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Overcoming Aches & Pains Exercise and arthritis

Better Late Than Never Retirement saving for late bloomers

Parts Unknown

Interesting travel ideas for men and women over 50 a blank slate media special section • july 8, 2016

32 living 50 plus • News Times Newspapers, Friday, July 8, 2016

Exercise and arthritis

Sport Psychology Dr. Tom Ferraro

has specialized in sport psychology for 20 years and works in the fields of golf, tennis, soccer, baseball, football, wrestling, lacrosse, figure skating, gymnastics, softball, fencing and more. He has helped professional teams, Olympians and elite young athletes learn how to manage the intense pressure of competitive sports. He appears on both TV and radio and has sport psychology columns in 5 different newspapers and has been featured in The New York Times, Wall street Journal and the London Times. Golf Digest includes him in their list of top mental game gurus in America. For a consultation see below: Williston Park Professional Center 2 Hillside Ave, Suite E. Williston Park NY 11596

Aerobic exercise, including walking, can help alleviate the pain associated with arthritis.

(building parallel to E. Williston railroad station)

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cross the country, more than 50 million people are living with doctor-diagnosed arthritis. So says the Arthritis Foundation, which projects that figure will rise to 67 million by the year 2030.

Simply put, arthritis is a significant problem, one that can not only affect a person’s quality of life, but also his or her pocketbook, as the Arthritis Foundation notes that woking-age men and women (those between the ages of 18 and 64) who contend with arthritis are less likely to be employed than people of the same age who do not have arthritis. Arthritis is not only bad for employees, but also for employers, as it accounts for $156 billion annually in lost wages and medical expenses.

Exercise may be the last thing on many arthritis sufferers’ minds, but exercise can play a vital role in reducing the often painful symptoms associated with arthritis. Among its other benefits, exercise can strengthen the muscles around arthritic joints and help men and women maintain bone strength. In addition, the Mayo Clinic notes that lack of exercise can make joints feel more painful and stiff, as a sedentary lifestyle will ultimately contribute to putting more stress on joints.

Upon being diagnosed with arthritis, patients should speak with their physicians about the best way to use exercise to combat and relieve their symptoms. Some patients may require physical therapy, while others might be able to work with their physicians to develop an exercise regimen that can help reduce the severity of their symptoms and any pain that accompanies those symptoms. The following are some types of exercises that figure to play a strong role in managing arthritis

and improving quality of life.

Aerobic exercises: Low-impact aerobic exercises, such as walking and swimming, can help arthritis sufferers alleviate their symptoms and improve their overall health. Arthritis sufferers who have not exercised in awhile because of their pain may have gained weight as a result, and aerobic exercise is a great way to shed extra pounds.

Losing excess weight is a great way to make physical activity less taxing on your joints as well.

Range-of-motion: Range-of-motion exercises are typically simple and don’t take much time, but when done correctly, such exercises can be very effective at relieving the stiffness associated with arthritis. A physician or physical therapist might advise you to do rangeof-motion exercises each day, and you may even need to do them a few times each day. Adhere to this advice, continuing to perform the exercises as long as your doctor or physical therapists deems them necessary.

Strength training: As previously noted, arthritis sufferers may feel as though lifting weights will only exacerbate their existing symptoms. But strength training will strengthen the muscles around the joints, providing more support for those joints and ultimately reducing symptoms of pain.

Speak with your physician or physical therapist about appropriate strengthtraining activities and the importance of rest. If you experience any pain during strength-training sessions, stop immediately and report the pain to your physician.

More information about managing arthritis can be found at www.arthritis.org.

News Times Newspapers, Friday, July 8, 2016 • living 50 plus

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oday’s young professionals hear about the importance of saving for retirement seemingly from the moment they are hired. In addition to discussions with human resources personnel about employer-sponsored retirement plans, young professionals are learning about the importance of saving for retirement thanks to the abundance of financialplanning advertisements on television, the radio and the Internet.

Older workers may not have been so lucky, and many may find themselves trying to play catch up as retirement age draws closer. While it’s important to begin saving for retirement as early as possible, late bloomers whose retirement dates are nearing can still take steps to secure their financial futures.

Retirement saving for late bloomers

Pay down debts. Eliminating debt is good for men and women of all ages, but especially so for those nearing retirement. Substantial debt may delay your retirement and can greatly reduce your quality of life during retirement. If you still have substantial debt, eliminate that debt before you start saving additional money for retirement. Once your debt slate has been wiped clean, you can then increase your retirement contributions.

Eliminate unnecessary expenses. If your retirement savings are low (many financial advisors now advise men and women that they will need at least 60 percent of their pre-

retirement income each year they are retired), start cutting back on unnecessary expenses and reallocate that money toward retirement saving. Cutting out luxury items, such as vacations to exotic locales or country club memberships, is one way to save money. But don’t overlook the simpler ways to save, such as canceling your cable subscription or dining at home more often.

Downsize your home. Many empty nesters downsize their homes as retirement nears, and doing so can help you save a substantial amount of money.

If the kids no longer live at home or if you simply have more space than you will need after retirement, downsize to a smaller, less expensive home.

Monitor the real estate market before you decide to downsize so you can be sure to get the best deal on your current home. Downsizing saves on monthly utility bills, property taxes and a host of additional expenses. Downsizing also means less maintenance, which gives you more time to pursue your hobbies upon retiring.

Take on some additional work. While you may have long felt you would slowly wind down in the years immediately preceding retirement, taking on some additional work outside of your current job is a great way to save more for retirement and perhaps even lay the foundation for a post-retirement career.

Workers over the age of 50 can be invaluable resources to startups or other businesses looking for executives who have been there, done that. Look for part-time jobs that seek such experience. Even if the initial jobs don’t bowl you over financially, part-time consultant work in retirement can make up for lost retirement savings and may even make your retirement years more fulfilling.

Men and women on the verge of retirement can take many steps to grow their retirement savings and make their golden years that much more enjoyable.

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34 living 50 plus • News Times Newspapers, Friday, July 8, 2016

ACUPUNCTURE For Pain, Allergies, Diabetes & Weight Loss

by Dr. Dazhi Chen, PhD, NYS Licensed Acupuncturist

Pain Management immediately after discontinuing the Acupuncture is a program. Numerous factors convery effective tribute to weight gain and difficulty in treatment for pain losing weight, including stress and relief. It promotes metabolism. I have developed a self-healing, and healthy, successful treatment for loshas no negative ing weight with acupuncture. With side effects. In 70% of cases, back, my approach, you will see results as neck, knee, shoulder pain and sciati- early as the FIRST WEEK, food cravca, will be SIGNIFICANTLY ings and appetite will be reduced, REDUCED after 3-4 treatyou’ll have better self-conments trol and your metabolic Pain may be SEASONAL ALLERfunction will improve.

GIES: Acupuncture relieved 50% after OTHER HEALTH BENE3 treatments. works very well in relievFITS: Acupuncture dimining symptoms like sneez- Allergy symptom ishes stress, insomnia, ing, runny nose, congesdepression, fatigue, hair relief in 1-3 tion and coughing quickloss, constipation, menotreatments. ly (in 1-3 treatments).

Blood sugar level pausal symptoms, headDIABETES: With down after 1.5 hr. aches and improves ED, acupuncture, blood fertility. You will experience treatment. sugar levels can drop an increased sense of wellmost of the time after Lose weight and being. Acupuncture is a do not gain it back. safe alternative treatment. only one to two hours.

WEIGHT LOSS: Being overweight or obese can increase If you would like to discuss your specific the risk of developing many dis- concerns, call Dr. Chen at 516-562-9221 or email almedny@gmail.com. eases. Unfortunately, popular 277 Northern Blvd., Suite 306, Great Neck. weight-loss programs may work in www.camtherapyenter.com. the sort-term but most dieters gain Dr. Chen is a credentialed acupuncturist back the weight they lost almost at North Shore Hospital.

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Pain may be relieved 50% after 3 treatments

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Lose weight without gaining it back

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Eating right can improve quality of life Berries and whole grains are nutritious foods that can help men and women live longer, healthier lives.

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egend states that on April 2, 1513, Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León was the first European to discover modern-day Florida when he traveled on a quest for the mythical “Fountain of Youth.” While modern science has proven that there is no mystical fountain or body of water that can reverse or slow down the aging process, there are many steps people can take to age well and prolong their lives.

Eating the right foods is one way to age well. According to Ralph Felder, M.D., Ph.D., coauthor of “The Bonus Years Diet,” reversing the aging process internally is more difficult than outward cosmetic changes. But the right foods can go a long way toward increasing both life expectancy and quality of life. Those who want to employ diet to increase their life expectancy may want to start adding more of the following foods to their breakfast, lunch and dinner plates.

Broccoli, grapes and salad: According to Health magazine, researchers have found that compounds in these three foods boast extra lifeextending benefits.

Berries: In addition to their abundance of antioxidants, berries have other benefits. A 2012 study from Harvard University found that at least one serving of blueberries or two servings

of strawberries each week may reduce the risk of cognitive decline in older adults.

Fruits and vegetables: Produce is good for the body because it’s low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins and other nutrients. Numerous studies have indicated that diets plentiful in fruits and vegetables help people maintain a healthy weight and protect against cardiovascular disease.

Whole grains: Whole grains pack a lot of nutrition into a low-calorie food. Whole grains help protect against type 2 diabetes, and researchers at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center found study participants whose diets included plenty of whole grains and fruit cut their heart disease risk by almost half compared to those whose diets favored meat and fatty foods.

Red wine: A glass a day for women and no more than two glasses daily for men can be beneficial. Moderate consumption of red wine has been shown to slow age-related declines in cardiovascular function, according to the American Heart Association.

Fiber: Increase your fiber intake for a longer life. Research from The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition finds that the more fiber you include in your diet, the lower your risk of coronary heart disease. The daily recommendation is 25 to 35 grams.

While there may be no such thing as the fountain of youth, a healthy diet can help men and women prolong their lives.

Senior dating trends and tips Finding love again is possible for seniors who get back into the dating scene.

News Times Newspapers, Friday, July 8, 2016 • living 50 plus

35

Choosing the Right Contact Lens for You Today, there are many contact lens choices available to correct vision conditions such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia.

Among the more popular options: • Daily Disposable Contact Lenses The healthiest contact lens option available. Convenient because there is no need to clean or store the lenses.

• Frequent Replacement Most commonly prescribed to be disposed of on a two-week or four-week basis. These lenses are taken out every night and should be replaced as directed by your Eye Care Professional.

• Cosmetic Contact Lenses (a/ka/ decorative contact lenses) Designed to change the appearance of the eye. These lenses may also correct retractive error.

Your should not purchase or wear contact lenses without a contact lens examination by an Eye Care Professional prior to first use, and a prescription.

Your Eye Care Professional will work with you to determine the appropriate lens, replacement frequency, and wearing modality that best suits your lifestyle needs.

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he first Baby Boomers will be turning 70 in 2016, and this generation remains one of the most influential in the country and around the world. Scores of products and services are now marketed to seniors, many of whom remain as active and socially aware as they were in their youth.

One aspect of senior marketing that is booming is dating and relationship products. Singles age 50 and older are increasingly relying on online dating sites and other methods to find love and companionship. Dating is no longer kids’ play, and those who have been away from dating for some time may have to get reacquainted with the process in the modern age.

Consider online dating

Data from Pew Research found one in two divorced or widowed seniors had remarried in 2013, and that trend figures to continue. Many seniors are using online dating sites to find their new matches. While websites geared to dating make it easier to get in touch with fellow singles, the relative anonymity of the process can make it challenging to separate the truth from some self-promoting hype on dating profiles.

Begin by relying on dating sites that have been tested and recommended.

One to try is the AARP dating site partnered with How About We. In addition to its simplicity and small financial commitment, the site caters to the over-50 crowd and is backed by the AARP name. It’s good for those looking for an activity partner as well as casual

GARDEN CITY PARK dating. Popular sites Match.com and eHarmony.com also boast high percentages of users age 50 and up.

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Even after thorough consideration and conversation, online daters should exercise caution when meeting someone online and then in person. Profiles aren’t always what they seem, and it’s easier to fudge the facts when initiating contact over the Internet.

SEE & LOOK BETTER THIS YEAR!

It’s easy to be preoccupied with the rigors of being an older adult and the responsibilities that still may rest on your shoulders. Part of the fun of dating when you were young likely had to do with throwing caution to the wind. But some of those same carefree aspects remain true whether you’re dating at 17 or at 57. Laughter, fun, spontaneity, and the chance for some adventure are still the keys to making memorable dates.

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Keep an open mind

Sometimes it’s who you know

The old adage of it’s “who you know” and not “what you know” is applicable to dating. If you are ready to jump into the dating world again, ask your close friends or family members if they know anyone who might be in a similar situation.

Taking another stab at dating later in life can be both exciting and nervewracking, but no matter how long it’s been since your last first date, some aspects of dating are the same as ever.

Just remember to have fun and don’t be afraid to try new things.

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36 living 50 plus • News Times Newspapers, Friday, July 8, 2016 ADVERTORIAL

Our Best Tips for Traveling with Hearing Loss

Before You Go:

Visit your audiologist • Have your hearing aids cleaned and checked to make sure they're working properly. Have your ears examined for wax as well.

• Ask about assistive listening devices like a vibrating alarm and Bluetooth® wireless connections.

Packing • Be sure to bring extra hearing aid batteries, wax traps and cleaning kit.

• Bring a dehumidifier if you can, especially when traveling to hot, humid, or tropical areas.

• Pack an outlet converter if you use rechargeable batteries.

Reservations • Ask about better-hearing accommodations or ADA compliance kits; many hotels provide accommodations such as closed-caption TVs and T-coil loops.

• Sign up for text or email alerts after booking to keep informed of departure times and changes.

On Your Way: • Keep your phone on vibrate so you won’t miss alerts.

• Tell a fellow traveler or staff member about your hearing loss. They can help ensure you don’t miss changes in itinerary or boarding times.

• When flying, you typically don't need to remove your hearing technology.

• If there are no visuals for stops on your bus or train, ask your neighbor to alert you when your stop is coming up.

You’ve Arrived!

• On tours, ask the speaker to use the transmitter microphone which communicates with your hearing aids.

• At hotels, remind the front desk that you have a hearing impairment, in case of emergency.

Happy Travels!

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s men and women retire or approach retirement age, many opt to downsize their homes. Such a decision can save older adults substantial amounts of money while also liberating them from the hassle of maintaining large homes they no longer need.

Downsizing to smaller homes or apartments is a significant step, one that homeowners should give ample consideration before making their final decisions.

The following are a handful of tips to help homeowners determine if downsizing to smaller homes is the right move.

Get a grip on the real estate market.

Downsizing is not solely about money, but it’s important that homeowners consider the real estate market before putting their homes up for sale. Speak with a local realtor or your financial advisor about the current state of your real estate market. Downsizing can help homeowners save money on utilities, taxes and mortgage payments, but those savings may be negated if you sell your house in a buyer’s market instead of a seller’s market. If you think the current market won’t get you the price you are hoping for, delay your downsize until the market rebounds.

Take inventory of what’s in your house. Empty nesters often find that their homes are still filled with their children’s possessions, even long after those children have entered adulthood and left home. If the storage in your home is dominated by items that belong to your children and not you, then downsizing might be right for you. Tell your children you are thinking of downsizing and invite them over to pick through any

HAPPENS IN THE BRAIN

gbaudiology.com

How to determine if downsizing is for you

PLLC

items still in your home. Once they have done so and taken what they want, you can host a yard sale, ultimately donating or discarding what you cannot sell.

Once all of the items are gone, you may realize that moving into a smaller place is the financially prudent decision.

Examine your own items as well. Your children’s items are likely not the only items taking up space in your home.

Take inventory of your own possessions as well, making note of items you can live without and those you want to keep.

If the list of items you can live without is extensive, then you probably won’t have a problem moving into a smaller home.

If you aren’t quite ready to say goodbye to many of your possessions, then you might benefit from staying put for a little while longer.

Consider your retirement lifestyle. If you have already retired or on the verge of retirement and plan to spend lots of time traveling, then downsizing to a smaller home may free up money you can spend on trips. And if you really do see yourself as a silver-haired jetsetter, then you likely won’t miss your current home because you won’t be home frequently enough to enjoy it. If travel is not high on your retirement to-do list but you have a hobby, such as crafting, restoring classic cars or woodworking, that you hope to turn into a second profession, then you might benefit from staying put and converting your existing space into a workshop.

Many retirees downsize their homes, but this decision requires careful consideration of a variety of factors.

News Times Newspapers, Friday, July 8, 2016 • living 50 plus

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38 living 50 plus • News Times Newspapers, Friday, July 8, 2016

The best (and worst) foods for heart health

N

o one wants to hear from their doctors that they have joined the millions of people across the globe to be diagnosed with heart disease. The Heart Foundation reports that heart disease, which includes diseases of the heart and cardiovascular system and stroke, is the No. 1 cause of death in the United States, affecting both men and women and most racial/ethnic groups. Heart disease also is one of the leading causes of death in Canada, claiming more than 33,000 lives per year.

Many factors contribute to the development of heart disease, including smoking, lack of exercise and stress.

Diet and whether a person is overweight or obese also can have a direct link to heart health. Diet, particularly for those with diabetes and poorly controlled blood sugar levels, is a major concern.

A variety of foods are considered helpful for maintaining a strong and healthy heart and cardiovascular system, while others can contribute to conditions that may eventually lead to cardiovascular disease or cardiac arrest. Moderation enables a person to sample a little of everything, but not to make any one food a habit. The following are some foods to promote heart health and some foods you might want to avoid.

Good • Tree nuts: Tree nuts contain unsaturated fats that can help lower LDL cholesterol (the bad stuff) and improve HDL (the good stuff). Nuts also are a filling source of protein and other healthy nutrients.

• Whole grains: Whole grains contain complex carbohydrates for energy, as well as protein and fiber. Fiber can help scrub cholesterol from the blood, lowering bad cholesterol levels.

• Fatty fish: Many cold-water, fatty fish, such as halibut, herring and salmon, contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are heart-healthy.

Omega-3s also can be found in walnuts, flaxseed and some soy products.

• Beans: Beans and other legumes are an excellent source of protein

Poor and can be a stand-in for meats that are high in saturated fat. Beans also contain cholesterol-lowering soluble fiber and folate, which can reduce blood homocystein levels. The Bean Institute reports that consuming beans may reduce cholesterol levels by roughly six to 10 percent.

• Yogurt: Researchers in Japan found yogurt may protect against gum disease. Left untreated, gum disease may elevate a person’s risk for heart disease. Yogurt contains good bacteria that can counteract bad bacteria and boost immunity.

• Raisins: Raisins contain antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation. Inflammation is often linked to heart disease and other debilitating conditions. Fresh produce also is a good source of antioxidants.

• Fried foods: Many fried foods have little nutritional value, as they tend to be high in saturated and trans fats. French fries are particularly bad because they are carbohydrates fried and then doused in salt.

• Sausage: Processed meats have frequently earned a bad reputation among cardiologists, but sausage can be a big offender, due in large part to its high saturated fat content.

• Red meats: Enjoying a steak is probably not as bad as eating a deep-fried brownie, but it’s best to limit red meat consumption to about 10 percent or less of your diet. Red meats can have a considerable amount of cholesterol, saturated fat and calories.

• Added sugars: Sugar can increase blood pressure and triglycer-

ide levels. Sugar often hides out in foods that you would not associate with the sweetener. Plus, many people unwittingly consume too much sugar simply through sugarsweetened beverages and ready-toeat cereals.

• Salty foods: Leave the salt shaker in the spice cabinet and opt for herbs for flavoring, advises the American Heart Association. Highsodium diets often are to blame for hypertension, a major risk factor for heart disease.

• Dairy: Artery-clogging saturated fat also can be found in dairy products, particularly the full-fat versions.

Butter, sour cream and milk can be problematic when people overindulge. Opt for low-fat dairy when possible.

News Times Newspapers, Friday, July 8, 2016 • living 50 plus

39

Cut the costs of your prescriptions

T

he costs of filling prescriptions is simply too big to bear for many people, even now that the Affordable Care Act has greatly reduced the amount of people who are uninsured. A survey from the Commonwealth Fund found that 35 million people in America failed to fill a prescription in 2014 because of the cost of the medication.

That figure represents an improvement from 2010, when 48 million people did not fill their prescriptions due to the costs of those medications, but it still serves to highlight a need many people have to cut the costs of their medicine.

Though people who cannot afford to fill their prescriptions often feel helpless, there are a handful of ways they can cut the costs of their medications

and start feeling better.

Discuss changes with your physician. Perhaps the simplest way to cut prescription costs is to discuss medication options with your physician. Brand-name drugs are typically more expensive than generic alternatives, so speak with your physician about generic drugs or less costly brand-name drugs that may treat your condition as well as expensive brand-name drugs do.

Consider Patient Assistance Programs. Sometimes referred to as “Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs,” Patient Assistance Programs, or PAPs, can greatly reduce the burden of prescription drug costs. Sponsored by pharmaceutical companies, PAPs distribute billions of dollars to

patients who otherwise could not afford their medications.

Eligibility criteria varies depending on the program, but men and women struggling to pay for their prescriptions can speak with their physicians about PAPs. Consult your member organizations. If you are a member of the AAA automotive group or the American Association of Retired

Persons, you might be eligible for medication discount cards free of charge. These cards provide discounts on your medications, but some come with expensive fees upfront.

Look for no-fee cards, such as those offered to AAA and AARP members or others offered by nonprofit organizations, before considering options offered by pharmaceutical companies or other

No Appointment Needed

for-profit businesses.

Contact charitable organizations. Some charitable organizations, such as the National Organization for Rare Disorders and maybe even some local nonprofits, offer prescription assistance to people in need. Visit NORD online at www.rarediseases. org.

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40 living 50 plus • News Times Newspapers, Friday, July 8, 2016

Shopping for an assisted living facility

T

Millions of people in North America reside in assisted living facilities. The majority of residents in senior living are those who may need assistance with one or two daily activities, but who are otherwise mobile and self-sufficient.

Families faced with moving relatives into assisted living facilities can consider the following pointers to find facilities their loved ones will enjoy.

Inquire about staff and their schedules. It is important to know how many staff members a facility has and how many people are working at any given time. Do staffing schedules differ at night? If a resident has a particular rapport with one staff member, can he or she be requested?

Look for a facility that is well-staffed and adept at dealing with elderly men and women.

Learn about individual service plans. Many assisted living facilities create individual service plans, or ISPs, for their residents to ensure individualized care is given. These plans are important for the safety and comfort of residents and also can help maximize a person’s independence. Some communities offer memory care programs for those with Alzheimer’s disease or other cognitive disorders.

A

s individuals age, various circumstances have to be reassessed. A current living situation may not be meeting the needs of a senior who may be having difficulty caring properly for himself or herself. Families often consider senior residences to provide welcoming and safe environments for their loved ones during the golden years of their lives. These facilities may range from independent living homes with minimal care offered to nursing homes that provide more intensive care when needed. Somewhere in the middle lies assisted living homes, which blend the independence of personal residences with other amenities, such as the housekeeping, medication reminders or meal services.

he decision to move yourself or a family member to an assisted living facility can be difficult. When men and women begin to experience difficulty with everyday activities, such as bathing, dressing or getting around, families may need to explore assisted living facilities.

Consider the arrangements and services offered. Some facilities offer single rooms, while others provide apartment-style living. Most assisted living facilities provide a variety of services, such as housekeeping, laundry, exercise and wellness classes, and social activities, for their residents. Investigate the offerings at each home you visit, looking for a facility that best suits your loved one’s needs.

Managing the costs of assisted living

Consider the security in place. A good assisted living facility has a 24-hour support system in place and immediate access to care.

Rooms may be equipped with emergency phones that can be accessed day or night. Many homes have check-in desks so that residents are accounted for when going on outings and for announcing guests.

Check on licensing. In the United States, each state has its own licensing requirements for assisted living facilities. Confirm a facility is licensed and that it meets the expectations of the local regulatory agency. In addition, check with the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been filed against the home.

Assisted living facilities can meet the needs of people who cannot live independently but do not require the around-the-clock care of a nursing home.

Assisted living can be a viable option when a person can no longer live alone, but such facilities come with a price. According to a Market Survey of Long-Term Care Costs conducted by MetLife, the national average for assisted living base rates was $3,550 per month in 2012. In the 2015 Cost of Care Survey conducted by Genworth Financial, the assisted living, nationalmedian monthly rate was now $3,600 — and it’s only expected to grow. Affording these homes and apartments can be challenging for those with fixed incomes, but there are some strategies that can help.

The payment method that serves you best will depend on your unique circumstances, but there are options available.

Long-term care insurance: Long-term care insurance is specialized insurance that is paid into and may cover the cost of assisted living facilities and other medical care, depending on the policy. The American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance says that only roughly 3 percent of Americans have this type of insurance, but it is something to consider

during working years.

Personal savings: Some people have the means to pay for assisted living with their own savings and retirement nest eggs.

However, it’s easy for savings to become depleted when facing a $40,000+ per year bill.

Life insurance: A financial advisor may advocate to pay for assisted living with a life insurance policy.

Some companies enable you to cash out for “accelerated” or “living” benefits, which usually is a buy-back of the policy for 50 to 75 percent of the face value.

Other third parties may purchase the policy for a settlement of a lump sum, again roughly 50 to 75 percent of the policy’s face value, according to Caring. com, an online source for support and information about the needs of aging people.

Location: Costs of assisted living facilities vary depending on location.

It’s possible to get a lower monthly rate simply by choosing a facility in a different state.

Negotiation: Not all prices are set in stone. Speak with a manager at the facility and see if there is any price flexibility or move-in incentives. You also may be able to get a lower rate by negotiating certain a-la-carte costs against allinclusive pricing. Perhaps you do not need laundry or shopping services, and family members can fill in the gaps, reducing your bill.

Veteran’s benefits: Many veterans are eligible for care benefits that can offset the cost of assisted living care.

Rooms: Opting for a smaller room or sharing a space can keep costs down as well. See if shared rooms are a possibility.

Assisted living is a necessity for thousands of people.

Explore the ways to finance this purchase.

News Times Newspapers, Friday, July 8, 2016 • living 50 plus

Interesting ways to enjoy travel

R

esearch indicates that traveling is at the top of the list of interests motivating today’s men and women over the age of 50.

Seniors are perhaps the most likely demographic to indulge their love of traveling. Retirement leaves lots of time for recreation, and many choose to spend that time on the road. Travel also can be improve adult longevity, says geriatricians at the University of Arkansas.

Those in the travel industry understand that men and women over 50 comprise a large percentage of their customers and have catered many travel packages toward this influential demographic. The following is

a look at some of the more popular travel opportunities for men and women over 50.

Genealogical tourism: This is one of the fastestgrowing markets in vacation travel. Genealogical tourism involves individuals traveling to areas of historical significance for their families, such as churches where past relatives may have married and villages where grandparents or cousins once resided or were employed. This can create a tangible link to one’s past and open up more opportunities to learn the varied genealogical history that has shaped a family, and even one’s personal identity.

Extended vacations: Seniors may have the capac-

41

ity to devote more time to travel and not be caged in by strict time constraints. That makes them eligible for extended vacations. These can include long-term rentals in tropical locales, several-week sightseeing cruises or guided tours overseas that touch on several different countries or cities during the trip.

Off the beaten path: Adventurous travelers may not be content to stick to the resort lifestyle or standard vacation options. Active men and women over 50 are charting their own vacation courses with bucket list-style vacations that may be off the beaten path.

Travelers who have always aspired to climb a mountain or see a rain forest may be inclined to realize these goals as they get older. Nontraditional tours can include living like indigenous peoples or following the footsteps of early explorers.

All-inclusive tours: All-inclusive packages remain a popular option for travelers of all ages. These vacation packages charge one price for accommodations, entertainment, sightseeing, food, and many other amenities. All-inclusive vacations remove some of the headaches associated with organizing various components of travel so that a person can focus on relaxation and having fun.

Singles meets: Single vacationers over 50 may want to meet other men or women in their age bracket in the hopes of finding romance. These vacations double as relationship mixers and give men and women the opportunity to mingle with others in similar situations without the pressure of traditional dating.

Travel is a way to see the world, meet new people and experience various cultures. Seniors increasingly embrace travel because they have both the time and the means to take vacations.

42 living 50 plus • News Times Newspapers, Friday, July 8, 2016

SAVE THE DATE

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Monday, August 1, 2016 Pine Hollow Country Club

6601 Route 25A, East Norwich, NY