Leslie Newlife

Compassionate Care for Aging Parents

Your parents may reach a point in life where one needs a greater degree of care than the other. In this instance, you may need to help them reevaluate their living situation, potentially relocating them to a smaller more manageable home, or even a retirement community or assisted living facility. These types of living environments vary from one location to another, and there are multiple price points and amenities to consider. New LifeStyles can help you make the best-informed decision by providing insights and information on various housing options.

Deciding to Downsize

In some cases, your parents may be able to retain their independent living status by downsizing into a smaller home that allows them to be more self-sufficient or to live independently with the help of some outside services, like nursing care. In this case, you’ll need to help them dispose of belongings they no longer want or need and get situated in their new home. Single stories are often a good bet, as are low-maintenance lawns. Regular meal delivery service and access to outside transportation can help ensure they’re able to maintain some degree of self-sufficiency.

Assessing Care Needs

No two people are the same, and it may be that one parent needs a higher degree of physical care than another. In this instance, a hybrid assisted living facility might be a good option. These environments allow couples to live together in the same facility where one receives a more significant degree of care than the other, who is able to maintain a level of independence. Most of these living options offer tiered plans so that when health needs change, care levels change, all in the same location. This can help ensure couples age in place together, while still having access to the specific types of assistance and medical care each needs.

Researching Options

There are many different types of assisted living environments available, and choosing which one is best for your parents’ needs requires a bit of research. According to U.S News, you’ll need to factor in cost considerations early on. If you sell your parent’s home, you may be able to liquidate enough assets to cover care, or you may be able to rely on retirement savings or long-term care insurance. If your parents have financial assets available to finance their needs, it might make sense for you to have their power of attorney in order to help them manage their money. If you’re planning from far away, a service like SeniorCare.com can be a resource to aid in this process. This site can help you make assessments about what type of living environment is most appropriate for your parent’s needs and budget in the location of their choosing.

Evaluating Facilities

Whether you tour locations in person or virtually, there are a number of different questions you’ll want to ask prospective facilities. According to the AARP, in addition to issues regarding cost and basic care, you may also want to know if there are specialties that would apply to your parent’s unique situation and healthcare needs. For example, some facilities focus primarily on memory care for those with dementia and other memory disorders. Ask about activities, staff-to-resident ratios, on-site medical care specialists, and opportunities for socialization. If you can visit the top selections in person, you’re likely to get a better idea of what would be the best fit for your loved ones.

Even in the best of circumstances, it can be difficult for parents to give up a fully independent lifestyle or become reliant on others. Listen to their questions and concerns with an open mind and try to offer reassurances for this next phase of life. Consider allowing them to be involved in the process of choosing where they’ll go, who gets their possessions, and how they’ll manage the process. By handling the situation with care and compassion, it’s much more likely you’ll be able to make a smooth transition.

New LifeStyles is a resource designed to help you narrow the focus when it comes to making the best decisions for your loved ones. We offer comprehensive, free information on a variety of care options. Visit our site today to learn more, or reach out via phone or email for additional information.

Which Is Best for Your Loved One? Senior Living or Home Care

It is a big decision when trying to choose between a senior living facility or home care for aging parents. However, there are a few factors which can make your decision much easier. Obviously, you want your parents to get the best care possible because they did that for you, not only as children, but throughout adulthood as well. Whenever they were needed, they were there. Now you want to reciprocate to the best of your ability so it really is important to understand exactly what would be best for them in their golden years.

Determine Their Level of Independence

The first, and most important, factor in determining which placement would be best is their level of independence. Are they able to take on most of their self-care? Can they bathe relatively unassisted, and can they get dressed with a minimal amount of help? Are they suffering from dementia where you fear they will wander out in the cold or extremely hot weather? If it’s only a matter of incontinence, for example, then you can provide disposable underwear and keep your bed dry with a bedpad. This is not something that would determine a need for assisted senior living.

Have They Recently Lost a Spouse?

If your aging parent is relatively independent but having trouble living alone because of the recent loss of their spouse of many years, then perhaps living with you would be the best possible alternative. They are already feeling alone so being surrounded by the love of family will help them through their grieving period. Putting them in a residential setting might even make it more difficult for them to go through the stages of grief. This is something that needs a considerable amount of thought when deciding which is best for your aging loved one.

What Is Their Relationship with Family Members?

Another thing which must be carefully weighed is how they get along with family members in the home. For example, if your mother has never gotten along with your husband, it might not be the best situation to bring her into a home where there will be constant turmoil. On the other hand, if there are grandchildren she absolutely adores and has a close relationship with, then making her a part of your family might be nature’s best medicine. There is nothing quite like the love of grandchildren when it comes to living a quality of life so this is one of the most important factors you should consider carefully.

While we never want to put our aging loved ones in a residential setting, there are times when it is necessary. If all adults in the household work full-time and there will be no one to care for them, then perhaps a facility with nurses and support staff would be the better option. Always weigh carefully what is best for your aging loved one, and safety is a huge concern. Once you know what you are looking for, and what is best for your loved one, the decision is easier to make.

3 Ways Custom Mattresses for Seniors Can Improve Their Sleep

Having a good night’s sleep is essential for the physical and mental well-being of senior people. From a scientific viewpoint, an adequate amount of quality sleep is associated with reduced stress, improved cardiovascular health, regulated blood sugar, decreased inflammation, and better cognitive function. 

Generally, older people tend to experience changes in the quality and duration of sleep, with some common issues being pain and discomfort, sleep apnea, daytime drowsiness, nocturia, and restless leg syndrome. This is why they require added comfort to coordinate and manage their sleep routine. In this regard, custom mattresses that are carefully crafted using durable materials are essential for providing senior people with sleep support. The best custom mattresses are made of natural materials such as cotton, wool, and latex and are skillfully designed to provide quality sleep to users.

In this article, we take a closer look at the three main ways that custom mattresses can help senior people improve their quality of sleep.

Helps Manage Pain And Ailments

Many senior people tend to suffer from illnesses such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and back, neck, hip or joint pain. These aches tend to deteriorate with inadequate or poor sleep. In this regard, the right mattress can be incredibly helpful to provide them with the ideal support and comfort. 

Generally, a good mattress can help senior people alleviate pain by supporting the weight and the natural curvature of the body. It will also provide pressure point relief so that the user doesn’t experience lethargy, pain, or stiffness.

Having a well-adjusted mattress that enhances spinal alignment and provides cushioning to areas that experience chronic or acute pain will have a significantly positive impact on everyday well-being by allowing the user to feel well-rested and relaxed after their sleep or nap.

Addresses Individual Needs And Requirements

It is important to recognize that mattresses don’t follow a one-size-fits-all approach. Since different people have varying needs, a custom sized mattress can help address these issues to improve the quality of sleep. 

For instance, many senior people may suffer from loud snoring, which occurs when the airways get constricted. A mattress that provides adequate head and body support can help resolve this. 

Similarly, some older people may have trouble falling asleep on account of allergies and breathing issues from an unsuitable mattress. For this, a mattress that uses natural fibers and materials may prove beneficial.

Another common sleeping concern includes temperature regulation, which is easily resolved by having a mattress made of latex since it is the best material to regulate body temperature. 

Reduces Fatigue

The right mattress can provide older people with uninterrupted sleep and ensure that they feel relaxed and rejuvenated, which can improve their overall health and well-being. Importantly, it can help them avoid waking up in the middle of the night from pain, fatigue, or other factors. 

For instance, depending on whether they sleep on their back, side, or stomach, different mattresses of varying firmness may help with an uninterrupted sleep cycle. Generally, firm mattresses are good for stomach sleepers, medium-firm are ideal for all types of sleepers, and medium-soft are suited to back sleepers. 

Finding The Right Mattress

When purchasing a mattress for senior people, it is good practice to keep the following factors in mind. 

Size

The size of the mattress is the first thing that needs to be considered when going mattress shopping. This is particularly important if someone suffers from health conditions such as restless leg syndrome or is overweight and requires more room.

Firmness

The right mattress should have a suitable level of firmness to avoid stiffness and pain in the body. A medium-firm mattress is a common choice for those wanting better spinal support and pressure point relief. 

Suitability

This includes all the individual factors that need to be considered to ensure quality sleep. For instance, it is important to ask what materials have been used to manufacture the mattress so that it doesn’t run too hot or cold during sleep.

Durability

Always ask the retailer about the durability of the mattress, which refers to how long it is expected to provide support and comfort to the user.

Warranty

When buying a mattress, opt for one that has at least a 10-year warranty so that you can easily take the mattress for repairs or replacement in the future. 

Parting Thoughts

Whether you are shopping for a mattress for yourself or your loved one, make sure to make a list of the individual needs and requirements that you would like to address. This will help you make an informed decision when shopping for a custom mattress, and enable you to purchase the best available option on the market.

Should You Become a Registered Nurse?

Are you thinking about becoming a registered nurse (RN)? If you’re passionate about helping people and looking for a career that offers plenty of opportunities, this could be the perfect job for you.

Still not sure if nursing is right for you? Let’s take a closer look at what this career entails and how to pursue it. 

Career Overview 

Registered nurses work in numerous medical settings. These include hospitals, physicians’ offices, nursing homes and long-term care facilities, schools, and urgent cares. 

An RN’s duties vary widely according to what type of medical facility they work for. In general, they assess patients, record symptoms and medical information, administer medications and treatments, educate patients and their families, and work within a larger medical team to develop a patient care plan. 

Registered nurses generally have impressive salaries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual income for RNs was $75,330 in 2020. 

This career comes with a lot of job stability and the outlook is good. They’re in high demand thanks to an aging population in need of medical care and a generation of retiring nurses. 

Are You a Good Candidate? 

The ideal nursing candidate possesses critical-thinking skills, since certain situations nurses encounter can be challenging and require quick thought processes.

Nurses should also be compassionate. Although they may be there for happy and joyful moments throughout a patient’s life, they will generally encounter difficult and sad moments. A good sense of empathy is important. 

Good communication skills are necessary for this job. Nurses communicate with patients to assess their medical information and any symptoms they may be experiencing. They then relay this information to the doctor and other staff nurses. 

Since nurses may have to lift patients and generally spend many hours on their feet, it’s important for them to be physically fit. 

How to Become an RN 

The first step to becoming an RN is completing an accredited nursing program. There are three possible degree routes: ADN, BSN, and accelerated BSN. 

In almost every state, it’s possible to become an RN by earning an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN). This two-year degree allows you to work as a nurse in most places, but a four-year Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BSN) is the preferred degree by most employers. Nurses with a BSN have a higher earning potential than those who hold an ADN. In the state of New York, for example, registered nurses are required to have a BSN. If you want to become an RN, it’s generally recommended that you earn a Bachelor’s degree. 

If you already have a Bachelor’s degree, there’s another option for obtaining a BSN: an accelerated BSN. This degree allows you to earn a BSN in just 16 months. This is an ideal option for anyone who is thinking about going back to school to become an RN. 

Once you complete a state-approved nursing program, you’ll need to take the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX-RN). This computerized exam tests your knowledge to determine if it’s safe for you to practice as an RN. 

It’s important to do some research on RN license requirements by state. Some states have additional requirements. In New York, for example, these include completing coursework in infection control and child abuse. In Washington, RNs must clock 7 hours of AIDS coursework. Finding out the requirements for your state will help ensure the licensure process goes as smoothly as possible. 

If you think you have what it takes to become a registered nurse, you’ll be among the most coveted. At the end of your educational journey, you’ll find plenty of opportunities at your fingertips.

Amenities to Search for When Visiting Senior Living Facilities

Whether you’re searching for a senior living facility for yourself or someone you know, it’s an involved process that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Ultimately, the objective is to find a safe and decent living space that’s affordable, offers a variety of senior care services, and provides a healthy environment for seniors to live comfortably. As you visit locations, don’t overlook to check for amenities that will add to the overall experience. 

Here’s a look at convenient and enjoyable amenities to look for at senior living facilities: 

Laundry Services

Having a laundromat on-site or a washer and dryer set in your unit is excellent. However, washing clothes and linens can be tedious for some seniors to complete themselves. Therefore, you should inquire about laundry services for residents that include pickup, wash, dry, fold, and drop-off options. 

Separate Dining Areas

While many senior facilities have dining halls and cafeterias for residents to socialize and enjoy meals, it’s not always convenient. If you want to entertain friends and family, you don’t want to have to do it in front of the other residents. Separate dining areas provide you with privacy so you can enjoy your company in peace. 

Salons

Keeping up with your appearance boosts your confidence. Be that as it may, it gets harder to keep your hair cut or styled as you age. Some senior living facilities have a salon or barbershop on-site for residents to visit. It’s a great way to maintain your looks while socializing with others. 

Parcel Lockers

When it comes to receiving mail and packages, you want to ensure they remain secure. As you visit senior living facilities, search for electronic parcel lockers for residents. The lockers should be located in a safe and easily accessible location on the premises so residents can retrieve their items without struggling or fearing for their safety. 

Libraries & Media Centers

Whether you enjoy reading books, watching movies, surfing the internet, or socializing with friends and family online, you need a convenient place to do it. Ask if the senior living facility has a library or media center on-site that residents can access for everyday entertainment. 

Outdoor Seating Areas

When the weather permits, it’s nice to get outside and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. Survey the premises to see if there are designated areas for seniors to relax, socialize, or eat outdoors. 

Walking Trails

Staying active is essential for senior health and wellness. One of the least strenuous yet beneficial ways to get daily exercise is to go for a walk. Does the senior living facility you’re visiting have walking trails for residents to go for a safe stroll? Is there a nearby park where they can sit and enjoy nature? 

Game Rooms And Entertainment

Whether you enjoy playing cards, bingo, or dominos, it’s nice to do it in the company of others. Review the list of amenities at the senior living facility to see if they have a game room or a designated area where residents can indulge in entertainment. Speaking of entertainment, does the facility offer activities and events for residents? Options might include field trips, live performances, city tours, shopping, and more. 

Spa Services

While not available at all senior living facilities, some luxury sites offer spa services for their residents. Massages are instrumental for seniors that struggle with arthritis, body aches, high blood pressure, poor circulation, or mobility issues. At the same time, facials and other spa treatments can improve your skin and boost your mood.

Finding a place to live is a serious decision, especially for seniors that don’t always have the means to keep relocating. While affordability and facility reputation are essential factors, don’t overlook the importance of comfort, convenience, entertainment, health, and wellness. As you narrow down your options, don’t hesitate to ask about or check out the list of amenities listed above. Ultimately, if you end up selecting the facility, you want to ensure it’s someplace you or your loved one wouldn’t mind living forever.

Tips for Dealing with Uncomfortable Retirement Questions

When it becomes the time to retire, there are a lot of moving parts to deal with. There are many questions about finances and your personal life. Housing, insurance, and purpose are all a significant part of retiring from your career. This doesn’t mean that your life is over, you should plan for how the rest of it is going to go. Inevitably there are tough and uncomfortable questions to answer. As you work through the retirement process, it’s vital to keep steady to determine the best moves forward. Are you retiring soon? Here are some tips for dealing with the uncomfortable questions involved with hanging up your hat.

Finances

One of the most important questions to answer when you are going to retire is how much money you will need. This can be an uncomfortable thing to talk about because you are basically asking yourself, “how long will I live?” It’s also why you should have more than enough money saved up. You don’t want to have to worry about running out of money when you need it the most. Finances can be a touchy subject when someone is retiring, but that’s because it is completely necessary to talk about.

Life Insurance

Another hugely significant part of retirement is life insurance. This is the money that gets used for expenses should you pass away. When you’re leaving your job, you will want to understand where your life insurance is at. How much money does your policy have? When you are retiring you will need to look at these details. It may include some morbid thoughts, but it’s entirely necessary to know what the life insurance policy entails. Furthermore, if you don’t have a set primary beneficiary to your life insurance policy, it’s necessary to choose one. Make it someone close to you, someone who you trust to implement your wishes when it comes to the money provided from life insurance companies, and you will be a lot better off.

Housing

While you might live in a large, beautiful home now, what will happen in the future? As you get older, it’s imperative to plan for your body to not work as well as it used to. There will also be less money. You might want to move to a one-story house or downstairs condo. Will you ever have to go to a nursing home? What are your wishes in this regard? You should have a plan for housing at every step of retirement. You might have a “cross that bridge when we come to it” mentality, but as you get older things change. That’s why it is a great idea to have what you will do for housing at every stage of retirement determined. Cut down on surprises by having the housing for the rest of your life planned.

Vocation

When people retire from their careers, they are sometimes left with a feeling of purposelessness. This is especially the case when someone works in a high-powered work environment with a lot of responsibility. Do you have a new vocation planned for after you retire? You will find something productive to do when you stop working. What do you want to do with your golden years? There are plenty of options. Whether you simply want to take up a hobby or start a new career in retirement, having something in mind is key. You can always change what you are doing in retirement, but if you don’t have any plan it can be quite difficult. It isn’t about money but purpose. What do you want to do? If you start there, the rest will fall in line.

Retirement is an exciting time, but it can also be nerve-wracking. There is a lot of uncertainty. It is unchartered territory for you. However, it doesn’t need to be full of stress and anxiety. When you have a plan for what you will do after your retirement, where you will live, and how you will deal with the questions of finance and life insurance, you will be in a much better position to enjoy your retirement. After all, these are your golden years. They should be the easiest and much enjoyable time of your life. The most important thing is to make plans for it and have everything in its right place.

How to Take Better Care of Your Health and Well-Being

Many people come to Florida for the health-giving benefits of plenty of sunshine and high-ozone levels. Unfortunately, a wonderful environment alone is not enough to ensure good health.

You must take care of yourself by following a healthy lifestyle. Adopting salubrious habits will enhance your hair and skin, help you stay in shape, and improve your overall well-being. You might even discover that more good things in life flow to you with grace and ease.

Here are some suggestions on how to improve your physical well-being, protect your mental health, and maintain your perfect weight.

Resolve Neck or Back Issues

Many people secretly suffer from neck or back issues, health challenges that they’ve become good at masking from others.

If you’ve been suffering from neck or back pain for a long time, you might feel resigned about it, not sure what to do.

Fortunately, your issue is far more common than you might’ve thought. Pain clinics offer a variety of treatments for backbone-related issues, such as chiropractic medicine, acupuncture, and massage therapy.

After evaluating your condition, a doctor will recommend the best treatment option. For example, after doctors give you a free MRI review, they’re better prepared to create a customized plan for you.

Improve Your Mental Health

National Mental Health Awareness Week was initiated to educate people about the value of seeking professional help from a psychotherapist or psychiatrist for mental health issues.

Rather than integrating the emotional pain of traumas to live a more productive and happier life, most people default to ignoring their angst, desperately hoping it would go away on its own. While it’s possible to repress emotional wounds from rising to conscious awareness by staying busy during our normal routines, it’s crucial to address mental health challenges before surgery, to enhance your recovery. 

Resolving mental health issues before surgery not only improves the outcome but also prevents unexpected mood disorders from flaring up during recovery. Recent studies found that almost half of the number of patients who underwent major surgery struggled with depression

Choose Healthier Eating Options

Many people assume that if someone is overweight, it’s because of a hormonal imbalance or poor eating habits. But gaining excessive weight is also caused by low self-esteem

Overweight people, especially those with obesity, are not only at risk for incurring severe illnesses like type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, hypertension, and stroke but also mental health issues like chronic depression. With that in mind, here are some keys to achieving healthy weight loss:

  1. Work with a counselor or therapist to heal emotional pain arising from upsetting experiences, some perhaps stemming in childhood.
  2. Eat a variety of foods from all food groups to balance all your macronutrient needs.
  3. Choose healthier options such as whole foods, plant-based protein, and drinking lots of water over prepackaged meals loaded with preservatives, food dyes, and excess salt, sugar, and saturated fats.
  4. Reduce your risk of chronic diseases and long-term illnesses by staying on your new eating plan.

Eating well is essential for a healthy lifestyle. Following a good diet will lift your mood and increase your energy levels. It will help you stay at your ideal weight. And it will give you all the nutrients you need to enjoy optimal health and vitality.

Improve Your Health

Florida’s sunshine and invigorating ocean breezes are a good start to enjoying a healthy lifestyle. Besides appreciating the invigorating climate, you can also upgrade your health by resolving any lingering physical issues through the most appropriate medical treatment, integrating any emotional upsets by seeing a therapist, and choosing healthier eating options when designing a good diet.

10 Mistakes to Avoid When Divorcing Over 50

Gray Divorce

Gray divorce, or divorcing over 50 years old, is more common than ever before. As of 2015, five out of every 1,000 couples who separated were over the age of 50. A couple over 50 may seek a divorce for several reasons. Here are a few common reasons.

Possible Reasons for a Gray Divorce

As people live longer, they have more opportunities to grow and to grow apart. Nowadays, more women are financially independent and find no financial reasons to stay together. Even when unhappy in a marriage, some spouses prefer to wait until the children are grown before filing for divorce. Couples may no longer share the same interests and goals, and their marriage may no longer be strong enough to survive after their children leave. Some couples find that spending more time together isn’t a source of happiness or that their interests in retirement are no longer compatible as they age. Still, others wait until they are financially stable before they divorce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Whatever the reason may be, divorce is difficult. It has the potential to be very financially and emotionally draining. However, proceedings with an uncontested divorce in Georgia can be easier if you take help from the right divorce lawyers by your side. Let’s have a look at what mistakes to avoid.

  1. Not Choosing the Right Divorce Process

Lawyers help couples fight for what they want in divorce litigation. It’s not uncommon for spouses to spend a significant amount of their marital estate on their attorneys, leaving them with little to divide or apply toward their debts. In states like Georgia, cooperating with your spouse often means you don’t have to hire an attorney or endure long, drawn-out court battles. You will also have more control over the outcome of your divorce.

  1. Not Having an Inventory of Assets

By keeping track of your assets and other financial information, you will know what you own. As a result, you can negotiate items such as alimony, child support, and property division in your settlement. Real assets should be included in the inventory, as well as investments and liquid assets.

Often, one partner knows more about a couple’s assets than the other. This individual likely knows exactly what and how many assets they own (cash and kind). If you are the other party, you should make an inventory of all your assets before dividing them. Hire a St Petersburg divorce attorney to assist you.

  1. Holding onto the Family Home

If you wish to retain the family home, you should determine if it is a good idea for you. Although the thought of moving the family may seem disruptive, keep in mind that even if you remove your name from the property title, you are still liable for payments on your joint mortgage. Your credit score could take a hit if your spouse misses payments or defaults altogether, and you could face tax penalties as well. Consider the maintenance costs of the property as well.

  1. Not Knowing What You Owe

You are accountable for half of your spouse’s obligations in places where community property rules apply, even though the debt is not yours. Some states that do not recognize community property (like Georgia) may hold you liable for jointly held credit cards or loans. You should obtain a full credit report for you and your spouse to avoid any surprises.

  1. Forgetting Tax Consequences

Consider the tax implications of your divorce settlement carefully. Any alimony you receive will be taxed. Even child support can be taxed. You should also be aware of the taxes and penalties associated with retirement asset distributions. You should also take into account capital gains taxes on appreciated assets.

  1. Forgetting About Health Insurance

You may have to obtain your insurance coverage if you are relying on your spouse’s work-sponsored health plan. Especially if you divorce before Medicare kicks in at age 65, this could be costly and unexpected. Under certain circumstances, you can keep your ex’s health insurance while separating your other assets.

  1. Don’t Forget About Your IRA Account and Social Security Benefits

Unless your divorce decree stipulates otherwise, a divorce decree cannot alter the beneficiary of your IRA account. A qualified domestic relations order (QDRO) protects the assets in your divorce settlement. With QDRO, you can divide your retirement assets into your shared 401(k) plans, 457 and/or 403(b) accounts, and pensions.

You can receive your spouse’s Social Security benefits if you meet certain requirements (such as being married for at least 10 years, not remarrying after the divorce, and being at least 62 years old).

  1. Wanting to Support Your Adult Children

Regardless of how much you love and want to help your children, your first objective right now is to guarantee that you have secure retirement savings and that you can aid your college-aged children with their educational costs.

  1. Keeping Your Wealth Hidden from Your Spouse

The consequences of hiding assets during a divorce can be severe if they are discovered afterward. It may result in additional legal fees and court time. A divorce petitioner in Georgia must disclose all financial information on the financial affidavit form. Affidavit fraud or testifying falsely in court is perjury and can result in sanctions (such as jail time, contempt of court, etc.).

  1. Your Divorce Advisors Are Not Your Friends

If you have the right group of professionals to help you with your divorce, you’ll be able to reduce the cost of litigation and avoid expensive mistakes you might make on your own. However, don’t let your anxiety lead you to believe that they are your friends. Your divorce advisors are paid out of the settlement amount. Keep track of how much they spend on your behalf. It is important to remember that your lawyer is not a confidant with whom you chat over a cup of coffee, but a professional you are paying per hour.

The Bottom Line

Divorce can be devastating at any age, but by planning and avoiding these all-too-common mistakes, you can avoid financial problems and heartbreak down the road.

World’s Best Places to Retire

Every day in the USA, around 10,000 people reach the age of 65, when many people retire from working. Some will work longer and others will retire early, but the age of 65 is when most people decide to end their careers.

While some of these people will retire in their hometown or somewhere nearby, plenty of others will head to a different state, country, or even continent to retire the way they want. There are hundreds of choices, but a few places continue to be popular for people of all ages and backgrounds to retire.

Without any further ado, this blog post is going to go over some of the world’s best places to retire.

Panama

A popular choice among many retirees is to retire in Panama. Located in Central America, Panama offers a ton to those who decide to live there. The weather is amazing, it is an incredibly accessible place, and the amenities are top-notch. While tropical and gorgeous, Panama is outside the hurricane belt and thus has a more mild and predictable climate than many other places.

But despite all that is going for Panama, it still remains relatively affordable to live there. In addition to that, there are many pensioner discounts you can get when living there, such as cheaper power, cheaper meals, cheaper medication, and even cheaper entertainment.

Panama is also seen as a tax haven and retirees won’t be taxed on pensions or social security earned in the USA. This has the potential to save you a lot of money throughout your years in retirement.

Portugal

If you want to retire to Europe, one of the best options is Portugal. It has long been a popular place for several reasons. It is an incredibly safe place to live, has incredible healthcare, a ton of vibrant communities, amazing beaches, and gorgeous scenery.

Another thing that makes Portugal so popular is the people. They are incredibly friendly, and always willing to offer a helping hand and greet you with a smile. Also, with English being commonly taught in the country, many people have at least some knowledge of the language, which can make this a more accessible place for many people to retire.

While it might be a little more expensive than other options (yet still relatively affordable), you get what you pay for. Portugal is a stunning place with a ton of history and a lot to do and see across the nation. No matter what you like and how you like to live, there is likely something for you in Portugal.

Costa Rica

A popular place for tourists, Costa Rica is also a wonderful nation to retire to. The healthcare there is incredible, and the cost of living is a fraction of what you may pay in other areas. The climate is tropical and whether you like beaches, rivers, or mountains, they can be found here.

There is a ton to do and see, and many ex-pats confirm that moving to the country has them leading a healthier lifestyle due to the amazing things to do, healthy food and a culture focused on the outdoors.

Also, Costa Rica is often called the “Switzerland of Central America”. It is a peaceful place, very forward-thinking when it comes to social issues, and committed to maintaining the beauty of its environment. Simply put, it has a ton going for it and we are shocked it is still so affordable.

While there are several amazing places to retire around the world, these are a few of the best for those looking for an incredible retirement.

5 Easy Steps to Boost Your Social Connections

Many seniors want to boost social connections. This desire is healthy and supports optimal health. There are 5 specific steps we can take to build connection, foster a sense of belonging, and boost social interactions.

Let’s look at the practical steps you can take. These steps are easy, fast, and affordable. They do not require high-tech equipment or advanced technology skills. Rather, they require a ‘can-do attitude. Let’s get going.

Understand The Problem

While it is tempting to jump to solutions, one of the first steps to take is to understand the problem. It may not be pretty or delightful. However, when you face the problem, you will be motivated to find solutions.

Recent studies link loneliness and social isolation to extremely negative effects on health.

While we actively know that our attitudes and activities affect our health, we may not ‘connect the dots.’ You know that smoking is bad for your health, obesity is hard on your heart, and being inactive is a very bad idea—yet it’s possible to still underrate the impact of loneliness.

Tip: Read up on the negative impacts of loneliness and social isolation. You’ll get inspired to take action.

Explore Personal Experience

With the research looming in your mind, it’s time to explore something a little closer to home. What is your personal experience?

Do you feel close to family and friends? Do you feel happy being on your own? Do you have someone to talk to about your feelings?

How often do you talk with other people? Do you go for days without speaking to another person? Is television your main company? How do you feel about your current level of social contact?

If you prefer, write your thoughts down in a journal. Or, perhaps talk this over with a friend or family member.

Tip: Take time to notice what you are feeling and thinking.

Talk To A Professional

If you find that you’re feeling isolated or anxious, you are not alone. Some caring professionals can help. Often, confidential consultation can provide you with options that are available online or in your area.

When you talk with a professional, you can make a treatment plan for anxiety that can help you enjoy a higher quality of life. It’s good to know that what you may be experiencing is not your only choice.

Tip: Reach out and talk with a professional about your experiences.

Strengthen Existing Relationships

Over recent months and years, you may have moved locations. Perhaps your best friend, neighbor, or relatives have also changed locations. Frequently, physical shifts create new patterns of relating.

If it’s been a while since you talked with a friend or relative, reach out. It doesn’t have to be a big deal. Send an email. Send a note. Draw a picture. Pick up the phone.

While it may seem like it’s been a long time, close friends are often just busy, preoccupied, or caught up in their hectic lifestyles. Hearing from a close friend is always a welcome treat.

Tip: Make a list of the friends and family you want to contact. Start with one.

Make New Friends

What’s on the menu for making new friends? It is easier than you might imagine. Take a look at your neighbors, associates, and colleagues. Perhaps you already have an idea who you’d like to get to know better.

If so, make a plan to get together for coffee or tea. Set up a time to meet. Plan an activity you both enjoy such as going for a walk or enjoying a movie.

If you aren’t sure who you’d like to befriend, experiment. Join a community art class. Try out a new relaxation class. Explore a course in mindfulness, tai chi, or yoga. Volunteer for your favorite charity or community service. Without even trying, you’ll meet like-minded people to share your time with. In the process, you just may make some new friends who enjoy your current interests.

Tip: Pick one step towards making new friends. Take that step today.

Wrapping It Up

At every stage in life, make an effort to maintain existing relationships, get support, build new friendships, and strengthen your social connections. Today is a good day to start.