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Saturday, March 9, 2024

You Will Fall. Get Ready Now



The death rate from falls among older adults is alarming. Act now to keep from becoming part of this statistic.


Americans 65 and older are dying from falls at more than double the rate they did just two decades ago, according to a new study. That makes falling a leading cause of injury death, and a huge cost burden on the healthcare system and seniors. About 800,000 older Americans wind up in the hospital after a fall, usually for a head injury or broken hip.

Falls are Devastating

More than 60% of falls happen at home. Apart from the cost to our stretched healthcare system of over $50 billion every year, falls are often devastating on a personal level. It’s not just the financial hit, which can be substantial if, say, a hip fracture sends you to a managed care facility or causes you to need help at home temporarily or permanently. The healing and recovery process itself can be impactful.

Assessing Your Risk

The National Council on Aging offers a free risk assessment online. The Council’s position is that falls are not a natural part of aging and we should be proactive about reducing risk. You’ll answer 13 easy questions to get your fall risk score and tips on how to reduce your likelihood of a fall.
 

Strength and Balance Exercises for Seniors

Building strength and balance can be particularly helpful to avoid falls. Any exercise is better than none. One simple thing you can do is to stand on one leg for as long as you can, several times a day. For a great free video featuring fall-prevention exercises, google Johns Hopkins Medicine Fall Prevention Exercises on YouTube.
You may go from being a healthy, active adult to someone who needs months of rehab and therapy, perhaps with surgery. It’s time-consuming at best and may cause depression and despair. Many older adults must cut therapy short because only a certain amount is covered by health insurance. There’s no guarantee you’ll get back to your former activity level or be able to do the things you love, whether that’s traveling or playing with grandchildren. 

Writer Bill First and his wife found out the hard way. First tumbled down his basement steps while carrying a large box and injured his back, requiring surgery and months of rehab. His wife, Tracy, suffered broken bones and a dislocated ankle when their exuberant border collie accidentally plowed into her when it was racing around outside. She, too, underwent surgery and physical therapy for months in a bid to get back to the long walks and horseback riding that had been a daily part of her life. 

Why Do Seniors Fall?

Our bodies lose muscle mass as we age. This leads to poor balance, a reduction in strength and a less steady gait. Our diet may worsen, with inadequate calcium and Vitamin D for bone strength when we’re at greatest risk for osteoporosis, or porous bones. Vision and hearing may be declining, along with reaction time. Our beloved pets cause about 87,000 falls annually, with dogs more than seven times as likely as cats to send a family member to the hospital.

As we age, we take more medications. Antidepressants and sedatives make us drowsy, and diseases like Parkinson’s and hypertension add to the risk of falling. Blood thinners that inhibit clotting are a danger when someone taking them falls and hits their head.

If you’re over 55, you’re going to fall sooner or later. But there are steps you can take to tilt the odds in your favor; to help you fall less and keep you out of the hospital. The good news is, these are things that will improve your health and wellbeing overall. 

Prevention is the Best Cure
Fortunately, there are precautions we can take to keep falls to a minimum:

  • Ask your doctor or pharmacist to review your medications and supplements.
  • Get your hearing and eyesight checked.
  • Install grab bars in your bathroom.
  • Put rails on both sides of stairs.
  • Get rid of small throw rugs or secure them so they don’t slip.
  • Wear comfortable shoes with low or no heels and grippy soles.
  • Add lighting sources to your home and use bright bulbs.
  • Use night lights.
  • Use non-slip mats in showers and tubs.
  • Exercise often to keep agile. 
  • Get enough calcium and vitamin D.
  • Add gripping tape to bare stairs.
  • Remove clutter from pathways around furniture.

After you’ve made your own home safer, pass on the knowledge to parents and other loved ones. We can reduce this epidemic and make Americans safer and healthier at the same time. 



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Friday, March 8, 2024

Best Phone Plans for Seniors 2024



One thing nearly all older adults have to spend money on is a phone plan. Here’s what to look for, including price, and some of the best options.


If you haven’t already reviewed your phone plan for 2024, it’s time to take a moment and make sure you’re getting the most bang for your buck. Don’t just keep the same plan year after year. Like home and car insurance, your phone plan is something you should review annually because your needs change, and so do plans and prices. Most every carrier now lets you keep your phone number, too.

How Much Data Do I Need?

If you’re unsure about your data usage, here are some rough guidelines. 
  • Calling and texting only: no data needed
  • Emailing and messaging: less than 5G of data per month
  • Social media and browsing the Web: 5G per month
  • Streaming music: 10G a month
  • Streaming high-definition video: at least 10G per month
Some carriers do offer plans specifically for seniors. However, you’ll have to do your homework to see if that’s best for you. They may only be offered in one state, or another plan may better fit your needs. 

How to Pick a Plan

There are four criteria to consider before choosing the plan that’s right for you:
  1. Usage. Do you use your phone for calls and texts only, or are you checking social media and diving into apps away from home? If you’re out of Wi-Fi range, you’ll need a data allowance for playing games, using your news app, browsing the internet and a whole lot more. Check your current plan to find out how much data you use per month.
  2. Coverage. There are three major carriers for service: Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile. Almost every plan is from one of these, even if they pony off their network. It’s important to know which one has the best coverage in your area, especially  if you’re in a  more rural place. Ask your neighbors which one they use and if they’re happy with the service. You can also check local coverage below. Most networks are 4G, but major cities often offer 5G, which is a bit faster. To use 5G, you must have a compatible phone.
  3. Budget. While it’s somewhat true that you get what you pay for, there are a couple of caveats. First, you may not really need an unlimited data plan. Most seniors don’t, and you’ll just be paying for something you don’t use. Additionally, there are plenty of companies that piggyback off of the Big 3 for a lower price. Don’t be afraid to use one of them if it can save you money.
  4. Bundling. Alas, nothing is easy these days and that includes some phone plans, but it could be to your advantage. Many companies offer bundled plans, or phone plans that may include streaming services, possibly a discount on internet service and even a medical alert service. One plan below promises to block spam and robocalls. Check out these options and compare prices.

Best Phone Plans for Seniors

Now that you know what you’re looking for, here are seven great phone companies with plans to appeal to older adults.

Mint Mobile uses the T-Mobile network to save you a lot of money. Six-month plans range from $15 per month for 5G of data to $30 per month for unlimited data. They also offer several more plans between these two price points. 

Tello works off the T-Mobile network and offers 35G of high-speed data with free hotspot and Wi-Fi calling for just $25 a month. Their 2G plan is just $10, and 5G is $15 per month. Plus, they don’t require a contract; just pay month by month.

US Mobile runs on the Verizon and T-Mobile networks, and has unlimited data, talk and text starting at $23 a month, taxes and fees included. You could also elect the 2G of shared data plan with unlimited talk and text for $10 per month. US Mobile also offers unlimited US and international calling on your existing landline for $9.99 per month.

Jitterbug is a phone network and flip phone specifically for older adults. The hardware features bigger buttons, while you can opt for a medical alert feature (some people may already have this on their smartphone or smart watch). Jitterbug also partners with ride-sharing company Lyft to make getting a ride super simple. Cost ranges from $19.99 to $49.99 per month.

Verizon Unlimited offers phone plans on the largest network bundled with various movies, songs, and sports providers. For instance, for $55 a line you get unlimited service bundled with Netflix and Max if you need 4 lines. They even have plans that will save on your internet in some areas. 

Verizon Prepaid is perfect for the senior who wants to be on the Verizon network and doesn’t mind setting up autopay (to save $10 per month). For just $35 you can get 15G of data, unlimited talk and text, and you can use your phone as a mobile hotspot. 

Visible Wireless piggybacks onto the Verizon network. For $25 per month, you’ll get unlimited data, talk and text with spam and robocall blocking, unlimited use of your phone as a mobile hotspot, and unlimited talk and text to Mexico and Canada. The spam block may be worth $25 all by itself, especially for older folks.




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Monday, March 4, 2024

Seniors and Weight-Loss Drugs



Finally, we have weight-loss drugs that really work. But should older adults be taking them?


Seniors hailed the recent introduction of effective weight-loss drugs to the market. Injectable semaglutide Ozempic was approved by the FDA for diabetes treatment in 2017. Weight-loss drug Wegovy, which is identical to Ozempic, was approved in 2021. Mounjaro, with active ingredient tirazepatide, got approval for diabetes in 2022. Other drugs are in development.

But are they safe for older adults? Reported side effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and stomach pain. The drugs are recommended for people with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 or more and at least one obesity-related condition like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes. No guidelines exist for people 65 and up. 

Who Needs to Lose Weight?

BMI is calculated by weight and height – but it can either overestimate or underestimate actual fat percentage, the most problematic feature of obesity, according to Rodolfo Galindo, director of the Comprehensive Diabetes Center at the University of Miami Health System.

Is There a Generic Form of Semaglutide? 

Taking weight-loss drugs is expensive, so it’s no wonder people are asking when a generic version will become available. Novo Nordisk was the first drugmaker to patent semaglutide, and patents typically run for 20 years. Unfortunately, the earliest we can expect a generic is December 5, 2031 when their patent expires. 

Novo Nordisk may get marketing exclusivity, allowing them to extend the patent protection, usually for three to seven years. Competing pharmaceutical companies could challenge the patent, leading to earlier generic versions. However, the US Patent Office has not looked favorably on two recent claims, so optimism isn’t warranted.

What we really should be looking at in older people is waist circumference, suggests Dennis Kerrigan, director of weight management at Henry Ford Health in Michigan. It’s abdominal fat that carries more risk as you get older. He says that men should measure no more than 40 inches at the waist. For women, the number is 35 inches.

The drugs are “best suited for older patients who have clinical evidence of obesity,” according to Fatima Stanford, an obesity medicine scientist at Massachusetts General Hospital. This would include those with elevated cholesterol or high blood sugar, osteoarthritis, or heart disease. 

Cost of Weight-Loss Drugs

At about $1,000 per month, the drugs are not cheap. Medicare will not cover them unless a patient has diabetes. Some lawmakers have tried to change that, but it’s unlikely the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act has much of a chance of passing. The problem is, 42% of older adults are obese, according to the CDC. If all the clinically obese Medicare beneficiaries began taking semaglutide, the cost would exceed what Medicare spends on the Part D drug program, which amounted to $145 billion in 2019. 

But many wonder if that will change in the future, as the beneficial effects of the drugs on livers, hearts and more are beginning to be released. Could the cost saved on treatments for other diseases outweigh the cost of the drugs themselves at some point? 

Seniors At More Risk

The problem is that when people lose weight – and it doesn’t matter if the loss is from medication, dieting or bariatric surgery – they lose more than fat. Normally, about a quarter of the weight shed is from lean mass, such as muscle and bone. And older adults need all the muscle and bone they can get, since bones weaken and muscles shrink with age. 

Seniors must keep as much muscle mass as possible for strength and mobility. The loss of muscle strength in older adults is a leading factor in falls, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Waning bone strength puts seniors at risk of fractures. 

“While there may be many important benefits of weight loss metabolically, we need, particularly in older adults, to think about muscle and how important it is for the older adult population,” says John Batsis, a clinician and professor of geriatric medicine and nutrition at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. “Losing muscle mass and strength with aging is a natural phenomenon. Everyone, though, has a threshold where it causes a problem.”

More Research Needed

The problem is, not enough research has been done on the older population with these drugs to see if seniors may lose a greater proportion of fat and muscle than their younger cohorts. One study that looked at semaglutide use in older patients with diabetes found that they reported more side effects than younger patients. 

“My concern is that administering a medication without concurrent behavioral strategies may promote the development of loss of muscle mass and function,” says Batsis.

In the meantime, older adults should exercise caution when considering taking the drugs. Consult with your doctor about a concurrent exercise program to counter muscle loss. And check out the article in this month’s Senior Spirit about treatments for bone loss. 


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Sunday, March 3, 2024

Famous & 65

Look who's turning 65 this month

Find out which celebrities are turning 65 this month!


March 7 - Tom Lehman, golfer  

Although not the winningest golfer of his day, Tom Lehman holds the honor of being the only golfer ever to be awarded the Player of the Year for all three PGA tours: the regular PGA Tour, the Web.com Tour, and the PGA Tour Champions. 

Lehman got his business degree at the University of Minnesota, then hit the tour circuit. Unfortunately, he struggled from 1983 to 1985, and had to go overseas to continue his golf career. He came back to the US on the Ben Hogan Tour, where he topped the 1991 money list for his ticket back to the PGA. This time, he secured his place and was even named PGA Tour Player of the Year in 1996.

But although he played well, victory was often elusive. He held the lead at the US Open in 1995, 1996 and 1997, but failed to bring home the trophy. He did, however, win his sole major championship to that point and held No. 1 in the Official World Golf Ranking … for one week. He did earn a reputation for consistency, coming in second in tour events 19 times between 1992 and 2006. 

Lehman and his wife reside in Scottsdale, Arizona. The couple has two sons and two daughters. 







March 8 - Lester Holt, journalist and news anchor

Since June of 2015, Lester Holt has anchored the weekday edition of “NBC Nightly News”, “NBC Nightly News Kids Edition” and “Dateline NBC“. The most trusted TV news anchor in America, according to a 2018 poll, Holt also was praised for his job moderating the first presidential debate of 2016. 

Holt’s father served in the Air Force. Holt was born on Hamilton Air Force Base in California and wound up in Alaska when his dad was sent to Elmendorf Air Force Base during the Vietnam War. Holt’s older brother, a DJ in Anchorage, showed him the broadcasting ropes. Doing the news was a by-product of needing work.

"My first on-air job was actually as a disc jockey at a Country and Western station,” Holt says. “The only time I could land a full-time gig was if I was willing to report the news." And so he did all through his time at college. He went on to be a reporter, anchor and international correspondent for CBS, a relationship that endured for 19 years. Holt reported from hotspots such as Iraq, Northern Ireland, Somalia, El Salvador, and Haiti. 

Married with two sons, Holt lives in Manhattan with his wife, Carol. Son Stefan is currently the 10pm anchor at NBC affiliate WMAQ in Chicago, following in the footsteps of his famous dad.  You can catch Holt off-air on upright bass in the band Rough Cuts.







March 13 - Kathy Hilton, socialite, actress and fashion designer

How do the “one percent” live? You might ask Kathy Hilton, mother to Paris and Nicky, wife of hotel heir Richard Hilton, and a talented and successful actress and designer in her own right.
She started life as a child actor, appearing on shows you’ll remember, such as “Nanny and the Professor”, “Bewitched”, “Family Affair”, and “Happy Days.” 

Hilton graduated from Montclair College Preparatory School in LA, where one of her besties was … did you guess? Michael Jackson! At age 20, she married Richard, and the pair produced four children: Paris, Nicky, Barron Hilton Nicholas II and Conrad Hughes Hilton III. However, you would never know it by looking at her. 

And you may certainly have seen her, perhaps on “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills”, where her half-sisters, Kim and Kyle Richards, are regulars. Or maybe on the December 2020 edition of Vogue, where she and her daughters modeled the Valentino resort collection. You could have even caught her live on Sunset Plaza in LA back in the 80s and early 90s when she had a gift and antiques store called The Staircase.

A savvy businesswoman, Hilton does not rest on her laurels (or her bank accounts). The entrepreneur has her own skincare line and a signature perfume, “My Secret.” And in 2012 she debuted her group of party dresses, the Kathy Hilton Collection. 







Source:

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors
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Tuesday, February 13, 2024

Supporting Black-Owned Businesses This Black History Month



As we celebrate Black History Month, it is essential to not only reflect on the rich history and achievements of the Black community but also to actively contribute to its present and future success. One impactful way to do so is by supporting Black-owned businesses. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses and highlight some incredible ventures that deserve recognition. 




The Economic Impact of Supporting Black-Owned Businesses: 

Wealth Redistribution: Supporting Black-owned businesses helps address historical economic disparities by redistributing wealth within the Black community. This, in turn, contributes to closing the wealth gap that has persisted for generations. 

Job Creation: Black entrepreneurs often prioritize hiring individuals from their communities, fostering local economic growth and reducing unemployment rates. By supporting these businesses, you are indirectly contributing to job creation and community development. 

Entrepreneurial Spirit: Celebrating and supporting Black-owned businesses encourages an entrepreneurial spirit within the Black community. This, in turn, inspires future generations to pursue their dreams and contribute to the business landscape. 

Here are a few black-owned businesses you might consider supporting. Not only are they known for their exceptional products and services, they also are committed to prioritizing inclusivity, diversity and social responsibility: 

The Lip Bar: Founded by Melissa Butler, The Lip Bar offers a diverse range of inclusive and cruelty-free beauty products. Their mission is to challenge traditional beauty standards and make quality cosmetics accessible to everyone. 

BLK & Bold: Within the coffee industry, BLK & Bold is a Black-owned business founded by Rod Johnson and Pernell Cezar. Not only do they provide exceptional coffee blends, but they also donate 5% of their profits to initiatives aimed at improving the lives of at-risk youth. 

Talley & Twine: This Black-owned watch company, founded by Randy D. Williams, combines style and sophistication. Talley & Twine creates timepieces that celebrate individuality and cultural pride, making a statement with every tick. 

Sole Rebels: Bethlehem Tilahun Alemu founded Sole Rebels with a commitment to sustainability and fair employment. This Ethiopian footwear company produces eco-friendly shoes with traditional craftsmanship, providing jobs and preserving cultural heritage. 

Essie Spice: Founded by Essie Bartels, Essie Spice offers a range of Afro-fusion gourmet sauces and spices. By infusing African flavors into everyday meals, Essie Spice not only enhances culinary experiences but also supports sustainable farming practices. 

This Black History Month, let us celebrate the achievements and resilience of the Black community by actively supporting Black-owned businesses. By doing this small act, we contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society, fostering economic empowerment and promoting diversity in the marketplace. As we reflect on the past, let us also shape a future where Black-owned businesses thrive, leaving a positive impact on the global business landscape.
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Monday, February 12, 2024

Ozempic Will Change Healthcare as We Know It



The appearance on the market (finally!) of a weight-loss drug with relatively few side effects is a huge deal. It has changed peoples’ lives, the healthcare industry and has even generated repercussions in the business world, with more to come.


A number of studies have begun to highlight the broad ranging benefits offered by Ozempic and similar drugs, known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. Apart from the ability to induce weight loss and thus reduce the risk of associated ailments, the medicine seems to offer benefits to the heart, liver, and kidneys. GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide) appear to help combat substance abuse and fight the neuroinflammation and oxidative stress that contribute to Alzheimer’s.

“I don’t think any of us had the vision that, 40 years later, we would be thinking about all of these different actions of GLP-1,” says Daniel Drucker, a University of Toronto professor who helped discover how the drugs work. “It took a tremendous amount of work over decades to really get us to where we are now.”

Other Uses Have Unexpected Effects

A mere six years after its introduction, Ozempic has become the top-selling prescription drug in the US. The more uses that are found for the drug while it’s still on patent, the better for maker Novo Nordisk. But it’s not a boon for all companies. When Ozempic was found to be so effective at fighting kidney disease that a trial was stopped early, the stock of dialysis providers Fresnius Medical Care AG and DaVita Inc. took a $3.6 billion hit. 

“The market has reached a point of near peak hysteria regarding the impact of GLP-1s,” wrote Matthew Taylor, an analyst who covers medical-device stocks for Jefferies LLC. “The carnage in medtech has been notable, and broad, almost indiscriminate, impacting names that seemingly have no perceived linkage to GLP-1s.”

Heart Disease

Take cardiovascular disease as one example. Americans dole out around $250 billion per year for blood pressure drugs, bypass surgery, and implantable cardiac devices like pacemakers. Recent studies have shown that semaglutide therapy improved symptoms “significantly” in participants who were obese. 

“We’re now at the precipice of this avalanche of data that really point us in the direction saying obesity is what’s causing these complications. In order for us to effectively manage these complications, we have to address obesity, we have to target obesity,” says Dr. Mikhail Kosiborod, a cardiologist, vice president of research at Saint Luke’s Health System, and lead author of the study. 

Changing Appetite

Other industries have noted changes as well. Semaglutide decreases hunger, and there are so many people using them that major food retailers are seeing changes in patterns of consumption. 

"We definitely do see a slight change compared to the total population, we do see a slight pullback in overall basket," says Walmart U.S. CEO John Furner. "Just less units, slightly less calories."

It looks like the number of people taking the drug is only going up. In a recent report, Morgan Stanley Research analysts estimate that 24 million people, or 7% of the US population, will be on the drug by 2035. 

“The food, beverage and restaurant industries could see softer demand, particularly for unhealthier foods and high-fat, sweet and salty options," notes Morgan Stanley tobacco and packaged food analyst Pamela Kaufman. “We acknowledge that the impact in the near term is likely to be limited given drug adoption will grow gradually over time, but we could see a longer-term impact as drug prevalence increases. Moreover, we expect companies to adapt to changes in consumer behavior through innovation and portfolio reshaping efforts."

Exercise Jumps

While pizza chains may become scarce, other industries could benefit. Morgan Stanley Research found that GLP-1 users exercised more than before they were taking the drug. In fact, the number who exercised on a weekly basis fully doubled. 

“Perhaps as patients lose weight, they simply feel both more physically able and more mentally motivated to exercise more to compound the benefits they are seeing from weight loss medications," writes Morgan Stanley analyst Brian Harbour.

Curbing Cravings

It’s not only food cravings that seem to be kept in check by semaglutide. People taking the drug are reporting that they’re no longer interested in alcohol, that they’ve stopped smoking, that their impulse to shop has gone away and they’re no longer biting their nails. Researchers have a trio of theories about why this may be happening.
  • A change in the sense of smell and taste
  • A change in the part of the brain linked to pleasure and reward
  • An increased avoidance of certain chemicals such as those found in alcohol and cigarettes

To date, not much research has been done on the subject. And scientists theorize that the effect may dissipate and disappear when someone quits taking the drug. 

“Unless the emotional issues are addressed, removing the substance will do little more than create a dry drunk,” says Laura Lee Wright, a sober living coach. “It’s dangerous to suggest there is a magic pill that can make an addict well.” She recommends group therapy, mental and emotional counseling, and residential rehab to treat addiction. 

Perhaps semaglutide will be used in future to kickstart a more traditional program of drug therapy. And if a significant portion of the population is on it, will liquor stores feel the pinch? Will the opioid crisis finally die out? Will shopping as a whole go down? 

The answers to these questions, like so many with the new weight-loss drugs, are yet to be seen. But there is reason for optimism on many fronts.




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Sunday, February 11, 2024

Seniors, Earn Pocket Money From Home



It’s always nice to have a little extra money to pad your budget or pay an unexpected bill. What kind of little jobs can you get paid to do without leaving home?


Welcome to retirement … and fixed income. The meaning of that really sinks in when you have to say no to a dinner invitation or the car suddenly has a heart condition. Maybe you need money for a vacation or to get your dream car. Whatever – you want some income but you’re loath to start driving for Lyft or Doordash, and the thought of retail is far too committed. Senior Spirit has scoured the internet (and our friends!) and we’ve come up with some options that you might find interesting. 

Research Opportunities

Campos pays people to be on their research panels. Click on the “Participate in paid research” button at the bottom right of the page to sign up. You may find yourself doing a survey, joining focus groups, or testing new products and giving your feedback. You can find out more about their research projects,  which are varied and may require some background knowledge. 

Taxes for the Gig Worker

Uncle Sam still has his hand out for a piece of your financial pie, retirement or no retirement. If you’re earning a significant amount of money (more than a few hundred dollars) in the gig economy, make sure you’re considering the tax bite. You may also want to make estimated quarterly payments, which the IRS recommends for anyone expected to owe $1,000 or more. If you’re unsure what to put aside or how to pay, contact your tax professional. 
Located in Pittsburgh, the company pays well for your time. If you refer a friend who signs up to do research for Campos, you’ll even be entered in a monthly drawing for $100. 

Other companies that are looking for research participants are:

Some of these are looking specifically for caregivers and people with disabilities as well as many others. Check them out online to see what people are saying about them and what they pay. All of these come with recommendations, but you’ll want to find out exactly what each job entails and how much it pays. 

AI Model Training

We all know that artificial intelligence (AI) is the new buzzword in tech, but were you aware that it needs to be trained? Turns out, there’s something called data annotation that involves labeling content with relevant tags to help computers make sense of and interpret it. The data being labeled can be images, text, audio, or video. Some of this work pays in the $20 to $25 an hour range. 

These companies are looking for people with a high level of accuracy. Some companies that hire data annotators:
● Upwork
● Toptal

Other Work-From-Home Opportunities

If you’re still looking for ideas, we’ve got a few more to consider. Seniors with strong writing skills or specific job knowledge can bid on projects at Freelancer. You’ll find a wide array of writing jobs that vary in length and expertise required. 

If you want to make a little money on purchases you’ve already made, try cash-back
apps Fetch and Ibotta. You take a photo of your receipts, then redeem them for gift cards and other offers. Not a big money-maker, but it could help save on shopping. 

Everybody needs or wants a little extra pocket money sooner or later. Maybe you’d just like to be involved in a survey or research project. Whatever the case, one or more of these ideas should help you achieve your goal.



This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional financial advice from a qualified financial advisor.
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Saturday, February 10, 2024

Solo Seniors: What to Travel With



Singleton seniors have money to spend and they’re traveling both near and far. Tips on how to do it safely while still having a blast, whether you’re a timid traveler or ready to backpack across Mongolia.


Nearly a third of all seniors live alone, according to stats from the US Census Bureau, and many of them are taking off on solo adventures. Many more choose to travel alone due to a spouse’s disinterest or inability to explore. For many, the beauty of traveling alone is doing exactly what you want, when you want, where you want. Go to Rome and skip the museums, or island-hop through the Caribbean. Explore the Nordic countries … just for the exotic restaurants. Bike through Vietnam at your own pace. 

Newbie Senior Solo Travelers

If you’re new to solo travel, you might want to start by checking out a nearby city or tourist town. You’ll have cell coverage and a hotel or Airbnb base, Google maps can guide your way, and you can easily research where you want to explore. Maybe you’ll go to Santa Fe for the art and amazing food, or drive to Saint Louis to explore the crazy but wonderful city museum.

What to Carry to Stay Safe

  1. Sling pack. The Travelon Anti-Theft Sling Bag works well. It can be worn on your chest or your back and keeps valuables close. 
  2. RFID blocking wallet or card. This will ensure that your contactless credit cards are not compromised. 
  3. Tag for keeping track of your luggage, wallet and you. Try Apple AirTag or Tile.
  4. Portable phone charger. 
  5. Mini flashlight so you don’t have to run down your phone battery.
  6. Personal alarm. The birdie is simple and works well. This one is essential for all women, but guys, it’s a good idea for you to have one, too. 

You can also choose to travel only to countries where the native language is English, at least to start with. You’ll feel more comfortable, but there are many countries in the world (such as Costa Rica and most of Western Europe) where it’s fairly easy to find English speakers.

Another way to dip your toe into the world of traveling alone is to have a ready-made group around you. Solo Traveler World specializes in those of us traveling by ourselves, whether men or women, young or old. Here, you’ll find organized trips just for single travelers, with the opportunity to meet other like-minded people online. There’s a mountain of articles on where to go and what to do, with helpful comments from a community who has been there and done that. 

Solo Traveler World searches out trips where the dreaded “supplement” - a surcharge for a single person booking a room or cabin that can hold two - is 20% or less, and very often zero. Some recent topics from their library of articles include: Why women should travel alone, how to enjoy Sydney on a budget, and how to book a trip at the last minute. 

It may be true that there is nothing new under the sun, and Solo World Traveler has the resources to guide your wanderlusting footsteps with the expertise of many who have gone there (wherever it is you want to go!) before. If you prefer safety in numbers, you may want to try one of their recommended cruises, including ones that are for singles. 

They also have a Facebook group so you can chat away with your new buddies, find others who are going where you are, you name it. Oh, and did we say they have a group for older adults?

Hosted Stays for Seniors

Another way to find your people is to enroll in the Freebird Club, an organization for people over 50. They’ll connect you with other members who live where you want to go so you can chat about the best pub in Dublin, what areas to avoid, or where you can catch a local bus. 

Plus, many members offer homestays all across the globe that have a social element. Your host will take you out on a nearby footpath, tell you local legend or introduce you to a few friends at their favorite hangout. Or maybe they’ll just sit with you over a glass of wine and tell you their favorite things to do in the area. The “pay what you think is fair” fee to join the Freebird Club is a wonderful way for the service to be affordable to all. 

Travel Tips for Older Adults

There are a few ideas to keep in mind before you embark on your next trip. Number one is packing. Everything you need will fit in a small overhead-size suitcase, no matter where you’re going. You want to be able to manage your luggage on your own, without straining. Keep it small and light. A backpack may work even better for outdoor trips. REI is a great place to find outdoor gear, with clerks who can make recommendations based on experience. 

Don’t be hesitant to stay at a hostel. There are often older people and families there, and even the younger crowd will get a kick out of talking to you about your journey. Find a hostel at Hostelworld.  Stay away from those that talk about a party atmosphere, unless that’s what you want. Book directly with the hostel to ensure there are no misunderstandings. 

Use WhatsApp for free international calls and texting. Download it before you leave. Just do it. You’ll be glad you did.

Download maps for any foreign countries you’ll be traveling to while you’re in the US. You’ll still be able to use Google Maps for navigation, even when you’re offline. 

Go out and have fun! Be aware of your physical limitations, but otherwise the sky’s the limit. Train travel is generally excellent in other countries. People are almost universally kind and helpful, especially since you’ve got a few silver hairs. Get cozy with Google Translate and you can talk to anyone. Try to memorize a few key phrases in the native language of your destination, and people will appreciate it. Be a kind traveler, and you’ll find you’re treated very well.




Sources:

https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/ive-30-solo-trips-always-040000207.html 
https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/senior-travel/senior-travel-mistakes-to-avoid
https://solotravelerworld.com/senior-solo-travel-dont-let-a-number-hold-you-back/







Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors



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Thursday, February 8, 2024

$1000 Test Can Detect Cancer in People Over 50



A new kind of cancer test uses a blood sample to check for more than 50 types of cancer. It may help find cancer, even some types for which there is currently no test, earlier. This could save lives.


Technology is enabling astounding advances in health care, and this month Senior Spirit is sharing news about a groundbreaking way to test for cancer. Multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests work with a single sample of blood. The test searches for specific pieces of DNA or proteins shed by cancer cells. 

There is currently one such test, Galleri by GRAIL, that is available now with a doctor’s prescription. The company recommends the test for those who are at higher risk of cancer, such as folks over the age of 50.

Currently in the US, we have screening tests for five cancers:
  • Mammograms check for breast cancer.
  • HPV and PAP tests are used to screen for cervical cancer.
  • Colonoscopies check for colorectal cancer.
  • Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests check for prostate cancer. 
  • Low-dose CT scans check for signs of lung cancer.

But what about other cancers, such as pancreatic or ovarian? 

“Currently, we don’t detect the majority of cancers, including highly lethal ones, such as pancreatic or ovarian cancer, until symptoms are present,” says Dr. Klein, Emeritus Chair of the Glickman Urological Kidney Institute. “But Galleri can find those cancers at a time when they’re in an earlier stage and before symptoms appear.”

Galleri also checks for certain rare cancers for which there is currently no test. These include ampullary cancer and certain kinds of soft tissue sarcoma. Galleri also tests for: 
  • Anal cancer
  • Breast cancer
  • Cervical cancer
  • Esophageal cancer
  • Kidney cancer
  • Leukemia
  • Liver cancer
  • Mesothelioma
  • Oral cancer
  • Pancreatic cancer
  • Stomach cancer

Using Next Generation DNA Sequencing and machine learning, MCED tests can use a biological process known as methylation to look for patterns in your DNA to both identify likely cancer and find where it originates. 

“It’s like fingerprints and how fingerprints tell the difference between two people,” explains Dr. Klein. “The methylation patterns are fingerprints that are characteristic of each kind of cancer. They look one way for lung cancer and different for colon cancer.”

Galleri Test Accuracy

A 2021 validation study reported that the Galleri test had a false positive rate of 0.5% (versus 10% to 40% for traditional screening) indicating extremely high accuracy for finding when someone does not show signs of cancer. In other words, a false positive is very unlikely. It correctly identified greater than half of people with cancer-related signals in their blood.

“Twelve cancers, including anal, bladder, colorectal, esophageal, head and neck, liver/bile-duct, lung, lymphoma, ovary, pancreatic, plasma-cell neoplasm and stomach cancer, account for about two-thirds of all cancer deaths in the US,” says Dr. Klein. “For these 12, Galleri finds about 40% of stage I cancers, 67% of stage II cancers, 80% of stage III cancers and 95% of stage IV cancers.”

As you can see, the ability of the Galleri test to detect cancer became greater as the cancer advanced. Overall, the Galleri test was 88.7% accurate in detecting the site of the cancer in those people with a positive test result who had cancer. 

Should Everyone Use an MCED Test?
At this time, the Galleri test is intended to be used in addition to traditional screening, not as a replacement. A large clinical trial https://www.nhs-galleri.org/ of 140,000 people is currently underway in the United Kingdom. The National Cancer Institute has a pilot study on the horizon. Researchers want to find definitive answers to these questions:
  • How good are MCED tests at detecting cancer?
  • If MCED tests are accurate at finding specific cancer, how much earlier can they find it compared to when it would be found after symptoms start?
  • If MCED tests find cancers earlier, do people have better outcomes compared to people whose cancers were found after symptoms developed? In particular, does this test save lives, and, if so, by how much?
  • What about false-positive results from MCED tests? 
  • What about false-negative results from MCED tests? 
  • Who should be tested? 
  • How often should the test be done?

The good news is, your doctor can order a Galleri test for you right now. Check with him or her to see if that may be a good idea for you. On the downside, most insurance, including Medicare, does not cover the nearly $1,000 test. However, select individual employers may pay for all or a portion of the cost.

One day, we may look for all cancers by using a blood sample alone. In the meantime, it’s important to keep abreast of new developments.




Sources:

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/screening/multi-cancer-early-detection-tests.html
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/the-galleri-test
https://www.healthline.com/health/cancer/galleri-cancer-test
https://grail.com/galleri-test/






Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors



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Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Living Legend William Shatner



Actor, director, singer and author William Shatner will be 93 next month, and he’s hardly slowed down. What’s his secret?


William “Bill” Shatner will turn 93 on March 22. He’s had an amazing life, from playing Captain Kirk on Star Trek and winning a Golden Globe and two Emmy Awards to becoming the oldest person to rocket into space at age 90. He’s also been broke at times, and spent a year living in a camper with his dog. How does Shatner stay engaged and relevant after nine decades?

His own advice on how to have a long life is simple. “Don’t die. That’s it; that’s the secret” he says, tongue-in-cheek, in his book, “Live Long and ….” “Simply keep living and try not to slow down.” But there’s a lot more to it than that, from exercise to stem cell treatments. First, let’s review his work history.

Star Trek and Much More

Shatner was born in Canada and got his big break when he was cast as Captain James T. Kirk in the Star Trek franchise. Although the television show only ran from 1966 to 1969, it eventually catapulted the actor into stardom. But in the near term, Shatner got typecast and struggled to find work, losing his home and finally living in a truck-bed camper. At the time, people in California’s San Fernando valley could hire him to make an appearance at their small party. 

To make ends meet, he appeared in a multitude of quiz shows and commercials. Then, in the late 70s, Paramount noticed that Trekkies were becoming a thing, and began producing Star Trek movies using the original actors. And like that, Shatner was in high demand at Comic Cons, late-night shows and much more for the next many decades.

In 1982 he also snagged the title role of veteran police sergeant T.J. Hooker in a series that ran for five seasons. Toward the end of the series, Shatner tried his hand at directing while still hawking products like the VIC-20 home computer. 

But that wasn’t all. Shatner co-wrote or had a ghostwriter generate 47 books ranging in subject from Star Trek novels to nonfiction. And he has maintained a sort of singing career, creating eight albums that feature him reading lyrics from popular songs such as Elton John’s “Rocket Man”. Additionally, he is a breeder of champion Saddlebreds and reining Quarterhorses and rode one to an amateur World Champion title at the age of 89.

Keeping Active

Phew! Almost anyone would be envious of those accomplishments, or just the ability to keep on creating for so many years. Unsurprisingly, it turns out that Shatner hews to a lifestyle that is heavy on healthy living. 

"I wake up every morning thinking, I've got to keep myself in shape to ride horses," Shatner says. "If I am not sitting on a horse at least once or twice a week, it feels detrimental to my heart."

He also hops in a pool for half an hour every day, running in place and exercising his arms. He has kept strong throughout his eighties and nineties. Before he went into space, he had to run up seven flights of stairs in under a minute and a half to qualify for the flight.

Biking

He found a new passion in his mid-eighties when he bought an electric bike. 

"The e-bike got me outside and got me fitter," he told the LA Times. "Going up the hills is not a problem. I've got an arthritic back from all the horseback riding, my muscles are tender, yet I go back to my car when the bike ride's over and I feel perfect."

As an added bonus, Shatner’s extended family goes on regular rides with him.  "A family that was always somewhat tight became a hugely cohesive group," he says. 

Shatner is well aware that socializing and keeping active is a big part of staying healthy.  "Say yes to the opportunities life is offering. Say yes to life, yes to dinner, yes to going out, and yes to something new,” he says. “Because time is too short to lose one opportunity to sacrifice another."

He also watches what he eats and is largely vegetarian. "I try to adhere to a more plant-based diet these days, with occasional exceptions, and if I am to fish, it must only be for food,” he says. “Never for sport."

Stem Cell Therapy

Shatner said yes to an intravenous infusion of stem cells before taking his historic space flight. Although the therapy hasn’t been approved by the FDA, it’s being tested on auto-immune disorders, metabolic diseases, and aging. 

Although it only lasted 10 minutes and 17 seconds, the space flight was demanding. The rocket ship hurtled through space at over 2,000 mph, exerting 5.5 Gs of force on its passengers, making it hard to move or even breathe. 

Shatner came through the physical aspect just fine, but he wasn’t prepared for how emotional the experience would be. "Going into space made me so aware of how fragile our lives are here on Earth, how we need each other, and need to continue to strengthen bonds that connect us to each other,” he says. “Because out there, there is no life. There is no us." 

Boldly Go

That’s not to say that Shatner will quit exploring his limits. He has a mantra for living:
"If you allow yourself to be awed by life, to keep drinking in its limitless knowledge, to keep striving for answers, to enjoy the beauty around us at every moment, to never stagnate … well, then you might find yourself living for a very long time, and, ideally, prospering," says Shatner. "Or, in the absence of the longevity and self-defined prosperity you seek, you might well find meaning, or even better, happiness."

If you’d like to know more about Shatner, check out his homepage for links to his Facebook group, future appearances, blog, store, and fan club.






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Friday, February 2, 2024

Famous & 65

Look who's turning 65 this month

Find out which celebrities are turning 65 this month!


February 16 - John McEnroe, tennis player  

Known for his skill at shot-making, volleying, and yelling at umpires and tennis authorities, John McEnroe captivated the tennis world for a few brief years in the 1980s. A rival of Björn Borg and Jimmy Connors, he remains the sole male player to simultaneously hold the No. 1 rankings in singles and doubles titles since the ATP rankings were first generated in 1973. He still holds the record for best singles win record (82-3 in 1984) in the Open Era, besides holding the most combined singles (77) and doubles (78) titles in the Open Era.

As if that weren’t enough, McEnroe is the only man to win over 70 titles in combined singles and doubles, including four at the US Open and three at Wimbledon, nine men’s doubles titles, and a Grand slam mixed doubles title. He also contributed to five Davis Cup wins for the US at a time when Connors had dismissed the event. 

If you want your grandchild to walk in his footsteps, start him or her in lessons at age eight, then enroll the child in the Eastern Lawn Tennis Association the following year. By the age of 12, your grandchild should rank seventh in their age group. Easy peasy. Evidently, a similar formula worked well for McEnroe’s brother Patrick, who was also a pro tennis player.

These days, McEnroe is a seasoned sports commentator. He has made cameo appearances on television and written two autobiographical books. He remains married to rock singer Patty Smyth, with whom he has two children. He founded the John McEnroe Tennis Academy in New York. McEnroe remains active and fit.







February 17 - Rowdy Gaines, swimmer

Ambrose “Rowdy” Gaines didn’t find the sport of competitive swimming until he was a junior in high school, but he was a quick study. He got a scholarship and was a five-time NCAA champion at Auburn University.

Gaines set 10 world records during his peak years, specializing in the 100-meter and 200-meter freestyle sprints. Although he won three gold medals for the 100-meter freestyle and a pair of relays at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, he always regretted the 1980 boycott of the Moscow Olympics. It came when he felt he was at his peak and could have achieved more. Gaines has shared of that time that he had “some real trouble post-Olympics, and...some big struggles, especially the year after.”

Gaines is a familiar face offering commentary at Olympic swim events, and he keeps in shape entering Masters swim competitions, where he has set some age group records after age 50. 






=February 19  Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner

The son of New York Senator Charles Goodell, Roger Goodell was a standout athlete in high school. He captained his school’s football, basketball, and baseball teams as a senior, when he was named athlete of the year. But an injury kept him out of college athletics. He earned an economics degree and found another way to spend his life in sports.

After an intensive letter-writing campaign, Goodell became an intern at the New York office for League Commissioner Pete Rozelle before moving to public relations. This would prove to be good experience for the challenges he faced later. As he moved up the office ladder, his business acumen rose, and he became COO. He succeeded Tagliabue as commissioner in the summer of 2006. 

Goodell has handled a multitude of public relations challenges during his tenure. Many were unpopular with players, coaches, the public or all three at one time or another. They include:
  • In 2007 he announced a new Personal Conduct Policy after a series of scandals involving player behavior off the gridiron. 
  • Fines for player conduct on the field, including for controversial hits. 
  • A 2007 incident involving New England Patriots and coach Bill Belichick in “Spygate”, where the team illegally tried to record opponents’ defensive signals. 
  • The 2011 lockout, where Goodell not only negotiated between the NFLPA for players and team owners, but also discussed the collective bargaining agreement with the object of keeping season ticket holders.
  • “Bountygate” in March 2011 when players and coaches of the New Orleans Saints were caught in a scheme where players were given bonuses for knocking opponents out of a game. 
  • The 2012 referee lockout, where the NFL Referees Association and owners failed to come to an agreement, and refs were temporarily replaced with low-level college and high school officials.
  • Brain damage lawsuits brought by former players over head injuries sustained in the game.
  • Tom Brady and “Deflategate”, where the New England Patriots quarterback was accused of using a ball he knew had been partially deflated. 
  • Handling of players kneeling during the US national anthem, before and after the murder of George Floyd.

For a guy who has a lot on his hands at work, his family life has been steady. Goodell has been married since 1997 to former Fox anchor Jane Skinner, with whom he has twin daughters.







Source:

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors
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