Changing attitudes 

about aging

By Marc Blesoff

I remember days I didn’t want to go out in public, let alone go to school, because of acne on my face. And at that time of my life, the last thing I wanted was to be an old person — everybody knew young was good and old was bad. I’m not saying being judged by one’s appearance has changed completely today, but I have been noticing some differences.

**

Study finds

negative thinking patterns

linked to cognitive decline

in older adults

By Donna Shryer

A new study links repetitive negative thinking (RNT) to poorer cognitive function in older Chinese adults, raising questions about how certain thought patterns may impact brain health.

**

Ride Easy:

A Simpler Way

 for Older Adults

to Get Around

By Ashu Manoha

"For older adults who prefer to ride independently, we’re adding Simple mode, which offers the same streamlined experience—no Family profile required."

**

Cannabis use among seniors 

continues to rise — 

and so do the health risks

By Angelica Stabile

The researchers... warned that the use of cannabis products, especially with psychoactive properties, could cause complications in chronic disease management in older adults.

☻

Other Stories of Interest to Seniors 

Eldercare robot 

helps people sit and stand,

 and catches them if they fall

By Jennifer Chu 

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Enhancing cognitive 

and physical performance 

in older adults through wearable 

sensor-based interactive 

cognitive-motor training: 

a randomized clinical trial

By Jihye Jung, Han-Cheol Ryu & Seungwon Lee 

It has now been 81 years since D-Day, the massive Allied invasion on June 6, 1944, that marked a turning point in World War II. This was a day when hundreds of thousands of soldiers stormed the beaches of Normandy, fighting against the brutal forces of Nazi Germany. Those soldiers risking everything did so not out of blind patriotism but because they believed in something bigger than themselves. On D-Day, around 4,000 Americans lost their lives and another 5,000 were wounded. These numbers reflect just a small part of the enormous cost paid for freedom.

Were those men patriots? It’s likely they were. However, patriotism isn’t just about flags and slogans. It’s about knowing what you are fighting for. These soldiers fought for the principles laid out in the U.S. Constitution. They fought so that future generations could have rights like free speech, the freedom to worship or not worship, and legal protections that are the envy of the world. They didn’t fight to keep immigrants out or to cut social programs to save money. They didn’t go to war to give huge tax breaks to the wealthy. Their fight was for the core ideas that make the country free and fair. 

These men didn’t wave flags or shout patriotic slogans to prove they loved their country. They showed real patriotism by doing what had to be done. They understood that defending the Constitution meant defending the rights and freedoms of every citizen. Their bravery and sacrifice embodied what patriotism truly is—acting for the good of the nation, often at great personal risk.

But everything has changed since then. Today, when we see someone wearing a T-shirt with the American flag printed on it, or passing by a house decorated with banners and flags, we often mistake that for patriotism. Yet, those images rarely carry the same weight. Sometimes they seem superficial or showy. They can feel more like displays without substance. The true meaning of patriotism can get lost in all the flags, slogans, and social media posts. Instead of honoring the real sacrifices made on D-Day, some use patriotic symbols to push personal or political agendas.

What has caused this shift? Why does a symbol that once represented selfless bravery now sometimes feel empty or controversial? The answer lies in how the meaning of patriotism is understood today. It’s become easier to claim loyalty through superficial signs rather than truly living out the values these symbols represent. People forget that real patriotism involves sacrifice, responsibility, and a deep respect for the principles laid out in the founding documents. It means standing up for equality, justice, and truth—values that cannot be expressed solely by waving a flag.

In the end, true patriotism isn’t about appearances. It’s about actions and beliefs. It’s about doing what is right, even when it’s difficult. It’s about protecting the rights that others fought to create. That’s the real legacy of D-Day—serving as a reminder that freedom isn’t free and that honoring our country means living up to its highest ideals every day.  …

- D-Day occurred on June 6, 1944, and was the Allied invasion of Normandy, France, marking a pivotal turning point in World War II by opening a Western Front against Nazi Germany.

- It was the largest amphibious military assault in history, involving over 156,000 Allied troops landing on five beach sectors (Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword).

- The success of D-Day relied heavily on meticulous planning and deception operations, including the use of fake armies and misleading information (Operation Bodyguard) to misdirect German forces.

- The invasion resulted in heavy casualties, with approximately 10,000 Allied soldiers killed, wounded, or missing on the first day alone.

- D-Day led to the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi control, accelerating the end of World War II in Europe, which concluded in May 1945.

Social Security 

and Remarriage:

Understanding the Impact

on Your Benefits

By Kailey Hagen

Marriage makes you eligible to claim spousal benefits on your new partner's work record.

It could also render you ineligible to claim spousal benefits on a former partner's work record.

**

Walmart’s New

Medicare Advantage Tool

Could Save Seniors Hundreds

By Kendall Blythe

Walmart is making it easier for millions of older Americans to use their Medicare Advantage plans more effectively.

**

Night owls face higher risk

of cognitive decline than

morning people, study finds

"The good news is that you can partly influence this cognitive decline by adjusting your behavior," says researcher Ana Wenzler, whose research contributes to dementia prevention.

**

Is It Time to Downsize?

How to Know

When a Smaller Space

Means a Bigger Life

By Danial Nasir

The idea of trading in the familiar can feel overwhelming, but for many people, the shift to a smaller home isn’t about loss. It’s about gain. The key is knowing when the time is right and how to make the transition work for you.

Other Stories of Interest: 

Men are more likely

 to die of 

'broken heart syndrome,'

 study says

By Aria Bendix

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

'You'll be back':

 Arnold Schwarzenegger 

on the most important move 

to make to stay healthy 

aging into 50s, 60s 

and beyond

By Eric Rosenbaum

Speech Problems in the Elderly: Medical Reasons, Treatment, and More

By Ishani Dhar Chowdhury 

How Lower Interest Rates Could Affect Older Adults

BY PATRICK M. SIMASKO, J.D.

Baby boomers are hitting "peak 65." 

Two-thirds don't have nearly enough saved for retirement.

By Aimee Picchi

Routine jobs raise the risk of cognitive decline by 66% and dementia by 37%

By Sandee LaMotte

Work till you drop?

Here's why America's

average retirement age

keeps rising.

By Daniel de Visé

The average retirement age of American workers is creeping steadily up, according to a new report from a prominent economist. And that trend invites a question: When will America's retirement age stop rising?

*

Sense of purpose emerges

as key predictor of

cognitive functioning

in older adults

By Eric W. Dolan

A large, decade-long study of older adults has found that those with higher levels of well-being—especially a strong sense of purpose—also tended to show better cognitive functioning and less cognitive decline over time.

*

Social Security Payments

Can Be Garnished –

What the Government

Can Withhold in 2025

and Who’s Affected

Social Security beneficiaries who had taken out student loans in the past but have still not paid off that debt could see their monthly benefit checks being garnished until the debt is cleared — and it appears that this garnishment will begin as soon as June.

*

Your Knees

Might Be Aging

Faster Than You Think

New research reveals that even seemingly healthy adults in their thirties may already exhibit early signs of knee joint damage.

Other Stories of Interest 

How to Train for the 

Last Decade of Your Life, 

According to Peter Attia

^^^^^^^^^^^^

Why You Eat at Night – 

And What Your Brain 

Is Really Trying to Do

By Karen Donaldson

I rarely take the time to ponder death. I certainly don’t dwell on it. However, there are moments when something prompts me to acknowledge that I am just flesh and blood and, like every other living creature, will eventually meet my end. Just the other day, I heard on the news that actor George Wendt passed away at the age of 76. While his passing was undoubtedly important, it wasn’t earth-shattering. Normally, I would react to such news with a mere tsk tsk and carry on with my day. Yet, this particular loss struck a chord with me. Perhaps it was because George wasn’t some frail old man of 98, but rather someone who was near my own age. A contemporary. The fact that he was 3 years younger than me made the news feel even more poignant. Just for “fun,” I decided to look up which other celebrities never reached their 80th birthday. The list is surprisingly long.

Here are just some of the celebrities that died in their 70s:

Johnny Cash - 71, John Wayne - 72, Dennis Hopper - 74, Muhammad Ali - 74, Lucille Ball - 77, Elizabeth Taylor - 79, Johnny Carson - 79… and many, many more. Being 79, this list gave me pause for thought. If these well-to-do folks with the best medical care available, only lived until their 70s, what chance do I have to make it another 10, 15, or 20 years.

Seeing these numbers and names makes me stop and think harder about my own life. I am now 79, which puts me closer to the ages when so many famous people have died. It’s startling to realize that even those who are well-off, who have access to the best medical care, don’t always live long lives. If these celebrated individuals couldn’t beat the odds and surpass their 70s, what hope do I really have? Can I expect to make it another 10, 15, or even 20 years? The question presses down harder than before.

In the end, contemplating mortality isn’t about giving in to fear. It’s about recognizing how precious the time we have really is. Knowing that even the most famous, seemingly healthy individuals often leave this world before their 80th birthday makes me appreciate my own fleeting time. It pushes me to reflect on what truly matters. To treasure the moments I have now, with loved ones and in pursuit of my passions. To understand that life’s end is certain, but how we choose to live until then makes all the difference.  …

- We’re losing Abraham Lincoln again. After 233 years, the US Treasury will discontinue penny production over the next month, federal officials announced yesterday, following a directive from President Trump.

- The Treasury will stop circulating one-cent coins by early next year, and shortages will follow:

- Businesses will have to round prices to the nearest five cents for cash transactions. 

- State tax administrators say they may not have time to update sales tax laws with information on rounded cash transactions before shortages hit.

- Many people may want to hold onto their pennies as collectors’ items.

- A penny costs 3.7 cents to make. The Treasury projects that stopping the one-cent presses will save the US $56 million annually…

…but it might ultimately cost money: The US could easily wipe out penny savings if it needs to churn out more nickels, which cost nearly 14 cents each to mint.

The current Republican tax bill

could cut $500 billion 

from Medicare —

‘This bill just gets more 

and more cruel’

By Jessica Hall

The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimated that the Republican budget bill under consideration would trigger about $500 billion in automatic cuts to Medicare, the program that provides health insurance to around 68 million older adults and people with disabilities.

*

Excessive Sleep

May Hurt 

Cognitive Function

"Sleeping more than nine hours a night may be detrimental to brain health, particularly for individuals experiencing symptoms of depression, according to a new study."

*

Suicide and self-harm

in older adults

By Michael H. Connors, Brian Draper, Anne P. F. Wand, Diego De Leo & Simone Reppermund

In this Review, we consider the unique challenges faced by older people in relation to suicide and self-harm.

*

The Dual Burden 

of Housing

and Care 

for Older Adults

By Jennifer Molinsky

As the first baby boomers turn 80 in the coming decade, a growing number of older households will face challenges paying for both housing and the supports and services they will need to remain in their homes.

Other Stories of Interest

If You're Over 50, This Common Vaccine Can Lower 

Your Stroke and Heart Disease Risk by 23%

By Emily Weaver

₪₪₪₪₪₪₪₪₪₪₪₪

Older Adults Get More Curious. But Only If It Interests Them.

By Denis Storey

Before this year, my life and the lives of many older Americans felt relatively peaceful. We mostly stayed out of the chaos that seems to unfold around everyone else. We had few worries about whether we would have enough money or if our health needs would be met. Our days often felt calm, and we relied on a sense of security built over decades of hard work and careful planning. We weren’t caught up in constant struggles to make ends meet or worry about losing our homes. Instead, we felt protected by the safety net of government programs designed to support us in our later years.

Back in 2007, I found myself facing a difficult reality. I was 62 years old and not able to find a new job that suited my needs. The economy was shifting and opportunity was shrinking for many older workers like me. I made the decision to retire. I had paid into Social Security for many years through taxes deducted from my paycheck. When the time came, I opted to start claiming those benefits. The process was simple. Every month, a set amount of money was deposited directly into my bank account without any fuss or delay. It wasn’t a large sum, but it was enough to help cover my basic expenses. I didn’t have to worry about the money disappearing or running out unexpectedly. I knew the check would arrive like clockwork, giving me a steady source of income in my new life.

My confidence grew stronger when I needed medical help. As I aged, health problems became more common. When I required costly treatments, I turned to Medicare and Medicaid. These programs, paid for by taxes I had never stopped contributing to, helped me cover expensive medical bills that otherwise would have devastated me. They were there when I needed them, providing a safety net that allowed me to get better without falling into financial ruin. Later, when I needed assisted living, those same government programs stepped in again. They made it possible for me to live safely and comfortably without draining my limited savings. These programs gave me dignity and peace of mind, knowing I could survive the challenges of aging.

But things changed after the 2025 election. The political climate shifted strongly and the promises of stability began to fade. What once felt like a secure safety net felt more like a fragile structure that might disappear overnight. My sense of being protected was replaced with worry. The government that I had trusted to support me, to help when I needed it most, now seems distant or even hostile. Policies have been rolled back or altered in ways that threaten to cut benefits for the old, the poor, and the vulnerable. Programs I paid into with my taxes when I was working now feel less certain to me. I see people in power treat the older generation as burdens instead of valued citizens with a right to care and respect. 

The stark change in attitude and policy has left me feeling abandoned. The safety net, which once gave me peace of mind, now feels brittle and unreliable. I worry about my future and wonder what will happen if I need help again. Will the programs be there? Will I be left to struggle on my own? I see this shift as the difference between when President Biden was in office and the current administration. Back then, there was a sense that society cared about its older citizens. Today, many of us feel forgotten. The sense of security that once sustained us now seems like a memory from a different time. It feels as if the government I once trusted has turned its back on me and others like me, leaving us to face the uncertain years ahead without the support we once knew we could count on….

Even the most disciplined among us occasionally give in to the temptation to down a bag of salty snacks, for which we may be punished with noticeably swollen fingers, toes, or lips. Officially known as edema, this puffiness stems from the uptick of sodium and our body’s response of pumping more water into the bloodstream, which results in fluid-bloated tissue. Edema can also be a sign of more serious health problems, but those who simply enjoy a few too many fries during a weekend lunch with friends can beat back the swelling by drinking lots of water, ingesting high-potassium foods, and sweating it out in the gym.

Warning Signs 

of Prostate Cancer

By Stephanie Watso

Former President Joe Biden has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer that has spread to his bones, according to a statement his office released Sunday. 

*

4 Social Security Changes

That Trump Does Not

Have the Power To Make

By Heather Altamirano

President Donald Trump has been outspoken about changes he’d consider making, but does he really have the power to make sweeping changes? 

*

Rethinking Aging During

Older Americans Month

“We must challenge the outdated narratives that can limit older adults’ potential, recognize the many contributions being made by older adults, and support opportunities for people to thrive in their communities in ways that are meaningful to them,” 

*

Social factors determine

which older adults

can successfully age 

in place

By Donna Shryer

Rural residents, racial/ethnic minorities and immigrants are more likely to successfully age in place compared to urban dwellers and white populations. 

Other Stories of Interest 

Best and Worst Exercises for Older Adults 

for Balance, Strength and Longevity

By Alexandra Frost

₪₪₪₪₪₪₪₪₪₪₪₪

Is credit card debt forgiveness smart for seniors? Here's what experts think.

By Tim Maxwell

I woke up this morning to a sound I hadn’t heard in many years. Outside my window, I could hear the steady hum of a power lawnmower working through the grass. It was the crew from the landscaping company my facility hires to maintain the grounds. The noise came through the quiet morning air, sharp and rhythmic, slicing through the stillness of the neighborhood. That familiar sound immediately brought back memories from a different time in my life—when I still had my own house and a small yard to care for.

It's surprising how certain sounds stick with us. To most homeowners, mowing the lawn might seem like a chore they try to avoid. It’s something they put off or forget about until the grass looks overgrown. But for me, mowing was never a burden. It was a task I looked forward to. I found satisfaction in pushing the mower across the grass, neatly trimming the edges, and seeing the yard transform. I enjoyed the routine—early mornings with the sun warming my back, the scent of freshly cut grass filling the air, and the sense of achievement after a good session of yard work. It was a simple pleasure that made me feel accomplished and connected to my home.

I was genuinely fond of all the small chores that came with owning a house. Raking leaves, planting flowers, trimming bushes—they all gave me a sense of purpose. Working outdoors in my yard made me feel grounded. It created a bond between me and the land I called my own. With each task, I felt a connection not just to the dirt and grass, but to a way of life that centered around caring for your space. It gave me a feeling of stability and pride that still lingers in my memory.

Now I am much older and much less able. I am divorced and walk with a limp. Getting out to do yard work is almost impossible for me anymore. I haven't mowed a lawn in over 40 years. Still, listening to that mower this morning reminded me of the days when I actively took care of my yard. It brought back images of early mornings, the click of the blades as I worked, and the quiet satisfaction that came from doing something with my own hands. Those moments were more than just chores—they were a way to connect with my environment and, in a small way, with myself.

The sound of the mower sparks memories of a time when I felt more alive and engaged with my surroundings. Back then, I felt a genuine pleasure in shaping a small piece of the world around me. Each blade of grass I cut fit into a bigger picture of home and family. It was part of daily life, part of a routine that made me feel useful. Now, as I sit here and listen to the familiar hum, I realize those times are gone. Still, I hold onto the memory—the simple joy of working outside, feeling in tune with my yard, and knowing I had created a home that was truly my own.  …

Next time you find yourself arriving at Grand Central Terminal, feel free to inform the person sitting next to you that the architectural landmark is radioactive — and, once their expression changes, be sure to also tell them that it’s only by a harmless amount. Located in midtown Manhattan, New York’s most-beloved transportation hub (sorry, not sorry, Penn Station) was built between 1903 and 1913 out of granite, which contains higher levels of uranium than most other stones. Still, the levels aren’t all that high: The average person is exposed to 360 millirems of radiation per year, 300 of which come from natural sources, and Grand Central employees would absorb about 120 millirems at work over the course of a year.

Trump's plan to eliminate 

Social Security taxes: 

What it means for retirees

By Trevor Jennewine

Ending taxes on Social Security means benefit cuts would happen sooner

Schumer: 

Prescription Drug Costs

By Mark Truppner 

Donald Trump can say he’s doing an Executive Order, but we all know the odds are overwhelming that the Executive Order is going to fail.

...

The Human Cost 

of Cutting Medicaid

By Rebekah Barber

Nearly 80 million people—children, senior citizens, people with disabilities, parents, and adults with dependents—rely on Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

...

Americans 

in Their 80s and 90s 

Are Redefining Old Age

By Amy Dockser Marcus

For a growing number of Americans, old age has undergone a profound transformation. Many are living to advanced ages in good health, with some even demonstrating improvements with the passing years.

...

Getting on with 

the Other Grandparents

By Ann Richardson

"But most surprisingly, there are yet another set of relationships that may become a more visible part of your life – with the other set of grandparents."

Other Stories of Interest 

How to Define Old Age: Why would the World Health Organization 

want to call “old age” a disease?

By Natalie Brennan and Yasmin Tayag

₪₪₪₪₪₪₪₪₪₪₪

Grip strength: The test for your chances of living to 100

By David Cox

A few words about nutrition 

at the A.L.F.

I am not a licensed nutritionist and have no formal training in nutrition. My knowledge comes solely from researching topics related to diets suitable for older adults. I want to make it clear that I do not claim to be an expert but share what I have learned through reading and studying. As senior citizens, our bodies have different needs compared to younger adults. We require specific amounts of food, and the foods we eat should supply the right balance of nutrients. Good nutrition is especially important for maintaining health, strength, and energy as we age.

Older adults experience changes in how our bodies process food. Our metabolism tends to slow down, and we burn fewer calories overall. This means that the typical ratio of calories to carbohydrates that might be fine for young, active people no longer fits us. For example, a younger person might need more carbs for energy because they walk, work, and exercise regularly. Seniors, on the other hand, generally lead more sedentary lifestyles. We tend to walk less, exercise less often, and work fewer physical activities. This lower activity level means we don’t burn through as many calories each day. 

Despite these changes, many seniors are given large portions of carbohydrate-rich foods like bread, pasta, rice, and potatoes. These foods are easy to prepare and inexpensive, so they often appear on meal trays in assisted living or nursing homes. The problem is, these carbs aren’t efficiently metabolized by seniors, especially when eaten in excess. Instead of providing needed energy, they can cause weight gain and blood sugar issues. Meanwhile, foods that supply essential proteins — such as meat, fish, chicken, eggs, dairy, beans, and nuts — are often limited in our diets. Proteins help maintain muscle mass, strength, and overall health, yet they are often underrepresented.

The reasons behind this mismatch go beyond simple ignorance. Many assisted living facilities operate under strict budgets. It costs less to feed residents a steady supply of cheap, calorie-dense carbs. Bread, pasta, and rice are affordable and easy to prepare in large quantities. High-quality proteins, on the other hand, tend to be more expensive. Meat, fish, and poultry cost more than processed carbs. This makes it tempting for facility managers to save money by providing a diet that’s rich in carbs but low on proteins. 

It is not necessarily a matter of caregivers or nutritionists lacking knowledge. Many are aware that seniors need more protein. The issue is more about economic constraints. Budget limitations lead to menus that focus on filling our stomachs instead of nourishing our bodies properly. This imbalance in diet problems is widespread and affects the health and well-being of many seniors. It often results in unintended health problems like muscle loss, weakness, and even increased risk of illness. 

Understanding these issues helps clarify why many seniors are not getting the right nutrition. It’s a combination of changing needs, economic factors, and the choices made by institutions aiming to keep costs low. Recognizing this imbalance shows that improving senior nutrition requires attention beyond just knowledge. It calls for better funding, stronger awareness, and a focus on providing foods that truly meet our aging bodies' needs.

The photo below depicts two typical breakfasts served here at the A.L.F. Judge for yourself if this is what older Americans should be eating to start the day.   …

Most English words longer than about 15-20 letters are scientific, meaningless, or highly specialized, and they tend to be formed by affixation. This is the act or process of adding affixes to a base word to produce a derivative word—in the word affixation, for instance, -ation is an affix. Here are some of the longest words.

The longest word entered in most standard English dictionaries is Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis with 45 letters. Our definition is "a lung disease caused by inhalation of very fine silicate or quartz dust." The entry for this word can be found in our Medical Dictionary.

2026 Social Security

COLA Projection

Inches Up a Notch

By Ted Godbout

"...based on March data — that the 2026 COLA would be 2.3%. For comparison, the 2025 COLA was 2.5%, while the 2024 COLA was 3.2%, after reaching a four-decade high of 8.7% in 2023, and 5.9% in 2022, following the height of the COVID-19 pandemic."

*

Kennedy Defends

Medicare Advantage, Cuts to Research

for Diseases Impacting Older Adults

in Nursing Homes

By Zahida

During a Congressional hearing held Wednesday, U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. defended the Trump administration’s proposed cuts to top health agencies...

*

Study: 6 in 10 NYC elderly

have no retirement money;

poverty way up

By Brian Niemietz

A new study shows more older New Yorkers are living in poverty than ever — with many senior citizens having no money saved and returning to work.

*

Older adults 

experiencing

more mental health 

concerns

By Tim Kowols

Due to loneliness, social isolation, and other factors that come with aging, approximately 14 percent of these adults live with a mental disorder. 

Other Stories of interest 

The real longevity breakthroughs are already here

By Tina Reed

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Why You Shrink As You Get Older

By Jillian Wilson

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Should I Quit Facebook? Here’s How to Decide

By Laura Galbato 

We have already covered the important questions to ask when considering moving into an assisted living facility. These questions include whether the environment is safe, how much recreation is available, what medical services can be accessed, and what dining options are offered. It’s also important to look at details like the size of the rooms, how clean the facility is, and even what kind of residents live there. These factors matter because they help evaluate the quality of life in the facility and whether it will meet your needs or those of your loved one. But among all these questions, one key point often gets overlooked: why is there a need to move into an assisted living facility in the first place? Understanding the underlying reasons is crucial. 

Knowing why someone needs an assisted living facility helps clarify whether it’s the right choice at that moment. For example, is the person struggling to keep up with daily tasks like dressing, cooking, or managing medications? Are they experiencing falls more often or exhibiting signs of declining health that require professional support? Sometimes, the need arises because of loneliness or difficulty managing household chores. Recognizing the specific reasons helps guide the decision-making process. It also allows families and caregivers to better understand what kind of help is truly necessary. 

Addressing the real reasons for choosing assisted living can prevent premature moves or choosing a facility that doesn’t match the person’s needs. It helps in setting priorities—whether safety, social opportunities, healthcare, or independence—to find the best fit. Planning with this understanding can improve overall satisfaction and health outcomes. For instance, if safety is a concern due to frequent falls, the facility’s safety features become a top priority. If health management is the main issue, access to quality medical services will matter most. 

Understanding why a move is needed also reduces the risk of regrets later. Moving into an assisted living facility is a big step. It’s not just about finding a nice place; it’s about meeting specific needs. Clear reasons for the move help ensure the choice is right. It makes the transition smoother, and the care more effective. Recognizing the true reasons behind the decision strengthens the entire process and helps everyone involved feel confident about the move.  …

You may have spotted a “CE” on eyeglass frames, mobile phones (or their packaging), appliances, electronics, and more. CE stands for the French phrase “Conformité Européenne,” which means “European compliance.” The CE designation indicates an item has met the standards to be sold in the European Economic Area. The certification process ensures that products in specific categories adhere to safety, health, and environmental standards. Placing CE on things isn’t required outside of Europe, but plenty of manufacturers leave the CE mark on items that are sold both in Europe and elsewhere.

Democrats' Bill Would Extend

Social Security 

and Medicare Solvency

'As Far as the Eye Can See'

By Julia Conley

"economic justice advocates have long said the programs would be strengthened and remain fully solvent for as long as possible if the richest Americans contributed more to them—and on Thursday two Democratic lawmakers introduced legislation to ensure they do."

*

How Mental Health Apps

Can Help Older Adults

By Lee Pruitt

These apps offer various tools, including mood tracking, guided activities, educational resources, and social connection options.

* 

Unmarried people

had lower dementia risk,

new study finds

By Carly Mallenbaum

The finding seems to contradict the long-held belief that marriage is associated with better cognitive health and longevity.

*

Drinking Coffee

In Your Senior Years:

10 Health Facts 

You Should Know

As older adults and their families plan for retirement and community living, there’s more to consider than just the rich taste of this brew. Let’s dive deep into the health implications and benefits of coffee for seniors.

Other Stories of Interest 

A boomer couldn't retire on $1,428 a month in Social Security, 

so she moved to France 

Do Billionaires Still Collect Social Security? 

The Answer Might Surprise You.

By Kailey Hagen

Continuing our series on how to choose an assisted living facility (A.L.F.), today we focus on a key aspect that often gets overlooked: the people who live there. The staff and residents are the heart of any senior living community. While many tours are organized to show you the best side of the facility, they usually only scratch the surface. Most guided visits, often led by marketing or sales staff, include stops in the dining room, recreation areas, or residents' rooms. They are designed to put your mind at ease—answering questions about safety, cleanliness, and daily routines. They will tell you how dedicated they are to keeping your loved ones safe, sound, and happy. But what they won’t tell you is what the community feels like from within. They rarely allow prospective residents or visitors to speak directly to current residents during the tour. This is a crucial oversight.

After the formal guided tour, I suggest taking extra steps. Once the staff is not nearby, try to seek out current residents. On a nice day, residents are often sitting outside on patios or in outdoor sitting areas. This can be your best opportunity to hear real answers. People tend to open up more when they feel relaxed. Listen carefully to what they say, but remember to take it with a grain of salt. Older folks sometimes complain more than they praise. Still, their comments can offer valuable insights. Are residents smiling? Do they look engaged or drained? Are they managing their personal care well? These signs reveal how well the community functions behind the scenes.

The real test is what you observe from their appearance and behavior. For example, I once visited a few assisted living homes before choosing where to move. Some places looked okay on the surface but left a bad feeling. Others were simply uncomfortable. I saw dark, dingy hallways, rooms that seemed too small, and residents sitting listlessly. One facility had bars on some windows and double-locked doors. These signs alone raised red flags. But the most telling moment came from simply watching residents in the common areas. As I sat in the lobby waiting for a tour, I observed how they looked and carried themselves.

I watched the residents exit the dining room after breakfast. What struck me was how many were still dressed in pajamas or nightgowns. Many women wore their nightgowns, some men still in pajamas. Some residents had robes on, but many did not. Their hair was messy, faces unwashed, and some appeared unshaven. This told me a lot about the facility’s care. Even in nursing homes, residents are usually dressed appropriately before leaving their rooms. Seeing residents in sleepwear or unkempt clothes signals neglect. It also shows how much the residents themselves are left to manage their own hygiene and dressing. 

This simple, visual cue revealed the level of attention the facility pays to basic hygiene and dignity. If residents are allowed to walk around in pajamas all day, it suggests staff may not be checking on their personal needs enough. Or that residents are not encouraged to care for themselves. Either way, it’s a warning sign. The condition of the residents often reflects the quality of care they receive. You can tell when a community is well-run by observing how residents look and behave. Happy, well-cared-for residents tend to have better hygiene, brighter spirits, and look like they are enjoying life. Neglected residents often have a different appearance—dull, disheveled, and withdrawn.

Looking at the overall condition of residents isn’t the only way to judge a place. But it is one of the clearest signs. If you walk into a community and find residents who look cared for, alert, and engaged, it’s a good sign. If most appear neglected or unwell, ask yourself why. Some facilities might try to hide problems during tours. But the true picture often appears in the small, quiet moments—the way residents look and react. Always remember, the people you meet and observe matter just as much, if not more, than the amenities or decor. These details speak volumes about the community’s quality of care and the environment your loved ones will live in.  ..

- Insects Are the Most Diverse Group of Animals: With over a million described species and estimates suggesting there may be millions more yet to be discovered, insects make up the largest and most diverse group of animals on Earth. They inhabit nearly every environment, from the deepest caves to the highest mountains.

- Insects possess a hard outer shell called an exoskeleton, made of chitin. This exoskeleton provides protection, support, and prevents water loss, but it also means insects must molt (shed their exoskeleton) as they grow.

- Certain insects, like cockroaches and some beetles, can live for days or even weeks without their heads. They can survive because their vital functions are controlled by nerve clusters and their bodies can function independently for a while.

- Many insects communicate using chemical signals called pheromones. For example, ants leave pheromone trails to guide colony members to food sources, and moths release pheromones to attract mates from great distances.

- While bees are the most well-known pollinators, many insects such as butterflies, beetles, and flies also contribute significantly to pollination. This process is vital for the reproduction of many plants and the production of fruits and vegetables.

Senior scams, 

romance scams, 

and keeping 

yourself safe 

in the age of 

the internet

By John Shumway

It seems like a week doesn't go by that we aren't being warned about a new scam, and for the police departments who keep us safe, complaints about scams have become a daily occurrence. 

*

Older Adults Experience 

Disparate Outcomes 

When Relocating

A Blueprint for 

Intergenerational Living

By Whitney Airgood-Obrycki

As people age, changes in their physical and mental health may prompt them to move to a neighborhood or home that better meets their evolving needs. However, neighborhood inequality and residential segregation could limit the options that are available (or that older adults consider) when they move.

*

Recognizing

 "Silent" 

High Blood Pressure:

5 Signs You 

Shouldn't Ignore, 

Doctors Say

By Lauren Gray

Most often, hypertension occurs without symptoms, potentially affecting the heart, brain, and kidneys before anyone is the wiser. This means it’s crucial to regularly check your numbers.

*

Americans Want

 Early Diagnosis, 

Treatment 

for Alzheimer's

As the number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease tops more than 7 million for the first time, nearly 4 in 5 Americans would want to know if they had Alzheimer’s disease before it impacted their lives. 

Other Stories of Interest

Social Security will block payments to those who 

do not meet this requirements in May 2025

^^^^^^^^^

Holding Wealth: Why Retirees Shouldn't Focus on Leaving an Inheritance

Crystal balls are great for fairy tales, but they’re terrible for predicting real life. They never give clear answers, and their magic is, at best, questionable. As for time machines, no one has actually built one yet—at least, as far as we know. That means, if you want to find out what’s coming next, you’re left with just one option: waiting. Waiting to see what the future has in store, like a kid staring out the window on a rainy day, hoping a blue car will pass by. It’s frustrating, but there’s no magic trick to get around it. The rub is that for many of us—especially those who have already seen more sunsets than sunrises—time feels like it’s running out faster than we’d like. It’s like staring at a movie and knowing there are just a few scenes left before the credits roll. 

All the chaos happening in the world right now? It might not even be fully clear how wild things are until after we’ve already moved on. We’re caught up in a mess that’s still unfolding, still hiding its true face behind the curtain. For example, we might never really see the full extent of how chaotic or how corrupt our current government has become until history or future generations look back on it. Imagine being a person in the 1950s, barely able to dream about today's smartphones or space travel. Now picture yourself being alive long enough to actually see those inventions with your own eyes. That’s the kind of future I want to be here for.

This desire is what makes me interested in life extension and longevity. I want to stick around longer—not to become some immortal legend or a crossing of a thousand years. No, I just want enough time to see what’s possible. How will people after us remember us? Will they think we were just a bunch of wild machines, or will they see us as the first to really push boundaries? That’s what I want to find out. And I want to see the crazy tech that future years will bring, like flying cars, robot helpers, or even cures for diseases we’ve given up on today.

Think about it—wasn’t it amazing to be alive in the 1950s? Back then, people dreamed about flying to the moon. Now, most of us have been there via movies, and some have even gone beyond our planet. Just imagine what future generations will see. It might be science fiction turned reality, and I’d love nothing more than to witness that firsthand. I want to see how humanity manages to stretch out our time on this planet, and what new worlds might open up for us in the next few decades. So, yeah, I’m all in on the idea of living longer—because this isn’t just about longevity, it’s about witnessing history in the making. … 

When Jeanne Calment was born in France on February 21, 1875, the Eiffel Tower had yet to be built and the telephone wouldn’t be invented for another year. When she died on August 4, 1997, she’d lived the longest life in recorded human history: 122 years and 164 days. A longevity expert who knew Calment attributed her record-setting lifespan to the facts that she was wealthy, didn’t smoke until much later in life, and had “absolutely nothing to do except to take care of [herself], to visit France and have social activities.”

Older Americans Month was established in 1963. At that time there were only 17 million Americans who had reached their 65th birthday. About a third of these lived in poverty and there were few programs available to help them with their needs. This year the theme for Older Americans Month is Engage at Every Age. This is to emphasize that no matter what age you are you can take part in activities which will help you physically, mentally and emotionally.

Is it Normal Aging 

or Alzheimer’s?

Forgetfulness can be a normal part of aging. As people get older, changes occur in all parts of the body, including the brain. As a result, some people may notice that it takes longer to learn new things, they don’t remember information as well as they did, or they lose things like their glasses. These are usually signs of mild forgetfulness, not serious memory problems.

*

The aging of America

By MARK FRANKE

By 2035 the number of senior citizens in America will exceed the number of children.

*

What causes older adults

to alter their plans about

where to age?

Study provides insights

By Kimberly Bonvissuto

A loved one experiencing a health event, changes to social support networks, going through a personal health event or increasingly contemplating and denying fluctuating decisions — all can cause older adults to change their plans about whether to age in place or move to a senior living community or other long-term care setting, according to a new study.

*

Symptoms and Causes 

of Arthritis

By Chris Draper

Arthritis is inflammation of the joints. If you have joint pain and stiffness, it could be arthritis. The two most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

*

Dancing for seniors: 

A guide

Mental health, 

Physical benefits

According to research, physical activity can help reduce stress, as well as lower depression and anxiety levels. It has also been found that regular physical activity can have positive effects on various mental health conditions.