Image credit: Business Insider Although marijuana remains illegal at the federal level, recreational and medical cannabis use has been legalized in multiple states and Washington, D.C., for adults over 21. Medical cannabis is also allowed in many other states. As legal access has expanded, use has increased across many age groups — notably among older … Read more

In a Forbes article from several years ago titled “The Five Phases of Retirement Planning,” Bernard Krooks, an elder law attorney, outlined stages of retirement and practical steps seniors should take to prepare for each one. Krooks describes “mid-retirement” as beginning around age 70 and lasting while a person remains active and largely independent. During … Read more

As you explore senior living choices, you may encounter what’s commonly called an “active adult community.” These are age-restricted or age-qualified neighborhoods for people 55 and older, typically meaning at least one resident in a household must be 55 or older. What defines an active adult community? Active adult communities, also known as active adult … Read more

When people weigh the decision to move into a senior living community, they often focus on amenities, healthcare services, and cost. Yet equally important—though less tangible—is how a retirement community cultivates a culture of respectful, compassionate care. Prospective residents and their families understandably examine services and facilities. Still, the daily interpersonal interactions between staff and … Read more

On May 21, I am scheduled to speak at River’s Edge, New York City’s first life plan community (also called a continuing care retirement community or CCRC). River’s Edge is being developed by the not-for-profit RiverSpring Health, which operates several senior living and healthcare properties in the Bronx. I have toured many life plan communities … Read more

Many older adults choose to remain in their own homes, and a common reason given is that it’s more affordable than moving into a retirement community. While this can be true in certain situations, the actual cost savings are often smaller than people expect. That’s because most older adults who stay at home rely heavily … Read more

If you already own a long-term care insurance policy (LTCI) or are considering purchasing one, it’s important to understand how these policies work and what they cover. Adult children and other family caregivers should also become familiar with the details of a parent’s coverage, since they are often responsible for coordinating benefits when care becomes … Read more

Generally speaking, do you see the glass as half-full or half-empty? We all experience moments of optimism and pessimism, but growing evidence suggests that a more positive mindset can improve mental and physical health and may even contribute to longer life. Recent research indicates that finding the silver lining can boost overall wellbeing, especially for … Read more

Choosing an assisted living community for yourself or a loved one is an important decision that affects health, comfort, and quality of life. Beyond services, amenities, and reputation, one crucial factor to evaluate is a community’s safety record. Understanding how a facility manages risks, trains staff, and prepares for emergencies will help you make a … Read more

In the United States, an increasing number of people are stepping into the role of caregiver for an aging family member. A 2015 study by The National Alliance for Caregiving found that more than 34 million adults provide care for a senior. Most caregivers are women (about 60 percent), and the average caregiver is 49 … Read more