The need for older Americans and their families to plan proactively for the later years of retirement—while they are still healthy and independent—has never been more urgent. Just as coastal residents prepare for hurricanes, families should prepare for the challenges of aging in today’s society. Thoughtful planning can reduce stress, protect finances, and ensure better … Read more

It’s a familiar situation: you or a loved one faces a serious health issue, and a team of specialists unloads a flood of information—tests to schedule, treatment options to weigh—often all at once. The volume of detail can be confusing and intimidating. You leave the appointment trying to absorb everything, plan next steps, and choose … Read more

There was a heartbreaking story in the Washington Post this week about an elderly man in China named Han Zicheng who tried putting himself up for adoption. His wife had died years earlier, and his adult sons lived far away and rarely called or visited. At 85, Han posted a flyer on a neighborhood bus … Read more

Although the inauguration is now behind us, debate continues about what influenced voters in November. A recent survey of older adults mirrors many exit polls: retirees and pre-retirees are growing less optimistic about the economy and their personal finances than in prior years. Those financial concerns can strongly affect decisions about senior living—where to live, … Read more

Deciding to move into a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), also known as a life plan community, is a proactive step to prepare for the uncertainties of aging. Such communities offer a continuum of care—independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing—so residents and families can plan ahead and access the support they may … Read more

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused profound hardship. Tens of thousands of Americans have died and millions have been infected. Countless people have lost their jobs, and many face the threat of losing their homes. The resulting stress has touched nearly every family and community. Caring for CCRC residents, physically and emotionally Seniors living in continuing … Read more

“Don’t EVER put me in a home. Promise me!” Many people have had this conversation with an aging parent or partner — and many have said these exact words to their own adult children. With holidays and family gatherings, you may notice an older loved one you haven’t seen in a while. Pay attention: has … Read more

I’m a planner by nature; I prefer to be prepared for whatever the future may bring. That inclination led me into a career as a financial advisor and later to become an advocate for continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), also called life plan communities. These communities offer residents assurance that they will receive appropriate care … Read more

The following is an excerpt from the revised second edition of my bestselling book, “What’s the Deal with Retirement Communities?”, available on Amazon.com. Geared toward retirees-to-be and their adult children, the book is intended as a practical first step in researching senior living options—offering clear, concise answers to common questions. Attitudes toward aging are shifting, … Read more

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Administration on Aging, about 70 percent of people over age 65 will need long-term care services at some point. Needing long-term care generally means requiring assistance with at least two activities of daily living (ADLs) such as eating, dressing, or bathing; some individuals will … Read more