perfect when the practice itself is perfect. I wrote there about a neurologist, Dr. Molly Gebrian, who said that only when athletes and musicians are careful not to make mistakes when practicing will they lay down the neural pathways in the brain that enable them to habitually perform an activity easily and without error. What I cut from that column for space was something else she said that tied into my April message.

By Stuart P. Rosenthal

When you can hear how you play the way others would hear it, you are in a better position to judge your performance objectively. Then you can make the changes necessary to achieve the result you really want.

The way we hear the sound of our own voice, the music we make with an instrument, even the intent and meaning behind the words we speak, are seldom identical to what others hear.

If you’ve ever seen a computer-generated transcript of a live presentation that’s not read from a script, you may be surprised by the number of ahs, uhs and misstatements even highly experienced speakers make.

more empathy for others and their mistakes, once we realize how commonly we make them as well.

Once we become aware of all these things, we start to understand what’s needed to become better — both better at what we do and better people.

There’s a popular saying in business: “What’s measured improves.” Listening to ourselves is one way of measuring what we do and say, and may well lead to some substantial changes in our behavior.

An example of how seeing ourselves the way others do can enable us to improve can be found in popular lore. It’s said that when we die, we see our whole lives pass in front of us before we are “judged.” That way, we are reminded of the things we have done wrong.

There appears to be good evidence that something like this “life review” actually happens, as reported by thousands of people all over the world who have had “near death experiences” (NDEs).

They felt in each situation how they made others feel (including both physical and emotional pain), and heard what others were thinking about them and their behavior at the time.

NDEs are often life-changing for those who go through them, in part for this reason. It completely changes their perspective. They have been gifted a visceral ability to understand how others see and hear them, which brings about a profound change in their future behavior.

We are only human, and mistakes are a major way we learn. But if we can manage to stop repeating our mistakes, we stand a greater chance of changing a lifetime of bad habits and becoming the person we want to be.

One way to do that is to try hearing and seeing ourselves as others do, and then acting accordingly. Sounds like a golden rule to me.

For a pianist to fix a mistake that has become habitual, Gebrian suggested recording yourself while practicing, then listen-

There are at least two major things we can expect to learn from making recordings and listening to ourselves more often and more objectively: We will become conscious of outright mistakes as well as statements or performances we would have done differently had we known how we sounded.

And we might — if we try — develop

This includes, for example, people who have medically “died” on the operating table or after being struck by lightning, but then are surprisingly resuscitated and report on what they saw and heard while “dead.”

A large percentage of these people say they not only saw their entire life in review, but that they were able to experience each of their actions from the perspective of those whom they affected.

For information about near death experiences, see iands.org. There are also hundreds of personal videos from near death experiencers on YouTube. For a recent program on the subject with Dr. Mayim Bialik, visit: tinyurl.com/BialikNDE.

Beacon

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Mail your Letter to the Editor to The Beacon, P.O. Box 2227, Silver Spring, MD 20915, or email to info@thebeaconnewspapers.com.

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Dear Editor:

The article “Is it dementia, or wasn’t I like this at 40?” by Leslie Milk in the May 2025 issue of the Beacon brought back memories of a conversation I had with a colleague of mine, a psychiatrist. I asked him about the difference between common episodes of forgetfulness versus worrisome dementia.

He said: “Often we all forget where we kept our car keys or cellphones. But when we find them, we know what to do with them. If you cannot figure out what to do with your car keys or cellphone, consult

your doctor; that is not normal! It could be the earliest signs of dementia.”

Tonse Raju, M.D. Bethesda, MD

Dear Editor:

I hope the “tire change” is going well. Love to read the Beacon. I always grab a copy at my Safeway on Elden Street in Herndon, Virginia.

Glad you are pursuing your love of music more now. Thank you, publisher and musician!

Craig Griffin Herndon, VA

Fitness & Health

GET UP, STAND UP

Sitting less and moving more is good for the heart. Stand up at least once an hour

KIDNEY HEALTH

To protect your kidneys, stay hydrated, limit alcohol and use ibuprofen in moderation

MAGIC MUSHROOMS

Researchers are enrolling palliative care patients in a psilocybin study

MEDS DEPLETE MAGNESIUM

Aches, pains, restless legs and mood swings may be a result of low magnesium

DMV has lowest dementia rates in the U.S.

By Christy Bieber

The risk of dementia varies surprisingly across the United States. People in certain areas, like the Southeastern states, have dementia rates as much as 25% higher than the baseline.

Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco, conducted a large-scale study of more than 1.2 million older veterans enrolled in the VA medical system from 1990 to 2021. Participants were studied for a period of 12.6 years, and dementia rates were calculated per 1,000 person-years.

The data, which was published in JAMA Neurology, revealed that the lowest rates of dementia occurred in the Mid-Atlantic region. Within this region of the country, which includes Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington, D.C. and West Virginia, there were 11.2 cases of dementia per 1,000 person-years.

Dementia hot spots

Since our region had the lowest incidence rates, it became the baseline against which other regions were compared, revealing shocking geographic disparities. Specifically:

• The Southeast region had dementia

rates 25% higher than the mid-Atlantic baseline.

• Both the Northwest and Rocky Mountain regions saw 23% higher rates.

• Rates in the South were 18% higher.

• Rates were 13% higher in the Southwest.

• Both the Midwest and South Atlanta had 12% higher rates.

• Rates were 7% higher in the Northeast and the Great Lakes.

Researchers accounted for other factors affecting dementia risks, such as age, rates of cardiovascular disease, race and rural versus urban living, as rural areas tend to see higher rates of dementia. Even after adjusting for these factors, the regional differences persisted.

Why the stark disparities?

This study did not provide conclusive answers as to why there is such significant regional variation in dementia diagnoses. However, authors have several theories.

“Quality of education, early life conditions and environmental exposures may be among those factors,” said Christina Dintica, Ph.D., one of the study authors.

Past research has also suggested that fac-

tors such as labor market conditions, environmental hazards, structural racism and overall adult health can make an impact.

Other studies have shown that the difference in diagnosis rates can be largely explained by differences in health systems rather than by an actual disparity in dementia rates.

Just because more people are diagnosed in a particular location does not mean that more people have the condition. Rather, it may be that more people are likely to seek help in that region — or doctors there are more likely to identify the issue.

Reduce your dementia risk

The good news is that you can still reduce your risk of dementia. According to the Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention, up to 45% of dementia cases are preventable.

Here are some ways the commission recommends to reduce your risk:

1. Complete your secondary education.

2. Get a hearing aid.

3. Lower your cholesterol if it is elevated.

4. If you have been diagnosed with depression, get treatment.

5. Avoid traumatic brain injury by wearing helmets, seatbelts and avoiding falls.

6. Aim for 75 minutes (at the very minimum) of aerobic activity per week.

7. Avoid type 2 diabetes or get treatment for diabetes and prediabetes.

8. Don’t smoke, or quit if you do.

9. Treat high blood pressure.

10. Maintain a healthy weight.

11. If you drink, do so only in moderation.

12. Avoid social isolation and loneliness.

13. Keep your eyes and vision healthy.

14. Reduce your exposure to air pollution by monitoring your local air quality index and limiting your outdoor activities on days with poor air quality. This is especially important if you live in areas affected by wildfires.

The real estate listing company Redfin has published property-level air quality data, so you can see your home’s overall risk. Just click on “air factor.”

Other studies have recommended keeping your mind active with games, puzzles, and lifelong learning.

© 2025 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Exercise boosts colon cancer survival

By Carla K. Johnson

A three-year exercise program improved survival in colon cancer patients and kept disease at bay, a first-of-its-kind international experiment showed.

With the benefits rivaling some drugs, experts said cancer centers and insurance plans should consider making exercise coaching a new standard of care for colon cancer survivors. Until then, patients can increase their physical activity after treatment, knowing they are doing their part to prevent cancer from coming back.

“It’s an extremely exciting study,” said Dr. Jeffrey Meyerhardt of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, who wasn’t involved in the research. It’s the first randomized, controlled trial to show a reduction in cancer recurrences and improved survival linked to exercise, Meyerhardt said.

Prior evidence was based on comparing active people with sedentary people, a type of study that can’t prove cause and effect. The new study — conducted in Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Israel and

the United States — compared people who were randomly selected for an exercise program with those who instead received an educational booklet.

“This is about as high a quality of evidence as you can get,” said Dr. Julie Gralow, chief medical officer of the American Society of Clinical Oncology. “I love this study because it’s something I’ve been promoting but with less strong evidence for a long time.”

Study followed chemo patients

The findings were featured in June at ASCO’s annual meeting in Chicago and published by the New England Journal of Medicine

Researchers followed 889 patients with treatable colon cancer who had completed chemotherapy. Half were given information promoting fitness and nutrition. The others worked with a coach, meeting every two weeks for a year, then monthly for the next two years.

Coaches helped participants find ways to increase their physical activity. Many peo-

ple, including Terri Swain-Collins, chose to walk for about 45 minutes several times a week.

“This is something I could do for myself to make me feel better,” said SwainCollins, 62,. Regular contact with a friendly coach kept her motivated and accountable, she said. “I wouldn’t want to go there and say, ‘I didn’t do anything,’ so I was always doing stuff and making sure I got it done.”

After eight years, the people in the structured exercise program not only became more active than those in the control group but also had 28% fewer cancers and 37% fewer deaths from any cause.

“When we saw the results, we were just astounded,” said study co-author Dr. Christopher Booth, a cancer doctor at Kingston Health Sciences Centre in Kingston, Ontario.

Affordable way to live longer

Exercise programs can be offered for several thousand dollars per patient, Booth said, “a remarkably affordable inter-

vention that will make people feel better, have fewer cancer recurrences and help them live longer.”

Researchers collected blood from participants and will look for clues tying exercise to cancer prevention, whether through insulin processing or building up the immune system or something else.

Swain-Collins’ coaching program ended, but she is still exercising. She listens to music while she walks in the countryside near her home in Ontario.

That kind of behavior change can be achieved when people believe in the benefits, when they find ways to make it fun and when there’s a social component, said paper co-author Kerry Courneya, who studies exercise and cancer at the University of Alberta. The new evidence will give cancer patients a reason to stay motivated. “Now we can say definitively exercise causes improvements in survival,” Courneya said.

reserved.

Surprising health benefits of cherries

By Andrea Mathis, M.A., RDN, LD

Bursting with a perfect combination of sweet and tart flavors, fresh cherries are one of summer’s most perfect offerings. These small stone fruits also boast some impressive health benefits — making them an even sweeter summertime treat.

Health benefits of cherries

Besides being extremely tasty, cherries — both sweet and sour — are a great source of vitamin C and also have some potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron and folate. Together, these vitamins and nutrients help maintain your immune system, keep your skin healthy, regulate your blood pressure, help your muscles contract and help maintain muscle and nerve function, among other benefits.

They’re also rich in fiber (about 3 grams per cup), which helps promote healthy gut bacteria and can help keep you regular.

Cherries have anti-aging properties

Cherries are rich in antioxidants, which help to fight free radicals and oxidative stress that contributes to the aging process. According to a review of cherry nutrition research, people who ate cherries and cherry products experienced reduced oxidative stress while enjoying the benefits of a diet rich in antioxidants.

They’re an anti-inflammatory snack

Struggling with arthritis, gout, cardiovascular disease or another ailment linked to inflammation? Cherries can actually help to reduce these symptoms, due to their high concentration of polyphenols that provide anti-inflammatory benefits. Studies show that polyphenols, melatonin, carotenoids and vitamins E and C contribute to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of cherries. These nutrients help to suppress inflammatory proteins and uric acid build-up that can lead to swelling and pain in your joints. Tart cherry juice is also associated with faster recovery post-workout.

Cherries can help you sleep

Cherries (particularly tart cherries) are naturally high in melatonin, a sleep-inducing hormone that can help you nod off faster and stay asleep longer. Some researchers recommend eating a handful of cherries a day to reap the melatonin benefits; other studies suggest that a glass of Montmorency tart cherry juice may also help improve sleep.

Cherries may promote weight loss

In addition to being low in calories, cherries are a great source of fiber, which may help to control hunger and keep you

feeling full and satisfied between meals. Cherries are also a low-glycemic food, which means they only cause a small rise in blood sugar and insulin levels. So how can this help? Studies suggest that a simplified approach to weight reduction that emphasizes an increased fiber intake — rather than a complicated diet regimen — may be a rea-

sonable alternative for people who have trouble adhering to traditional “diets.”

EatingWell is a magazine and website devoted to healthy eating as a way of life. Online at eatingwell.com.

© 2024 Dotdash Meredith. All rights reserved. Used with permission. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

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Ways to keep your heart, kidneys healthy

By Howard LeWine, M.D.

Q: I keep hearing we should sit less. But what’s the evidence that it makes a difference, and how should you go about doing it?

A: That’s an important question because whenever you make any type of lifestyle change, it’s helpful to know not just what you’re adding but also what you’re subtracting. For example, when people eat more fruit, they may eat fewer cookies, and both shifts are beneficial. Likewise, people are better off when they move more and sit less.

A study published in the European Heart Journal in November 2023 provided estimates about the potential advantages of choosing different activities — including sleeping — in place of sitting. The article included data from more than 15,000 people. Their average age was 54, nearly 55% were women, and most (88%) rated their health as good or better.

Researchers assessed the participants’ heart health based on their BMI (a measurement that incorporates both weight and height), waist circumference, cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and HbA1c (a measure of blood sugar used to assess diabetes risk). About a third were taking medication to control cholesterol, high blood pressure or diabetes, and about 10% had been diagnosed with heart disease.

Participants wore special activity monitors that attach to the front of the thigh. These monitors are more accurate than those worn on the hip or the wrist for discerning between sitting and standing.

Based on a week’s worth of data, the average participant’s day consisted of 7.7 hours sleeping, 10.4 hours sitting, 3.1 hours standing, 1.5 hours doing light physical activity, and 1.3 hours doing moderateto-vigorous physical activity.

Not surprisingly, researchers found that moderate-to-vigorous activity proved most beneficial for heart health, while sitting was the worst. Next, they created statistical models to estimate what would happen if a person swapped one behavior for another.

Replacing even just five minutes of sitting with moderate-to-vigorous activity (such as brisk walking, running or cycling) could have a tangible effect on heart health, they reported.

While adding longer, more intense bouts of exercise can reap greater rewards, even small, modest changes can make a difference. For instance, replacing sitting with standing led to positive changes across all the health parameters. While the researchers’ model suggests that even sleeping is better than sitting when it comes to heart health, it’s not quite that simple. For example, indirect factors

that lead to weight gain (for example, snacking while watching television) may explain why sitting appears worse than sleeping. Your smartphone, a fitness band or smart watch can help you keep tabs on your daily activity. Some models include default reminders to stand up at least once an hour for at least 12 hours per day.

Q: My blood test showed a slightly high blood creatinine level. What are some natural ways I can help keep my kidneys healthy?

A: Doctors use a blood creatinine level to assess kidney function. Creatinine is released from muscle cells into the bloodstream. Creatinine is one of the things that the kidneys filter from the blood. If the kidneys start to lose some function, blood creatinine level rises.

This minor reduction in kidney function may be temporary. But even if it is permanent, there’s a lot you can do now to slow and even prevent future damage.

Keep blood pressure well controlled. High blood pressure is a major contributor to kidney disease progression and can damage the kidney’s filters and small blood vessels.

Control blood sugar levels. Slightly elevated blood sugar levels often mean a person has prediabetes, a precursor for Type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is the top cause

of chronic kidney disease because persistent excess sugar exposure damages tiny blood vessels in the kidney.

Reduce salt. The sodium in salt can cause your body to retain fluid, and excess sodium raises blood pressure in many people. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend limiting sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams per day.

Limit alcohol intake. Don’t have more than one drink per day. Regular excessive alcohol drinking increases the risk for high blood pressure, contributes to weight gain and makes the kidneys work harder.

Lose weight if you need to. Obesity makes the kidneys work harder than they need to. This can ultimately cause the kidney filters to break down.

Stop smoking . Smoking damages blood vessels, including those providing oxygen and nutrients to the kidneys.

Exercise regularly. Aerobic exercise — the kind that makes your heart and lungs work hard, like brisk walking — helps blood vessels stay healthy, flexible and able to expand and contract well.

Stay hydrated. Getting enough fluids each day — from water or watery foods like fruit and soup — helps the kidneys flush out toxins from the body.

Fatal falls increase for older Americans

By Mike Stobbe

Older U.S. adults are increasingly dying from unintentional falls, according to a new federal report published in June, with white people accounting for the vast majority of the deaths.

From 2003 to 2023, death rates from falls rose more than 70% for adults ages 65 to 74, the report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. The rate increased more than 75% for people 75 to 84, and more than doubled for seniors 85 and older.

“Falls continue to be a public health problem worth paying attention to,” said Geoffrey Hoffman, a University of Michigan researcher who was not involved in the new report. “It’s curious that these

Healthy habits

From page 6

Limit painkillers. High doses of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), can cause kidney damage and worsen existing kidney disease. Follow the dosing directions carefully. Watch your protein intake . Too much protein forces the kidneys to work overtime. Whether a high-protein diet ac-

rates keep rising.”

The CDC researchers did not try to answer why death rates from falls are increasing. But experts say there may be a few reasons, like gradually improving our understanding of the role falls play in deaths and more people living longer — to ages when falls are more likely to have deadly consequences.

More than 41,000 retirement-age Americans died of falls in 2023, the most recent year for which final statistics based on death certificates are available. That suggests that falls were blamed in about 1 of every 56 deaths in older Americans that year.

More than half of those 41,000 deaths were people 85 and older, the CDC found, and white people accounted for 87% of

tually causes kidney damage is hotly debated. Still, it’s safest to stick closer to a standard protein intake of about 0.36 grams per pound of body weight.

Howard LeWine, M.D., is an internist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School. For additional consumer health information, please visit health.harvard.edu.

© 2025 Harvard University. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

deaths in the oldest category.

A fall can lead to other problems

Falls can cause head injuries or broken bones that can lead to permanent disability and trigger a cascade of other health problems.

A number of factors can contribute to falls, including changes in hearing and vision and medications that can cause lightheadedness.

Death rates varied widely from state to state. In 2023, Wisconsin had the highest death rates from falls, followed by Minnesota, Maine, Oklahoma and Vermont. Wisconsin’s rate was more than five times higher than the rate of the lowest state, Alabama.

Ice and wintry weather may partly explain why fatal falls were more common in states in the upper Midwest and New England, but experts also pointed to other things at play, like differences in how well falls are reported and to what extent they are labeled a cause of death.

“We’ve yet to unravel why you see such differences in state rates,” said Hoffman, who studies falls among the elderly.

Racial gap

Researchers also can’t yet explain why white seniors die of falls at higher rates than people in other racial and ethnic groups. In the 85-and-up age group, the

Health Studies INFORMATION ON AREA CLINICAL TRIALS

Depression relief for palliative care patients

By Margaret Foster

“Magic mushrooms” are making a comeback. Scientific research on psilocybin, the hallucinogenic compound in certain mushrooms, is advancing, pioneered by the Johns Hopkins Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research. Past studies have proved that even a small dose of the drug can heal depression and even addiction.

Now there’s a local study designed to see if one dose can alleviate depression in people with less than two years to live.

“The study is looking at if patients that are demoralized from having [cancer, Parkinson’s, Lou Gehrig’s disease, etc.] and facing death, could psilocybin be effective?” said Dr. Manish Agrawal, the study’s principal investigator.

“A treatment like this, which is quite different than traditional antidepressants or talk therapy, can really help people have a different perspective on their disease and allow them to live more fully while they’re alive.”

A unique clinic

Called the “pragmatic trial of psilocybin therapy in palliative care,” the study is based in a new clinic in Rockville, Maryland. Located in the Adventist Healthcare Shady Grove Medical Center, the Sunstone Therapies clinic opened in November 2020. It’s the country’s first purposebuilt space dedicated to psychedelic research in a medical setting.

Agrawal, a practicing oncologist for 20 years, realized that traditional medicine

often overlooked the psychological toll of cancer. When he read the results of a Johns Hopkins study that found psilocybin could lessen depression, the Maryland physician wanted to learn more. After he trained at the California Institute of Integrated Studies, Agrawal co-founded Sunstone Therapies.

“I became interested in this because I… wasn’t finding good options for my patients and was needing to look at other things — because what I knew about wasn’t effective,” Agrawal said.

“I’m excited to know that there are new possibilities. The data is promising. Lots of studies have been done, and more studies are ongoing in the U.S., Europe and Australia.”

What the study entails

Once enrolled, patients will visit Sunstone Therapies’ clinic up to 10 times in two to four months, depending on the patient. They’ll attend screening sessions first. Then they will meet with the clinic’s licensed therapists several times, both before and after the psylocibin treatment. The therapy model used throughout the study is called Meaning and Purpose Therapy.

Falls

From page 7

death rate for white Americans is two or three times higher than any other group, while older Black people had the lowest fall-related death rate.

“Kind of a flip of the traditional disparity

During a psilocybin therapy session, a doctor will administer an oral dose of the compound in a private room at the center. Participants are then accompanied until the effects of the drug wear off in six to eight hours.

The study is “blind,” meaning the patient won’t know if they were randomly placed in a group that received psilocybin or ketamine. However, after the study is over, patients may have the option to try the psilocybin. There is no charge for participants.

Agrawal’s study is sponsored by UCLA’s Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation. In conjunction with the University of California San Francisco, this multi-center study has sites throughout California. Sunstone Therapies in Maryland is the only East Coast site.

“This is the first large multi-center study looking at this, so I’m excited about representing the East Coast,” Agrawal said.

Sunstone Therapies is located on the third floor of the Aquilino Cancer Center, which is part of the larger Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center campus. Parking is free for study participants.

For more information, call (301) 7503401 or visit sunstonetherapies.com.

lens,” Hoffman noted, referring to the fact that for most other rates of illness and injury, people of color are disproportionately affected.

Staying active can help people avoid falls, experts say.

© 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved.

On hot days, try a light summer salad

By Family Features

Watermelon, strawberries, corn and green beans get all the fresh produce love in the summer, but don’t forget broccoli as a warm-weather staple.

Instead of dunking in dressing or smothering with melted cheese, go for a lighter dish with this Broccoli salad — an ideal light lunch or simple summer side.

Broccoli salad

Recipe courtesy of Cookin’ Savvy

Serves 4 to 6

Ingredients:

2 medium heads broccoli

2 apples lemon juice

1 carrot

1 cup blueberries

1 cup dried cranberries

1 cup sunflower seeds

1 cup pecans

1 package (2.5 ounces) real bacon pieces (optional)

Dressing:

1 cup mayonnaise

1/3 cup milk

1/3 cup apple cider vinegar

2/3 cup sugar

2 tablespoons poppy seeds

Directions:

Coarsely chop broccoli and place in

large bowl. Coarsely chop apples and brush with lemon juice to prevent browning; add to bowl. Shred carrot and add to bowl with blueberries, cranberries, sunflower seeds, pecans and optional bacon.

To make dressing: Mix mayonnaise, milk, apple cider vinegar, sugar and poppy seeds. Pour over broccoli salad and mix well. Serve at room temperature or refrigerate.

Visit Culinary.net to find more veggieinspired salad ideas.

Are you losing magnesium? Why it matters

If you’re struggling with fatigue, anxiety, blood sugar problems, thyroid issues or random muscle twitches, you might be missing something simple: magnesium. It’s depleted by many things, including coffee and common antacids.

Magnesium is your body’s natural chill pill. It helps regulate heartbeat, blood sugar, nerve function and mood. But it’s depleted easily by medications, poor diet and everyday stress. Unfortunately, magnesium deficiency often flies under the radar because the symptoms mimic other conditions.

most commonly depleted, and its absence can wreak havoc in ways you wouldn’t expect. (You can download a free ebook on this topic at my website; it’s called Outsmarting Drug Muggers.)

Here are 10 hidden magnesium “drug muggers” that may be draining your levels without you knowing:

1. Acid blockers like omeprazole (Prilosec) or pantoprazole (Protonix)

By Suzy Cohen

In my book Drug Muggers, I explain how medications can rob the body of essential nutrients. Magnesium is one of the

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Sept.

2. H2 blockers such as famotidine (Pepcid) or cimetidine (Tagamet)

3. Antacids, which interfere with stomach acid needed for magnesium absorption

4. Alcohol, which increases magnesium loss through urine

NOVA SENIOR OLYMPICS

The 2025 Northern Virginia Senior Olympics take place Sept. 13 to 30, with more than 70 events, including new additions: duplicate bridge, poker (Texas Hold’em) and the 50-yard butterfly. Registration is open from July 7 to Aug. 29 at nvso.us ($20 fee covers unlimited events). Participants must be 50+ and reside in a sponsoring jurisdiction. Events are held at 29 venues and are grouped by age and gender. Medalists are awarded in each event.

5. Coffee and caffeine, both of which have a diuretic effect

6. Decaf coffee and black tea, which can impair absorption

7. Diuretics like hydrozchlorothiazide (HCTZ) and furosemide

8. Corticosteroids like prednisone

9. Chemotherapy drugs that strip multiple nutrients

10. Smoking, which lowers magnesium levels

When magnesium is low, symptoms vary widely, ranging from high blood pressure to insomnia, anxiety, muscle cramps or even blood-sugar imbalances. These are often treated as separate conditions, when the root cause may be a simple deficiency.

Did you know magnesium plays a key role in muscle relaxation? This is why low levels lead to nighttime leg cramps. When magnesium is deficient, muscles will contract uncontrollably, leading to sudden, painful spasms that wake you up.

After my own parathyroid surgery, I experienced painful nighttime leg cramps due to the dysregulation of calcium. The solution that worked for me involved replenishing not just magnesium, but also calcium and key electrolytes. This combination finally restored balance and totally

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July 26

eliminated the cramps.

Misdiagnosing a nutrient deficiency as a chronic illness can lead to a frustrating cycle of medications and side effects. Many health professionals aren’t trained to look for drug-induced nutrient depletion, which is why people could end up with a new “disease” when it’s just a deficiency.

The good news? You may be healthier than you think. Replenishing magnesium (through diet or supplements) might help resolve issues that seem unrelated at first glance. Magnesium supports neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, making it critical for a good mood.

Magnesium deficiency can be easily tested with a blood sample. And your symptoms might be telling you the story now that you know what to look for. To learn more, you can check out my book Drug Muggers, available on Amazon. It could be the missing piece to your wellness puzzle.

This information is opinion only. It is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Consult with your doctor before using any new drug or supplement.

Suzy Cohen is a registered pharmacist and author of The 24-Hour Pharmacist and Real Solutions from Head to Toe

AND HEALTHY LIVING TALK (VIRTUAL)

Join health and fitness coach Wallace Merriman for a free Corridor

Conversation on Sat., July 26 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. via Zoom. Merriman, a longtime wellness coach and former U.S. Army fitness trainer, will share practical guidance on diet, exercise and lifelong health habits. Hosted by local Villages, the talk is free and open to all. RSVP at bit.ly/HealthyLivingTalk to receive the Zoom link to participate. For more information, email washingtonareavillages@gmail.com.

Leisure & Travel Leisure &

Newport’s Gilded Age mansions still dazzle

By Sandi Barrett

Newport, Rhode Island, has long been a summer playground for the rich and famous. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the city evolved as Gilded Age tycoons built their “summer cottages” there in the late 1800s. Yachters began hosting the America’s Cup races offshore beginning in 1930. That high-society vibe continues today with sailing regattas, luxury hotels and high-end shops.

I visit Newport often because my extended family owns a historic sailing captain’s home there, affording me a place to land when exploring this community on Narragansett Bay. Each time I visit, I discover a new historic site, hiking trail or café.

Tour the cliffside mansions

The main attractions are The Breakers, The Elms and other historic mansions, many of which are now open to the public as museums.

One such mansion, considered to be one of the first palatial Newport homes, Châteausur-Mer (Castle by the Sea), debuted in 1852. The Italianate-style mansion set the tone for the summer season for Newport’s elite residents. In 1969, the Preservation Society of Newport County bought the estate at auction and opened it as a museum.

Newport’s most iconic mansion, The Breakers, was built by Cornelius Vanderbilt II between 1893 and 1895. The Italian Renaissance-style palazzo is a must-visit. Its opulent, over-the-top décor and glorious Great Hall, with its 50-foot ceiling, showcase Vanderbilt’s status as one of the wealthiest men in America.

My favorite Gilded Age mansion is The Elms. Inspired by the French Château d’Asnières, the house is filled with beautiful pieces of fine art. Its expansive terraces are home to ornate fountains, lavish gardens and beautiful sculptures. I suggest booking the “Servant Life Tour,” which offers a peek into the lives of the property’s invisible staff. This back-of-thehouse tour reveals how workers discreetly fulfilled the mundane tasks and quirky requests of their wealthy employers.

You can also visit the stunning Rosecliff, known for its gorgeous heart-shaped staircase. At Marble House (which is, as its name suggests, brimming with the polished stone), stop in the Chinese Tea House that anchors the sweeping lawn. Round out a mansion tour with visits to Chepstow, Hunter House, Kingscote or the Isaac Bell House.

A good way to glimpse the exteriors of the mansions is via the waterfront 3.5-mile

Cliff Walk, which is free and open to the public daily. Many of the mansions are open for the summer season only. During the Christmas season, several mansions are decked out in their finest glitz. All the details can be found at newportmansions.org.

Newport’s sailing history

At the Sailing Museum & National Sailing Hall of Fame, you can delve into the history of this sport and learn about the master sailors who shaped it.

Newport hosted its first America’s Cup race in 1930. Since then it has been home to many sailing races, including several more America’s Cup competitions.

The America’s Cup, a trophy for the world-famous sailboat race, has its roots in England. In 1851 the New York Yacht Club sailed the schooner America across the Atlantic to compete in the Solent Races, answering a challenge from Great Britain’s Royal Yacht Squadron. After America took home the 100 Guineas Cup, the award for winning a 74-mile race around the Isle of Wight, the club renamed the coveted trophy the America’s Cup.

If you’d like to try your hand at maneuvering an America’s Cup competition yacht, look to America’s Cup Charters (americascupcharters.com). Guests work

as crew alongside seasoned sailors on one of their acclaimed yachts.

My personal preference is for a more laid-back water experience. A sunset sail on a beautiful schooner where I can enjoy the panoramic coastline views with an adult beverage is perfect. Newport Classic Cruises (sail-newport.com) offers a wide range of harbor sailing tours to enjoy a relaxing sail.

Stroll through historic downtown

As for shopping and dining, Newport’s Thames Street is a lively, upscale historic district. With cobblestone streets and trendy shops, the downtown is reminiscent of Boston’s classic brownstone neighborhoods.

Acknowledged as the “oldest operating restaurant in the United States,” the charming White Horse Tavern opened in 1673. The iconic building is the epitome of historic Newport architecture, with red clapboard siding, pediment doors and a gambrel roof. The interior decor of Windsor chairs, aged wood and white linens transports guests to a centuries-old tavern with delectable food.

With a flower show in June, a classical music festival in July and a jazz festival in

The Breakers, built by the Vanderbilts in the 1890s, has 70 rooms, including 48 bedrooms. The 13-acre property is one of 11 estates in Newport, Rhode Island, that is open to visitors.

Michigan’s shoreline attracts tourists year-round. See story on page 12.

Bannister’s Wharf, located on Newport’s Thames Street, has it all: live music, restaurants, bars and unique shops. Tourists can also hop aboard a schooner for a short cruise.

PHOTO BY PURE MICHIGAN

Beat the heat in Michigan’s small towns

By Alice Shapin

As an East Coast person, I have to admit I had given little thought to visiting the Midwest. When my daughter went to the University of Michigan, though, my husband Paul and I took a road trip to Michigan — an eye-opening experience.

It’s hard to believe, but Michigan is in the same time zone as Maryland. Since it’s located on the western edge of the Eastern time zone, the state has longer days and later sunsets compared to places further south or east. When spring hits in Michigan, it’s light until almost 11 p.m.

When we first glimpsed Lake Michigan, it looked more like an ocean than a lake. The far side of the lake is nowhere to be seen, and cute beach towns dot the shore.

Our first stop was Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Perched way above Lake Michigan, the park has miles of beach and hiking trails. Don’t attempt walking down the dunes, as the drop to the lake can be 450 feet. A sign warns, “Rescues could cost $3,000,” which was enough to discourage most people from trying, especially those of us over 65.

Next stop was Traverse City, an area with two of our favorite treats: cherries and wine. The vineyards are located on the 45th parallel, the same latitude as the Bordeaux and Piedmont wine regions of

France. Insulated from extreme weather by Lake Michigan, the area has fertile soil, and long hours of sunlight ensure an extended growing season.

We did tastings at several wineries and took a few winery tours. Later we sat outdoors with our wine and cheese, overlooking the spectacular shoreline.

Michigan, known as the “Cherry Capital of the World,” has some of the best cherries in the country. The season starts in July and can last into August. Each July, the National Cherry Festival attracts more than 500,000 visitors over eight days. Although we missed the festival, we bought plenty of cherries at roadside stands.

Exploring the Hand

About an hour and a half from Traverse City is Petoskey, located on the shores of Little Traverse Bay, near the top of the Michigan “Hand.”

Its claim to fame is Petoskey stones, the state stone of Michigan. They’re not really stones at all; they’re fossils of a coral reef that existed before the dinosaurs, during a time when a warm, shallow sea covered most of the Great Lakes region, around 350 million years ago.

We checked into a hotel downtown, wandered through the shops and had lunch at one of the many restaurants. Af-

terwards we took an evening stroll along the waterfront at Petoskey State Park for more fantastic Lake Michigan views.

From there, we headed to Harbor Springs to see the Tunnel of Trees. Driving beneath these northern hardwoods creates the feeling of traveling through a tunnel. Along the way, dramatic turns and curves on this 27.5-mile drive provided us with more lake views. People say it’s even more spectacular in the fall, when the changing hues form a brilliant canopy.

Island visit

Next was Mackinaw City, where we hopped on the ferry to Mackinac Island, located between the lower and upper Michigan peninsulas. No motorized vehicles are allowed on the island. As we stepped off the ferry, the first thing that caught our eye was a horse and buggy carrying furniture. It was like travelling back in time.

We explored Mackinac on foot. We strolled through the charming downtown, with its boutiques, restaurants, bars and sweet shops. Since Mackinac Island calls itself the “Fudge Capital of the World,” we had to have some. There’s even a Fudge Festival here in October.

A must-visit is the Grand Hotel, a National Historic Landmark. Built in 1887, it drew wealthy vacationers and notables, including Thomas Edison, Mark Twain and

several presidents. The 1981 film “Somewhere in Time,” starring Christopher Reeve, Jane Seymour and Christopher Plummer, was filmed in the hotel, and people visit each year because of the movie.

Rocking chairs line the 660-foot-long front porch, the world’s largest. We loved the breathtaking views of the Straits of Mackinac and Mackinac Bridge from the hotel, which blooms with more than 150 varieties of flowers.

Great golf courses

Surprisingly, Michigan is ranked the second-best state for public golf in America, with 738 public courses. Being golfers (or hackers), before heading home we decided to stop and play at Shanty Creek Resort, which has five golf courses. We played The Legend by Arnold Palmer. It had a little of everything — elevation changes, doglegs, water hazards and wellplaced traps.

Finally we headed home, but we will return in the fall to capture that season’s beauty.

If you go

Round-trip flights from the D.C. area to Detroit start at $200 on Southwest. By car it’s eight hours to Detroit and about four hours more to Mackinaw City. During the peak seasons of summer and early fall, it’s best to make hotel reservations in advance.

45 minutes north, for less than $200.

August, there’s always a good time to visit Newport.

If you go

Newport, Rhode Island, is a seven-and-ahalf-hour drive from the D.C. area. Often you can find a nonstop flight to Providence,

Plan an immersive visit with a stay at one of the city’s historic inns or B&Bs. Many are the former homes of ship captains and are beautifully restored. Their charming innkeepers are a valuable resource when exploring the city.

For more information about where to eat, stay or shop in Newport, visit Discover Newport at discovernewport.org.

Kayakers get a close-up view of Turnip Rock in Lake Huron, located on the “thumb” of Michigan’s “hand.” Summer days are long in the state that borders four Great Lakes.

PHOTO BY PURE MICHIGAN

Where the wealthy can retire in style

By Eileen Daspin

Erica Jong had the audience’s rapt attention. The 82-year-old writer, famous for her 1970s bestseller Fear of Flying, was discussing creativity and her need to capture the world around her in prose and poetry.

As Jong spoke, sunlight streamed through 24-foot windows. The walls were clad in red onyx marble, and the beamed ceiling was crafted from white oak.

Jong could have been delivering a lecture anywhere from Aspen to Cape Town. Instead, the author and her audience were in a retirement living facility called Inspīr Carnegie Hill on the Upper East Side of New York City. Jong lives in the complex. So do most of those who were in attendance.

Some afternoons, the residents are serenaded by a string quartet. On others, they might pop into the onsite spa for a facial, or enjoy a cocktail in the lobby bar, furnished like a five-star hotel. It’s the crème de la crème, resident Marilyn Snyder said. “There is nothing that compares to this.”

What does upscale retirement living look like?

The retirement living industry is upping its game. As Boomers grow older, a handful of developers are pivoting to retirement homes that allow the wealthy to age in style.

Called continuing care retirement communities, these complexes offer independent living, assisted living and memory care, all within the same building or cam-

pus. The goal is to make aging as seamless as possible.

The basic continuing-care model is a longstanding one, as are high-end projects, where beauty salons, fitness centers and upscale dining are standard fare. What’s new is the next-level razzle-dazzle.

The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center, which opened in Gaithersburg, Maryland, last year, has a heated saltwater pool, yoga studio and art gallery — as well as a quarterly lecture series.

Its sister property, the Fitzgerald at Palisades, opened in Washington, D.C., in May, sporting amenities like a technology concierge and a baby grand piano in the lobby.

At one of the five restaurants at The Fitzgerald at Palisades, “members” (rather than “residents”) are greeted with warm towels. “You’re going to have a culinary dining experience, having your cutlery changed in between courses, and you end with a warm scented towel as well,” said Alphonso Westley, general manager of the Fitzgerald of Palisades, a Kisco Signature Community. “That’s the five-star Washington experience.”

and 80 million by 2050. Today, the top 10% of retirees have a minimum net worth of just under $2 million, with the top 5% sitting on more than $3 million.

“Boomers are demanding and not afraid to spend money and want the physical plant to support it,” said Tom Gaston, the chief investment officer of Maplewood Senior Living, which operates 17 properties around the country, including Inspīr Embassy Row. “We are talking about people with one or two homes, multiple cars, who have their house updated. They are looking for a lifestyle.”

For instance, at Inspīr Embassy Row in D.C.’s Dupont Circle neighborhood, which opened in February, residents have a Himalayan salt room, massage therapy room, salon, rooftop lounge (with live music) and pet spa.

“It’s 1,000 percent a luxury property. People are blown away when they walk in the door,” said Laurie Thomas, executive director of leasing at Inspīr Embassy Row. “For the finishings, we use marble, we use terracotta, we use white oak. It’s a luxurious feel. There are three two-story fireplaces.”

Fine dining is a given at these properties. “Our executive chef worked at the

‘Looking for a lifestyle’ Operators are following the Boomer demographics — 50 million retirees today,

Jockey Club back when it was in its heyday,” Thomas said. “People flip because all of them have been to the Jockey Club.”

What are the costs for luxury retirement?

The earliest U.S. facilities that provided continuing care date to the early 1900s and were affiliated with religious or fraternal organizations. Typically, residents turned over their assets in return for a guarantee of lifetime healthcare. Today, applicants aren’t required to empty the bank, but they are vetted financially to make sure they will be able to afford payments.

As a rule of thumb, the prospective resident is required to have assets worth 1.5 to 2 times the entrance fee — which can range

from about $250,000 to $4 million plus.

In addition, there are monthly fees in the $3,000 to $12,000 range that cover dayto-day expenses and amenities. Depending on the type of contract, the fees can increase with each move to a higher level of care.

Last year’s entrance fees at The Mather in Tysons, Virginia, ranged from $678,300 to $4.4 million, and monthly fees ranged from $3,420 to $11,820. Seven residents took two apartments to combine them into one; one couple bought side-by-side units.

The other model for multi-level care communities is straight rental. They require low or no entrance fee, and no financial or health vetting, but monthly payments run much higher. At Inspīr Carnegie Hill in New York City, for example, rates for an independent living studio start at $11,000 and $27,000 for a two-bedroom.

Ask an At-Home Care Expert

Alex Petukhov, Owner

Best Senior Care

Q: We want to stay in our home but need some help. What should we consider when hiring a caregiver?

A: That’s a wonderful choice! Many seniors prefer to age in the comfort of their own home—and who wouldn’t?

When looking for a caregiver, it’s important to focus on three key qualities: compassion, reliability, and experience. Ask yourself, “How would I want my caregiver to treat me?”

At Best Senior Care, our caregivers aren’t just workers— they’re family. Many have been with us for years and have cared for their own loved ones. We respect, support, and take great care of them, so they can focus on providing exceptional care to you.

All our caregivers are carefully screened, trained, insured, and bonded. They’re dedicated professionals who find personal fulfillment in helping others. This is much safer and more reliable than hiring someone informally.

Let us help you find the perfect caregiver who will treat you with the respect and compassion you deserve.

Retirees who choose rentals trust their investment savvy.

“A lot of seniors are doing the math and saying, ‘I’ll manage my half a million myself, thank you very much,’” said Andy Carle, the lead instructor for the graduate curricula in senior living administration at Georgetown University.

Factors to consider

Most people are very satisfied with their lives in a continuing care community. Industry-wide, fewer than 2% to 3% of residents cancel their contracts, according to Carle.

Still, adjusting to congregant living can take time.

“In the luxury market, you’ve got people who had servants and cooks and housekeepers they ordered around,” said Susan Hulett, president of the resident council at the Variel in Woodland Hills near Los Angeles, where perks include a private movie theater, golf simulator room and a pent-

house-level lounge looking out at the Santa Monica Mountains.

“In your own home, you can do whatever you want when you want. But in a community, you have to give up some of your autonomy.”

For Hulett, 80, the move into a continuing care facility crystallized after an accident shattered her ankle. Now recovered, Hulett goes to 10 exercise classes a week and enjoys hanging out in the sky lounge.

“I love the interaction with other people and the fact I can make a choice at any time to be with people or alone,” she said.

Margaret Foster contributed to this article. This item first appeared in Kiplinger Retirement Report, a popular monthly periodical that covers key concerns of affluent older Americans who are retired or preparing for retirement.

© The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

DISCOVER SUMMER AT DC PUBLIC LIBRARY

Join the city-wide reading and learning celebration that takes place through Aug. 31. Enjoy author talks, workshops, tech help and more at all DCPL branches. Events are free, with many geared toward older adults. For details and more information, visit dclibrary.org/discover-summer-adults.

VINYL DAY RETURNS

Aug. 9

Join Montgomery County Public Libraries for “Just for the Record: A Vinyl Day” on Sat., Aug. 9 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Brigadier General Charles E. McGee Library, 900 Wayne Ave., Silver Spring, MD.

This free, family-friendly music festival features DJ lessons, album cover art, songwriting workshops, kids’ dance parties, STEM activities and thousands of vinyl records for sale. Hosted by Friends of the Library, the Levine School of Music and the Mid-Atlantic Scratch League. For more information, visit folmc.org.

BEACON BITS

Some home improvements are tax-deductible

By Kate Schubel

Over the years, after countless aesthetic and maintenance upgrades, you’ve finally decided to retire in your forever home. But is your house ready for retirement?

According to AARP, more than 75% of adults age 50 and older want to “age in place” in their current homes. However, one-third say they need modifications to make that happen.

Fortunately, the IRS allows tax deductions for medically necessary home improvements, so long as the upgrades meet certain requirements. But be aware of how the renovation might impact your house value, which could raise instead of lower your tax bill.

Let’s start by looking at how to deduct home improvement costs with the medical expense tax deduction.

Medical expense tax deduction

To claim the medical expense deduction, you must itemize your tax return rather than claim the standard deduction. Only 1 out of 10 people itemize when filing federal taxes.

Medical expenses are deductible to the extent that costs exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI).

For instance, if you have an AGI of $200,000 and medical expenses of $20,000, 7.5% of your AGI is $15,000.

Deduct that from $20,000 in medical expenses and you get $5,000. That means you can deduct $5,000 of medical expenses on your federal income tax return.

But the “7.5% rule” isn’t the only requirement to claim a medical expense deduction. If you’re claiming home modifications for medical purposes (more on that below), the cost of your home upgrade must also:

• Benefit yourself, your spouse or your dependents.

• Be incurred to primarily alleviate or pre-

vent a physical or mental disability or illness.

• Not be covered by insurance.

Check out the IRS website for medical expense tax deduction requirements. But next, we’ll cover a few key qualifications.

Aging-in-place and the medical expense tax deduction

You may think that any qualifying medical expense counts for the deduction. However, permanent improvements that increase your home’s value can only be partly included as a medical expense. The difference between the upgrade cost and your property’s increased value determines your total medical expense tax deduction.

Also, the IRS only considers reasonable costs for medical care. Upgrades that increase a home’s architectural or aesthetic value are not permitted.

Remember: Your home improvement must be for medical purposes only if you want to claim the medical expense deduction. It’s important to get a doctor’s note citing a disability, illness, or disease to substantiate why you need the upgrade.

That said, let’s examine a survey of the top aging-in-place projects to identify a few potentially tax-deductible home improvements.

Home improvement ideas for retirement

The National Association of Home Builders recently surveyed a group of remodelers about which aging-in-place projects homeowners choose. Here are a few ideas for your next home improvement project:

The top three home improvements were in the bathroom, with 93% reporting support bar fixtures, 83% reporting a curbless shower, and 77% reporting higher toilet installations.

The fourth highest home improvement

was widening doorways. This is important for individuals with mobility limitations. An older home doorway may be less than the ADA standard of 32 inches wide.

The fifth most popular home improvement was lighting, such as adding more lights, lowering light switches, or replacing older switches with “rockers” that are easier to toggle back and forth.

Other projects included adding a full bedroom and bathroom on the main floor, introducing ramps outside, installing nonslip floors, and lowering countertops and kitchen cabinets.

However, not all of these home improvements may qualify for a tax deduction. If in doubt, consult with a tax professional and be sure to obtain a doctor’s note proving why these upgrades are medically necessary for your household.

For instance, elevators, even if medically necessary, are assumed to add significant value to a home. This can increase your property tax bill (more on that below). Stair lifts may be a suitable alternative to help save on medical costs.

Renovations can increase property tax

Your home’s property tax is assessed based on the original cost you paid for the house plus any additions or improvements (with a periodic reassessment completed

by the corresponding municipality).

So, if you add a home improvement, you may increase your property tax liability. For significant home improvements, consult a tax professional to determine how your taxes may be impacted. (For more information about capital gains taxes, see page B-12.)

Tax documentation for renovation projects

Documents like the following can help you prove your home project increased your tax basis and therefore reduce your capital gain if you decide to sell:

• Contractor agreements and invoices

• Purchase orders

• Receipts and cancelled checks

You should also keep these documents if the IRS has questions about your home improvement medical expense tax deduction. For more information on which tax records you should hold onto, check out Kiplinger’s report “How Long Should You Keep Tax Records?”.

When making an aging-in-place plan, include home improvements that will adapt to future health challenges. And bear in mind any helpful (or pesky) tax considerations you could encounter.

© 2025 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Long-term care insurance more flexible

By Derek Miser

As people live longer and health care costs continue to rise, the need for longterm care (LTC) insurance has become increasingly important in retirement planning.

This type of insurance has evolved significantly in the past decade.

Before 2010, LTC policies were largely traditional, with a “use-it-or-lose-it” approach.

Today, new product structures such as

BEACON BITS

Ongoing

asset-based solutions and return-of-premium policies are available, offering flexibility, financial protection and even opportunities to fund long-term care with qualified retirement funds. So, what does this mean for your retirement plan?

How LTC insurance has changed Historically, long-term care insurance policies were structured similarly to traditional health insurance. These pre-2010 policies typically required ongoing premi-

FIND LOST RETIREMENT BENEFITS

A new U.S. Department of Labor database, created under the SECURE 2.0 Act, may help locate unclaimed retirement benefits from past employers. The Retirement Savings Lost and Found (RSLF) database includes information submitted by plan administrators about separated vested participants age 65+ and potential survivor benefits. To search, visit login.gov with your legal name, birth date, Social Security number and ID. If you’re not successful, contact the Pension Rights Center at pensionrights.org or visit pensionhelp.org for free legal assistance.

Ongoing

THRIFT BOUTIQUE SEEKS VOLUNTEERS

The New 4 You Thrift Boutique, an all-volunteer nonprofit supporting local charities, is seeking volunteers. No special skills are needed, and training is provided. Flexible schedules are available. The shop is located at 4909 Cordell Ave., Bethesda, MD. For more information, visit new4youthrift.org or call (301) 656-2002.

um payments and provided coverage only if the policyholder needed care. If the policy was never used, the premiums paid were not recoverable, making it a less appealing option for many people.

This “use-it-or-lose-it” structure was also vulnerable to premium increases and, in some cases, left policyholders with difficult choices about maintaining coverage as they aged.

In recent years, companies like One America and Nationwide have developed asset-based LTC solutions, such as One America’s Asset Care and Nationwide’s CareMatters, that allow retirees to purchase LTC coverage within a life insurance policy or annuity.

These hybrid policies provide access to long-term care benefits if needed but also offer a return-of-premium feature or a death benefit if long-term care is not required. This makes it possible for retirees to preserve some of their investment.

Additionally, premiums for these policies are typically fixed, which helps retirees avoid the cost uncertainty of older LTC policies.

The Asset Care solution from One America even allows for long-term care insurance funding with qualified retirement accounts, including IRAs. This can be a powerful tool for retirees who want to

leverage their retirement funds for future care needs, reducing the impact on other savings or cash flow.

Self-funding vs. buying coverage

One of the first considerations retirees face is whether to self-fund long-term care costs or buy coverage. Self-funding, or paying for care out of pocket, allows retirees to avoid premiums. This approach may work for those with significant assets who believe they can absorb the potential costs of long-term care without compromising their standard of living.

However, long-term care costs can be unpredictable and steep. You may need long-term care for years, potentially creating a significant financial burden, especially if you or your spouse requires care at different times. Without LTC insurance, the cost of care could erode retirement savings, reduce inheritance for heirs and affect the lifestyle of the healthy spouse.

Buying LTC insurance mitigates these risks by providing a pre-established pool of funds for care.

While premiums are required, modern policies offer return-of-premium or death benefits. Retirees who do not need care can, with the return-of-premium option,

Some herbs come back year after year

By Jessica Damiano

If you like to cook, odds are you’re painfully aware of the price of herbs at the supermarket. But for the cost of a 1- or 2ounce plastic clamshell packet, you can buy a plant that will produce aromatic herbs for your kitchen all summer long — and even year after year.

Perennial herbs are among the easiest edibles to grow at home. All they require is sunlight (with some shade), modest amounts of water (more during hot, dry spells) and well-draining soil. They typically don’t even need fertilizer.

You can plant a dedicated herb garden or use herbs as edging plants in your perennial flower beds; many of them are pretty enough. Consider sage’s fuzzy, purple-tinged leaves, onion chives’ purple spring flowers or garlic chives’ white summer blooms. Heck, just stick them wherever you have room, as long as the sun can reach them.

My thyme, oregano, chives, sage, tarragon and Roman chamomile fill most of a

LTC insurance

From page B-6

receive a portion of the premiums paid either as a death benefit or through a return of the invested premium. This option ensures that money set aside for care doesn’t go unused.

Control and choice in care

Another advantage of LTC insurance is that some plans cover a broader choice of care settings, including in-home care, assisted living facilities or nursing homes. For retirees who prefer to stay in their homes, LTC insurance can provide the financial resources to make that possible, often covering the cost of in-home care providers and necessary medical equipment.

Buying LTC insurance with qualified money, such as funds in an IRA or 401(k), allows retirees to leverage tax-deferred savings for future needs without withdrawing large sums from other accounts.

Bottom line

Today’s long-term care insurance options are a far cry from the rigid, high-premium policies of the past. With assetbased solutions that offer return-of-premium benefits and the ability to use qualified funds, LTC insurance has become a versatile, cost-effective way to prepare for care needs.

As retirees weigh the decision to selffund or buy LTC insurance, it’s essential to consider the potential financial risks of care costs. With modern LTC insurance, retirees can take a balanced approach that combines flexibility, asset protection and peace of mind for themselves and their loved ones.

4-by-4-foot raised bed near the back steps, leaving just enough room for me to tuck in some annual herbs.

All are cold-hardy down to zone 4, with chives pushing the limit as far north as zone 3. [Ed. Note: The D.C. area is in zones 7 and 8.] And they all can handle heat down to zones 8 or 9, with oregano returning reliably as far south as zone 11.

Mint and lemon balm are fast-spreading perennials hardy in zones 4 through 9, but they will take over your garden if you plant them in the ground. Grow them only in pots and keep the pots on a porch, deck or patio.

Some annual herbs tend to return, too. When self-seeders like dill and cilantro (aka coriander) drop seeds at the end of the season, leave them where they lie. They’ll germinate and sprout more plants the following spring.

Other herbs are biennials, completing

their life cycles at the end of their second growing season. Parsley produces plenty of fragrant foliage in its first year and slightly stunted but still perfectly edible leaves in its second before it flowers and calls it quits.

Caraway, another biennial, produces seeds only in its second year, but getting to boast about growing your own spices makes the wait worthwhile.

BITS

At the end of the growing season, you can dry or freeze your homegrown herbs for year-round, fresh-from-the-garden ingredients.

Another bonus? They’ll all attract pollinators and other beneficial insects, which will help make the rest of your garden more productive.

HELPLINE FOR EXTREME HEAT

The Disaster Distress Helpline (1-800-985-5990) offers free, confidential 24/7 crisis counseling for anyone affected by extreme heat or other disasters. Operated by SAMHSA, the helpline provides support in more than 100 languages, including Spanish and ASL (via text or preferred relay service). Services include emotional support, referrals and coping resources. For more information, visit samhsa.gov/ddh.

ENTERPRISE RESIDENTIAL

MOST COMMUNITIES ARE 62 AND BETTER

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY

The Greens at Hammonds Lane: 410-636-1141

Park View at Furnace Branch: 410-761-4150

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How to choose the best walk-in bathtub

Dear Savvy Senior,

Because of my back pain and mobility problems, I’m interested in getting a walk-in bathtub that’s safe and easy to get in and out of. What can you tell me about walk-in tubs, and can you recommend some top options?

—Old and Achy Dear Old and Achy, For mobility-challenged people, a walk-in bathtub can be a terrific option to consider

because they’re much easier to get into and out of than a standard tub, which also helps prevent falls.

Here’s what you should know, along with a reliable resource to help you choose one:

Age-friendly tubs

Walk-in bathtubs have a watertight, hinged door built into the side of the tub that provides a much lower threshold to step over (usually three to seven inches) versus

Ways to make a home safe and accessible

By National Institute on Aging

Many older adults want to “age in place” — stay in their own homes as they get older — but may have concerns about safety, getting around or other daily activities. Living at home as you age requires careful consideration and planning. A few changes could make your home easier and safer to live in and help you continue to live independently.

• Reduce fall hazards: Place no-slip strips or non-skid mats on tile and wood floors or surfaces that may get wet.

• Don’t use area rugs, and check that

all carpets are fixed firmly to the floor.

• Replace handles on doors or faucets with ones that are comfortable for you to use.

• Install grab bars near toilets and in the tub or shower.

• Place light switches at the top and bottom of stairs, and remember to turn on night lights.

• Install a ramp with handrails to the front door.

Learn more about aging in place at nia.nih.gov/health/aging-place-growing-older-home.

a standard tub that’s around 15 inches. Most walk-in tubs have high sidewalls, usually between three and four feet high, and are between 28 and 32 inches wide, but will fit into the same 60-inch-long space as your standard tub without having to reconfigure the room.

In addition to the low threshold, most walk-in tubs also have a built-in seat, grab bars, anti-slip floors and antiscald valves. Some tubs also come with handheld showerheads and quick drains (that drain the tub in under a minute), and many higher-end models offer therapeutic spalike features that are great for seniors with arthritis and other ailments.

By Jim Miller

If you’re receiving Medicaid, many states have home and community-based services that may provide some assistance. Or if you’re a disabled veteran, the VA has some home modification grants that may help pay.

There are also grants and loans available through the U.S. Department of Agriculture that help older low-income residents of rural areas make home modifications, which may be used to pay for a walk-in bathtub. And there may be local programs that can help, like Habitat for Humanity or Rebuilding Together.

Be aware that walk-in bathtubs are not cheap. Prices range anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 or more for the tub and installation costs.

Insurance and aid

Because walk-in tubs are not considered durable medical equipment, original Medicare does not typically cover them nor do Medicare supplemental (Medigap) policies. But some Medicare Advantage plans may help pay.

To find out if these options are available in your area, contact your Area Aging Agency (call 1-800-677-1116) or nearby center for independent living (see ilru.org).

If, however, you can’t locate any financial assistance and you can’t afford to pay upfront for a walk-in tub, most manufacturers offer financing so you can make monthly payments. If you’re using a walkin tub for a specific medical condition, you may also be able to deduct the costs of the tub from your taxes as a medical expense.

SAVVY SENIOR

FREE HOUSING AND OTHER INFORMATION

Check off advertisers of interestand mail this coupon to the Beacon with your contact info. Or you may take a picture of your completed coupon and email itto housing@thebeaconnewspapers.com.

All coupons received by August 16 will be entered into arandom drawing to win a pair of tickets to see Saturday Night Fever at Toby’s Dinner Theatre in Columbia. You need notrequest information to win.

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INDEPENDENT & PERSONAL CARE COMMUNITIES

B’nai B’rith

Homecrest House

301-244-3579

14508 Homecrest Road

Silver Spring, MD 20906 www.homecresthouse.org

Homecrest House is a non-profit, affordable, subsidized senior adult community nestled amidst 10 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds with its own lake, neighboring Leisure World. The three residential buildings on the B’nai B’rith Homecrest campus provide 235 apartments for Independent Living, some designed for adults with physical mobility challenges, and 42 apartments offering Enhanced Care Services. We are excited to have you come and see our elegantly renovated community buildings. You’re invited to tour this incredible transformation.

For a personalized tour now, call 301-244-3579 or visit us at www.homecresthouse.org

REHABILITATION

Brooke Grove Retirement Village

301-321-8707

18100 Slade School Road

Sandy Spring, MD 20860 www.bgf.org

Imagine an extraordinary staff and the best therapies and equipment—in a beautiful environment that rejuvenates and restores. Physical therapy spaces bathed in sunlight. The quiet comfort of a garden walk or relaxing massage. Imagine getting back to the activities that matter to you. Our new, state-of-the-art rehab addition at Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center offers innovative therapy services for seniors, including NeuroGym® Technologies mobility training, the Korebalance system and much more. Visit us to see why Brooke Grove Retirement Village is one of the most sought-after continuing-care retirement communities in the state. Rehab here is simply different… because what surrounds you really matters.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Woodleigh Chase

1-877-211-6968

4595 Burke Station Rd.

Fairfax, VA 22032

WoodleighChase.com

More Fun. More Value. More Peace of Mind.

For distinctive retirement living, look no further than Woodleigh Chase®. The premier senior living community in Fairfax offers floor plans to fit your style and budget, exciting amenities, and services to enhance your health and well-being—all in a location you love!

Stay active and enjoy countless opportunities to explore hobbies, entertainment, education, and more. The on-site medical center is just steps from your door and security staff trained in emergency response is just moments away.

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Call 1-877-211-6968 or visit WoodleighChase.com for your free bochure.

Best cold-weather places to retire

By Stacy Rapacon

Some like it hot; others not so much. If you dream of a retirement destination where you get to bundle up for long winters and enjoy jacket weather in the summertime, head north.

Many of the following locales offer an abundance of winter activities, such as skiing and snowshoeing, as well as several other year-round benefits, including low taxes and affordable living costs.

To determine the best cold weather places to retire, Kiplinger looked at average temperatures, cost of living, the share of the population over age 65 and Kiplinger’s ratings of tax friendliness. Check out these extra-cool spots if you want to chill out when you retire:

Bangor, Maine

• Average low temperature in January: 9°F

• Average high temperature in July: 81°F

• Cost of living: 14.3% below U.S. average

• Share of population 65+: 20%

• Heat factor: Moderate; 90% of properties are at moderate risk of heat over the next 30 years

Maine’s great outdoors offer crosscountry skiing and snowshoeing, as well as dog-sledding and snowmobiling. In the warmer months, the same trails can be used for walking, hiking or biking.

While the Pine Tree State can be painfully pricey, the relatively small city of Bangor (population: 31,628) is more affordable than other well-known areas such as Kennebunkport (where the wealthy Bush clan has a compound) and Mount Desert (a favorite of the Rockefellers). The average home value in Bangor is $270,310.

Pittsfield, Massachusetts

• Average low temperature in January: 15°F

Walk-in bathtub

From page B-8

Best walk-in bathtubs

To help you choose a walk-in bathtub, the National Council on Aging, which is a national nonprofit organization that advocates for older Americans, put together a review team to research the different companies and tubs. Their list of best walk-in bathtubs of 2024 includes:

• Best Walk-in Tub Overall: Ella Ultimate Walk-In Tub

• Best Walk-in Tub with Shower: Kohler Walk-In Tub with Shower Package

• Most Affordable Walk-in Tub: Ariel

• Average high temperature in July: 81°F

• Cost of living: 4.1% below the average

• Share of population 65+: 20.1%

• Heat factor: Minor; 70% of properties are at minor risk of heat over the next 30 years

New England is notoriously expensive, but Pittsfield offers a small pocket of relative affordability. Overall, living costs are lower than the national average, and much more reasonable than in Boston. Housing is also notably affordable: The average Pittsfield home value is $291,994, compared with $625,065 for all of Massachusetts.

Leaf peeping in the fall may be enough to draw you to the Berkshires. But you have plenty to enjoy all year round, including excellent sites for camping, fishing, hiking and skiing. You can also enjoy musical performances at the nearby Tanglewood Music Center, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.

Ann Arbor, Michigan

• Average low temperature in January: 17°F

• Average high temperature in July: 84°F

• Cost of living: 5.5% above the average

• Share of population 65+: 12.7%

• Heat factor: Moderate; 89% of properties are at moderate risk of heat over the next 30 years

Another college town well suited to retirees, Ann Arbor is home to the University of Michigan with all its educational programs (including the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, which offers college classes for seniors), sporting events and cultural affairs.

The university also runs the Geriatrics Center and Institute of Gerontology, which focuses on healthcare issues that come with aging. Along with its research and

, page B-11

Walkin 3052 Soaker

• Best Soaking Tub: American Standard Gelcoat Entry Series

• Best Wheelchair-Accessible Tub: Ella Transfer

• Best Walk-in Tub for Small Spaces: AmeriGlide Sanctuary 2646 WIT

See NCOA.org/adviser/walk-in-tubs/ best-walk-in-tubs for detailed reviews and product links.

Contact a few walk-in bathtub retailers who can send a professional to your home to assess your bathroom and give you product options and estimates. Lowe’s and Home Depot also offer free evaluations and a wide range of walk-in tub options.

medical facilities and staff, the Center offers programs and classes to help older adults maximize their good health and independence. In fact, U.S. News ranked the University of Michigan Health – Ann Arbor as second-best hospital in Michigan.

A downside to Ann Arbor, however, is affordability. The average home value is $495,371, versus $241,007 for the rest of the state.

Great Falls, Montana

• Average low temperature in January: 18°F

• Average high temperature in July: 87°F

• Cost of living: 12.1% below the average

• Share of population 65+: 20%

• Heat factor: Minor; 98% of properties are at minor risk of heat over the next 30 years

Adventurous retirees (with a high threshold for cold winters) can thrive in Great Falls, located on the high plains of Montana’s Rocky Mountain Front Range.

This portion of Big Sky Country hosts its fair share of hiking, skiing, mountain biking and kayaking. And the area has about 60 parks and 40 miles of trails along the scenic Missouri River. If that’s not enough, Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks are about four and three hours away, respectively.

Another plus: The cost of living is relatively affordable. The average Great Falls home value is $318,332, compared to $452,050 for the state of Montana.

Peterborough, New Hampshire

• Average low temperature in January: 11°F

• Average high temperature in July: 80°F

• Cost of living: 10.7% above the average

• Share of population 65+: 28.5%

• Heat factor: Moderate; 82% of properties are at moderate risk of heat over the next 30 years

Where better to retire and “realize life while you live it — every, every minute” than the place that (in part) inspired Our Town ’s Grover’s Corners? The real-life representation of classic small-town America, Peterborough is a peaceful home to 6,500 people.

The area’s average home value is $468,873, compared to $494,992 for the rest of the state. There’s a nice selection of restaurants in town, and if you want to get out, there’s plenty of outdoor recreation to enjoy, including nearby snowshoeing, hiking, skiing and just taking in the scenic mountain views.

Donna Fuscaldo and Erin Bendig contributed to this article.

© 2025 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Ashby Ponds 877-664-5445

44795 Audubon Square Ashburn, VA 20147 AshbyPonds.com

Why Choose Senior Living at Ashby Ponds?

There are countless reasons why Ashby Ponds is ideal for your retirement. Enjoy exceptional value, worry-free living, and a community that prioritizes your well-being. Stay active and engaged with a variety of enriching amenities and activities. Plus, gain peace of mind knowing our on-site care is always available when you need it. Ashby Ponds is more than just a place to live; it’s a place to thrive. Discover why Ashburn’s premier senior living community is a great choice for you. Call 1-877-664-5445 to learn more with a free brochure.

ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE

The Sylvestery at Vinson Hall 703-538-2975

6251 Old Dominion Drive McLean, VA 22101 www.vinsonhall.org

Comfort and Care -- For Residents and Their Families Among all the complexities of aging, Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia can be the most challenging for the entire family. We all want to know our loved ones are in a safe and secure community --but we also want them to have kind and patient caregivers and a stimulating environment that ensures every day is meaningful. That's why we developed The Sylvestery, the dedicated memory care neighborhood at Vinson Hall Retirement Community. Our private suites and sun-drenched common spaces give residents a cheerful and home-like experience --all in a 24/7 secure environment and staffed by a caring team of licensed nurses. Contact us to learn more at 703-538-2975

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

18889 Waring Station Road Germantown MD 20874

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INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Introducing The Grandview 1-844-366-4206

6701 Democracy Blvd., Suite 150-B Bethesda, MD 20817

TheGrandviewSeniorLiving.com

Why Are So Many of Your Neighbors Moving to The Grandview? For Vibrant Senior Living in the Perfect Location Seniors across the DMV are planning an active retirement at The GrandviewSM, a distinctive new community coming to Bethesda this fall. Enjoy a variety of stylish residences, resort-style amenities, and the convenience of an on-site medical center staffed by full-time providers. Everything you need is just steps from your door!

The Grandview is the newest community by Erickson Senior Living, a national leader among continuing care retirement communities.

Call 1-855-479-8096 for your free brochure or to schedule your visit to the Sales Center.

The Grandview is pending approval from the Maryland Department of Aging.

ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE

Brooke Grove Retirement Village

301-321-8707

18100 Slade School Road Sandy Spring, MD 20860 www.bgf.org

This community hums with warm-hearted camaraderie and a zest for life shared by residents and staff alike. Experience all that makes assisted living at Brooke Grove extraordinary. Cozy, homelike dwellings with easy access to beautiful courtyards and walking paths. Caring staff trained in using memory support techniques, building independence and lifting self-esteem. Innovative LIFE® Enrichment Programming with meaningful activities and off-site adventures. Visit us to see why Brooke Grove Retirement Village is one of the most sought-after continuing care retirement communities in the state. Living here is simply different … because what surrounds you really matters.

ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY

5420 Connecticut Avenue NW Washington, DC 20015

www.chevychasehouse.com

Chevy Chase House provides boutique assisted living for older adults looking for personalized care without compromising lifestyle and active living. In addition to 24-hour nursing available, the community features Life Inspired, the daily activities program that promotes overall wellness, socialization, and a Chef-prepared dining experience. Unique to the Chevy Chase House is its partnership with FOX Rehab to not only provide on-site physical, occupational and speech therapies, but also employs a full-time exercise physiologist to help residents with improving balance and mobility, strength training, and fall prevention programming. Conveniently located on Connecticut Avenue in D.C.

Call 202-905-0708 to schedule a tour or stop by Chevy Chase House to learn more.

Don’t get stuck with capital gains tax bills

By Kelley R. Taylor

A rise in home values has led to an increase in the number of homeowners unexpectedly facing capital gains taxes when selling their properties. Despite a generous capital gains tax home exclusion of up to $500,000, more homeowners are discovering that the profits from the sale of their homes surpass the tax-free limit.

Data reveal that last year, approximately 8% of home sales resulted in gains that exceeded the home exclusion threshold. That is more than double the percentage five years ago, according to a report from CoreLogic, a company that provides consumer information and analytics.

Although capital gains tax impacts a growing number of homeowners throughout the U.S., it’s particularly noticeable in states with high property values. It’s also affecting long-term homeowners who have seen significant appreciation in their property values.

So, what can you do about capital gains taxes if your home value has increased?

Capital gains tax impacts more homeowners

The capital gains tax on home sales applies to the profits from selling a property. Homeowners can exclude up to $250,000 of net gains if filing single and up to $500,000 if married filing jointly. Profits beyond these limits are subject to capital gains tax at rates that can be as high as 20%, with an additional surtax for some high earners.

To qualify for the capital gains tax home exclusion, the homeowner must have lived in the home as their primary residence for at least two of the five years preceding the sale. But keep in mind that the IRS allows you only one primary residence at a time, and you can claim this exclusion just once every two years.

So, what’s happening? One issue is that the exclusion limit isn’t adjusted for inflation. That means the value of the tax relief provided by the home sale exclusion for capital gains tax has eroded over time.

As a result, states with high property values, like California, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Florida and Colorado, are significantly impacted. [Ed. Note: Maryland and D.C. adjust for inflation.]

Homeowners in these areas are generally more likely to experience significant gains that surpass the exemption limit.

How to avoid paying capital gains tax

Several studies find that the prospect of a large tax bill can discourage homeowners from selling, even if they are looking to

downsize or move to a more affordable area. However, there are some strategies to help mitigate potential tax impact.

Documenting expenses for home improvements and renovations can reduce taxable gains. These costs can be added to the home’s original purchase price, reducing the net profit subject to tax.

Consider a fictional married couple who purchased their home for $300,000 seven years ago and decided to sell it in 2024 for $850,000. Without any improvements, their capital gain would be $550,000, which exceeds the $500,000 exclusion for married couples filing jointly.

However, over the years, imagine they made significant improvements, such as renovating a kitchen and bathroom and replacing the roof, totaling $75,000. Their adjusted basis is now $375,000 ($300,000 purchase price + $75,000 in improvements). The improvements reduce their capital gain to $475,000 ($850,000 sale price minus $375,000 adjusted basis). By documenting home improvements (based on this example), the couple, filing jointly, can generally reduce capital gain from $550,000 to $475,000, bringing it under the $500,000 exclusion limit. As a result, they avoid paying capital gains tax on their home sale, potentially saving thousands of dollars.

Other moves to consider

• Keeping track of selling expenses. (Real estate agent commissions, legal fees and other home selling costs can be subtracted from your capital gains.)

• Taking advantage of exceptions. There may be partial exclusions available if you are selling due to work relocation, health reasons, other unforeseen circumstances or other rules applicable to U.S. Military service members, or a home sale due to separation, divorce or death of a spouse.

Bottom line: Check with an advisor

Despite potential tax implications, some homeowners may need to sell their homes for various reasons, such as high maintenance costs and rising property taxes. Others may decide that the benefits of liquidating a high-value asset outweigh potential financial downsides, like capital gains taxes.

However, with careful financial planning and documentation, the impact of these taxes might be manageable. Consult a trusted and qualified advisor who can help.

© The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

When collectors and cleaners collide

By Lori Borgman

I like to say that I am married to a “collector” because “pack rat” sounds unkind.

My husband comes from a long line of collectors. When they closed out the farmhouse his father lived in all his life, the lead auctioneer kicked off the three-ring, two-day auction under the main tent bellowing, “Ladies and gentlemen! The same family has lived in this house for 103 years! As near as we can tell, they never threw a thing away!”

Nailed it.

Naturally, I was raised in a family of the other extreme. If you dropped your napkin on the floor at dinner, by the time you bent over, picked it up and sat back up, your dinner plate could be gone, scraped, washed, dried and put away.

My philosophy is that there is a place for everything and everything has a place — and it better well be there.

My husband says he is married to a woman who is highly organized and efficiency-driven because extremist sounds unkind.

Being it is the start of a new season and fresh starts, I gently broach the matter of thinning out our every-growing accumulation of clutter — I mean treasures — by mentioning the Swedish Death Cleaning method.

My voice is soft and calming, and the giant box of construction-grade trash bags is hidden behind my back. I explain that the idea is to remove the burden of decluttering so after you’ve moved on (and I don’t mean to a storage room), only the essentials have been left behind for your loved ones.

He says that’s fine for people who are Swedish, but he’s not Swedish.

I say I’m not Swedish either, but

Swedish or non-Swedish, we all face death and then our kids will face our collections of clutter.

Typically, this is when he experiences a bout of sudden hearing loss. This occurs frequently when you’ve been married as long as we have.

A few days later, I casually mention the Four Box Method where you take four boxes, label one “keep,” the others “throw away,” “donate” and “sell,” and divide your goods accordingly. It is touted as a good method for when you don’t have a lot of time.

He says he can slash the time on the Four Box Method by knocking those four boxes down to one: “keep.”

I then suggest the 12-12-12 Challenge. You declutter by identifying 12 items to donate, 12 items to throw away and 12 more that need to remain in the home.

He says he has already identified the things that need to remain in the home: everything.

I am digging through papers in our safe deposit box, the bulk of which are expired home and auto insurance policies. I ask why we need to keep policies no longer in force. He says he needs them so he can compare the rates from year to year.

I tell him I can give him comparison rates for this year, the next year and every year after that: Every single policy will be more expensive than the year before.

He acts like he’s not impressed, but I see him chuckle in the reflection of an old mirror as I drop it into a box marked “donate.”

Lori Borgman is a columnist, author and speaker. Her book What Happens at Grandma’s Stays at Grandma’s is now available. Email her at lori@loriborgman.com.

© 2025 Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Riderwood Retirement Community

877-742-4390

3140 Gracefield Road

Silver Spring, MD 20904 Riderwood.com

Silver Spring’s Premier Destination for Senior Living Riderwood is the region’s favorite continuing care retirement community for a reason. Three reasons, to be precise:

1. Residences to Fit Your Budget

Choose from a variety of residences that are free from maintenance and big on modern style.

2. Resort-Style Amenities and Activities

You’ll find opportunities for dining, fitness, entertainment, education, and more just steps from your door.

3. Services to Enhance Your Well-Being

Enjoy the convenience of an on-site medical center staffed by full-time providers, plus multiple levels of care, should your needs ever change.

Get your FREE brochure today! Call 877-742-4390 or visit Riderwood.com.

LIFE PLAN COMMUNITY

Falcons Landing 703-293-5054

20522 Falcons Landing Circle

Potomac Falls, VA 20165

www.falconslanding.org

Located in scenic Loudoun County, Falcons Landing is a non-profit, CARF-accredited Life Plan Community. The award-winning community welcomes any person who has served at least four years in the uniformed services or a U.S. government agency, as well as those with significant connections to the national defense community. Others may also apply for residency on a case-by-case basis.

As always, direct admission is available to those seeking a higher level of care, regardless of military or government service.

Offering an array of resort-style services and amenities, Falcons Landing provides older adults with a unique opportunity to retire in style.

Call to learn more about Independent Living eligibility or to schedule a tour!

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

Brooke Grove Retirement Village 301-321-8707

18100 Slade School Road

Sandy Spring, MD 20860

www.bgf.org

You’ll feel it as soon as you drive onto our 220-acre campus of lush pastures and hardwood forest—all that makes independent living at Brooke Grove different. Beautiful cottages in a truly picturesque setting. Maintenance-free living, with more time for what you really want to do. Personalized fitness programs, meals prepared by talented chefs, clubs and social events. Neighbors who share your interests and passions. Come for a visit and see why Brooke Grove Retirement Village is one of the most soughtafter retirement communities in the state. Living here is simply different … because what surrounds you really matters.

INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY

7440 Spring Village Drive • Springfield, VA 22150 GreenspringCommunity.com

Greenspring. Everything You Need for Vibrant Senior Living. For active living with peace of mind, all directions point to Springfield’s premier continuing care retirement community. Fun and Enrichment Every Day

Choose from a variety of stylish residences—all just steps from amenities like a pool, fitness center, restaurants, and more.

Outstanding Financial Value

One convenient Monthly Service Package covers all utilities, property taxes, and maintenance in and around your home. Health and Well-Being Services

Enjoy easy access to services like an on-site medical and multiple levels of care, should your needs ever change.

Get your FREE brochure today! Call 877-589-9570 or visit GreenspringCommunity.com

Connect with Montgomery County Resources!

n Need information about local activities you can enjoy?

n Do you want to help a family member live safely at home?

n How about where to get the training you need to reenter the job market?

Montgomery County and various community organizations offer a wealth of programs and services geared to older residents.

Resources are available that relate to safety, housing, consumer issues, caregiving, tax support, transportation, job search, tech support, and much more, including opportunities to volunteer.

Consider signing up for a regular e-newsletter (see Resources panel), and check out the monthly cable TV program, 50+ in Montgomery County, a program for and about older adults.

Your Voice Matters

Please keep alert for opportunities to complete an Age-Friendly Community Survey, or join a listening session. We need to know what you think about where you live. Help make Montgomery County an even better place! Go to montgomerycountymd.gov/senior.

Regardless of what information you want to find, Montgomery County government is here for you. Should you need it, staff can help arrange for information in a language other than English, or you can use the translation

Resources:

link on the County’s website.

Reach out to one or more of the resources below and discover how they can make a positive difference in your life!

Aging and Disability Services Telephone Line:

For information about services, or to report abuse, call: 240-777-3000 (via Maryland Relay at 711), email ADS@MontgomeryCountyMD.gov or visit bit.ly/MoCoResourceLine

Website for Residents 50+: For information about consumer issues, employment, health and wellness, recreation, safety, housing, caregiving, tax support, transportation, volunteering and much more, visit montgomerycountymd.gov/senior

Montgomery County Calendar of Events: montgomerycountymd.gov/mcg/calendar.html

Public Libraries: Check your local library for print, audio, large-type and e-books, as well as book clubs, computer help, tax preparation, music performances, and wellness programs. Most libraries have sections with information for residents 50+ and the library website has a section for older adults. Visit bit.ly/MoCoLibrary

50+ In Montgomery County: A cable television show for and about the County’s residents age 50 and older. For current and past programs, visit youtube.com/c/SeniorsToday

Senior News: An electronic newsletter with updates about events and programs; benefits and services; changes in policies and/or laws; and other relevant information for older residents and caregivers. Subscribe at: bit.ly/MoCoSeniorNewsSubscribe

Maryland Senior Legal Helpline: A free telephone hotline for people 60 and over living in Maryland. Attorneys who staff the helpline provide brief legal advice to callers, or give callers a referral to another legal resource or an appropriate public or private agency. Dial 1-888-465-2468.

Connect-A-Ride: Call 301-738-3252 for individualized assistance finding transportation. Call 311 for general information on County services.

Paying for nursing home care with Medicaid

By Jim Miller Dear Savvy Senior,

If my mother needs to move into a nursing home, what are the eligibility requirements to get Medicaid coverage?

Dear Caretaking,

—Caretaking Son

The rules and requirements for Medicaid eligibility for nursing home care are complicated and will vary according to the state your mother lives in. With that said, here’s a general, simplified rundown of what it takes to qualify:

Medicaid eligibility

Medicaid, the joint federal and state program that covers healthcare for the poor, is also the largest single payer of America’s nursing home bills for seniors who don’t have the resources to pay for their own care.

Most people who enter nursing homes don’t qualify for Medicaid at first but pay for care either through long-term care insurance or out-of-pocket until they deplete their savings and become eligible for Medicaid.

To qualify for Medicaid, your mother’s income and assets will need to be under a certain level that’s determined by your state. Most states (except California) require that a single person have no more than about $2,000 in countable assets

($3,000 for a married couple) that includes cash, savings, investments or other financial resources that can be turned into cash.

Assets that aren’t counted for eligibility include your mother’s home if it’s valued under $713,000 (this limit is $730,000 in Maryland and Virginia), her personal possessions and household goods, one vehicle, prepaid funeral plans and a small amount of life insurance.

But be aware that while her home is not considered a countable asset to determine eligibility, if she can’t return home, Medicaid can go after the proceeds of her house (when it’s eventually sold) to help reimburse her nursing home costs, unless a spouse or other dependent relative lives there. (There are some other exceptions to this rule.)

After qualifying, all sources of your mother’s income such as Social Security and pension checks must be turned over to Medicaid to pay for her care, except for a small personal needs allowance, usually between $30 and $160 per month.

You also need to be aware that your mother can’t give away her assets to qualify for Medicaid faster. Medicaid officials will look at their financial records going back five years to root out suspicious asset transfers. If they find one, her Medicaid coverage will be delayed a certain length of time, according to a formula that divides

the transfer amount by the average monthly cost of nursing home care in their state.

So, for example, if your mom lives in a state where the average monthly nursing home cost is $8,000 and she gave away cash or other assets worth $160,000, she would be ineligible for benefits for 20 months ($160,000 divided by $8,000 = 20).

Spousal protection

Medicaid also has special rules (known as the community spouse resource allowance) for married couples when one spouse enters a nursing home, and the other spouse remains at home.

In these cases, the healthy spouse can keep one half of the couple’s assets up to $157,920, the family home, all the furniture and household goods and one automobile. The healthy spouse is also entitled to keep a portion of the couple’s monthly income — usually between $2,465 and $3,854. Any income above that goes toward the cost of the

nursing home recipient’s care.

What about Medicare?

Medicare, the federal health insurance program for people 65 and older, and some younger people with disabilities, does not pay for long-term care. It only helps pay up to 100 days of rehabilitative nursing home care, which must occur after a three-day hospital stay.

For more information, contact your state Medicaid office. You can also get help from your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (see ShipHelp.org), which provides free counseling on Medicare and Medicaid issues. Call (202) 727-8370 in D.C., (301) 255-4250 in Montgomery County, Maryland, and 1-800-552-3402 in Virginia.

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior book.

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Money Law &

If you’re concerned about the future of Social Security, tell Congress. See article on p. 14.

Protect yourself from the latest scams

By Adriana Morga

Most of us need a refresher course on how to protect ourselves from scams.

“Scams have become so sophisticated now. Phishing emails, texts, spoofing caller ID, all of this technology gives scammers that edge,” said Eva Velasquez, president and CEO of the Identity Theft Resource Center.

A quick way to remember what to do when you think you’re getting scammed is to think about the three S’s, said Alissa Abdullah, Mastercard’s deputy chief security officer.

“Stay suspicious, stop for a second (and think about it) and stay protected,” she said.

Know the most common scams

Simply being aware of typical scams can help, experts say. Scammers often imitate someone in authority, such as a tax or debt collector. They might pretend to be a loved one calling to request immediate financial assistance for bail, legal help or a hospital bill.

Robocalls in particular frequently target vulnerable individuals like older adults, people with disabilities and people with debt.

“If you get a robocall out of the blue playing a recorded message trying to get you to buy something, just hang up,” said James Lee, chief operating officer at the Identity Theft Resource Center. “Same goes for texts — anytime you get them from a number you don’t know asking you to pay, wire or click on something suspicious.”

Lee urges consumers to hang up and call the company or institution in question

at an official number.

Don’t pick up unknown incoming calls, recommends Ben Hoffman, head of strategy and consumer products at Fifth Third Bank. As a general rule, banks don’t normally call their customers, he pointed out.

“Banks don’t ask you for your password,” Hoffman said. If you believe your bank is trying to reach out, hang up and give them a call at a number listed on their website.

Romance scams

So-called “romance scams” can take place over longer periods of time — even years.

Kate Kleinart, 70, who lost tens of thousands of dollars to a romance scam over several months, said to be vigilant if a new Facebook friend is good-looking, asks you to download WhatsApp to communicate, attempts to isolate you from friends and family, and/or gets romantic very quickly.

“If you’re seeing that picture of a very handsome person, ask someone younger in your life — a child, a grandchild, a niece or a nephew — to help you ‘reverse-image search’ or identify the photo,” Kleinart said.

Quiz scams

When you’re using Facebook or scrolling Google results, be aware of quiz scams, which typically appear innocuous and ask about topics you might be interested in, such as your car or favorite TV show. They may also ask you to take a personality test.

Despite these benign-seeming ques-

tions, scammers can then use the personal information you share to respond to security questions from your accounts or hack your social media to send malware links to your contacts.

To protect your personal information, the FTC simply recommends steering clear of online quizzes. The commission also advises consumers to use random answers for security questions.

“Asked to enter your mother’s maiden name? Say it’s something else: parmesan or another word you’ll remember,” advised Terri Miller, consumer education specialist at the FTC. “This way, scammers won’t be able to use information they find to steal your identity.”

Investment scams

An investment scam constitutes any getrich-quick scheme that lures targets via social media accounts or online ads.

Investment scammers typically add different forms of “testimony,” such as from other social media accounts, to support that the “investment” works. Many of them also involve cryptocurrency.

To avoid falling for these frauds, the FTC

recommends independently researching the company — especially by searching the company’s name along with terms like “review” or “scam.”

Best practices

There are many tools at your disposal that can be used to protect yourself from scammers.

— Use a password manager to ensure you’re utilizing a complex password that scammers can’t guess.

— Regularly check your credit report and bank statements to see if someone has been using your bank account without your knowledge.

— Turn on multi-factor verification to make sure impersonators aren’t able to access your social media or bank accounts.

When in doubt, call for help

As scams get more sophisticated, it’s difficult to know who to trust or if a person is actually real or an impersonator.

Organizations like the Identity Theft Protection Center and the AARP Fraud

Peace of Mind is Priceless

Americans have to save Social Security

The Social Security system is efficient. It is not a Ponzi scheme, as former White House adviser Elon Musk has characterized it.

Millions of Americans depend on the survival of Social Security in its current form, and the American public should be telling members of Congress that they should be doing everything they can to prevent the system from failing.

It has been proposed that individuals can no longer make appointments with Social Security (SSA) by phone, and they must visit a local Social Security office. But SSA plans to cut its

THE SAVINGS GAME

By Elliot Raphaelson

workforce by 7,000 people. Social Security is understaffed now. If staff is reduced, local offices are closed and individuals can’t contact Social Security by phone, what is next? What is next is that the Social Security system as we know it will collapse, and payments to Social Security beneficiaries will stop being sent on time. You should not believe the lies that Social Security is inefficient or corrupt. There is almost no record of errors in which individuals who are not entitled to Social Security benefits are receiving benefits.

It has been claimed that illegal immigrants are receiving benefits they are not entitled to. That is false. People who are living in the United States without legal status are not eligible for Social Security benefits. What’s more, many of them who work in the United States are required to pay FICA taxes, which fund Social Security and Medicare, two programs from which they will never benefit as long as they are undocumented.

Undocumented immigrants paid more than $25 billion in payroll taxes in 2022, according to the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy. In other words, far from defrauding Social Security and Medicare, undocumented immigrants are subsidizing these programs.

Meanwhile, immigrants who are here legally and work for reliable employers are paying FICA taxes into Social Security, and they generally are only entitled to benefits after they have worked under Social Security for 10 years.

We cannot allow Social Security to fail. And that is what will happen if we allow Musk and his staff to continue to destroy an efficient system that millions of Americans depend upon, and millions more expect to depend on the future.

There is broad support across all demographics and political parties for strengthening the program, which is an effective system that should be improved to be financially secure for decades to come.

I recommend that every American who

Scams

From page 13

Watch Network offer free services for people who need help identifying scams or knowing what to do if you’ve been a victim of a scam. Contact the ITRC at 888-400-

wants to see Social Security strengthened write to their representative in the U.S. House and to their senators, and demand that they stop the proposed actions that prevent individuals from calling local Social Security offices for appointments; they must also stop closing local Social Security offices and stop firing of Social Security staff without regard to merit.

If we allow Social Security staff, offices and services to be cut further, it will become impossible for individuals who have earned sufficient work credits to apply for benefits. In addition, the waiting time to be approved for disability benefits will increase dramatically.

Solutions

It is true that, in order to continue to maintain benefits at existing levels on a long-term basis, Congress will have to find ways to increase funding. But there are several ways that can be accomplished. For example, Congress could raise the income thresholds for FICA taxes. It could also change the age at which individuals are entitled to full benefits.

Not only should you write to your congressional representative and senators, but you should tell all your relatives, friends and acquaintances throughout the United States that they should be doing the same thing. You can find contact information for

5530 or at idtheftcenter.org. The AARP Fraud Watch Network hotline (877-9083360) is free; you don’t have be an AARP member to use it.

If you or a family member are a victim of a scam, report it on the FTC’s website at reportfraud.ftc.gov. —AP

Should you ditch your Medicare Advantage?

By Christy Bieber

Medicare coverage doesn’t just mean signing up for government insurance. In fact, more than half of Medicare recipients now get their coverage through a Medicare Advantage plan, or Medicare Part C plan, which is offered by a private insurer.

Advantage plans are an alternative to original Medicare, replacing Part A (hospital coverage), Part B (outpatient care coverage), and sometimes Part D (prescription drug coverage).

Enrollment in these plans is expected to grow to 60% of the eligible population by 2030, with many people drawn to them because they’re often marketed as “zero premium” plans with out-of-pocket limits, while Medicare Part B has uncapped spending and charges premiums.

Yet, while Advantage Plans seem like a good alternative, a substantial number of older Americans who sign up for them don’t stick with them. In fact, among those who signed up between 2011 and 2022, around half left their plans within five years.

Recent research published in the journal Health Affairs helps demonstrate why so many are opting out of their Advantage Plan during open enrollment, either by switching to a different Part C plan or by returning to traditional Medicare instead.

Since these Advantage plans are less likely to attract beneficiaries over the long term, the study warns that such plans will likely have less incentive to cater to participants with chronic conditions.

Why others are ditching the plans

Researchers found two primary factors drove departures from Medicare Advantage plans, and neither was related to cost. Instead, most people who disenrolled did so because of difficulty accessing care as well as concerns about the quality of their care.

Access issues, in particular, were especially likely to prompt Advantage customers

Social Security

From page 14

all the house members and senators at congress.gov/members/find-your-member.

It’s not often that I use this space to discuss political issues or urge you to contact your congressional representatives. Indeed, every week I try to educate readers on how they can save and invest to achieve a secure financial future.

The vast majority of Americans have faithfully contributed to the Social Security system, and they count on a benefit as a substantial part of their financial planning for retirement. However, any chance for financial security and dignity in old age will be taken away from millions of Americans if the program is driven into the ground. America cannot afford to let Social Security fail.

Elliot Raphaelson welcomes your questions and comments at raphelliot@gmail.com.

© 2025 Elliot Raphaelson. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

not just to switch to a different Medicare Part C plan but instead to return to traditional Medicare. This makes sense, given that traditional Medicare doesn’t impose the same limits as Advantage Plans on which doctors or care providers patients can visit.

Hospitals have also been ending their affiliations with Medicare Advantage Plans, creating huge problems when break-ups happen outside of the open enrollment period, and Advantage Plan customers suddenly find themselves without coverage at the hospital where they’d been treated.

Researchers also revealed that individuals with health issues were more likely to switch out of Medicare Advantage.

“People who stay in [Medicare Advantage} are shopping for better service, but … those who switch to traditional Medicare are the ones potentially with high healthcare needs, who are much more strongly driven

by dissatisfaction with access to care issues,” said Geoffrey Hoffman, Ph.D., Associate Professor, UM School of Nursing and one of the study’s authors.

The study warns that Advantage plans will likely focus on the short-term healthcare needs of beneficiaries due to plan hopping.

Find the right Medicare plan

Those shopping for coverage should visit the Advantage plan’s website to find their searchable directory and determine if their preferred care providers accept that insurance plan.

The Medicare Advantage open enrollment period is from Jan. 1 to March 31 each year. Original Medicare’s open enrollment period is from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7 each year.

Those looking for a plan should also check the Star Ratings published on the Medicare Plan Finder by the Centers for

Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

The Health Affairs research revealed that enrollment in a plan with a low star rating was far more likely to lead to disenrollment when given the opportunity.

“While imperfect, the star rating a plan receives is still signaling something important, that our study tells us is definitely linked to why people are switching,” Hoffman said.

Online guides that provide insight into shopping for a Medicare Advantage plan can also be a helpful resource. It’s best to start exploring these tools before open enrollment, though, to prepare in advance, as there’s limited time to sign up for coverage you’re committing to for the year — except in situations where major life changes entitle you to a special enrollment period.

© 2025 The Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Arts & Style

Rick Randall, a U.S. Army veteran, performs in air shows and parachutes for fun. Our cover story continues on opposite page.

Golden Girls learn to surf at Studio Theatre

By Lynda Lantz

At a moment when change is abundant, Wipeout by Aurora Real de Asua — playwright, filmmaker and performer — reminds us that change, growth and reconciliation can come from stepping out of our comfort zones. The production is on stage at the Studio Theatre, located in D.C.’s Logan Circle, through July 27.

In Wipeout, three longtime friends nearing their 70s gather on the Pacific Ocean in Santa Cruz, California, to learn to surf. More accurately, they wait in the water for their tardy young instructor.

How is a stage an ocean? Thanks to Danilo Gambini, associate artistic director, and Jimmy Stubbs, set designer, the ocean is both real and a metaphor: The actors navigate a small stage with the appearance of a vacation house. When is a couch, table or counter not a couch, table or counter? When it is a surfboard. The occasional water feature also makes it evident that the actors are actually in the ocean.

“The play takes place entirely in the water, largely on surfboards,” said David Muse, Studio’s artistic director. “I had

originally assumed that this was unstageable. But Danilo’s staging conceit is canny and delightful.”

Through moody, atmospheric light beyond the windows of the house, lighting designer Andrew Cissna conjures the changing moods of the ocean. While the set doesn’t gel perfectly, it does a wonderful job of freeing the actors to exploit tremendous physicality and demonstrate the joyful, emotional bonds between the women in a way that more literal readings of the setting might not allow.

A unique cast

This play features something extremely rare: In this four-person cast, three characters are “women of a certain age,” who bring rich resumes to the stage. The ringleader of the trio, Claudia, is played with a nimble, tightly wound competence by three-time Helen Hayes award winner Naomi Jacobson. Ulterior motives and small secrets are part of her toolkit, but her primary aim is always to enhance the quality of life of her friends and family. Once a teacher, always a teacher, Claudia

constantly introduces psychology and selfhelp into the itinerary. Jacobson acutely balances her character’s anxious capability with fleeting outbursts of frustration that no one’s caring for her well-being. Wynn, played by theater, film and television actress Delissa Reynolds, pushes back against self-improvement. She’s fine as she is, she says. With a youthful look, elegant and self-contained in a vibrant dress and coverup, Wynn’s not aging quietly, at least not without some recreational support. Her detachment shields a lifetime

of loss (three husbands) and a reluctance to confront the changes facing their long friendship.

Actor, playwright and co-artistic director of the Los Angeles Actor’s Studio Katherine Cortez plays Gary (short for Margaret) with a surplus of energy. A retired lawyer, she’s scruffy, funny and passionate. She seems the most open of the three to embrace what aging will offer beyond senior discounts, or “cash rewards,”

Rockville Little Theatre

The Woman in Black: Sept. 26-Oct. 5, 2025

Close Ties: Jan. 30-Feb. 8, 2026

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time: May 1-10, 2026

Rockville Musical Theatre

Urinetown: The Musical: Nov. 1-16, 2025

Full season: $78 Adults; $71 Seniors and Students

Alec Ludacka, Naomi Jacobson and Katherine Cortez discuss surfing and life in the heartwarming play Wipeout, which runs at Signature Theatre in downtown D.C. through July.

PHOTO BY MARGOT SCHULMAN

Parachuters

From page 1

Randall, 55, was an Army infantryman and drill sergeant for eight years but didn’t train in the Army’s jump school. After serving, he took lessons in what’s called “static line parachuting,” RCPT’s method. One end of a line is attached to the airplane, while the other end is attached to the folded-up parachute. The line pulls the parachute out of a bag, the pad separates from the parachute, and it opens.

In training, Randall had to do 35 jumps before he could perform in an airshow. People between 18 and 65 can get the

Theater review

From page 16

as she calls them — along the lines of “Congrats! You made it, here’s two dollars off!” But what’s hidden beneath Claudia’s talk about Gary’s medicine?

When they aren’t connecting over life issues, the three friends, one by one, are led out to find a wave by Blaze, the tardy 19-year-old instructor played by New York City-based actor Alec Ludacka. He suffuses the play with a frothy bro magic and laugh-out-loud humor. (Jaws anniversary summer, anyone?) Although Blaze has his own worries, in the end, the hard lessons

training and can continue for as long as they are physically fit. The number of women in trainings is increasing, now around 10 percent.

Randall started jumping because “I wanted to prove I could do it,” he said. “I realized there’s something I’ve been missing since I took off my Army camouflage uniform. It has given me a level of trust I have had not had since I got out of the Army.” He’s done 200 jumps.

Is a 90-second, 1,500-foot jump frightening? “It can be,” Randall answered. “It’s not a natural act. Students are told, ‘If you are not a little bit afraid, you need to rethink whether this is a good idea. Don’t get cocky.’ It’s exhilarating.”

that he has already absorbed will save the day.

Is it safe to go back in the water? Absolutely. Just expect the jokes and cocktails to be paired with poignant drama and characters with greater depth than they at first admit to, a depth that will help them meet the challenges ahead.

Wipeout runs 110 minutes with no intermission. Ticket prices range from $55 to $95, with $5 off for those age 62 and over.

Studio Theatre is located at 1501 14th St. NW, Washington, DC. Parking is available in partnership with the Spot Hero app or the Washington Plaza Hotel. For tickets, visit studiotheatre.org or call (202) 332-3300.

Skills and maneuvers

Round parachutes, designed for maneuvering precise landings, are used in the military and by RCPT. (Skydivers, who jump from higher altitudes, use square parachutes.)

The round canopy parachutes are “steerable,” Randall said. “They move forward 10 to 13 miles per hour, and parachuters can turn them somewhat, steer to a direct point,” he explained. “I can go anywhere within an 800-foot circle from 1,000 feet.”

To learn how to land, Randall practiced jumping into a sand pit from a table, which is much harder than real-life landings from airplanes. He had a few eventful landings: one in the mud and another on an airport runway.

Parachuting for fun may be baffling to some, but it’s a way to conquer fear, take on a new challenge and free your spirit.

BEACON BITS

July 29

And this group of parachuters has formed a strong bond. “You’re literally trusting everyone out there with your life,” Randall said.

“I haven’t felt kinship like this since I got out of the Army, and I didn’t realize I had been missing that.”

Upcoming events

Aug. 16: RCPT Wreath Laying Ceremony, Arlington National Cemetery, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Sept. 13-14: Joint Base Andrews Air Show, with military and civilian aerial demonstrations (jba.af.mil/Air-Show), including the U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron “Thunderbirds,” U.S. Army Parachute Team “Golden Knights” and the U.S. Naval Academy Parachute Team.

For more information, including parachuting videos, see rcptusa.org.

TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY IN THE 1800S TALK (VIRTUAL)

Join Rollin Fraser on Tue., July 29 from 7 to 8 p.m. via Zoom for “Photography Goes Traveling.” This presentation explores how 19th-century travelers used early photographic technology to document distant lands — despite bulky equipment and long journeys. Learn how travel photography shaped public perceptions and evolved alongside tourism. Free and open to all. For the link to participate, register at bit.ly/TravelPhotographyTalk.

ch , o watch video per Y go to YoouTube and searc “Stuart’s melodies”

This is what 80 looks like — and feels like

I’m typing this on my 80th birthday. Who, me?

Yes, Mr. Face in the Mirror, you.

The Big Eight-Oh!

Good heavens. Good grief. Eight decades.

Let the adjectives cascade: Surprising. Glorious. Unexpected. Delicious. Amazing.

But most of all, lucky. Lucky to have lived this long, obviously. But lucky to exist at all.

but was smart enough to set them aside when necessary.

Such Krazy Kids, my parents. Why in the world did they decide to hatch a child during a world war? Why did they bring him home to a cold-water flat and a flimsy bassinet that sat in the kitchen? How were they planning to feed the poor kid when Mom was a graduate student and Dad was working at a bookstore for minimum wage? Luck carried the day.

I was lucky in another basic way — my name.

My Dad was a huge fan of Franklin Delano Roosevelt. FDR died just a few weeks before I was born. “Let’s name the baby Franklin Delano Levey,” my father recommended. Thanks, Mom, for being a cooler head. Thanks, fates, for arranging for me to grow up at a time when I chased dreams

As a boy, I was head over heels for baseball. Obviously, the New York Yankees were going to need a new shortstop someday. So I would drag my poor, exhausted father out onto a dead-end street, where he would hit grounders to me by the score.

But then as now, the oldest saw about sports is the truest: Someone is always better than you are. Reality came crashing down upon me at age 12 or so. Baseball and I divorced, forever.

About three years after that, my parents bought me a guitar for my birthday. I taught myself to play, and I incubated huge dreams. If this new guy Bob Dylan could make millions with a voice like sandpaper, surely I could make zillions with my smooth baritone. That fantasy lasted until college. I quickly found a bar near campus which featured open mic night on Wednesdays. I crooned my self-conscious compositions and waited to be discovered. I’m still waiting.

At 80, the only singing I do is in the shower. At 80, I no longer hope or try to roll boulders uphill.

My personal life took a sharp turn six

years ago. The first of our four grandchildren was born. Today, two of them serenaded me with Happy Birthday via video. I’ve been smiling for hours.

Of course, no one lives this long without health challenges. I’ve had my share: Major surgery twice, right before I might have died from heart issues. Great doctors came to the rescue.

Do I thank them today, and every day? Does the sun set in the West?

This being the modern world, I got a birthday card in the mail this week. I tore it open, expectantly.

Should have known better. It was a come-on from a hearing-aid company, which had obviously mined my birthday info from driver’s license data.

I’m just glad no one could hear the language I emitted. Maybe if they’d had hearing aids, they would have.

What have I learned in 80 years? It’s more a question of what I haven’t learned. I still have trouble with zippers and buttons. I still burn soup in saucepans because I set the flame too high. And I still type with two fingers.

When I was a mere lad, my mother — soldiering against basketball — tried to persuade me that learning to touch-type was a more useful life skill than learning to shoot free throws. I disdained, delayed, de-

flected — and never learned.

But I have made the best of a bad habit. I can type 80 words a minute with just my two wrinkled, crinkled index fingers. Will I change that approach any time soon? No chance.

Yet I won’t hesitate to ask my children for help, as some octogenarians might. In the last few months, I’ve inquired: What’s an influencer? What’s TikTok? What’s Instagram? They’ve had the good grace not to laugh.

In my next 80 years, I plan to eat less and exercise more (funny, those were the same vows I made 10 and 20 years ago).

In my next 80 years, I plan to bore my grandchildren with tales of stick-shift cars and rotary-dial phones.

In my next 80 years, I plan to cure cancer and run for president (sometimes I lie!).

In my next 80, I plan to talk less and listen more.

In my next 80, I promise to get up each day and look only on the bright side.

In my next 80, I plan to give away my entire fortune (uh, what fortune?).

For my next 80, I plan to keep the same spouse (you’re the best, Miss Jane).

Meanwhile, I promise to aim hard at 90. Can I do it? As lucky as I’ve been so far, don’t bet against it.

Bob Levey is a national award-winning columnist.

HOW I SEE IT

By Bob Levey

I’m a Seniors Real Estate Specialist® who is steeped in knowledge and experience. My unique marketing and master negotiating skills are wrapped up in kindness, honesty, and protective care. I guide you in how to sell for top dollar while supporting you with the very best resources. Whether you want to remain in your home, or move to a retirement community, I am the Realtor® you want to call.

For your free copy of my “Rightsizing Guide” or my “Senior Living Guide,” download them from the “Resources” section of EricStewartGroup.com or call me directly at (301) 252-1697 for a personal consultation on your real estate needs.

Crossword Puzzle

Across

1. Columbian cottage

5. Parks, who didn’t move

9. Basics

13. Member of Monty Python, with 41 Across

14. Like Voldemort and Vader

15. Host city of the 1900 Olympics

17. Common experience on Elm Street

19. “This is not ___”

20. More like dogs than wolves

21. Ash or platinum

23. Fed. org. that calculates a COLA

24. Oos and ___

26. “Hey, listen to this”

27. Big fuss

28. At the limits of propriety

30. Downhearted

33. Arctic hunter

37. He got 159 electoral votes in 1996

38. Villain’s foe

39. Basic box of crayons

41. See 13 Across

42. Grp. that advocated for the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967

43. Jeans, one size too small

45. NYC bus system

46. “Maybe I spoke too ___”

48. Last letters in letters

49. He played Wayne’s friend in Wayne’s World

51. Mini gulf

52. AL East foe of BOS and TOR

55. Scarce

59. “You are such a ___ goose”

61. Reset the blackboards for the next class

62. Avoid hitting below the belt

64. One with a profile on eHarmony

65. Most people live there

66. The lower priced one in a BOGO offer

67. Grasslands

68. It averaged $88 per square foot in Manhattan in 2024

69. Cravings

Down

1. You can round them off your taxes

2. The Barber of Seville contains six

3. Greek letter that looks like a sideways M

4. Tummy trouble

5. Their most streamed song is Losing

My Religion

6. Most cricket fields

7. iPhone’s digital assistant

8. “You don’t have ___ to stand on”

9. Indifference

10. Use a Jacuzzi

11. Option from a Coca-Cola Freestyle machine

12. Spanish ayes

16. “Short Term Rental,” shortly

18. Give Marvin Gardens for two railroads

22. Apple poisoner, probably

25. Migrant worker

27. Perched upon

28. Avoid having to calculate a tip

29. Least valuable part

31. “___ want for Christmas ...”

32. A couple of bucks

33. “Kapow!”

34. “It ain’t the ___; it’s the humility” (Yogi Berra)

35. Attempt to kill bacteria in food

36. Letters on the Ghostbusters’ license plate

37. Baba ghanoush and French onion

40. ___ Team (top-10 TV show from 1982-1985)

44. Rendezvous

46. Contemptuous looks

47. If you only have one, you will go in circles

50. Between Bahamian islands

51. Stop procrastinating

52. Sound the alarm

53. Mork or ALF

54. Stringed instruments, honestly

55. Letters after a proof

56. Russian river

57. Way, way off

58. Prepare to hear a national anthem

60. Full of uncertainty

63. Product sold by John Stetson since 1865

Julius Caesar thrills in outdoor venue

By Dan Collins

One does not have to be a Shakespeare fan to know the tragic tale of Julius Caesar. The would-be emperor failed to beware the Ides of March and was felled by members of the Roman Senate after uttering the famed line, “Et tu, Brute?”

Interestingly, the play’s titular character has, in fact, a rather small role in this production presented by the Chesapeake Shakespeare Company “In-The-Ruins,” at the Patapsco Female Institute Historic Park in Ellicott City, Maryland. The true focus of the play are the characters of Marcus Brutus, Caia Cassius and Mark Antony, played by Jose O. Guzman, Laura Artesi and Gabriel Alejandro, who bring considerable energy and talent to their complex roles.

The players bold, in tunics trimmed with pride, Did strut upon the boards with noble grace. Their tongues did dance where rhetoric doth bide,

Each line well-placed, each passion in its place.

Laurels aplenty to director Marcus Kyd, who instills in this fine ensemble cast a sprightly pace, tinged with modern inflection and tasty bits of humor to provide relief from the weight of plots and political intrigue.

Guzman shines as the conflicted Brutus, who is torn between his affection for Caesar (DeJeanette Horne) and his desire to keep Rome a republic. The play is most engaging when Brutus sides and spars with Artesi’s Cassius, who is more direct in expressing her desire for Caesar’s

Classifieds cont. from p. 22

CASH FOR ESTATES; Estates, Moving, Downsizing, Etc. buy Gold, Silver, Art, Quality Glass, Historical Items, Cultural Items, and a wide range of other categories. Collections, Accumulations. Website: TheAtticLLC.com, Gary Roman, 301-520-0755.

CASH FOR RECORDS, CDS AND DVDS. Best price guaranteed. Free appraisals. All types of music {33, 45, 78 CDs.} Also buying turntables and stereo equipment. Will make house calls with CURBSIDE PICKUPS. Call or text Steve at 301-646-5403

CASH FOR JEWELRY: Buying jewelry, diamonds, gold, platinum, silver, watches, coins, flatware, etc. Ask for Tom. Call anytime, 301-654-8678 (Reg. 883).

LOOKING FOR A USED CAR for my son in the $3000-5000 range. Will pay with bank check. Harvey 240-475-2361. No dealers please. WILL BUY MILITARY, WWII, WWI, Civil War memorabilia items. Uniforms, weapons, helmets, photos, war souvenirs, medals, photos or any other items associated with U.S., German, Japanese or other military history. Call Dave (240-464-0958) or email (david.obal63@gmail.com).

Thank you for reading!

downfall, serving as a whetstone to Brutus’ blade by urging him and their followers to the final bloody act on the Roman Senate floor.

Alejandro uses his muscled physique to his advantage as the warrior and obedient vassal of Caesar, focusing the audience’s attention with the famous line, “Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears!”

The supporting actors, Gary DuBreuil, Sandy Borrero, Molly Moores and Kate Forton, do yeoman’s service in their multiple roles, switching seamlessly between three characters. Forton scored laughs as the spooky sibyl, and Borrero’s heart-torn Portia, as Brutus’ wife, expresses her pain and fear in voice, body and spirit.

Excellent choreography

Fight director and dance/movement choreographer Lorraine Ressegger Slone manages to keep the actors on their toes. They never seem to stop moving, producing a sense of urgency so befitting this play which is, after all, about revolution. Caesar’s death scene — well played by Horne — could fall into farce, but it’s carried out well as one character after another drives each dagger home.

The stage, though modest, served as grand parade:

With torch and steel, the Forum came to life. A chorus cloaked in shadows lent its aid To murmur fate and whisper of the strife.

Watching Shakespeare come alive outdoors gives this play a greater veracity than a typical stage-with-curtain production. The Ellicott City site’s weathered stone, ac-

ONE BIG HAPPY

centuated with faux stone lion statues, drums and banners of blue and gold, provides a dramatic setting for Shakespeare’s tragedy.

Like the play’s soothsayer, though, I bid thee warning. While the outdoors adds much to this production, it can interfere as well. The woeful whistle of a passing locomotive does little to keep one’s mind in ancient Rome. Further, as was the case in summertime, rain can bring the play to a sudden close.

That being said, get thee to the Ruins to see this play, for truly it will make your day.

The Chesapeake Shakespeare Company’s production of Julius Caesar continues now through July 20. Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays, 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 6 p.m. on Sundays. Kids get in free, and guests are encouraged to bring picnics or reserve a table. Adult tickets start at $50. For tickets, visit ChesapeakeShakespeare.com or call (410) 244-8570.

STUDENT ART EXHIBIT THROUGH AUG. 17

See artwork from Arts Barn summer camp students now through Aug. 17 at the Arts Barn Gallery, 311 Kent Square Rd., Gaithersburg, MD. Free. Drop in weekdays to see the campers’ creativity on display. For more information, call (301) 258-6394.

BETHESDA SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Visit the Woodmont Triangle on the corner of St. Elmo and Norfolk Aves., Bethesda, MD, on select Friday evenings through Sep. 19 for free live music. July schedule features TNT — Linwood Taylor & Michael Tash Band on July 11, La Unica on July 18 and Rise Band & Show on July 25. For more information and the complete schedule, visit bethesda.org/summer-concert-series.

PROJECT LOCREA IN CONCERT

July 25

Project Locrea, a multi-ethnic jazz-fusion ensemble, performs on Fri., July 25 at 8 p.m. as part of the Lubber Run Summer Concert Series. The group combines folk traditions from around the world with jazz, classical and contemporary styles to promote cultural connection through music. The free concert takes place at 200 N. Columbus St., Arlington, VA. Tickets are not required. For more information, call Arlington Cultural Affairs at (703) 228-1850.

By Rick Detorie

CLASSIFIEDS

The Beacon prints classified advertising under the follow ing headings: Business Employment Opportunities; Caregivers; Computer Services; Entertainment; For Sale; For Sale/Rent: Real Estate; Free; Health; Home/ Handyman Services; Miscellaneous; Obituaries; Personals; Person al Services; Vacation Opportunities; and Wanted. For sub mission guidelines and deadlines, see the box on page 23.

CAVEAT EMPTOR!

The Beacon does not know ingly accept ob scene, of fensive, harmful, or fraudulent advertising. How ever, we do not in vestigate any advertisers or their prod ucts and cannot accept responsibility for the integrity of either. Respondents to classified advertising should always use caution and their best judgment.

EMPLOYMENT

& REAL ESTATE ADS:

We will not knowingly or intentionally accept advertising in violation of federal, state, and local laws prohib iting discrim ination based on race, color, national origin, sex, familial status or handicap in connection with employment or the sale or rental of real estate.

(2) PART TIME ASSISTANT TENNIS COACHES. Helping Tennis with Dennis Club. Outdoor Only. Germantown area. Prefer retired M/F available 5/7 days weekly if needed. We furnish all student appointments. Dennis is a Windermere Tennis Academy Graduate. Also Silver Spring and surrounding area instructor. Text your name and brief tennis experience to 301367-6566.

DOMESTICS UNLIMITED We are a long term health and home care agency serving the Washington DC Metropolitan Area and beyond. We provide CNA’s, Caregivers, Nurses, Companions, Housekeepers, Personal Assistants, Personal Trainers, Drivers or any other employee you may need. For more information and to place an order call #202-317-0679.

COMPANION NEEDED FOR 2 ELDERLY GENTLEMEN. Seeking help with personal care, scheduling requiring computer skills, driving, light housekeeping and meal prep and other help as needed. In Potomac, MD. 30+ hours/week. Reference required. Respond to lensrink@yahoo.com.

MOBILE HAIR & NAIL SERVICES - WE COME TO YOU. Professional Licensed Hair Stylist. Women and Men’s Services All Hair Types. Cuts, Styles, Roller Sets, Color, Perms, Men’s Cuts Facial Grooming, Manicures more. Call 301-338-8251.

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A HOME HEALTHCARE - Experienced nurses, CNA, GNA are available 24/7. Cooking, companionship, personal care, housekeeping, driving. Full/Part-time or live-in care. 15 years’ experience. 240-533-6599.

COMPUTERS, TELEVISIONS, CELL

PHONE Help For Seniors. We offer patient and thorough help for seniors with all matter of technology. We come to your home. We service MD, VA and DC. Call Senior Tech Pro at 301337-0028. Available 24/7 Ask for Philip.

HOME LOAN PROBLEMS? We can help you get pre-approved to buy a home... or lower your monthly mortgage payments for an existing home loan. Visit RefinanceYourHouse.com or call/text 614-595-6063 for a free consultation.

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UP TO $15,000.00 OF GUARANTEED

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EXTRA LARGE SELF-PROPELLED

LAWN MOWER. Excellent condition. Ten years old. $300.00. Call Joe-301-216-2541.

LIGHTLY USED HABUTWAY 9ft Portable Wheelchair Ramp with Support Legs. Double NonSkid Ramps Hold Up to 800Lbs. For Home, Stairs, Curbs, Steps and/or Doorway. Can send pictures by email. Call Peter at 301-232-4976. $350 OBO.

2 CEMETERY PLOTS AT KING DAVID

MEMORIAL GARDENS in Falls Church Virginia. (Jewish Cemetery). Reduced sale price $3995.00/ each or best offer 510-326-2493.

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REDZONE FITNESS STUDIO has the best prices, service and gets proven results. We can come to you or can set up Zoom with you in the comfort of your own home. We offer Personal Training and Rehab Services. Call 410-739-3318 to set up a free evaluation.

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LITTLE DEEDS ACCESSIBILITY SOLUTIONS Live independently and safely in your own home through Little modifications by licensed, skilled, and deeply caring craftspeople. Did you know we can convert your tub into a shower with a Tub-Cut for a quarter of the cost of those shower conversion companies? Little Deeds also provides no-cost, no-obligation, safety, and accessibility assessments for Aging in Place or when coming home from the hospital. Text/Call 410450-4466 https://www.littledeeds.com/ LAWN MOWING. Two middle school Science Olympiad team members look forward to help you with yard work. They will use the money to fund science projects. Alex Kasper 571-595-9168.

PC MECHANICS SERVICES - Devices, AC, Fix. Battery lawn mower ($399, is $336), Trimmer, Saw, Bush cutter, Surge protect $29; MedMusic Wang Albums for great Sleep Joy, Books, MD Realtor, Raw Honey, Facebook.com/jinhai.wang.75, 240-743-1776 (6605580).

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MEN & LADIES. Licensed HAIR, NAILS, FACIALS. will come to your home if you live in the Silver Spring zip codes. Reasonable rates concentration mainly in LW. For information and appointments call days. Kim 301-7924936.

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BUYING ESTATES, FULL OR PARTIAL, large or small. Need a house cleared in a hurry, can get it done. Also buying individual small, pretty things such as Herend, Royal Copenhagen and vintage holiday decorations. Call Susan (301) 785-1129.

PAYING TOP CASH FOR ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES. Housecalls made with prompt, courteous service seven days a week and 25 years of experience! Buying toys, trains, militaria, glassware, advertising merchandise, paper items and much more! Contact Mason or Megan at: 443-306-8816.

WANTED: OLDER VIOLINS, GUITARS, BANJOS, MANDOLINS, UKULELES. Musician/collector will pay cash for older acoustic string instruments. Jack (301) 279-2158, leave message phone number.

ALWAYS BUYING SILVER, gold-filled gold jewelry, Old Silverware holloware marked “Sterling”, old fountain pens, old tobacco pipes, dental gold, the old stuff... What do you have? Call or text Alex at 571-426-5363. DMW area I’ll pickup!

I BUY GUNS: Military/Civilian MILITARY MEMORABILIA. am a licensed Firearms Dealer and can legally purchase from you. Don’t risk selling to unlicensed dealers. Tim Frank 301-201-0241. historian1975@gmail.com. www.midatlanticmilitaryantiques.com

ALWAYS BUYING COMIC BOOKS (1930s to 1985), sterling silver (anything), old coins paper money, charm bracelets, jewelry, old costume jewelry, old dental gold, old pin-up magazines, sports cards before 1980, old fishing lures, old toy cars, and other old items. What do you have? Call or text Alex at 571-426-5363.

ANSWERS

Answer: When Cindy Crawford went bowling at the charity event, she was being a — “ROLL”

HOW TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD

All classified ads must be submitted and paid for online, via our website, www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/classifieds

Deadlines and Payments: To appear in the next issue, your ad text and payment must be entered by the 5th of the preceding month (for Baltimore and Howard County editions); by the 20th (for Washington edition).

Cost will be based on the number of characters and spaces in your ad:

• $25 for 1-250 • $35 for 251-500. • $50 for 501-750 (maximum length). The website will calculate this amount for you.

Note: Maryland contractors must provide a valid MHIC number.

• Each real estate listing qualifies as one ad. • All ads are subject to publisher’s discretion. Payment will be refunded if unacceptable for any reason.

To place your classified ad, visit www.thebeaconnewspapers.com/classifieds

Health Studies

Anxiety/Depression Study .

.8

Smell Test Study . . . . . . .8

End of Life/ Funeral Services

Capital Caring Health . .10

Cremation Society of Maryland

.13

Going Home Cremation .7

MacNabb Funeral Home

Events

Beacon 50+Expos

The Art of Rightsizing .

Chevy Chase House .

Churchill Senior Living

Covenant Village

.9, B12

.6

.B11

Grandview, The/Erickson . .B3, B12

Greenspring/ Erickson . . . . .B3, B13

Falcons Landing .B5, B13

Homecrest House .

.13

.3

.B16

Home Health

Best Senior Care . . . . .B4

Housing

Ashby Ponds/ Erickson . . . . .B3, B11

Brooke Grove

Retirement Village . . . . .B10, B12, B13, B16

. . .B2, B10

Housing Initiative Partnership .

Park View

Bladensburg .

. .B4

.B7

Park View Columbia . .B7

Park View Emerson . . .B7

Park View Laurel . . . . .B7

Riderwood/ Erickson . . . . .B3, B13

Vinson Hall . . . . .B6, B11

Willow Manor at Cabin Branch .

. .B2

Woodleigh Chase/ Erickson . . . . .B3, B10

Legal Services

Farr Law Firm . . . . . . .14

Law Offices of Paul Riekhof . .

.13 Legal Counsel for the Elderly

Medical/Health/ Insurance

Real Estate

Services/Moving

www.agefriendly.dc.gov

Livability Survey

Complete and return this survey for a chance to win $100 cash! TWO LUCKY WINNERS!

Do you live or work in Washington and are you 60 years or older? If so, we invite you to share your opinion on how age-friendly the District is. Questions in this survey were derived from a World Health Organization age-friendly indicator project that DC took part in along with 14 other cities across the globe.

Please fill out the survey below and return the entire page to any branch of the DC public library or mail to: Age-Friendly DC Survey, c/o 1324 E St SE #112, Washington, DC 20003. Prize drawing will be held July 31. If you have already submitted a survey, please do not submit another one. Thank you.

1. What DC Ward do you live in? 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Other

2. How many years have you lived in DC? 0-5 6-10 11-20 more than 20

3. What is your age? _______ years

4. What is your gender?

Male Female Non-binary

Prefer not to say

5. What race do you identify with? (Check all that apply)

American Indian and Alaska Native Asian Black or African American Native Hawaiian and White

Other Pacific Islander Other

6. Are you of Hispanic or Latino origin or heritage?

Yes No

7. Do you have any major limitations? (Check all that apply)

Deafness or hard of hearing

Blind or difficulty seeing Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions

Difficulty walking or climbing stairs

Difficulty dressing or bathing

Difficulty doing errands alone

8. How would you rate your overall quality of life?

Poor Average Good

9. Do you utilize a senior wellness or rec center in your neighborhood?

Wellness Center Rec Center

Both Neither

10. How accessible are senior wellness and rec centers in your neighborhood?

Not very accessible

Somewhat accessible

Very accessible

11. Do you utilize parks in your neighborhood?

Yes No

12. How accessible are parks in your community?

Not very accessible

Somewhat accessible

Very accessible

13. What type(s) of transportation do you use to go to work or run errands?

(Select all that apply)

Walk Bike Bus Metro rail

Car Other: _____________

14. How difficult is it to walk to places in your neighborhood, including for those who use wheelchairs?

Difficult Somewhat difficult

Not difficult

15. How difficult is it to access public transportation from your neighborhood?

Difficult

Somewhat difficult

Not difficult

16. What type of housing do you live in?

Detached house Rowhouse

Apartment Condo

Assisted Living Other: _____________

17. Do you rent or own the place where you live?

Rent Own Other: _____________

18. Could someone enter your residence in a wheelchair without assistance?

Yes No

19. Is housing in your neighborhood affordable?

Yes No

20. Have you engaged in a volunteer opportunity in the past month?

Yes No

21. Have you participated in any social or cultural activities in the past week?

Yes No

22. Do you feel respected in your community?

Yes No

23. Do you feel socially included in your community?

Yes No

24. Do you have a neighbor(s) that you can rely on?

Yes No

25. What is your employment status?

Employed full- or part-time

Retired Student

26. Are you involved in decision-making about important political, economic and social issues in your community?

Yes No

27. Do you live in a household with internet access?

Yes No

28. How do you use the internet? (Check all that applies)

Emailing

Informational searches

Online shopping

Facebook or other social media

Sharing photos Do not use

Other:__________

29. How do you typically find out about important health and safety information? (Check all that apply)

Word of mouth Print Web

Social Media Radio

TV Other:__________

30. How difficult is it for you to find local sources of information about your health concerns and service needs?

Difficult

Somewhat difficult

Not difficult

31. How difficult is it for you to access physical activity options in your area?

Difficult

Somewhat difficult

Not difficult

32. How difficult is it for you to access healthy food options in your area?

Difficult

Somewhat difficult

Not difficult

33. Do you feel you know what to do in an emergency?

Yes No

34. Over the past year, have you had enough income to meet your basic needs without public or private assistance (e.g. private loan, family financial support)?

Yes No

35. Over the past year, were you enrolled in or did you regularly attend any education or training sessions, either formal or informal?

Yes No

36. How safe is your neighborhood from crime?

Unsafe Somewhat safe Safe

37. Do you have any personal care or assistance needs?

Yes No

38. How often do you pick up the Beacon newspaper?

Often Sometimes Never

39. How often do you read the “Living Boldly” newsletter (news for D.C. residents) that appears in the Beacon?

Often Sometimes Never

40. How often do you read “Living Boldly” online?

Often Sometimes Never

OPTIONAL

Please enter your email or home address so we can send you the $100 prize if you win the random drawing. Your name will not be associated with your survey answers:

Email:

Name:

Address:

City/State/Zip: