The November 2015 issue of Consumer Reports estimates that losses from elder abuse and elder scams range from $3 billion to more than $30 billion annually. The article notes that individuals can protect themselves by eliminating unwanted calls, opting out of mail solicitations, using only vetted contractors and arranging for account oversight. Further, restrict access to bank accounts and have family member and friends visit regularly. To read more click here….
WE talk a lot these days about what constitutes a good way to die. There’s also much discussion about the art of healthy aging.
But largely absent from the conversation are all the people between the two. People who aren’t dying but who grow more frail. People who have significant health concerns. People who suddenly find themselves in need of care.
Read the full story here…
For the two-thirds of Americans over 65 who are expected to need some long-term care, the costs are increasingly beyond reach. The cost of staying in a nursing home has climbed at twice the rate of overall inflation over the last five years, according to the insurer Genworth Financial. One year in a private room now runs a median $91,000 a year, while one year of visits from home-health aides runs $45,760.
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Numerous studies show that the majority of Senior Adults would prefer to live independently in their family home rather than move in with a relative or to an Assisted Living Community. Although maintaining independence is valued by most, few take the action steps necessary to be successful. In fact, many, without knowing, work against their own goals and end up sabotaging their independence.
To read the full article click here (opens up a PDF document)
A recent article in the Wall Street Journal finds there are various pockets around the world with a remarkable number of healthy nonagenarians or centenarians. The study of those populations determined there are ways to strive towards longevity. You need a diet high in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans and other carbohydrates, paired with lots of bursts of daily walks, activities, and exercise.
What does not work? Lots of regular animal protein: see the Wall Street Journal, May 30, 2015 article “Want Great Longevity and Health? It Takes a Village” An article about the lifestyles of centenarians in Sardinia, Italy.