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Thursday, June 12, 2025

How to Recycle a Phone or Computer with Care

  



When it’s time to say goodbye to a phone or computer, take steps to protect both your data and the environment. 


We hold our devices close. On average, we spend more than half our days on screens. According to one report by Nielsen, Americans ages 50-64 actually spend more time on screens than younger folks. It can feel like our devices are part of our bodies.

But at a certain point, those devices brick that is, due to hardware or software failures, they inevitably reach the end of their lifespan and become as useful as a brick. At that point, how do we bid farewell to these beloved objects in a way that protects both our privacy and the Earth? It takes a bit more care than just chucking them in the trash.

Protect Your Data
Before recycling your phone, tablet, or computer, it's crucial to take a few steps to ensure your personal data stays safe. You can either perform this process yourself or find a local service to do it for you.

If you’re lucky and your device hasn’t bricked–if it still has some life left in it–start by backing up any data you want to keep. This includes photos, contacts, documents, and other important files, which you can store in cloud services like Google Drive, iCloud, or OneDrive, or transfer to an external hard drive or USB stick. Once your data is safely backed up, make sure to sign out of all accounts associated with the device: your email, social media accounts, cloud services, and any apps that are synced to your identity. 

Next, perform a factory reset of the device. On smartphones, this process is typically found under system settings, and it will erase all user data, apps, and personal settings. Computers require a similar process. If you’re extra concerned about security, and especially if you can’t get the device to turn on, you can even physically destroy the drive by drilling holes or smashing it. 

Finally, remove any physical components that might store data, such as SIM cards or SD cards. These contain contacts, messages, or other personal information and should either be destroyed or reused securely. You can still remove these when the phone has completely failed and you’re unable to log in to perform any of the steps above. If you were using a newer eSIM, a digital version of a SIM card, be sure to contact your carrier to have them lock the eSIM and eventually transfer it to your new device.

Protect the Planet

Once your device is cleaned of all your data, it’s time to either recycle, donate, or sell it. By doing so, you’re keeping toxic substances like mercury and cadmium out of landfills, along with the reusable materials in the device like metal, plastic, and glass. Plus, 25 states have passed laws related to e-waste. 

  • Manufacturer Take Back Programs. All major manufacturers have take back or buy back programs (partly because they’re required to by those state laws). Apple, for example, will recycle your device for you for free. Of course, first check if you’re eligible for a trade-in instead. With most companies, you can either mail in your device or take it to your local store.
  • The Arc. A national charity with local branches in most states, The Arc supports people with developmental disabilities and their families. Some locations, including The Arc of Alachua County, Florida, accept unwanted devices for free or a small fee. They’ll even wipe and destroy your hard drive for you. Check your local organization’s drop-off policies and fees.
  • Best Buy. The retailer supports customers in wiping and recycling old devices of all kinds. They also offer a Trade-In Calculator to help you understand if your device has any trade-in value.
  • Donate. If your device isn’t bricked, consider donating it to a charity that will refurbish it and get it into the hands of people who need it. Check for local organizations, or go international with a group like World Computer Exchange, who will accept all devices newer than seven years old via mail, clean them, and send them to schools in need around the world.
  • Recycle locally. If mailing in your device seems like a hassle, there’s surely a recycling center near you that accepts drop-offs of e-waste. Check out Call2Recycle, where you can plug in your zip code and find local centers that will accept as many devices as you can bring them.

Our devices provided us with many hours of entertainment in their working days; it seems only right that we take a little care with them when it’s time to say goodbye. And with e-waste the fastest-growing waste stream, expected to hit 82 million metric tons per year worldwide by 2030, recycling those devices only grows more important for the planet every year.



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Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

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Wednesday, June 11, 2025

Observation vs. Admittance: It's Not Covered Unless...

  






Medicare coverage varies widely depending on whether you were admitted to the hospital or just there under observation.  

If you’re staying overnight in the hospital, you’re an inpatient. If you’re at the hospital receiving care for the day, you’re an outpatient. Right? 

Wrong. Those common-sense definitions aren’t the ones Medicare uses. Knowing what Medicare actually considers inpatient vs. outpatient could save you thousands of dollars. 

The difference for Medicare hinges on whether a patient is admitted to the hospital or simply there for observation. According to Medicare.gov, “You're an inpatient starting when you're formally admitted to the hospital with a doctor's order.” You’re an outpatient if you’re receiving services in the hospital–including ER care, observation services, outpatient surgery, lab tests, and any other care–when “the doctor hasn't written an order to admit you to a hospital as an inpatient. In these cases, you're an outpatient even if you spend the night in the hospital.” 

“The distinction between observation and admission has clinical and ethical implications for patients and practices,” according to Dr. Laura Haselden and Dr. Sabrina Rahman in a 2023 article in the AMA Journal of Ethics called “Cheating the Rules of Admission with ‘Observation.’” For physicians, there’s often no meaningful difference between a patient who needs care for at least two midnights, and one who likely needs care for more than two midnights. The former should be admitted, while the latter can remain under simple observation. And yet when doctors make that key call, they’re initiating potentially major financial consequences for the patient. 

While patient advocates fight to make this process more transparent for everyone, protect your own finances by understanding the difference between admittance and observation.


What Medicare Does and Doesn’t Cover

Even when the actual services rendered look exactly the same, Medicare coverage differs greatly based on whether the patient has been admitted as an inpatient or is being observed as an outpatient. Medicare Part A pays for inpatient services, but not for outpatient services. Part B will usually cover outpatient care, but the patient will pay more than they would for an inpatient stay covered under Part A. And for those who don’t have Part B coverage, the observation (outpatient) services will likely have to come out of pocket. 

Importantly, Medicare will only cover care at a skilled nursing facility (SNF) if the patient was admitted to a hospital (i.e., as an inpatient) for at least three days and then discharged to the SNF.

Unfortunately, there’s incentive for hospitals to lean toward observation rather than admittance. Under the Medicare Fee for Service Recovery Audit Program, hospitals might lose their reimbursement if Medicare finds that they admitted someone who didn’t medically need to be admitted. As a result, hospitals tend to err on the side of observing patients if there’s initial doubt that they need to be admitted. 

According to Medicare, “The decision for inpatient hospital admission is a complex medical decision based on your doctor’s judgment and your need for medically necessary hospital care.” However, Dr. Haselden and Dr. Rahman counter, “Although observation status is intended as a clinical decision-making tool, it has become more of an all-purpose loophole to artificially improve hospital metrics and pose barriers to inpatient care.” 


New Policies Up Patient Protection

The thing is, patients don’t always know when they’ve been admitted versus when they’re just being observed. Even worse, a hospital can change a patient’s status without notifying the patient–even retroactively, after they’ve left the hospital.

Thankfully, in recent years, advocates have won protections for patients that make the question of admittance versus observation more transparent. As of 2017, hospitals must use a form called a MOON (Medicare Outpatient Observation Notice) to notify all patients who are under observation for more than 24 hours what that status means and what Medicare will and will not cover. Staff must provide written and oral notice within 36 hours of the patient entering care. However, since that notice period might be longer than the observation period itself, a patient could still go home after an overnight hospital stay thinking their stay was covered when it wasn’t.

Late last year, the Center for Medicare Advocacy won additional rights for patients in a case against Medicare. The new policies  require hospitals to inform patients when their status changes from admittance to observation. Even better, the new rules allow patients to appeal changes of status that caused their stay at an SNF not to be covered by Medicare. The ability to appeal applies retroactively to patients who were affected by a change of status since 2009. Looking ahead, the Medicare Rights Center and others are fighting to eliminate the three-day inpatient stay requirement for SNF care coverage. 

For now, as an individual, stay aware that an outpatient stay can look just like an inpatient stay, with a very different price tag. Ask hospital staff about the status of yourself or loved one, and request a copy of their policies on changes in admission status. 




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


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In Sickness and in Health: Aging Together with Different Needs

   



Couples are looking for ways to live together at every level of care. 


Just like a career or a marriage, how we enter older age is personal: no two experiences of aging are the same. For couples, differing care needs can spark hard choices about how to age together in the same place. Continuing care retirement communities are thinking with residents and families about how to make these choices easier.

Many couples with different care needs live in the same communities but in separate buildings or apartments. For example, one spouse lives in memory care, and another has their own home in independent living. While this kind of arrangement still works well for many couples, the pandemic has led others to rethink the risks. A video of one British couple went viral in 2021 when, after a months-long isolation during which the husband needed medical care, the two were finally reunited at the wife’s assisted living community when he moved in. In different continuing care communities worldwide during COVID, many married couples experienced this kind of separation from each other when units were shut down to visitors.

Even during normal times, the more independent spouse often wants to be more than a visitor, while also not becoming a full-time caregiver. Becoming a care partner for a spouse with Alzheimer’s disease or other conditions can be both rewarding and incredibly difficult. “These are fundamentally individual choices that people need to make,” Dr. Vincent Mor of Brown University’s Center for Gerontology and Healthcare Research told AARP. “If the well spouse is able to and wants to continue to take care of their loved one, that should be their decision.” Communities are starting to offer more ways for the more independent spouse to continue to support their partner, with support.  

Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), also called Life Plan communities, offer a continuum of care, usually described as: 
  • Independent living: People 55 and up live in their own homes or apartments, independently or as a couple, with minimal or no assistance. Amenities might include shared meals, activities, common spaces, and transportation.
  • Assisted living: Individuals or couples live on their own with some support with activities of daily living in the home.
  • Memory care: In a residential setting, people with Alzheimer’s disease or other memory loss have access to the latest therapies and specially trained staff.
  • Skilled nursing care: 24/7 care for all medical needs. 
Individuals may transition into and out of these different levels of care. For couples, that may mean that one partner may have a stint in skilled nursing while the other remains in assisted or independent living, and then the spouse moves back in after a recovery. This flexibility makes them a good choice for couples looking to maximize their time together.

Most CCRCs have a three-type pay structure: 
  • Life Care (Type A): Higher upfront fee, but predictable costs even as care needs increase. Sometimes called a lifecare contract.
  • Modified (Type B): Some services included, but others cost extra
  • Fee-for-Service (Type C): Lower entry cost, but you pay market rates as care needs increase. Sometimes called a fee-for-service contract.

For couples, according to senior living specialist Brad Breeder, there are pros and cons to each choice. If a couple moves into the CCRC together and chooses a Type C contract when they’re both in independent living, then if one spouse needs to move to memory care, for example, the couple will start to pay both a single occupancy rate and for memory care. If they chose Plan A, they’d still be paying the double occupancy rate, but the memory care would be included. 

Other fees, of course, may apply–it’s important to read and talk through the contract before committing to one type of payment. Placement specialists can assist with assessing your and your partner’s needs, budget, and preferences to recommend communities and payment options that could be a good fit for both of you. 

Questions to Ask

If living together is a priority, when considering different communities, make sure to talk about that priority with staff. Here are some questions to ask.
  • Can both partners stay in the same unit with care services brought in for one of them?
  • Is there flexibility in meal plans, care staffing, and daily routines to support one partner needing more assistance?
  • How does the community and staff support the partner who’s acting as a caregiver for the other?
  • Are there additional costs for higher levels of care? How does the pricing structure work?
  • What happens if one spouse eventually needs memory care and the other doesn't? How do staff support residents and their families during that transition?
  • If one partner dies or moves to a different level of care, can the healthy partner stay in their current unit? 

If the couple decide they will live in separate areas of the community but want to maintain as close a connection as possible, ask:
  • Are there shared activities both can attend, regardless of ability?
  • How often and easily can they visit each other?
  • Are there structured programs or staff support to keep them connected, including couples’ counseling or support groups?
  • What are your policies for visitors and overnight stays?





Additional sources:

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors


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Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Are New Weight Loss Drugs Safe for Older Adults?

 




Drugs like Wegovy promise dramatic weight loss--but muscle and bone are part of that weight lost. 


In 2017, semaglutide–brand name Ozempic–debuted as a treatment for Type 2 diabetes. When semaglutide hit the weight loss market in 2021 as Wegovy, it was hailed as a miracle drug. Both semaglutide and tirzepatide (Zepbound) have the effect of making people feel more full with less food, and also tend to make fatty foods less appealing. 

In the past several years, these drugs have changed the landscape of weight loss for doctors, patients, and drug makers. For some people who have long struggled with weight loss, it’s been life-changing. Kimberly DelRosso, 57 and just over 5 feet tall, told AARP that she lost 50 pounds on Wegovy. “Plus, I no longer have sleep apnea, my A1c and blood pressure are normal, and my arthritis has improved. My intense cravings are gone. After 27 years of yo-yo dieting, this medication has finally helped me lose weight and get healthy.” 

At first glance, Ozempic and similar drugs present major potential health benefits for older Americans. About 39% of Americans over 60 fall into the medical category of “obese,” and about 29% of people over 65 have diabetes. And last March, semaglutide was approved as a preventive drug for people at risk of heart attack, after studies showed that it lowers some people’s risk of a cardiovascular event by up to 20%. 

As more and more people over 60 are prescribed these drugs or seek them out, researchers are still working to understand the risks and benefits for older adults. 

Special Considerations for Older People

Providers can prescribe Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound to adults of any age. Older people will want to talk to their doctor about special concerns including muscle loss and adequate nutrition. Perhaps the biggest concern among doctors when prescribing these weight loss drugs to older adults is that muscle loss and fat loss go hand-in-hand. 

When we lose weight, a portion of every pound we lose is muscle and bone–so everyone taking these drugs, but especially those at risk of osteoporosis, must incorporate strength training into their routine. Older people are already more susceptible to muscle loss, and a sudden drop in muscle strength could translate into a higher risk of falls. 

Older adults also should be especially aware of taking in adequate nutrients while on these medications. Eating less will easily translate into taking in fewer vitamins and minerals, which could lead to nutrient deficiencies–to which older adults are also more susceptible than younger folks. It’s also important for all adults to increase protein intake while taking the drug. 

A sudden loss of weight could also set up an older person with fewer reserves to weather a long-term illness. 

All these considerations are in addition to the regular side effects of the drugs, which may include nausea, diarrhea, gastrointestinal discomfort, and vomiting. Unfortunately, these side effects appear to occur more severely in older adults. Gastrointestinal issues increase the importance of carefully monitoring nutrition. Some patients have also reported increased depression and suicidal ideation as side effects.

The Cost

A single injection of Ozempic or Wegovy costs upwards of $1,000 out of pocket. Since it must be taken weekly, that price tag puts the drug way out of reach for most Americans. Medicare Part D will cover the cost if the drug is prescribed for Type 2 diabetes or heart disease, but not to treat obesity alone. (In April, the CDC rejected a proposed change that would have allowed Medicare to cover these drugs solely for weight loss.) For those who take the drug for Type 2 diabetes or to prevent the risk of cardiovascular events, a Medicare copay will range from $0 to over $300 per dose until the deductible is met. 

Just in the past few months, generic versions of semaglutide and tirzepatide have become less available. After a period of scarcity, the FDA determined that supplies of the drugs are stabilizing and ordered compounding pharmacies to stop making them. The decision is controversial: while some advocates say that many patients won’t be able to access the drugs under the new rules, the FDA and others contest that the ban is necessary to protect consumers from substandard products. 

The Big Picture

There are many reasons to celebrate the advent of semaglutide: for those with Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risk, the benefits may easily outweigh the risks. And some older adults who have long struggled with health issues related to obesity are finally finding relief. 

Just keep in mind that there’s no “miracle” here–during and after taking Wegovy for weight loss, nutrition and exercise will be as important as ever. According to one study, people who stopped using the drug regained two-thirds of the weight they lost in just one year. For older adults in particular, a careful nutrition plan and strength-training routine are absolutely essential to mitigating the side effects of anti-obesity drugs. As always, talk to your provider about the trade-offs when considering starting any medication for weight loss. 



Additional sources:


Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

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Volunteering in the Arts

  



Give back to your community and get your culture fix at the same time. 


If you like to click on headlines about health and self-improvement, you’ve probably heard the news: volunteering is good for you. Helping others in your community gets you moving, boosts your mood, and can even lower your blood pressure. What if you could combine the benefits of volunteering with the lift you get from music, art, and culture? All it takes is a little inspiration and local research.

Here are a few volunteer roles that seniors are taking on to support the arts in their communities. 

Usher at a Local Theater

Community theater is alive and well across the country, thanks in part to the volunteers you meet when you arrive at the door. Small local theaters rely on volunteer ushers to greet ticket holders, hand them playbills, and direct them to their seats. Thevolunteers  schedule can involve both evening shows and matinees, and ushers generally get to watch the shows for free. 

“It’s such a joy to be able to help people enjoy live theatre. What a pleasure to work in a historical theatre with all the people that are here!” says Betsey Cooley, a volunteer usher at the Hippodrome Theater in Baltimore. Most theaters with volunteer usher programs have dedicated volunteer coordinators and training requirements, so you’re likely to feel well-prepared before starting your first shift. If your heart has always lifted when the lights go down, becoming an usher could be an exciting and rewarding way to continue to support local show business. 

Museum Docent

For those who are a tad more extroverted, volunteering as a museum docent is a way to learn and share your knowledge. Different museums require differing levels of volunteer training, but in general, you need not have any background in the subject before you start as a volunteer. At The Modern museum of art in Dallas, docents enroll in a class to learn about the museum’s collections and how docents interact with the public. At the Tampa Museum of Art, https://tampamuseum.org/about/volunteer/ Gallery Educator volunteers lead tours for school groups and help visitors connect with exhibits. Some museums may also be looking for (more introverted) volunteers who prefer to wander the galleries keeping an eye on the exhibits and offering directions to visitors. If you have a favorite local museum, consider starting there and asking if they have a volunteer program.

Community Artist

Whether or not you think of yourself as an artist, consider that your community might need more art. The nonprofit Art with a Heart accepts volunteers as individuals and groups to support in manifesting large-scale art projects commissioned by Maryland non-profits. Volunteers can work for an hour or a day at the Art with a Heart studio, contributing to mosaics or paintings that local artists have designed. 

Historic Fife and Drum Corps Member

Yes, this one’s here to make the point that, no matter what your artistic or musical interest is, there’s a volunteer opportunity out there for you! The Minnesota Historical Society lists many open volunteer opportunities, among them Garden Associate, Field Trip Greeter, History Day Judge, and member of the Historic Fort Snelling Fifes and Drums. The intergenerational corps performs at historic sites and community events across Minnesota from May to October and welcomes volunteers with basic musical knowledge. The Minnesota Historical Society brings history to life through music–and they need volunteers to do it. 

Ask and Google around to find your perfect artistic volunteer role. You might end up sharing your expertise, and you’ll most likely learn something completely new in the process. And that’s good for your health and your community.


Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors



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Monday, June 9, 2025

Famous & 65

 

Look who's turning 65 this month

Find out which celebrities are turning 65 this month!

June 11 

This Turkish-American cardiothoracic surgeon rose to fame as a frequent guest on The Oprah Winfrey Show, where his engaging explanations of medical topics earned him the nickname “America’s Doctor.” In 2009, he launched his own daytime talk show where he blended health advice and celebrity interviews into a popular, and sometimes controversial, format. Known for promoting alternative health remedies alongside mainstream medical information, he sparked debates within the scientific and medical communities. In 2022, he shifted from television to politics, running as the Republican nominee for U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania. He ultimately lost the election to John Fetterman. Earlier this year, he was appointed by President Trump as the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Answer: Who is…. (click here to reveal)?



June 17

This Texas-born actor began his career in the early 1990s with a breakout role as the dim-witted but lovable Lowell Mather on the sitcom Wings. He later transitioned into film: early on, he appeared as the villain Lyle van de Groot in George of the Jungle (1997). Not long after, he earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his performance as Jack, a charming but troubled groom-to-be, in the 2004 indie hit Sideways. Known for his rugged voice and understated delivery, he’s often cast as a villain–he played Flint Marko, a.k.a. Sandman, in Spider-Man 3 (2007) and Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021). Beyond acting, he’s also worked behind the camera as a director and writer and spends much of his time on his ranch in Texas. Answer: Who is…. (click here to reveal)?



June 22

Despite a lack of any formal legal training, this environmental activist became a national figure in the 1990s after helping build a groundbreaking case against Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) for contaminating the water supply in Hinkley, California. Working as a legal assistant, she uncovered documents and rallied residents, ultimately leading to a historic $333 million settlement, the largest of its kind at the time. Her story inspired a 2000 film starring Julia Roberts, who won an Academy Award for portraying her. Since then, she’s continued to speak out on environmental and public health issues across the U.S. Answer: Who is…. (click here to reveal)?





Source:

Wikipedia




Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors
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Thursday, May 8, 2025

Is Public Internet Safe to Use?

 



Public Internet is notoriously sketchy, but you can protect yourself and your data with smart habits.


One of the first things we learned about the Internet, back when it was becoming a part of daily life, was: password-protected network, good. Free public WiFi, bad. Today, there are more protections in place to keep your data safe on public WiFi networks. However, it’s still important to stay guarded. Today, there are more–and more sophisticated–cybercriminals looking to steal your data, and they’re targeting public Internet networks.

The Risks of the Public WiFi Connection

The biggest concern with public WiFi is that it usually isn’t encrypted, meaning that anything you send or receive (like passwords or emails) can be intercepted. And if cybercriminals are intercepting your data, you’ll likely  have no idea. In what’s known as a “man-in-the-middle” attack, hackers position themselves between you and the network to secretly steal or alter your communications over email, text, and websites. 

Another main concern is malware distribution. Cybercriminals can exploit vulnerabilities in public networks to push malware onto connected devices, most often without your knowledge. You’ll notice it when your device’s battery starts to drain more quickly or overheat, and you’re getting unexpected pop ups or redirected to websites you don’t want to visit. In the background, the malware allows hackers to steal your passwords, view your online activity, and even extort money through ransomware. In other words, they force victims to pay a ransom to gain access to their data or avoid a data leak.

When you log onto public WiFi, it’s essential to be sure you’re choosing a legitimate connection. Rarely, you may see a network name in the list that impersonates the network you really want–for example, the real network name might be “Springfield Library,” and the imposter one might be named “Springfield Library1.” That second one is set up by hackers who want you to log on to the unsecured connection. 

Clearly, the consequences of using an unsecured connection are serious, for both personal and business devices.

How to Keep Yourself and Your Data Safe on Public Connections

The good news these days, according to the Federal Trade Commission, is that, while public WiFi isn’t usually encrypted, most websites now are. If you’re using a website that starts with https://, the “s” indicates an encrypted connection through an SSL certificate. In fact, the “s” stands for “secure.” On an https:// connection, the website scrambles your data so that hackers can’t just look or listen in, even on an unsecured public network. The https:// secure connection also ensures that you’re looking at the website you think you are, not an imposter website. Look for the little lock icon in your URL bar, along with the “s,” to confirm you’re visiting a secure site. 

While you can have more confidence using public WiFi when you’re accessing secure websites, there are more steps you can take to protect your data from targeted or sophisticated attacks. 

  • Use secure passwords. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency suggests using a password manager and making each password unique, long, and random. A strong password is still one of the best defenses against cybercrime. 
  • Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network). For between $5 and $10 a month, a VPN creates a secure “tunnel” through which all your data travels. A VPN isn’t an Internet connection, but you log into it when you use any Internet connection to keep your data encrypted. VPNs can also protect you from companies viewing your data to target ads. Setting up a VPN takes some up-front work, but many people consider it a best practice for Internet safety.
  • Keep your operating systems up to date. Each update fixes known vulnerabilities, so every time you update your computer, phone, or other device, you’re protecting yourself against the latest criminal tactics.
  • Disable the “Connect Automatically” feature. Stay in control of which networks you connect to by making sure that your device isn’t connecting automatically to any open network. 
  • Be extra cautious about what you share. The best way to ensure that your sensitive information stays safe on a public network is not to share it in the first place. If you’re not sure if a WiFi network or a particular website is encrypted, avoid sharing your credit card information, SSN, and any other personal data.

Remember, the organization providing you with a free public Internet connection– whether a library, government office, business, or other space–isn’t responsible for keeping your data safe online. Take steps to protect your data, at all times, but especially when the WiFi network doesn't ask you for a password.


Sources: 
Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

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Used or New? The Car-Buying Dilemma in 2025

 





Today's economy is shifting the calculus of the car search. 

With changes at the federal level and a sustained demand for electric vehicles (EVs), buying a car takes more research than ever. Industry experts say that 2025 isn’t a terrible time to buy a car, considering that prices aren’t expected to drop back down to pre-pandemic levels anytime soon. But it’s getting more difficult than ever to abide by the rule of thumb not to spend more than 10% of your income on car expenses.

Once you’ve decided it’s time to buy, you first need to resolve the classic dilemma: used or new?


A Complicated Calculus

Before the new administration’s tariffs went into effect in April, inventory was up for new cars, meaning prices had stabilized since the supply-chain crises of the pandemic. Now, experts are predicting we’ll see a drop in the new car supply (and the inevitable increase in prices) similar to what we saw during the pandemic. As the new car supply takes a hit, demand for used cars is expected to rise as well. Plus, automakers made 8 million fewer cars during 2020 and 2021 than they would have in pre-pandemic times, so those are 8 million fewer used cars to hit the market today.

All of this makes the math trickier for thrifty buyers. Here are some factors to consider as you weigh buying used vs. new in 2025.

  • Buy sooner rather than later. According to Kelly Blue Book, the effects of the tariffs will trickle down to individual carmakers and dealers at different times, but everyone will be affected. Keep an eye on the prices in your area, and know that every month will probably be the cheapest month to buy a car for the foreseeable future.
  • Make the most of the car you have to sell. The silver lining here is that, if you have a car that still has some miles on it, you’re likely to get a good price when you trade in, and especially if you’re willing to go through the hassle of selling it privately. With used cars in such high demand, dealers are more likely to offer you a trade-in even for cars with over 150,000 miles. 
  • EV vs. Hybrid vs. Gas? If you’re leaning toward buying new, you could still save money on an EV. From January to September 2024, Americans saved $2 billion on over 300,000 electric and hybrid vehicles, thanks to significant tax incentives. At the time of writing, the federal government was still offering a tax credit for EVs. The incentive puts $7,500 back into the pockets of buyers of new EVs priced under $80,000. For pre-owned EVs and hybrid vehicles, the credit is up to $4,000. Check fueleconomy.gov for the latest updates on the status of the incentive program and to search for eligible vehicles.
  • Don’t rule out a used hybrid or EV, but beware. Buying a used hybrid or electric vehicle is arguably the most environmentally-friendly choice. And since hybrid cars, in particular, have been on the market since 2000, they’re out there on used car lots–but they’re also in high demand. When considering buying a used EV, the most important consideration is the life of the battery. Understand the charging capacity and where the battery is in its life cycle, and be sure to factor battery replacement timing into the total cost. 


Pay Special Attention for Flooded Cars

As more extreme weather brings higher flood risk to many parts of the U.S., cars become a casualty. Few drivers carry flood insurance, as it’s prohibitively expensive, but even a partial inundation can total a car, or set it up for expensive repairs a few years down the road. When car owners offload these flooded cars onto auctions and dealers, they often get transported many miles from the site of the flood. As a result, used car buyers are seeing more and more cars with flood damage on the lot–whether or not they realize they’re looking at waterlogged vehicles.

Unfortunately, uncovering a flooded car’s history isn't always easy. Totaled cars sold at auction should come away with a salvage title, but sometimes there’s only a number or letter code on the title to indicate the fact that a car was flooded. Only in a few states are flooded cars required to be re-sold with a “flood” title stating that history.

To avoid buying a used car with flood damage, check out the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System to confirm that the title of the car you’re considering hasn’t been “washed” of its flood history. Visually inspect the car, too: look under the dashboard for any bare screws that show signs of rust; see if the carpet has any signs of being waterlogged; and check if the cardboard in the air filter looks soggy. 

The bottom line isn’t great: car prices are rising, and any downward trends are unpredictable. But, as Experian says, the best time to buy a car is when you need one.




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




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Wednesday, May 7, 2025

Pickleball's New Rules for Competition

  





This one's for the pickleheads. 


For the fourth year in a row, pickleball is America’s fastest-growing sport. At least 36 million people have tried pickleball, and pickleball courts now number over 16,000 in the U.S. alone. With all this growth, pickleball is starting to lose the reputation it once had as a sport just for older folks. The largest age bracket of pickleball players is now 25-34 (28% of players). About 30% of “avid” pickleball players–those who play at least once a month–are above 44 years old. 

Pickleball’s multigenerational appeal can be attributed in part to its accessibility. Sometimes described as a combination of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, pickleball has low barriers to entry. Pickleball coach Ernie Medina Jr. told The New York Times, “In tennis, the balls are all over the place. In pickleball, you're hitting a plastic wiffle-like ball, so it's less bouncy and doesn't fly as fast through the air. And the paddle is much easier to handle because it's shorter and lighter than a tennis racket." 

Of course, athletes should always know their limits and accept the inherent risks of playing a sport; pickleball players see their fair share of sports injuries. But pickleball is a great workout and promotes social interaction, which has plenty of mental health benefits. In CSA Journal, Issue 93, Kyle Laramie detailed the transformative, research-backed health benefits of pickleball, including everything from weight management to decreased stress. 

For the Avid Pickleball Players

If you’re a pickleball player, none of this is news. The rest of this post is for you, pickleheads. Since pickleball is still such a new game, USA Pickleball tweaks the rules each year. Don’t hit the court again without understanding what’s new in 2025–at least not with any avid pickleball competitors.

1. Introduction of Rally Scoring in Doubles Play. Before this year, pickleball employed a side-out scoring system, where only the serving team could score points. In 2025, USA Pickleball approved the optional use of rally scoring for doubles matches in certain tournaments. In rally scoring, the ref awards a point at the conclusion of every rally, regardless of which team served. This change aims to streamline matches and add a new strategic layer to the game. But keep in mind that traditional side-out scoring remains in effect for major tournaments, such as the USA Pickleball National Championships.

2. Clarification on the Start of a Volley. To eliminate ambiguities surrounding volleys, the 2025 rulebook provides a clearer definition of when a volley begins. A volley is now officially recognized as starting when the player's paddle makes contact with the ball. This clarification makes it easier for referees to call faults.

3. Equipment Specifications and Approvals. The 2025 rulebook makes some recommendations on equipment for competitive play.
Balls: For any USA Pickleball-sanctioned tournament, the ball in play must be listed on the official list of approved balls available on the USA Pickleball website. 
Paddles: Players are responsible for confirming that their paddles are approved and listed as "Pass" on the USA Pickleball Approved Paddle List. 

4. Serving Techniques and Restrictions. The rules surrounding the serve have been refined to promote fairness and consistency.
Ball Release: Players are permitted to release the ball with either their hand or paddle when serving. However, imparting spin on the ball during the release is prohibited. 
Drop Serve: When executing a drop serve, the ball may roll off the face of the paddle by gravity alone, without any additional force or spin imparted. 

5. Spectators Should Keep Their Opinions to Themselves. That’s right, the new rules outlaw “bleacher coaching." Spectators may no longer offer advice to players during a competition. 

If you’re new to pickleball, don’t let the competition rules overwhelm you. With thousands of people joining the sport every year, there are plenty of teachers out there. This summer could be a great time to pick up a paddle.  



Sources: 

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors



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Trends in Primary Care: Concierge Medicine

 



As concierge medicine becomes more affordable, who benefits?


These days, it’s not easy to find a primary care doctor. Many practices have waiting lists, especially in rural areas. When you do find one, insurance makes the rules: you’re not likely to spend more than 15 minutes with your physician. And you may have waited a month to get that appointment. 

Patients and doctors alike are sick of this model. Enter concierge medicine. Concierge medicine is a healthcare model where patients pay a membership fee for enhanced access to their physician. This special access may include longer appointments, 24/7 communication, same-day visits, and even accompaniment by the doctor to specialist appointments. Annual membership fees can range from $200 for very limited services, to $10,000, $20,000 or more for extensive access to the doctor. 

That fee covers many of the same primary care services that insurance would, but a concierge medicine subscription should not replace insurance. Emergency care, surgery, and specialist care will not be covered by the annual concierge fee, so be cautious of companies that try to pitch their subscription as a low-cost alternative to insurance. Insurance will always be the more affordable option–but concierge care offers benefits that many are willing to pay for in today’s healthcare landscape. And more affordable concierge options are growing, making personalized care accessible not just to the wealthiest.

Doctors and Patients Want to Get to Know Each Other
Concierge medicine is trending, but it isn’t new. “Retainer,” “boutique,” or “luxury” practices first appeared in the U.S. in the mid-90s. And even in 2013, surveys reported that as many as 1 in 10 doctors were leaving traditional practices for the relative freedom of concierge medicine. 

Why the exodus? The biggest reason is that concierge physicians serve fewer patients than they would in traditional practices. The average primary care physician in the U.S. has a patient panel between 1,800 to 2,000. Concierge doctors serve fewer than half that number on average, around 600 patients. So, it makes sense they can spend twice as much time with each individual. "My real joy is spending time with patients and trying to help them improve their health,” shares “Dr. F” from North Carolina on the Concierge Medicine Today site. The retainer model gives doctors that time back. “I spend about 30 minutes with a patient during our average visit. This is the main reason that most patients give for returning to our practice. People are willing to spend money on something they value, and they value time with the doctor."

Besides offering that personal time that both doctors and patients crave, the concierge medicine model also offers doctors a stable income from membership fees and independence from insurance constraints. In short, doctors are turning to concierge medicine to avoid the burnout that has become a hallmark of the profession in modern times.

The Downsides of the Retainer Medicine Trend
If only the U.S. had an overabundance of qualified primary care physicians. Unfortunately, the country is looking at a shortfall of up to 86,000 physicians by 2036, factoring in the aging population’s growing need for care. "Concierge medicine potentially leads to disproportionately richer people being able to pay for the scarce resource of physician time and crowding out people who have lower incomes and are sicker," researcher Adam Leive told CBS News.

When a doctor transitions to concierge medicine, their previous patients experience a gap in care. With a current national deficit of more than 20,000 physicians, finding a new, non-concierge primary care doctor is already a challenge. Many people in this position end up abandoning the idea of a PCP and start to rely on urgent care centers or emergency rooms for primary care.

To help fill the gap, some practices are starting to distinguish between concierge medicine, a boutique service accessible only to the wealthy, and “direct primary care” or DPC. This newer model has been called the “blue-collar concierge practice.” One difference is that concierge practices always charge an annual fee–often tens of thousands of dollars. DPC practices, like Direct Primary Care in Boca Raton, charge monthly fees and don’t require a long-term contract. At Direct Primary Care of Boca Raton, for $85/month, you don’t wait to see your provider, and there’s more weekend availability. The practitioner doesn’t bill insurance, except for medication, and when patients need specialist care, the DPC provider will do a soft handoff to specialists who take their insurance. 

Some DPC providers will even accompany their patients to rehab centers or specialist appointments, but that’s not the norm. If that high level of personalized care is important to you, be sure to look for it in the contract, and expect higher monthly or annual rates. 

The concierge trend offers consumers more options for care and relieves doctors of the unrealistic patient load that today’s insurance system places on them. As this industry grows, patients and their advocates will want to stay aware of what’s available, while also promoting equitable insurance-based models of care.


Sources: 
Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

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Tuesday, May 6, 2025

The Late-in-Life Breakout Success of Colonel Sanders

 



The iconic figure behind KFC is more than just a face on a fast-food bucket—he's a true example of finding success in life when most would have given up.


With 24,000 locations in more than 145 countries, Kentucky Fried Chicken represents a quintessential American business success story. And KFC’s founder, Colonel Harland Sanders–known to millions as Colonel Sanders or simply The Colonel–offers a personal success story for all of us who wonder if we’ve missed the boat in life. At 65, Sanders didn’t have much to his name other than a failed roadside restaurant. At 73, he was a fried chicken millionaire. His story offers a friendly reminder that we just don’t know what tomorrow will bring, no matter how old we are.

Born on September 9, 1890, in Henryville, Indiana, Sanders’ father died when he was just six years old. His mother was forced to work, leaving Harland to care for his siblings. This early responsibility led him to develop cooking skills, particularly a knack for Southern-style comfort food.

Sanders didn’t have a smooth or focused career path. Over the years, he held a dizzying array of jobs: farmhand, streetcar conductor, railroad fireman, insurance salesman, and even a lawyer for a brief stint—until a courtroom brawl with his own client ended that career. By his mid-30s, he was operating a service station in Corbin, Kentucky, where he cooked meals for travelers in the back room. His fried chicken, made with a secret blend of herbs and spices, quickly became a local favorite.

It was during this time that Sanders developed what would later become the foundation of KFC: pressure-fried chicken that was crisp, flavorful, and cooked quickly. By 1936, the Governor of Kentucky gave him the honorary title of "Colonel" in recognition of his contributions to the state's cuisine. Business picked up, and he expanded into a proper restaurant.

But Sanders’ path took a major detour in the 1950s. At age 65, with the advent of a new interstate highway that bypassed his restaurant, his once-thriving business collapsed. He was forced to sell the property at a loss. 

Most people would have accepted defeat at that point, but not Sanders. With just $105 in his pocket and a Social Security check to his name, Sanders set out in his old car to franchise his chicken recipe. He drove across the country, sleeping in his car, going door to door to restaurants, cooking his chicken for owners and staff in hopes of making a deal. He offered a simple arrangement: they could use his recipe and name in exchange for a small royalty on every piece of chicken sold. He was rejected over a thousand times before finally convincing one restaurant in Salt Lake City to take him up on the offer. That restaurant’s sales soared, and word began to spread. Soon, more offers followed, and the KFC brand began to flourish.

By 1964, at the age of 73, Sanders had franchised over 600 outlets and sold the rights to his company to a group of investors for $2 million (roughly $20 million today), while retaining control over the quality and staying on as the brand's ambassador. He remained the face of KFC for the rest of his life, traveling the world in his signature white suit, black string tie, and goatee, promoting the chicken he loved.

Colonel Sanders passed away in 1980 at the age of 90. By then, KFC had grown into one of the largest fast-food chains in the world. 

Today, the Colonel is still the face of the global brand. Colonel Sanders’ didn’t hit his stride until most people his age were retired, when he decided to hit the road rather than accept the fate dealt to his original restaurant. “The easy way rests hazardously upon shifting sands,” he’s quoted as saying on KFC’s website, “whereas the hard way builds solidly a foundation.” Sanders didn’t just sell chicken—he served up hope that no matter how late it seems, your best days might still be ahead of you.


Sources: 


Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

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Thursday, May 1, 2025

Famous & 65

 

Look who's turning 65 this month

Find out which celebrities are turning 65 this month!

May 10 – Bono, rock star, activist

Dublin native Paul David Hewson started going by the nickname Bono long before he became one of the world’s biggest rock stars. At 14 or 15, his friend dubbed him “Bono Vox” after a local hearing aid shop called Bonavox, Latin for “good voice.” Bono took on the mantle, and his powerful voice is still moving fans to their feet today. He’s been the frontman of U2 since 1976.

In addition to his rock anthems, Bono is famous for his activism, particularly fighting against the AIDS crisis in Africa and global poverty. His campaigns, including One and Red, engage in lobbying to pressure governments to increase their support for humanitarian aid. Over the years Bono’s organizations have leveraged billions of dollars toward these causes. He’s been criticized for neglecting to work with African entrepreneurs and grassroots organizers; critics argue that One and Red’s approach contributes to African dependency on foreign aid.

Bono met his wife, Alison Stewart, the same year that U2 formed, and they’re still together (the couple and the band). During his Presidency, President Biden awarded Bono a Presidential Medal of Freedom.





May 24 – Kristin Scott Thomas, actor

While she’s from England, Kristin Scott Thomas raised her family in Paris, has starred in several French films, and says she sometimes considers herself more French than British. At 25, she landed her debut role in Under the Cherry Moon (1986). In 1996, Scott Thomas played Katharine Clifton in the highly-acclaimed film The English Patient, which garnered her Golden Globe and Oscar nods. Other well-known credits of hers include Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994), Bitter Moon (1992), Mission: Impossible (1996), The Horse Whisperer (1998), and Gosford Park (2001).

In 2023, Scott Thomas made her directorial debut with a drama known as North Star in the UK and as My Mother’s Wedding in the U.S. It stars Scarlett Johansson and Sienna Miller. And this past September, she got married to John Micklethwait, the editor-in-chief of Bloomberg News.




May 31 - Chris Elliott, screenwriter, actor, comedian

Brad Garrett started out as a stand-up comedian in the 80s, and he’s still a stand-up comedian today, performing regularly at his own comedy club at the District at MGM in Las Vegas. The website of the Brad Garrett Comedy Club https://bradgarrettcomedy.com/ advertises it at the #1 comedy club in Las Vegas. By any standard, that’s a pretty long-running and successful stand-up career. Garrett is also known as a TV personality, starting with his role as Robert Barone on the CBS sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond. His other credits include leading roles as Jackie Gleason in the made-for-TV movie Gleason and Eddie Stark on the sitcom ‘Til Death. Viewers of the Night at the Museum movie trilogy may (or may not) recognize Garrett from his recurring role as the Easter Island Head. The three-time Emmy Award-winner is a California native and UCLA alum.





Source:

Wikipedia




Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

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