With Data, Share Less & Protect More

    

There’s probably a good deal of personal information about you available publicly on the Internet. Here’s how to minimize your online exposure.

If you’re on social media, you almost certainly have a friend or two who would benefit from joining Oversharers Anonymous. Of course, there’s nothing anonymous about oversharing. Posting long-winded opinions on Facebook is oversharing, but when it comes to protecting your data and privacy, even giving out your phone number to online retailers may be overdoing it. Be aware of what your data is saying about you online, and remember that prevention–let’s call it undersharing–is the best medicine.

Here are three ways your data gets around online, and how to slow it down.

Your Phone Number

Unfortunately, your phone number is on the Internet, and it’s tied to more personal information than you might think. Using a data broker site that compiles publicly available information, anyone can look up a phone number and find out a variety of personal data points on the number’s owner, including:

• Full name
• Full address
• Social media accounts
• Email addresses
• Images and any other Google search results

How to Keep Your Phone Number Safe Avoid posting your number in public forums or unencrypted messages. Use a separate number (like Google Voice) for public use. Remove your number from “data broker” sites that compile data using your phone number. Visit this site for instructions on how to remove your number from the popular NumLookUp, for example. Remove your number from social media sites. This tutorial walks you through it. Whenever possible, don’t share your phone number with businesses or people you don’t know, online or off.

Phone numbers weren’t meant to become personal identifiers, but since most people hold on to the same number for many years, they serve as useful tools for hackers and advertisers looking to gather personal data on individuals. According to the tech magazine Wired, the best thing you can do to protect your online privacy is to change your phone number.

How are your digits getting around online? For one thing, your phone number has most likely been involved in a data breach, considering that more than 8 data breaches happen every day, on average. But mostly, we do it to ourselves by linking our phone numbers to our social media and email accounts and handing it over to online retailers for 10% off at checkout. 

Your Photos

A picture is worth a thousand words, they say. Indeed, because unless you’re careful about your iPhone and Android settings, every photo you snap is accompanied by a trove of metadata. Metadata attached to a digital image may include information about the photo’s time, location, the kind of phone, and even the name of the photographer. Anyone in the know–again, hackers and advertisers–can use this metadata to find out where and when the photo was taken. 

“There are some situations where you need to be careful” about sharing photos online, says Bobby Richter of Consumer Reports. “If you’re sharing images with people you don’t know or trust, you should be wary of whether or not you’re revealing sensitive information, like location data.”

The good news is that most social media sites, including Facebook, WhatsApp, Craigslist, and others, remove metadata when you upload a photo. Of course, there’s little doubt they keep it on file. “You can almost certainly be assured they are not throwing it away, given that they’re basically big data vacuum cleaners,” Hany Farid, a computer scientist at University of California, Berkeley, told Wired. 

The immediate danger posed by metadata, though, occurs when people share photos directly with others they meet online. It’s essential to know that–unless the photo has been scrubbed of its metadata–when you email a photo to a stranger, you’re also telling them when and where that photo was taken. That means if someone online asks you for a selfie, they may really be asking for your location. Don’t send it to them.

Your Social Media Activity

A new day, a new opportunity to share information online. NextDoor, neighborhood forums, Craigslist, Facebook, YouTube–we have no shortage of ways to be social. It’s essential to remember two things before posting anything online: first, once on the Internet, that data lives forever outside of your control. Second, assume the forum is not as private as you think. It’s never a good idea to share information such as disability, any details related to income, and whether or not you live alone in a forum like NextDoor. There’s simply no way to know who is reading, and such information can serve criminals well. 

Even if your social media security is set to the most secure setting, it’s better to err on the side of caution. No one knows all their Facebook friends well, after all, and data breaches happen. The safest way to share online is to undershare. 

Additional Sources:

https://www.techguide.com.au/news/internet-news/how-long-does-information-stay-on-the-internet/ 

https://its.uky.edu/news/how-oversharing-on-social-media-could-put-your-personal-information-risk

https://sitesuserguide.stanford.edu/build-and-design/media-library/images/image-metadata 

https://www.techguide.com.au/news/internet-news/how-long-does-information-stay-on-the-internet/ 

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

Strategies for Adjusting to Retirement Income

  

The shift from saving to spending can feel stressful. Lean into lifelong budgeting wisdom to stay on track during retirement.

Retirement lengths are protracting as Americans live longer. Longevity is a complicated science, one with a dramatic impact on retirement savings. While the average life expectancy for an American man is 72.3, the average American man who lives to age 70 will live another 15 years, to age 85. Retirement planning experts find that most people underestimate how long they are likely to live–and thus, how long their retirement will last.

Since no one can know exactly how long they’ll live to enjoy retirement, the best strategy is to develop ongoing sources of retirement income, such as traditional monthly pensions and Social Security. Of course, it’s also important to save up as much as possible in retirement accounts throughout one’s working life. But even for those who were best able to prepare financially, when the moment comes to bid farewell to a biweekly paycheck, it can feel like a momentous shift. 

If adjusting to a new budget in retirement feels stressful, remember that, just like during the rest of life, there are three main ways to support a healthy budget in retirement. First of all, have a budget. Then, increase your income, and/or decrease your expenses. 

Here are some ways to maximize your retirement budget and minimize the stress of the transition.

A Second Act: Encore or Bridge Employment

In retirement, the goal isn’t to work full time or further your career. Without those constraints, new possibilities arise for ways to earn money. Some newly-retired professionals continue to share their talents through consulting or teaching. Others take the opportunity to try something novel or apply their skills in a totally different field; for example, someone who’s always worked in corporate finance might shift to a financial role in an animal shelter or arts organization. This shift to related-but-different or entirely an entirely new field of work is sometimes called an encore career. A longitudinal study found that, among retirees, these kinds of jobs can boost a sense of life satisfaction. 

Bridge employment refers to part-time work that people take on as they transition from full-time work to retirement. While an encore career connotes a passion project, financial need is often the motivation behind bridge employment. New retirees also take on bridge employment to maintain a sense of structure in their day and learn new things. These jobs usually involve working fewer hours in a less-stressful role. Some evidence suggests that bridge employment eases the emotional transition into retirement, and it can certainly ease financial stress. Encore careers and bridge employment may be on the rise, since the cost of living is rising, but they’ve been popular among Americans since the 1990s. About half of people transition into retirement with a bridge job, whether it be consulting or driving a school bus (or maybe both). 

Staying in the workforce isn’t the only way to increase income during retirement. Consider finding a “boommate”--a boomer roommate–to rent a room in your home. Ask around to see if neighbors or friends are in need of something you can offer, whether it’s babysitting, petsitting, garden care, writing, crafts, or art. 

Leaning Into a Leaner Retirement Budget

Ironically enough, working is expensive. For those who don’t plan to pursue another job in retirement, there’s a beauty to cutting out some of the work-related expenses they’ve budgeted for years. For example, when you punch out for the last time, you may be able to zero out these line items from your personal budget:

• Multiple vehicles, and the insurance, maintenance, and repairs to go along with them. If your family has gone from two commuters to one or none, selling off a car will translate into thousands in savings per year. Then add in all the money you save not visiting the gas station.
• Expensive new clothes. No need to refresh your wardrobe for the office on a regular basis anymore, or to dry clean those outfits, either.
• Professional fees and training. Depending on the career, professionals may spend hundreds or thousands a year on society memberships, continuing education, and conferences, plus related travel. Retirees can cut those expenses and still keep learning on their own terms–probably for free–through local and state universities, as we talked about in last month’s newsletter.

There are other ways to slim down a personal budget at the start of retirement, too. Making cuts in the biggest categories will have the biggest impacts, which is why experts recommend that retirees first consider downsizing to a smaller home if money is a concern. Other smaller choices can add up, like cooking at home more often and vacationing closer to home.

The experience of retiring prompts many feelings: euphoria, disappointment, boredom, discovery, and passion are just a few of the emotions that may come up during this major life transition. Emotions about money are a significant part of the journey, and it makes sense for stressful emotions to come up during the shift. Planning and a little creativity can help to take the stress out of adjusting to a new budget in retirement.

This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional financial advice from a qualified financial advisor.

Additional sources:

https://www.aarp.org/money/retirement/journey-stages/ 

https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/stages-of-retirement-and-how-to-skip-some-of-them 

https://hbr.org/2024/05/coping-with-the-stress-of-retirement 

https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2023/10/12/how-long-does-retirement-last/71074947007/ 

https://www.forbes.com/sites/andrewrosen/2025/03/20/encore-careers-in-retirement-a-path-to-purpose-and-fulfillment/ 

https://www.madisontrust.com/information-center/visualizations/average-retirement-age/ 

https://econw.com/project/project-spotlight-bridge-employment-and-inequality/ 

https://mutualreverse.com/expenses-you-no-longer-need-in-retirement/

https://www.aarp.org/money/retirement/what-to-stop-buying.html 

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

Four Ways CSAs Can Support Latino Clients and Families

   

Celebrating and serving older adults during Hispanic Heritage Month. 

From September 15 to October 15, the U.S. celebrates the Hispanic and Latino community during National Hispanic Heritage Month. The Latino community in the U.S. is astoundingly diverse, representing people of all economic backgrounds, races, abilities, and, of course, ages. 

Like the rest of the U.S. population, the Latino community is aging. In 2019, there were almost 5 million Latino adults over 65 in the U.S., about 9% of the 65+ population. By 2060, that number is projected to reach almost 20 million (12%). In 2019, according to the Administration for Community Living, 60% of Latinos over 65 lived in three states: Florida, Texas, and California. About 63% had finished high school. Households headed by Hispanic Americans over 65 had a median income of $50,553, as compared to $70,254 for all households. 

CSAs serve the Latino community in all kinds of ways: health care, financial services, support services, and more. We’re serving both older adults and their families: today, about 7 million Latinos provide unpaid care to a family member or loved one. 

Are you being intentional about reaching out to your local Latino community? If not, Hispanic Heritage Month is a great time to start. Here are four ways that CSAs can support Latino clients and their families.

Professional Organizations Serving Latino Seniors The Latinx Disability Coalition unites the Disability and Latinx communities to advocate for common goals. The National Hispanic Council on Aging (NHCOA) identifies four priorities of need for Hispanic older adults, their caregivers, and families: economic security, caregiving, public health, and housing. They provide education and advocate in D.C. for policies benefitting Latino seniors.  Latino Alzheimer's Alliance supports caregivers and families of people with Alzheimer’s disease, providing bilingual education, training, and support programs.

1. Provide more resources in Spanish. Yes, our browsers will translate any webpage these days, but Spanish-speaking clients notice when a business puts in the effort to provide a bilingual website. Especially if your business operates in an area with a large Hispanic community, providing forms and literature in both Spanish and English tells new clients that you care about communicating with them. 

There’s a need for more Spanish-language education for the caregivers and families that CSAs serve. In a survey, the National Hispanic Council on Aging asked caregivers what Spanish-language resources they would like to have. The top responses were: trainings on emotional stress, assistance with government programs, trainings on caregiving techniques, and caregiving support groups.

2. Connect with Hispanic-serving organizations in your area. Look for where the Latino community is going for services in your area, and talk with those organizations.  There might be great local opportunities to network and promote your services to the people who need them. For example, the Latino Providers Network in Maryland unites service providers from various sectors to network, share resources, and maximize the impact of services for the Latino community. Insurance providers, the Alzheimer’s Association, community economic development boards, small businesses, and others come together at these meetings to create connections and share Spanish-language service opportunities. 

3. Learn about the most common challenges facing Hispanic older adults and their families. Latino seniors often experience higher rates of chronic health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, sometimes linked to genetic factors as well as limited access to preventive care. Latinos are 1.5 times more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease as compared to their white counterparts. Older adults who immigrated later in life may face reduced eligibility for public benefits, which affects their ability to manage chronic conditions. Latino caregivers tend to be younger, at 43, than the average caregiver in the U.S. Understanding the common challenges can help service providers reach this audience.

4. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month! Representation matters. Even though they’re the largest minority population in the U.S., the Hispanic and Latino community are under-represented in media and advertising. National Hispanic Heritage Month organizers offer social media toolkits and ideas for how to promote the monthlong celebration. Culture, history, food, music, poetry, and art from multiple continents–there’s plenty to celebrate.

Additional sources:

https://www.latinxproject.nyu.edu/intervenxions/national-coalition-for-latinxs-with-disabilities 

https://latino.si.edu/learn/teaching-and-learning-resources/hispanic-heritage-month-resources 

https://states.aarp.org/texas/the-changing-face-of-the-latino-caregiver 

https://www.gerolatino.org/ 

https://www.usagainstalzheimers.org/networks/latinos 

https://www.diverseelders.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/2018-Status-of-Hispanic-Older-Adults.pdf 

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

Aging in Place with Help from the HOA

  

Senior-friendly homeowners' associations turn the challenge of supporting older residents into an opportunity. 

Homeowners’ associations (HOAs) aim to maintain a clean, safe, and desirable environment for everyone who lives in a neighborhood. As the American population ages, HOAs are experiencing their memberships aging, too–and as in the country at large, most seniors living in HOA communities want to age in place. With more older residents hoping to stay put–and stay HOA members–these organizations are facing legal, logistical, and ethical challenges. Some HOAs are responding to these challenges in innovative ways that make them more valuable institutions, not only for older adults, but also for everyone else living in the neighborhood.

As Members Age, HOAs Need to Change

In condos and other kinds of planned communities with HOAs, many people live alone, including older members. As existing members enter older age, neighbors may start to report concerns both for their older neighbors’ own safety and the well-being of the neighborhood. HOA leadership might hear from members when:

• An older neighbor can no longer mow their own lawn, as per HOA code.
• A senior who lives alone is still driving, but neighbors worry that they drive erratically in the neighborhood.
• Residents are concerned that a neighbor who lives alone is at risk of falling.

Older residents themselves might bring these or other concerns to HOAs for support. For example, a senior HOA member might request help when:

• Steps and walkways ice over and the member needs assistance to clear them.
• They need a ramp installed to safely enter their condo, or other renovations that would aid aging in place.
• The member decides to stop driving and needs to find new forms of transportation to the grocery store, doctor appointments, and around town.

As more members enter their 60s, 70s, and 80s, and more of these requests start arriving, HOA leadership faces a consequential question: what kinds of support are they legally required to provide? And, a related question: What kinds of support are they able and willing to provide in order to make the neighborhood a senior-friendly place to live?

The legal concerns are significant. A resident or family member could try to hold the HOA liable for spaces deemed inaccessible or unsafe. If the HOA becomes aware that a resident needs assistance from adult protective services, the association could be at legal risk if they fail to take action. Each situation, and each state, will have its own legal implications, and HOA leadership should consult their own bylaws and an attorney when legal questions arise. But there are proactive steps that HOAs can take to avoid legal problems while improving the quality of life in the neighborhood, for everyone.

Designing a Senior-Friendly HOA

Elizabeth White, a lawyer who works with HOAs in Williamsburg, Virginia, offers an example of a question HOAs may receive. A woman who lives in a three-story condo with no elevator contacted the HOA with concerns about her older neighbor living above. "The unit owner in the top story is now having real problems going up and down the steps with her groceries and everything else,” White recounts. The downstairs neighbor “asked whether the HOA had an obligation to put in an elevator for the third–floor owner and, if so, who should pay."

The concerned neighbor also shared with White that “the third–floor resident recently had a health crisis, and the EMTs had a hard time getting up the steps with a stretcher.” In this case, White explains, “a duty–to–act analysis on the HOA's part comes into play. It may not have the luxury it thinks it has thinking that an elevator is going to be an accommodation for just one person."

In other words, aside from the potential liability concerns, this is a clear case of how accommodations for seniors can help everyone. An elevator would make this building safer for all residents in the case of an emergency and when residents of any age need to use a wheelchair or crutches. 

Many other actions that would support older residents would benefit others in the building, too, such as checking that entrance area rugs won’t trip people, ramps are safe, and sidewalks and stairs are clear of ice during the winter. HOAs can also proactively support seniors and all residents by offering transportation options, such as weekly shuttles to the grocery store. 

Of course, HOAs, like individual neighbors, need to mind the line between, on the one hand, creating a universally-designed environment that is comfortable and accessible to all residents and, on the other hand, providing care to older residents. It’s not always easy to find this line. In some cases, such as if a resident is hoarding or at risk of falling, it may be appropriate for an HOA to contact nonprofits or service providers who have the expertise to meet their care needs. When at all possible, this contact should happen in conversation with the resident. An HOA that is well-informed on how to support seniors could, for example, link a resident who needs a home health aide up with covered services through the local area agency on aging. 

A Resilient Community

When it comes to building a senior-friendly HOA, each community will have specific challenges at different times. The best way to navigate and negotiate concerns as they arise is to include seniors in HOA leadership. HOAs can make it easy for seniors to participate in leadership boards by inviting long-time older residents to join and by communicating announcements in multiple ways; both online and on bulletin boards, for example. 

HOAs that prioritize the needs of seniors are setting themselves up for long-term success. Residents who see that the HOA cares about supporting older residents will feel safer themselves and benefit from senior-friendly neighborhood design.

Additional sources:

https://www.sohomemanagement.com/post/7-ways-to-help-hoa-aging-residents 

https://www.hoamanagement.com/aging-residents-in-hoa/ 

https://www.hoappm.com/aging-owners-in-hoa/ 

https://hoaresources.caionline.org/developing-hoa-policies-to-protect-older-adults/ 

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

Public Figures Taking on Alzheimer's Disease

 

After losing loved ones to Alzheimer's disease, these celebrities are championing brain health and research for a cure. 

What do Maria Shriver, Seth Rogan, Leeza Gibbons, and Samuel L. Jackson have in common? They all lost loved ones to Alzheimer’s disease, and since then they’ve all decided to use their celebrity platform to make a difference for families going through the same struggle. 

 

For journalist and former First Lady Maria Shriver, Alzheimer’s advocacy is deeply personal. After her father, Sargent Shriver, was diagnosed in 2003, she used her skills as a storyteller and public official to bring attention to the burden Alzheimer’s places on women as both patients and caregivers.

In 2010, through The Shriver Report: A Woman’s Nation Takes on Alzheimer’s, she revealed that two‑thirds of Americans with Alzheimer’s are women, and that women comprise 60 percent of unpaid caregivers. That report sparked the creation of the Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement, which merged with the Cleveland Clinic in 2022 to create a research center specifically for women’s brain health and disease prevention.

Shriver also executive‑produced the award‑winning HBO documentary series The Alzheimer’s Project, including the moving segment “Grandpa, Do You Know Who I Am?”, based on her children’s book. She’s testified before Congress, helped shape the National Alzheimer’s Project Act, and produced the Oscar‑winning Still Alice. Her goal, she says, is to shift the still-common public perception that Alzheimer’s only impacts seniors.

 

When most people think of Seth Rogen, they picture the irreverent comedian delivering punchlines, but his advocacy for Alzheimer’s has been anything but a joke. After his wife Lauren Miller’s mother was diagnosed with early‑onset Alzheimer’s in her mid‑50s, she declined quickly. Motivated by that experience, Rogen co-founded Hilarity for Charity, a nonprofit that stages comedy events to fund caregiver support and research. Comedians John Mulaney, Sacha Baron Cohen, Tiffany Haddish, and even the Muppets have all appeared on the Hilarity for Charity stage, and Rogan has taken the show on the road to college campuses. 

In 2014, Rogan donned a suit and tie to testify before a Senate appropriations committee. With typical humor (“I dream of a day when my charity is no longer necessary and I can go back to being the lazy, self‑involved man‑child I was meant to be.”), he delivered a plea about government inaction and the stigma around Alzheimer’s. He later called out empty seats in the hearing room, saying they symbolized how little priority the issue gets.

 

Television host Leeza Gibbons transformed her family’s grief into a mission to uplift Alzheimer’s caregivers. After losing both her mother and grandmother to the disease, Gibbons founded the Leeza Gibbons Memory Foundation in 2002, eventually launching its signature initiative: Leeza’s Care Connection, a national program offering free, tailored support to family caregivers navigating dementia care. Gibbons focuses on the often-invisible work of caregivers, who may sacrifice sleep, social life, and their own health while managing the demands of loved ones with Alzheimer's. 

Gibbons invested her Celebrity Apprentice winnings to open a local caregiver support center in her hometown of Columbia, South Carolina in 2016. Now 68, Gibbons calls her advocacy work her “third act,” describing it as “the greatest work I’ve ever done.” 

 

Actor Samuel L. Jackson has also faced Alzheimer’s close to home. His mother, grandfather, multiple aunts, uncles, and cousins have all battled the disease. He once referred to his grandfather as “my best friend growing up.” In 2019, Jackson lent his voice and presence to Alzheimer’s Research UK’s #ShareTheOrange campaign, a short CGI-powered film designed to shatter the myth that dementia is an unavoidable part of aging. In the film, he explains that a brain with Alzheimer’s can weigh up to 140g less than a healthy one—roughly the weight of an orange. Dementia takes a dramatic physical toll, but it is a disease, not destiny. With more investment in research, we can slow or even stop its progression.

More recently, Jackson joined the Alzheimer’s Association’s “Generation Hope” digital campaign   alongside fellow celebrity advocates Kimberly Williams‑Paisley and Diedrich Bader. In a spot titled “Enough,” Jackson spoke plainly: “Alzheimer’s disease has taken my grandfather, grandmother, aunts and uncles. Even my mother. Enough is enough.” He framed the campaign around hope and encouraged viewers to support research and caregiver services to make Alzheimer’s disease a thing of the past.

 

By raising money for research and sharing their stories, these stars are humanizing the experience of Alzheimer’s. The disease can affect any family, and anyone can add their voice to the call for change. 

Additional Sources:

https://www.brainandlife.org/the-magazine/articles/2016/june-july-2016/after-her-fathers-diagnosis-maria-shriver-started-talking-about-alzheimers/ 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seth_Rogen%27s_Hilarity_for_Charity 

https://www.cambridgenetwork.co.uk/news/samuel-l-jackson-stars-powerful-dementia-campaign-challenge-misunderstanding-condition

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

Famous & 65

 

Look who's turning 65 this month

Find out which celebrities are turning 65 this month!

September 9

This British rom-com king shot to fame with Four Weddings and a Funeral in 1994. He went on to star in a string of hits: Notting Hill, Bridget Jones’s Diary, and Love Actually, playing lovable but awkward heroes and antiheroes. In 2002, he was universally lauded for his moving leading turn in About a Boy. More recently, he’s branched out and received praise for less comedic roles in projects like Florence Foster Jenkins and the miniseries A Very English Scandal. Last year, he even played a serial killer in Heretic, a role Variety called "wildly against-type." Answer: Who is…. (click here to reveal)?

September 10

This British actor first stole hearts as Mr. Darcy in the 1995 BBC adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, a role that launched him into international stardom. He went on to earn an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of King George VI in The King’s Speech. He’s best known and loved for playing brooding, but ultimately charming, love interests, famously in Bridget Jones’s Diary, where he feuded for Renee Zellweger’s attention with his September 1960 birthday buddy. Answer: Who is…. (click here to reveal)?

September 10

This cartoonist and graphic memoirist first gained recognition for her long-running comic strip Dykes to Watch Out For, a politically sharp chronicle of lesbian life in the 1980s. To pass a famous test first introduced in this comic strip, a movie must feature (1) at least two women, who (2) who talk to each other, about (3) something other than a man. The test (named after this birthday celebrant) measures the equal representation of women in fiction. This author’s 2006 graphic memoir Fun Home explores family, identity, and her relationship with her closeted father. The book garnered her many awards and was adapted into a Tony Award-winning Broadway musical. 

Answer: Who is…. (click here to reveal)?

Source:

Wikipedia

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

Alcohol Use in Retirement: When a Habit Becomes a Health Risk

   

Retirement is often seen as a time to relax and enjoy life after years of hard work. For many, this newfound freedom leads to more social gatherings and leisurely activities, which can include alcohol use in retirement. While occasional drinking may be an everyday occurrence, it can sometimes turn into a daily habit, affecting both physical and mental health. Over time, what starts as a way to unwind can develop into a pattern that becomes harder to manage. It’s essential to understand the potential risks that excessive alcohol use can bring as people age and the need to rely on the right support systems. Recognizing these patterns early can help retirees make informed decisions and take steps toward maintaining their health and overall well-being.

When Drinking Becomes a Habit

Drinking can easily shift from a casual habit to something more habitual, especially in retirement. Retirees often have more free time, and lifestyle changes such as isolation, boredom, or loss of routine can increase consumption. What may begin as an occasional drink to unwind can slowly develop into a regular part of the daily routine. This shift is not always obvious, but certain signs can point to a growing dependency. Frequent cravings, drinking earlier in the day, or consuming larger quantities than before are warning signs. Drinking can impact daily life, affecting mood, energy levels, and overall physical health.

Regular drinking may also interfere with retirement goals, including staying active or maintaining strong relationships. With aging, older adults face unique physical and emotional factors that make them more susceptible to alcoholism. The increased risk of alcohol abuse in this age group can lead to severe health problems if not addressed. Recognizing these changes early and seeking help is important to avoid long-term harm. Identifying the signs of alcohol dependency early can help retirees regain control and protect their health.

The Social Aspect of Drinking in Retirement

Social gatherings often become a regular part of life after retirement, and drinking plays a significant role in these events. During family celebrations, community events, or casual meetups, retirees can turn to alcohol. Drinking in social settings helps spark conversations, build connections, and create shared experiences. Many people use liquor as a way to unwind and relax. In some cultures, it is a symbol of leisure and enjoyment, especially during retirement when individuals have more free time.

However, this social aspect of drinking can sometimes mask unhealthy drinking patterns. Retirees might feel pressured to drink to fit in or keep up with others, especially if alcohol is a central part of social gatherings. As a result, it may become more than just a drink; it may turn into a social tool for feeling included or for relaxation. Although moderate drinking may seem harmless, over time, the association with relaxation can lead to habitual drinking. Around 4% of elderly adults suffer from alcohol use disorder. This shift can have negative consequences on physical and mental health, making it important to recognize the risks early.

 

Mental Health Impacts

Alcohol use in retirement often intersects with mental health, as retirees may struggle with emotional and psychological challenges. Loneliness and isolation can lead to increased drinking as a way to cope with these feelings. While drinking might temporarily numb negative emotions, it can make mental health problems worse over time. It can worsen depression and anxiety, leading to a cycle of dependence and emotional distress.

Retirees who rely on liquor to manage stress may find it harder to break free from this pattern. As the consumption increases, so does the risk of more severe mental health issues. Retirees are encouraged to find healthier coping mechanisms, such as exercise, hobbies, or fun activities, to manage feelings of sadness or anxiety. Seeking professional support, such as therapy or counseling, can help retirees develop better strategies for dealing with stress without turning to drinking. Recognizing the connection between alcohol and mental health early on can help prevent long-term consequences.

Physical Health Impacts

The body’s ability to process alcohol decreases as people age, leading to stronger effects with smaller amounts. Older adults become more vulnerable to falls, accidents, and impaired coordination when drinking. Alcohol weakens balance and reaction times, making even simple movements more risky. It also interacts with chronic diseases such as heart disease, liver conditions, and diabetes, potentially worsening symptoms or hindering treatment. For instance, drinking can raise blood pressure, making it harder to manage hypertension.

Additionally, it may interfere with medication effectiveness or cause harmful interactions. Many medications commonly prescribed to older adults, such as those for pain, better sleep, or depression, can have dangerous side effects when combined with alcohol. Even moderate drinking can reduce the body’s ability to respond to these medications properly. Understanding these risks is important as it helps retirees make informed decisions about consumption.  

How to Cut Back on Alcohol Use in Retirement

Cutting back on alcohol requires a clear plan and some practical steps. Here are some strategies that can help retirees reduce their consumption in retirement:

• Set realistic limits for drinking, such as reducing the number of drinks per week or choosing liquor-free days.

• Identify triggers that lead to excessive drinking, such as certain social situations, boredom, or stress. Knowing your triggers helps you avoid them or handle them differently.

• Use healthier alternatives like non-alcoholic drinks, herbal teas, or sparkling water when feeling the urge to drink. This can reduce the craving without compromising social interactions.

• Create a support system by talking to friends, family, or a healthcare provider about your goal to cut back. Having others to lean on makes it easier to stay committed and motivated.

• Track progress and celebrate small milestones. Recognizing your success helps build confidence and keeps you on the right path.

Making these changes gradually will lead to healthier habits, which can improve overall well-being.

 

When and Where to Get Help

Professional support offers retirees the guidance needed to cut back or stop drinking. Several options are available, including counseling, therapy, and rehabilitation programs. These services focus on both the emotional and physical aspects of drinking. Retirees can also find helpful local and online resources to assist in overcoming alcohol-related issues. Community support groups dedicated to battling alcoholism in seniors, online forums, and dedicated programs are great ways to connect with others facing similar challenges.

Doctors can assess the situation, recommend safe drinking limits, and offer resources for treatment. Many retirees hesitate to reach out for help, but talking to a healthcare provider can be the first step toward improving overall health. Professional counseling or local support systems provide retirees with the tools they need to regain control and move forward in a healthier direction.

Conclusion

Recognizing and addressing alcohol use in retirement is vital for maintaining both physical and mental health. By seeking support, setting limits, and finding healthier coping strategies, retirees can reduce the risks associated with excessive drinking. With the right guidance and resources, it’s possible to enjoy a fulfilling, healthier retirement, free from the negative impact of excessive drinking.

Meta Description: Learn how to manage alcohol use in retirement and reduce health risks with practical tips and support options available

Focus Keyphrase: Alcohol Use in Retirement

Author’s Bio:

Alex Alonso is the Chief Operating Officer and Director of Business Development at Bright Futures Treatment Center Florida. He specializes in creating strategic business development relationships to expand the center's reach and impact. With a strong focus on growth and collaboration, Alex works to drive the center's success and help people in the struggle while building valuable partnerships within the industry.

www.csa.us

How to Stay Safe from Malware

    

It used to be imperative to install third-party antivirus software on personal computers. Do you still need to buy a service to defend against malware in 2025? 

Malware Still Plagues the Web

Malware–or “malicious software”--has infested the Internet since its earliest days. Your computer may have a malware infection if you notice a sudden loss of memory space, slower operating speeds, aggravating pop-up ads, unusual changes to your browser or system settings, or a complete and total crash. Any of these symptoms could mean that malware is operating on your computer to lock, steal, or encrypt your data. 

Criminals use malware to access bank accounts or other sensitive information directly. They can also, in the case of ransomware, keep a victim’s data hostage and demand a ransom. A computer virus is a specific kind of malware that can replicate itself and, just like a virus in a human immune system, inflicts all kinds of problems in a computer’s operating system. Viruses often don’t have any criminal demands behind them, but they still wreak plenty of havoc. 

Malware is proliferating more than ever, with billions of attacks each year. One study found that malware attacks rose 87% over the past decade. Perhaps that’s partly because we have many more devices now, and smartphones and tablets are just as susceptible to malware as computers are. (Macs and iPhones almost never fall prey to viruses, but they’re susceptible to other kinds of malware.)

To protect your data, privacy, and assets online, it’s essential to protect against malware. The question becomes: what, if anything, should you pay for that protection? 

Why You Might Not Need an Anti-Malware Service

Thankfully, all devices these days come with built-in anti-malware programs that work well to deter most threats. The biggest player, Windows Defender, can be counted on to protect your PC from most malware. Android phones and Mac devices all possess high-quality standard protection, too. 

More good news: unlike in the early days of the Internet, most of the applications we use online now have their own antivirus protections built in. Email providers scan attachments for malware, and browsers will automatically block pop-ups and warn users when they may want to turn around rather than encounter a potentially threatening site. 

To make the most of these basic but effective layers of protection, be sure to update operating systems and install the latest browser versions when they become available. 

…And Why You Might Want to Pay for One Anyway

We all live on the Internet to different degrees, and what malware protection you need depends, in part, on where you tend to hang out on the Internet. For one thing, frequent visits to the dark web will invite viruses into your operating system. 

Some people who don’t have a heightened risk for catching a computer virus may still have heightened concerns about privacy and safeguarding extra-sensitive data. For these folks, paying for extra malware protection may be worth it. A paid service may catch malware that built-in software misses, and can provide peace of mind. Plus, now that AI is turbocharging scams and malware, these services are fighting fire with fire. All the providers below advertise AI-powered protection against malware. 

If you decide that you want that extra layer of protection, here are some of the most highly-rated anti-malware services on the market. 

• Malwarebytes. With personal and business plans, Malwarebytes’ Premium Security plan starts at $49.99/year. They claim to catch malware that other systems miss every second, around the globe. 
• Norton 360 Antivirus. According to the reviews we read, this lead player doesn’t miss: its in-depth scan was shown to be 100% effective at catching viruses in a user test by Cybernews. https://cybernews.com/best-antivirus-software/ Their intro rate for one year starts at $39.99.
• Bitdefender. This company offers plans for multiple devices across various operating systems, starting at an intro rate of $54.99/year for up to 5 devices.

Whatever You Choose, Stay Vigilant

Don’t let any anti-malware service lull you into a false sense of security. Regardless of whether or not someone has anti-malware installed on their computer or phone, phishing remains the number one online threat. Phishing involves an attempt by criminals to lure a person into believing they are talking with a reputable institution, a known individual, or a person in need, and then stealing money or data. Not even the most sophisticated or expensive anti-malware software can protect you from that kind of attack. Check out this recent SCSA blog post to learn more about how to guard yourself from phishing attacks. When it comes to online safety, anti-malware programs are nice to have, but the very best defense is critical thinking.    

Additional sources:

https://www.malwarebytes.com/cybersecurity https://www.mcafee.com/support/s/article/000001575?language=en_US 

https://www.pcworld.com/article/797877/do-i-need-windows-antivirus-software.html 

https://discussions.apple.com/docs/DOC-8841 

https://www.pcworld.com/article/398361/windows-security-av-review.html 

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

Five Reminders About RMDs for 2025

  

If you’re over 73 and haven’t thought about RMDs yet this year, here are some reminders to help you hold on to more of your money.

Sweater weather is around the corner, but for now we’re still enduring the heat and humidity of summer. At least we still have almost half the year to meet fitness goals, declutter the house, and, of course, withdraw Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from retirement accounts. The deadline is December 31, the end of the tax year. 

The stressful thing about RMDs is that they are, as the name suggests, required by the IRS, and thus there’s a penalty for withdrawing less than the minimum. The penalty rate is 25% of what you failed to withdraw by the deadline. As an example, if your RMD is $50,000, and you only withdrew $25,000, you would owe 25% of the remaining $25,000, or $6,250.

Handing back money you’ve carefully invested over the course of a lifetime? Let’s not even go there. It may make sense to delay taking the full distribution until near the end of the year, but keep an eye on the calendar: the most important rule of thumb for managing RMDs is to never wind up paying that 25% penalty. Here are 5 RMD reminders for 2025 to help you stay well ahead of the December 31st deadline. 

1. Turning 73? This is your year. In general, your first RMD must be withdrawn before April 1 of the year after you turn 73. (For those born in 1960 or later, the age of first RMD will bump up to 75.) However, be aware that while you could take both your first and second RMDs in the same year, that income may push you into a higher tax bracket. Delaying usually only makes sense for people who are still bringing in a hefty paycheck.

2. Your RMD changes every year. To calculate your current year’s RMD, divide the account balance as of December 31 of the previous year by a life expectancy factor provided by the IRS (access the most recent tables here. For example, if you are 74 years old with a traditional IRA balance of $200,000 at the end of the prior year, and the IRS life expectancy factor for your age is 25.5, your RMD would be $200,000 divided by 25.5, or $7,843.14. This is the amount you would need to withdraw by the end of the year to avoid a penalty. 

3. Know which retirement accounts are subject to RMDs. The following accounts are all subject to RMDs: 401(k), 403(b), and similar workplace retirement plan accounts; SEP IRAs; SIMPLE IRAs; and Traditional IRAs. Roth accounts don’t have RMDs–neither Roth IRAs nor, more recently, 401(k)s

If you have multiple IRAs, you need to calculate the correct RMD for each account, but can then withdraw that total amount from any of the IRAs. As you approach 73, it’s a good idea to evaluate any retirement accounts you hold and talk with a financial advisor about the possibility of consolidating them. 

4. Timing matters, and it’s complicated. A financial advisor will also be able to support the best decision on timing RMDs to minimize both risk and tax burden according to your particular situation. Some people choose to take a lump sum RMD at the start of the year in order to simplify distributions, have the money in hand, and leave no chance of missing the end-of-year deadline. Another benefit to the early withdrawal approach is that, if the account holder passes away that year, their heirs won’t need to figure out how much money to withdraw to avoid the penalty before December 31. 

Other people prefer to withdraw in installments in order to maximize their money’s potential tax-deferred gain inside the account, or for cash flow purposes. A risk to withdrawing in installments is the human error that can occur when the account holder is calculating their own RMD rather than leaving that math to the bank. And of course, leaving the withdrawal until later in the year runs you the risk of missing the deadline and being levied that penalty. There are many more pros and cons to each approach to withdrawal timing, so a professional’s advice will benefit anyone with questions. 

5. Reduce your tax burden in a given year by giving to charity. In 2025, you can generally give up to $108,000 directly to a charitable organization out of your retirement account, without owing tax on that donation. For people with significant tax-deferred assets, this approach can save them thousands of dollars in taxes while supporting their charitable goals. 

If you aren’t yet subject to RMDs, another way to lower your all-time taxes owed is to start RMDs before age 73 and reinvest the money into a Roth IRA. By converting to Roth, you pay taxes in the year you make the withdrawal, but then potentially avoid jumping up into a higher tax bracket down the road, while also building up tax-free savings. 

As we move into the second half of 2025, taking time to review the status of your RMDs can make a big difference in the money that ultimately ends up in your pocket in retirement, especially if that review helps you avoid a penalty. Make your withdrawals work for you–not against you. 

This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional financial advice from a qualified financial advisor.

Additional sources:

https://www.schwab.com/learn/story/required-minimum-distributions-what-you-should-know 

https://www.troweprice.com/personal-investing/resources/insights/things-you-should-know-about-rmds.html 

https://www.schwab.com/learn/story/reducing-rmds-with-qcds 

https://www.schwab.com/learn/story/rmd-reference-guide 

https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-participant-employee/required-minimum-distribution-worksheets 

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

Make Your Wishes Known: Choosing a Health Care Proxy

   

No matter one’s age or health status, every adult should name a health care proxy.

No one wants to put their loved ones in the position of having to make a painful decision, and perhaps that’s why a majority of Americans haven’t named a health care proxy. Even though having the conversation can be difficult, everyone 18 and older should complete an advance directive. 

Advance Directives: Living Will vs. Health Care Proxy

Advance directives are legal documents that communicate your wishes for your own healthcare in the event that you are unable to do so yourself. The two most common advance directives are a living will and a health care proxy form. A living will lays out your wishes for your medical care. A living will can detail a variety of medical situations and how you would want to be treated in each instance: for example, tube feeding, medical ventilation, medication, palliative care, and emergency care including CPR. 

A health care proxy form (also called a durable power of attorney for health care) designates a person who may make medical decisions on your behalf should you be unable to make decisions for yourself. Depending on the state where you live, this person may be called a health care proxy, surrogate, agent, or representative. Sometimes this person is also called a medical power of attorney or attorney-in-fact. It’s important to keep in mind that this person doesn’t have the power to make financial decisions on your behalf. 

Having a combined advance directive–that is, both a living will and a health care proxy–sets the stage for a more peaceful end-of-life experience for the person and their loved ones. With a living will, family members will never come to the point of having to make a painful decision, wondering if they chose correctly what their loved one would have wanted. The decision is already made. Advance directives also enable better care on the part of the healthcare team and support palliative care decisions. 

Choosing a Health Care Proxy

The Conversation Project offers a helpful resource for navigating the process of choosing a health care proxy. Usually, people choose their spouse, an adult child, a parent, or a sibling. But a health care proxy doesn’t have to be family: this can be any trusted person who can be reached in case of an emergency and understands the values of the person for whom they may be making a life-or-death decision.  

According to the Conversation Project, while you may have the option to name two health care proxies, it’s considered better to choose just one. In fact, some states dictate that individuals can only have one health care proxy, and it makes sense: putting two people in charge, especially within the same family, especially during an extremely difficult time in their lives, invites interpersonal and possibly legal disputes. Plus, even minor confusion about the wishes of different acting proxies can prevent the medical team from providing timely and appropriate care.

While you should only ever name one health care proxy, it’s smart to designate an alternate proxy in case your primary health care proxy cannot fulfill their duties. Some other factors to keep in mind: your proxy need not live locally, because they can make decisions over the phone. Current members of your care team may not be named as your proxy. 

If you don’t choose your own proxy, the law will choose one for you, and in most cases that person will be your spouse, parent, adult child, or close family member. Depending on the state and the person’s close living family, the law may select a professional guardian. A guardian would do their best to make decisions according to the person’s wishes, without having met them.

You can choose the same person to be your financial power of attorney and your power of attorney for health care, but these are distinct roles. And while you can pay someone to be your health care proxy, it’s not as common as hiring an expert to be a financial power of attorney. When selecting a health care proxy, no expertise is as important as their knowledge of you as a person, and your conviction that they have your best interests at heart. 

Being a Health Care Proxy

Choosing a health care proxy can be an emotional challenge, and the same goes for fulfilling the role of a proxy. The Conversation Project offers another guide for people who find themselves in the position of a health care agent. 

The first reminder in the guide is: “There is no perfect proxy.” Don’t let fear of making a mistake keep you from taking on this important role for a loved one. The key qualities in a proxy are a knowledge of the person and their values, and an ability to give voice to what you understand to be the person’s values in a difficult situation.

If someone asks you to serve as their health care proxy, be sure to have a conversation  together about what the role means to each of you. (The Conversation Project guides will support you.) When you’re ready to fill out the legal forms, you don’t need a lawyer’s help. The National Institute on Aging lists various sources when you can find the forms you need for free, including specific forms for veterans.

Many health care proxies never need to make a decision on their loved one’s behalf. But for those who do, having discussed and prepared beforehand eases the experience. Serving as a health care proxy is a gift we give to those we love.

Additional sources:

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/advance-care-planning/advance-care-planning-advance-directives-health-care 

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/in-depth/living-wills/art-20046303 

https://trustandwill.com/learn/living-will-vs-power-of-attorney 

https://www.caringinfo.org/planning/advance-directives/choosing-a-healthcare-agent/ 

https://www.forbes.com/sites/martinshenkman/2023/03/21/health-care-proxies5-biggest-mistakes/?sh=11e0ff4570e7 

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

College Is for the Young at Heart

  

If you're 60 or older, you can likely enroll in public university courses for free. 

What would you learn if you could learn anything? According to a recent study by AARP, more than half of Americans over age 45 are actively engaged in learning something new. The top reasons for identifying as lifelong learners are to stay mentally sharp and in control of personal well-being. A study published in a journal of the Gerontological Society of America earlier this year bears out the truth of these motivations. The authors found that people over 65 who engaged in “late-in-life learning,” represented in the study by attending training courses about monthly over a period of six years, demonstrated better cognitive function over that time.

Other reasons to crack open the books in retirement include learning new skills for a retirement gig, or finally finishing a degree. Some people choose to go back to college after 60 to meet new people of different generations and expand their social circle. Others are loving the proliferation of online learning options so that they don’t have to leave the house and can learn on their own schedule. Best of all, most seniors need not pay to attend public universities. 

Public Colleges and Universities Want Seniors in the Classroom

With all these benefits for older adults, most state university systems have policies that allow for people over 60 or 65 who are retired to attend classes at low cost, often for free. In many cases, the university asks that retirees wait until enrolled students have registered for classes, and then sign up for courses that still have space available. 

In some states like Illinois, California, and others, tuition remission for seniors is enshrined in statute, along with certain eligibility requirements like income limits. Usually, older students must complete an application process, although it isn’t as in-depth as the application that high school seniors need to complete.

Here are a few examples of state university systems that open their doors to seniors, for free.

• In Louisiana, anyone over 55 is eligible for free tuition at state colleges and universities, and can also expect to have registration fees waived and to pay 50% for textbooks. (But be aware of other fees like the Building Use Fee and Energy Fee.)
• In Minnesota, seniors over 62 are guaranteed free tuition at any Minnesota state college or university.
• Kentucky state law allows for free tuition at state schools for people over 65.

If finishing a degree for credit is part of your plan, be sure to check the policies around credit-bearing courses. Some states and universities allow for auditing by default and may charge a fee to award credit.

Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes: A Focus on Older Adults

Some seniors enjoy the intergenerational experience of taking a class with students of traditional college age, and younger students, in turn, tend to say they enjoy sharing class time with seniors. Other retirees feel more at home with students of a similar age, and for these folks, joining an Osher Lifelong Learning Institute could be ideal. Founded by the Bernard Osher Foundation, OLLIs operate on over 125 university campuses across the United States. At the University of South Florida, for example, the mission of the membership-based OLLI-USF is to “provide intellectual stimulation, social interaction, service opportunities, and outreach to the university and the greater community.” Summer course offerings this year include “Easy AI: Using ChatGPT for Everyday Tasks,” “Genealogy Made Easy,” “Looking at Florida History from Folklore,” “Ukraine vs. Russia: Deep Historical Roots and the Reality of Today,” and “Writing Your Life.” 

In addition to courses, OLLIs offer shared interest groups, or SIGs. Some examples from USF include a Florida Gardening SIG, German Conversation SIG, and a Self-Hypnotherapy Support Group SIG. Designed by and for their students, OLLIs are as diverse as their members. 

Colleges Come to the Senior Center

In a newer trend, some colleges are reaching out to senior centers and hosting college courses where older adults already hang out. Last year in New Jersey, for example, Fairleigh Dickinson College brought several undergraduate courses including American history, world history, musical studies, film study and evolutionary science to the FellowshipLIFE senior center. With the rapidly-growing population of older Americans, this trend is likely to expand as universities seek to go where the people are, and work to meet the academic interests and needs of the older generations. 

 

Additional sources:

https://www.bestcolleges.com/blog/free-college-tuition-senior-citizens/ 

https://clark.com/education/where-to-take-free-online-courses/

https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/articles/how-retirees-can-attend-college-for-cheap-or-free 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pa8lg2FZraM 

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

Get in the Game: Unique Ways to Support Sports Teams

  

Volunteer with your favorite local or professional team, and join the action on or off the field.

Ah, autumn…crisp air is on its way, and with it, fond memories of playing fall sports. Plus, we’re entering many people’s best-loved time of year: football season. If you’ve been yearning to get back in the game, consider volunteering. Odds are that your favorite sport can use support–at all levels, from kids’ community teams to professional leagues. 

Ask Your Alma Mater What They Need

A great place to start looking for a sports-related volunteer opportunity is your alma mater: high school, college, or university. Reach out to the athletics office and identify yourself as an alumnus looking to give back to the community. The services these teams need might not be glamorous, like setting up snacks or cleaning equipment, so it’s good to be willing to start small. Other schools might need help with fundraising events or, of course, coaching (more on that below). The big sports schools may have special volunteer opportunities, too. The Penn State All-Sports Museum, for example, looks for volunteers to act as docents and greet visitors to the museum.

Join the Volunteer Team for Tournaments Hosted in Your City

These opportunities don’t come around everyday, but that makes them all the more exciting. National and international tournaments taking place in your city will need help to carry off a successful event, and volunteers make the magic happen.

• FIFA World Cup 2026 is coming to various cities in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico next year, and NOW is the time to apply to join the volunteer team. The application closes in August. “FIFA World Cup 26™ volunteers will be part of a once-in-a-generation team,” FIFA says, “helping bring to life a tournament uniting three countries, 16 Host Cities and billions of hearts around the world.” For soccer fans, this is not a chance to be missed.
• The Special Olympics take place all year around the country, and they need volunteers for long- and short-term tasks. Bringing together people with intellectual disabilities in competition through 32 Olympic-type sports, the Special Olympics looks for volunteers to help organize events, serve as coaches, and even join in the game as unified partners, or athletes playing alongside the Special Olympians. 

Team Up with the Professional Leagues as a Stadium Tour Guide

If you’re a big-league fan of baseball or football, consider becoming a stadium tour guide. In most cases, tour guide is a part-time job that requires an application process, perhaps a competitive one. But if you get your foot in the door, this position could be an ideal retirement gig: what could be better than getting paid to hang out at the stadium and share your knowledge of the team with fellow fans? Sample job postings from the Los Angeles Dodgers and Green Bay Packers refer to qualifications like “public speaking/theatrical performance experience,” an ability to “share fascinating stories and historical facts about the Dodgers,” and availability on game weekends.

Be the Coach

Coaching youth sports is a calling. For those whose lives were shaped by their experiences playing sports as a kid, giving back through coaching can be supremely rewarding. Sports build skills and character traits like teamwork, perseverance, discipline, and knowing how to have fun. Coaches are the teachers who make it all possible. Coaching basketball, softball, track, swimming, soccer, or any other youth sport will be a major time commitment, so consider starting off as an assistant or substitute coach if you want to try it out first. To find volunteer coaching positions, in addition to reaching out to local schools, try contacting your town’s recreation department. The YMCA also needs volunteer coaches. 

Get Out on the Field as an Athlete

The National Senior Games are an Olympic-style multi-sport event held at local, regional, and national levels in the U.S. for adults over 50. As NSG Director of Health and Wellness Andrew Walker described in CSA Journal recently, the Games engage over 100,000 participants in the U.S. each year. Many of these athletes started playing their sport in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. The National Senior Games hold that athletics, including high-quality competition, can be life-changing at any age. One way to get involved is as an athlete, and the Games also need volunteers to support with registration, event set up, scorekeeping, guiding spectators within the venues, and transportation and hospitality needs. 

With so many ways to support healthy competition in the community, there’s no reason to stay on the sidelines this fall.

Additional source:

https://www.parent-volunteer.org/volunteer-for-sports-and-recreation-causes-teamwork-and-fun