Author: Aging Wisdom
Do you dream about simplifying your life? Wish you could spend less time on to-dos and more time engaged in new interests? An independent living community might represent that dream come true. Consider these perks: home maintenance and landscaping cared for, meals prepared, and plentiful opportunities for socializing. …
Taking care of your financial future means more than just meeting with an investment advisor. What if the unexpected happens? For example, you get into an accident: How will you make sure your bills are paid and your assets protected? That’s where a “financial power of attorney” comes in.
A financial power of attorney is a legal document that you prepare to authorize someone to handle financial transactions on your behalf. This person is called your “agent” or “proxy,” though sometimes they are also referred to as your “power of attorney.” …
Making wise decisions is more than just being smart. It also comprises the qualities of flexibility, calm, selflessness, and social insight. Difficult to describe, but you know it when you see it.
And who doesn’t want to be wiser? Wisdom allows us to solve complicated problems in a way that leads to gracious outcomes. It reduces stress and builds positive relationships and esteem.
Contrary to what many assume, wisdom doesn’t come automatically with age, although circumstances of aging can lead you there. …
The holidays are the perfect opportunity to choose gifts that bring comfort, delight, and joy to the older adults in your life. When selecting gifts, consider the interests, lifestyle, and any physical or cognitive changes the person you care about is experiencing.
Some appreciate practical gifts, while others may enjoy a more personal or experiential gift. If the recipient has specific needs, preferences, or health issues, choose gifts that accommodate those factors. For individuals with limited dexterity, I’ve made suggestions below that are easy to operate or use.
Here’s our gift guide to help you select something meaningful that is sure to bring joy and enhance their quality of life: …
Holiday gift guide for the older adults in your lifeRead More »
What is your role at Aging Wisdom?
What made you want to work in the field of aging? …
Multigenerational housing is a growing trend in the United States and perhaps something you’re considering. On the plus side, there’s increased time for bonding and for caring for elders or children as needed, as well as improved finances from sharing expenses. And there is peace of mind knowing you are surrounded by family. …
People over age 65 exhibit a vast range of abilities both mental and physical. Unfortunately, ageism (the negative stereotyping of older adults) links advancing years with decline in a manner that disregards individual capability. From degrading birthday cards to discrimination in the workplace, 82% of older adults report experiencing ageism in their everyday life.
Most insidious is internalized ageism, when we look down on ourselves, often without realizing it. Blaming age when we can’t remember a word (“a senior moment”). Feeling flattered when we’re told “You don’t look [your age]!” Not considering an interesting activity at the senior center because we “don’t want to be around all those old people.”
It turns out such negative age beliefs can significantly reduce life expectancy. Multiple studies across many years and many cultures have shown that people with negative beliefs about aging die as many as seven and a half years earlier than those with positive age beliefs. (The studies accounted for the influences of income, education, and health status.) …
As we transition from summer to fall, the seasonal change serves as a good reminder to brush up on Fall Prevention. Preventing and reducing the risk of falls, and helping older adults live without fear of falling is essential.
Falls remain the leading cause of injury and death for people age 65+. Implementing fall prevention steps can go a long way to improve safety and support independence.
Fortunately, most falls can be prevented. Understanding the common factors that cause or contribute to falls is a good place to start: …
Deciding how to divide assets among one’s children is often challenging. The challenges only multiply in a step- or blended family situation. Today, about one-quarter of all marriages include stepchildren. Among remarried couples, almost two-thirds involve children from a previous relationship.
Blended families can look like any other family, but the dynamics are very different, emotionally and legally. …
Are you reflecting on life and its lessons? With so many options for self-publishing, writing a memoir may appeal. The process generates a new perspective on the meaning of one’s life. The end result lets future generations learn about you and their forebears. Find writing kits and courses online, such as Writers.com.
One thought to consider: Creating a chronological review can be unwieldy. It suggests you’ll present things with accuracy. Besides, recounting dates, locations, and events is just not fun or inspirational! Plus, you may have concerns about offending someone in the way you tell your stories. That can leach the joy out of the project. …