GENERATIONS For a vibrant, ageless lifestyle
A Special Supplement to The Daily Republic & ADvisor
September 2019
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Generations
September 2019
September 2019
Generations 3
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Generations
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September 2019
on the inside
The front of Will Funeral Chapel in Mitchell, located at 210 E. Green Dr.
Sam Fosness / Republic
Funeral Planning............ 4 Stretch Money................. 5 Part Time Jobs................ 6 Travel Tips...................... 7 Live on Less..................... 8 Saving after 50................ 9 Investing....................... 10 Mental Acuity............... 11 Empty Nesters............... 12 Grandparents................ 13 Limited Mobility.......... 14 Embracing Retirement... 15
The financial and emotional benefits of pre-planning for a funeral By Sam Fosness The Daily Republic Planning for a funeral before a loved one dies isn’t an easy process, but it can serve as a vital component to ease the stress on the family members impacted by that death. Terry Rietveld, co-manager and partner of Will Funeral Chapel in Mitchell, has spent the past 17 years helping families pre-plan for funerals. Over the years serving as a funeral director, Rietveld said the pre-planning process has helped families overcome the financial burden that can come with a funeral. “It doesn’t take the grief that comes with someone dying, but at least you aren’t stuck with the worry of how the family can pay for the funeral,” Rietveld said. While Rieveld said the elderly demographic represents a great majority of the people who begin planning for a funeral, he’s guided people as young as 50 years old through the funeral
planning process. Rietveld emphasised how pre-planning for a funeral is a timely process. In addition, coming to an agreement with the individual who is facing death can help the family have comfort in knowing that the music, food and overall style of the funeral was adjusted to the loved one’s preferences. “When I sit down with a family, I’m likely going to be meeting them two or or three times before the funeral,” Rietveld said. “There are a lot of moving parts that come with a funeral, with the choice of a casket and the type of music one wants to be played at their funeral.” The costs associated with a funeral can add up quickly, especially with the popular choice in a traditional funeral that involves embalming the deceased. However, the choice of cremation has helped reduce funeral costs, as Rietveld said cremation is cheaper than the traditional funeral. The average cost of a funeral is $7,000 to $10,000, Rietveld noted. According to Rietveld, a new option for families
and individuals to pay for a funeral is called a guaranteed trust. The guaranteed trust allows the family and/or individual who is expected to die choose the casket, vault and other costs. Rietveld said the funeral chapel then totals the charges and guarantees the funeral be fixed at the price of what the individual or family was quoted at that time, meaning no interest will be paid by the family. “Say you did that today, you would get that funeral to cost the same price as it was quoted today 40 years from now,” Rietveld said of the guaranteed funeral trust option. “If the interest outgrows the price of what the cost was fixed at when you did the guaranteed trust option, the money will come back to the family estate.” Throughout his years of pre-planning funerals, Rietveld said he’s never had one family member of the deceased individual regret the decision. “Every funeral is unique, and there are no do-overs,” Rietveld said. “One of the best ways to make it the best possible funeral is to pre-plan.”
Generations 5
September 2019
Ways to stretch your money further Living on fixed income after retirement requires that many retirees make some financial concessions. Retirement income likely won’t equal the income professionals earned while they were still working, so men and women approaching retirement may want to begin prioritizing their purchases and choosing which luxuries they can and cannot live without going forward. Managing on a fixed income may necessitate some changes, but a little frugality and financial wherewithal can ensure seniors need not compromise too much during their golden years. Change your dining habits. Many people enjoy meals out on the town after getting home from work and spending time with the family. Retirees have more flexible schedules, and adjusting the time of day when they dine out can add up to considerable savings. Many brunch and lunch offerings are less expensive than dinner menus, and seniors can use this to their advantage. Meet up for lunch and spend less. If you
prefer take-out, order from the lunch specials and then reheat your food at dinnertime. Ask about senior discounts. Various restaurants, stores and other retailers offer senior discounts. Inquire about discounts before making purchases and take advantage of any offers. Pool your resources. Bulk shopping clubs enable individuals to save money on the cost of many goods and services. However, for seniors living in two-person households, it may seem counterintuitive to purchase items in bulk. Split the cost of shopping club memberships with fellow retirees. This allows you to get discounted prices without having to store excessive amounts of food. Shop around. Instead of shopping only at stores you’re familiar with, go where the deals are. Many people are surprised to learn that drug stores often charge less than supermarkets for personal grooming products and household supplies. Shopping online also may yield some good deals. Before making any online purchases,
familiarize yourself with shipping costs, which may negate the savings. Sign up for rewards programs. Rewards programs may lead to a few extra promotional emails throughout the week, but the savings reaped can be considerable and well worth
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September 2019
Great part-time jobs for retirees Upon retiring, many newly minted retirees find themselves looking for ways to fill their free time. Hobbies may not take up too much time, and travel can stretch retirees’ budgets. One way that retirees can make great use of their free time and make a little extra money is to find part-time employment. Part-time jobs can help retirees maintain their connections
with their communities, whether it’s their professional community or the community in which they live, while also providing a sense of purpose. Retirees interested in finding parttime work may want to consider the following jobs. Consulting work: Many retirees have long resumes, and that experience is still valuable even after
retirement. Consulting firms often hire experienced businesspeople on a project or contract basis, which can be great opportunities for retirees to fill their time and make sizable amounts of money without having to commit to long-term employment. Teaching: Retirees can also put their professional experience to work in the classroom. Inquire about teaching opportunities at a nearby university or even the local high school. Such opportunities may only be available on a volunteer basis, but some might pay part-time salaries or small stipends. Either way, many retirees find that working with young people helps them stay young, and passing on lessons learned to younger generations can provide a strong sense of purpose. Seasonal work: Seasonal work is another great way for retirees to fill their time and make a little extra money along the way. Come the holiday season, retirees should have no trouble finding seasonal retail work at their local malls or shopping centers. In warmer months, retirees
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may find seasonal employment at area beaches, golf courses or parks. Sports teams: Retirees who live in cities with professional sports teams may be able to find work with their favorite franchise. Professional sports franchises often rely on retirees to staff in-game positions like ushers and concessions employees, and some may even hire retirees to greet fans. While the pay might not be great, such positions are ideal for retirees who happen to be big sports fans. Crafts: Retirees with a love of crafting can turn their hobby into income. For example, Etsy.com makes it easy for creative entrepreneurs to post their creations and sell them to buyers all over the globe. Sellers often dictate how quickly they can make and ship products, so retirees need not feel worried about being rushed. Many retirees still work even after calling it a career, and opportunities abound for men and women looking to fill their time and make a little extra money along the way. — Source: Metro Creative
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September 2019
3 money-saving travel tips for retirees Though a transient lifestyle is something few people aspire to during much of their lives, come retirement, the idea of staying in a place for only a short time has more appeal. According to a 2014 study from the Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies, 36 percent of baby boomers want to spend their retirements traveling. Many are succeeding in doing just that, as a study from the luxury travel network Virtuoso found that today’s seniors spent an average of just over $11,000 per year on travel. That was more than any other generation, highlighting just how much older adults like to get out and explore the world. Retirees who fear they cannot afford to travel can explore the various ways for seniors to cut costs and still satisfy their wanderlust during retirement. 1. Take advantage of age-related discounts. Some adults prefer to hide their ages, but when it comes time to
travel during retirement, honesty is the best policy. Many businesses that cater to travelers offer discounts to seniors. Car rental agencies, hotels, travel agencies, and cruise lines may offer direct discounts to customers 65 and older, while membership in organizations such as AAA and AARP may make seniors eligible for additional discounts. Discounts on lodging and airfare might net the biggest savings, but even discounts on various smaller expenses can add up to big savings. 2. Don’t overlook travel agencies. While many prospective travelers’ first instincts are now to visit various travel websites in an effort to find the most affordable trips, it’s important that travelers not overlook travel agencies when planning trips. Travel websites, though a valuable resource, only list the hotels and airlines that agree to be included on their sites.
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MONEY SAVING TIPS: Page 8
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Generations
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September 2019
Live comfortably on less Many people look toward retirement with mixed feelings. There is the anticipation and excitement of no longer having to stick to a set schedule. However, there may be some trepidation about living without a steady income. Bloomberg financial experts found the number of Americans aged 65 and older without a disability that weren’t in the labor force rose to 800,000 in the fourth quarter of 2016. This has become a long-standing trend of Baby Boomers leaving the workforce and entering retirement.
Yet, a Statistics Canada study of people between the ages 60 and 64 who had left long-term employment found 43 percent of them were working again, most within a year of leaving their job. Although boredom may have compelled many of those people to reenter the workforce, some may have started working again to make ends meet. Researchers found the higher the earnings in one’s late 40s, the more likely a retiree is to go back to work. While retirees may need to alter their spending habits, it is possible
to live happily on less. Here are some ways to do just that. Accurately assess home expenses. The National Foundation for Credit Counseling says the cost of homerelated expenses accounts for roughly 45 percent of spending for retirees. Individuals can add up exactly how much their homes are costing them and then decide if downsizing is a practical solution. Downsizing has a host of benefits, not the least of which is reducing housing-related expenses.
Invest in health care. Unexpected health care costs can quickly deplete individuals’ finances. That’s why it is essential to have a solid insurance plan in place. Health care planning also may include thinking ahead to long-term care, such as assisted living and nursing homes. One may have to make concessions elsewhere, but investing in health care can assuage concerns men and women might have about the cost of living in their golden years.
attractions visitors to their countries want to see. Travel agencies may offer From Page 7 packages that include admissions to popular attractions, which can be While many participate, some do more affordable than planning a trip not, and those that do not may instead a la carte. work independent of travel websites 3. Travel as part of a group. or partner with travel agencies. Travel Group travel may not appeal to agencies have access to the latest everyone, but it should appeal to information, and many specialize in older, budget-conscious travelers. certain countries, knowing all the Retirees who are uncomfortable
driving at home will likely be even less comfortable driving in foreign countries where the rules of the road are not the same. Traveling in groups, whether it’s with a retirement community, religious organization or another program, can save travelers substantial amounts of money. Many hotels and tourist attractions offer steep discounts for group tours, which can even be arranged through
travel agencies. A hidden benefit of signing up for a group tour is the chance to meet new people and develop new relationships with fellow globetrotters. Many working professionals hope to spend the bulk of their retirement traveling the globe. While such a goal is potentially costly, there are various ways to save and still see the world.
MONEY SAVING TIPS
LIVE COMFORTABLE: Page 9
— Source: Metro Creative
WHY DO WE PAY THE HIGHEST DRUG PRICES IN THE WORLD? While too many South Dakota families struggle to make ends meet, the big drug companies continue to rake in billions. It’s no wonder, considering that they make us pay the highest prescription drug prices in the world. If they can afford to spend nearly $175 million for lobbying, and more than $6 billion for advertising, then surely they can find some way to lower prices and stop gouging Americans. People shouldn’t have to choose between buying medication and buying food for our families. Congress, it’s time to act. Stop the greed. Cut drug prices now.
Urge our state legislators to fight for lower prescription drug costs. Visit aarp.org/rx to learn more.
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September 2019
Generations 9
How to save more for retirement after age 50 Whether it’s advice from their parents, a response to television ads urging viewers to save for retirement, or their own financial savvy, many of today’s young professionals recognize the importance of saving for retirement from the moment they receive their first paychecks. But men and women over 50 may not have been so practical, and many such professionals may feel a need to save more as their retirements draw ever closer. Saving for retirement might seem like a no-brainer, but the National Institute on Retirement Security notes that, in 2017, almost 40 million households in the United States had no retirement savings at all. In addition, the Employee Benefit Research
Institute found that Americans have a retirement savings deficit of $4.3 trillion, meaning they have $4.3 trillion less in retirement savings than they should. Men and women over 50 who have retirement savings deficits may need to go beyond depositing more money in their retirement accounts in order to live comfortably and pay their bills in retirement. The following are a few simple ways to start saving more for retirement. Redirect nonessential expenses into savings. Some retirement accounts, such as IRAs, are governed by deposit limits. But others, such as 401(k) retirement plans, have no such limits. Men and women can examine their spending habits in an effort to
find areas where they can cut back on and saving for retirement, while also nonessential expenses, such as cable delaying the first withdrawal from television subscriptions and dining their retirement savings accounts. out. Any money saved each month can then be redirected into savings and/or SAVE AFTER 50: Page 10 retirement accounts. Reconsider your retirement date. Deciding to work past the age of 65 is another way men and women over 50 can save more for retirement. Many professionals now continue working past the age of 65 for a variety of reasons. Some may suspect they’ll grow bored in retirement, while others may keep working out of financial need. Others may simply love their jobs and want to keep going until their passion runs out. Regardless of the reason, working past the age of 65 allows men and women to keep earning
LIVE COMFORTABLE
services provided to seniors free or for nominal fees. Take advantage of senior discounts. Many restaurants, stores and service centers offer discounts to seniors. The starting age for discounts may vary from store to store, so always ask before cashing out.
Shop for food differently. Bulk buys may have been appropriate for men and women when there were kids running around, but empty-nesters can cut back on food expenses. Shopping sales and making more meals at home can help seniors save money. The market research firm NPD
From Page 8
Use alternative transportation. Cars can be expensive. A budget-friendly alternative to driving is to use public transportation or transportation
Group found that in-home meals cost roughly one-third of what it costs to eat the same food at a restaurant. Save dining out for special occasions. Retirees can make changes to save money without negatively affecting their quality of life. — Source: Metro Creative
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Generations
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September 2019
Tax-advantaged investing Investing has always been a means for people to grow their wealth and make their money work for them. Investors know that protecting investment earnings is important, and that often can be achieved through tax-advantaged investments. Tax-advantaged investing, also called tax-efficient investing, allows investors to maximize the profits they can keep after taxes are filed. Investment selection and asset allocation are important factors affecting returns, but minimizing taxes and other costs is also crucial, according to the Schwab Center for Financial Research. There are some ways for investors to keep more of their assets. A qualified
financial advisor can help navigate the waters of the best tax-advantaged options. When investing on an annual basis, there are some general accounts people can use to their advantages. A 401(k) or 403(b): These accounts are an ideal way to get “free” money. Funds in these accounts are put away pre-tax. Because your adjusted gross income is lowered, so is your federally taxable income. In addition, some employers may match contributions up to a certain percentage. Companies also may offer Roth 401(k) plans, which differ from traditional plans in regard to when you pay taxes. With Roth plans, you pay taxes up front. When the money is eventually withdrawn, those withdrawals are
tax-free. IRAs: Individual retirement accounts are similar to 401(k) plans in that they’re tax-deferred. However, they generally offer greater freedom in investment choices. Roth IRAs, like the Roth 401(k) plans, must be paid with after-tax dollars. But the advantages are higher contribution amounts, withdrawals that are taxfree and no mandatory withdrawals when a person reaches a certain age. Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA): Canadian investors can explore TFSAs. These are accounts that do not tax any contributions, interest earned, dividends, or capital gains, and can be withdrawn tax-free. It is available to individuals ages 18 and older in Canada and can be used for
any purpose. College savings accounts: Investing in a 529 plan can be wise for parents. While money is invested after tax, it is tax-free when withdrawn for qualified higher education purposes. Health savings accounts: To get a tax deduction on health expenses, an HSA is the way to go. HSAs are linked to high-deductible health plans and allow account holders to use the funds for qualified spending. Working with a financial planner can help investors maximize their investments to be as tax-efficient as possible. Financial experts understand funding limits and the timeline in which to invest for tax advantages.
SAVE AFTER 50
change in retirement. Even men and women who have paid off their mortgages may benefit by moving to a region with lower taxes or staying in the same area but downsizing to a smaller home where their taxes and utility bills will be lower. Adults who
decide to move to more affordable areas or into smaller, less expensive homes can then redirect the money they are saving into interest-bearing retirement or savings accounts. Many people begin saving for retirement the moment they cash
their first professional paycheck. But even adults over the age of 50 sometimes feel a need to save more as their retirement dates draw closer, and there are many ways to do just that.
From Page 9
Reconsider your current and future living situation. Housing costs are many people’s most considerable expense, and that won’t necessarily
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Generations 11
September 2019
How aging adults can maintain their mental acuity Aging is associated with or linked to a host of mental and physical side effects. For example, many adults expect their vision to deteriorate as they grow older. Such a side effect can be combated with routine eye examinations that may indicate a need for a stronger eyeglass prescription, a relatively simple solution that won’t impact adults’ daily lives much at all. While physical side effects like diminished vision might not strike much fear in the hearts of aging men and women, those same people may be concerned and/or frightened by the notion of age-related cognitive decline. Some immediately associate such decline with Alzheimer’s disease, an irreversible, progressive brain disorder that gradually destroys memory and cognitive skills, ultimately compromising a person’s ability to perform even the simplest of tasks. But age-related cognitive decline is not always symptomatic of Alzheimer’s disease. Learning about Alzheimer’s and how to maintain mental acuity can help aging men and
women better understand the changes their brains might be undergoing as they near or pass retirement age. Is Alzheimer’s disease hereditary? The National Institute on Aging notes that only a very rare form of Alzheimer’s disease is inherited. Early-onset familial Alzheimer’s disease, or FAD, is caused by mutations in certain genes. If these genes are passed down from parent to child, then the child is likely, but not certain, to get FAD. So while many adults may be concerned about Alzheimer’s because one of their parents had the disease, the NIA notes that the majority of Alzheimer’s cases are late-onset, which has no obvious family pattern. Can Alzheimer’s disease be prevented? Studies of Alzheimer’s disease are ongoing, but to date there is no definitive way to prevent the onset of the disease. How can I maintain mental acuity as I age? Researchers have not yet determined
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a way to prevent Alzheimer’s disease, but adults can take certain steps to maintain their mental acuity into retirement. Exercise regularly. Routine exercise may be most associated with physical benefits, but the NIA notes that such activity has been linked to benefits for the brain as well. For example, a 2011 study published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America found that aerobic exercise training increases the size of the hippocampus, leading to improvements in spatial memory. The NIA also notes that one study indicated exercise stimulated the brain’s ability to maintain old network connections and make new ones vital to cognitive health. Read more. Avid readers may be happy to learn that one of their favorite pastimes can improve the efficiency of their cognitive systems while delaying such systems’ decline. A 2013 study published in the journal Neurology by researchers at Chicago’s
Rush University Medical Center found that mentally active lifestyles may not prevent the formations of plaques and tangles associated with Alzheimer’s disease, but such lifestyles decreases the likelihood that the presence of plaques or tangles will impair cognitive function. Stay socially connected. Maintaining social connections with family, friends and community members also can help women prevent cognitive decline. Epidemiologist Bryan James of the Rush AlzheimerÕs Disease Center studied how social activity affected cognitive decline, ultimately noting that the rate of cognitive decline was considerably lower among men and women who maintained social contact than it was among those with low levels of social activity. The idea of age-related cognitive decline strikes fear in the hearts of many men and women, but there are ways for adults to maintain their mental acuity well into their golden years. — Source: Metro Creative
Generations
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September 2019
How empty-nesters can transform their homes After bringing home a bubbly baby boy or girl, it can be hard for parents to imagine that a day will come when their kids are off to college and then onto their own apartment or house. After spending decades nurturing and caring for children, parents are then left with a suddenly quiet house and probably much more time to spare. If saying goodbye to the kids also means extra house, there’s the option to downsize or make that extra space more useful. Homeowners who choose to stay put can renovate vacant rooms into spaces that meet their newfound needs. Hobby haven: If you’ve always meant to set up a crafting room, home-brewing station or an artist’s studio, now is an ideal time to do just that. Figure out which supplies you will need and begin reworking that former bedroom into a new sanctuary for leisure interests.
Guest suite: If you’ve never had a spare bedroom to entertain guests, a child’s former bedroom can fit the bill. It may not be that difficult to transform such spaces into relaxing and inviting rooms for overnight guests. Be sure there is at least a queen-sized bed and a dresser or chest of drawers to stash belongings. Select paint colors and linens in neutral tones so the room will be inviting to guests. Living room redo: When there’s an entire soccer team coming over to hang out, that large sectional sofa or modular seating may be ideal. Now that the kids are out of the house and their friends are no longer coming over for movie night, living rooms can be made more intimate with smallscale seating. A small sofa and two comfortable chairs may be a more fitting option. At-home gym: Save on gym membership fees by building a mini
studio right at home. Choose one of such situations work for them by the larger bedrooms and then fill it transforming their homes to better with some fitness equipment, such reflect their current needs. — Source: Metro Creative as an elliptical trainer, a bench press bench and some free weights. Store rolled-up mats in the closet for yoga or Pilates sessions. Expanded bathroom: If space has always been at a premium in the bathroom, borrow area from an empty bedroom and turn it into a spa. Install a soaking tub separate from the shower, and fill the room with other amenities, such as a warming lamp or even a small sauna. Home office: Working from home a few days a week may be more plausible when nearing retirement, as it will be a smoother transition from heading to the office each day to spending more time at home. Turn a bedroom or den into an office space with a new desk and bookshelves. An empty nest can be a bittersweet experience, but parents can make
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September 2019
Generations 13
Grandparents called upon to raise grandchildren Older adults whose children have grown up often look forward to the next stages in life, which may involve retirement, downsizing and enjoying visits with their grandchildren. A growing number of aging adults may find themselves playing a key role in their grandchildren’s lives. According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, 2.7 million grandparents across the country are stepping into parental roles for their grandkids. Some assist their adult children while others have become the primary caregivers. Factors like military deployment, illness, incarceration, and substance abuse are forcing grandparents to take on responsibilities they may have thought were over. PBS reports that, between 2009 and 2016, the number of grandparents raising grandchildren in the United States rose by 7 percent. Although raising the next generation can bring about many rewards, including security, sense of purpose,
a deeper relationship with family, and social interaction, there are many obstacles as well. That includes the financial strain that raising children can place on individuals unprepared for the cost of child-rearing. Census figures also show that about one-fifth of grandparents caring for children have incomes that fall below poverty level. Grandparents may be rusty concerning safety requirements and equipment now needed to care for grandchildren as well. As grandparents navigate the unexplored waters of raising grandchildren, there are certain factors they need to consider. Legal advice or advocacy Certain circumstances may require grandparents to seek legal help so they can raise their grandchildren in lawful ways. If there is neglect, divorce, arrest, or other factors, it may be a smart idea for grandparents to seek the help of an attorney or advocacy group to clarify their legal rights
and ensure access to grandchildren. In addition, grandparents may need certain legal documents, such as a power of attorney, citizenship papers, adoption records, or consent forms. Get educated The rules have changed since grandparents raised their own children. It is important they learn as much as possible on child safety guidelines. Consumer advocacy groups or pediatricians can help explain how guidelines have changed. New furniture and toys that meet current safety guidelines may have to replace older, unsafe items. Take care of yourself Raising grandchildren can be emotionally taxing, especially if poor circumstances led to the grandchildren being placed with family. It is crucial to recognize feelings and one’s own health when caring for others. A grandparent who is exhausted or overwhelmed may not offer the appropriate care. Emphasizing one’s
own mental and physical health is essential, as is getting help and advice when it’s most needed. The organization AARP recommends compiling a list of support services, such as respite care providers, counselors and support groups. Grandchildren will have feelings, too Children, whether they are old enough to understand or not, may react to change differently. Some children may act out while others may grow detached. Grandparents can focus on providing stable environments and offer support and consistency even if grandchildren are withdrawing or pushing their loved ones away with words or actions. Raising grandchildren can be complicated, but it has become more prevalent. It can take time for these new family units to find their grooves. More information is available at www. aarp.org in their GrandFamilies Guide. — Source: Metro Creative
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Generations
14
September 2019
How to travel even if you have limited mobility Many people dream of traveling the world in retirement. Such dreams come true every day. But many more retirees or people nearing retirement fear that their dreams of seeing the world won’t be possible due to mobility issues beyond their control. Thankfully, such fears are largely unwarranted. Various conditions can affect men and women’s mobility. Many such issues tend to arise after age 50, prompting many people to believe their post-retirement travel plans will never come to fruition. Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD; and heart disease may make it hard for people to travel. But that difficulty doesn’t mean aging men and women should resign themselves to a sedentary lifestyle. Though they might require a little extra effort before boarding a plane for parts unknown, the following are a handful of ways that aging men and women with limited mobility can reap the rewards of traveling. ► Contact airlines or other transportation companies if you
Nurse assisting man in wheelchair. require special accommodations. The U.S. Department of Transportation notes that passengers are generally not required to provide advanced notice for disability-related accommodations. However, it makes sense to provide such notice anyway. By doing so, men and women with limited mobility can ensure they will have adequate assistance during
their trips. When made aware of passengers’ mobility issues, airlines or other travel companies may arrange for wheelchairs to be available at the gates or train platforms so passengers can easily make connecting flights and trains. In addition, advance notice gives companies a chance to provide seating accommodations that can make for a more enjoyable trip.
► Contact security agencies. Security is part of modern travel, so travelers, especially those traveling by air, should expect to go through security checkpoints during their trips. Travelers with limited mobility should contact the security agencies in their home country as well as those in any country they plan to visit to get an idea of what they can expect. Knowing these guidelines in advance can help people with limited mobility determine if they should arrive extra early so they can make it through security checkpoints in time to make their flights or trains. ► Contact hotels directly. Each country has its own laws regarding how to accommodate people with physical disabilities or mobility issues, so don’t leave things to chance. Before booking a hotel room abroad, travelers with limited mobility should contact the hotel directly to confirm that it can accommodate their needs. Men and women with limited mobility can still enjoy the wonders of travel, even if it requires some extra effort before embarking on their trips. — Source: Metro Creative
Foreman Charters and Tours Shows Included:
November 11-16, 2019
• Daniel O’Donnell Show • Haygood’s Show • Beach Boys California Dreamin’ • Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner & Show • Yakov, Famous Russian Comedian • Miracle of Christmas
Upcoming Tours for 2020:
• Mamma Mia at Chanhassen Dinner Theatre February 15-16, 2020 • Lake of the Woods Fishing Trip June 21-25, 2020
• Mackinac Island — date to be determined foremanbus@goldenwest.net
for information and to reserve your spot today!
605-366-8777 • 800-310-2708
www.foremanbus.com
Independent Senior Living Wesley Acres, located in Mitchell, SD, offers a variety of apartment living options for people 62 years of age or older. It’s a place where privacy is respected, yet companionship is just a neighbor away...a place where people are free to come and go as they wish...independent living without the burdens of maintaining a home. 1115 West Havens | Mitchell, SD 57301
605-996-6164
Generations 15
September 2019
Smart ways to embrace retirement
Retirement is on the horizon for a significant number of people. Around 10,000 people retire each day in the United States, according to a study by Merrill Lynch and Age Wave, a consultancy studying the cultural and economic impacts of aging. But many soon-to-be retirees are not fully prepared for life after their work life ends. Shedding new light on this next chapter can make retirement something to look forward to even more. How retired are you? Retirement may no longer mean what it once did. Some retirees remove themselves entirely from the active employment market, while others prefer to keep at least one toe in the professional water. Some retirees change fields and do parttime work. Others may volunteer their time without getting paid. Still, some choose to use retirement as an opportunity to spearhead a new business venture that may not have been possible beforehand. Retirees should reflect on their goals, as well as their finances, and make plans
accordingly. Don’t neglect health care Retiring may involve finding health insurance and preparing for other types of health care later in life. The U.S. Census Bureau says that employment-based insurance covered 55.4 percent of the population in 2015, the most recent years for figures, followed by Medicaid (19.5 percent) and Medicare (16 percent). Residents of other countries may be covered by government standardized health programs. It pays to know the rules of each plan to avoid unnecessary expenses that can eat into retirement dollars. For those Americans who will be relying solely on Medicare, find a counselor who can spell out the intricacies of the plan, or use the free tool on Medicare.gov. See retirement as a beginning, not an end Quite often soon-to-be retirees focus on the end of a career or the end of a stage in life without putting enough focus on the possibilities ahead. This is a prime time to find a new social network, travel, join a
ministry, and much more. Choose your living space Retirement can be an opportunity to shed an old skin and try on a new one — especially as it pertains to housing. There are options to downsize for empty-nesters or even to secure resources to “age in place.” According to United Income, a money management service, retirees should
try out particular scenarios and locations prior to jumping in. Rent in a particular neighborhood, or house sit and try things on for size. Airbnb and other types of services can make this trial easy. A new outlook on retirement can open up a world of opportunities. — Source: Metro Creative
Healthy Never Tasted So Good
• 100% Organic Real Fruit Smoothies • Largest Selection of Non-Allergen Food in the area • Knowledgeable Staff • Paleo Specialty Foods • Sports Nutrition • High Quality Vitamins • Herbal Supplements • Top Brand Essential Oils and Diffusers • Monthly Specials
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Huron•Brookings•Watertown•Sioux Falls•Dakota Dunes
•Spacious Studios, 1 & 2 Bedroom Suites •On-site Physical Therapy •All on One Level •Coffee Shop •Courtyards •Theatre
"Life is sweet in StoneyBrook Suites!" www.stoneybrooksuites.com
Generations
16
September 2019
We’re by y our side so your loved one can stay at home.
Whether you are looking for someone to help an aging parent a few hours a week or need more comprehensive assistance, Home Instead can help. Home Instead CAREGiversSM can provide a variety of services. Some include:
• • • • • • • •
Companionship Care Personal Care Meals & Nutrition Transportation Household Duties Respite Care Hospice Care Support Services Medication Reminders
For a free, no-obligation appointment, call 605-996-0503 or 888-252-2620 or visit HomeInstead.com/425
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