When people start exploring senior living options, a common initial question is, “Which choice costs the least?” That’s a reasonable place to begin. Most of us have been careful with money throughout our lives, and housing and care expenses can become significant as we age. Many are uncertain about what senior living will cost and … Read more

There are an estimated three million openly lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) seniors in the United States, and that number is expected to grow as Baby Boomers enter retirement. This population represents a significant and expanding market for the senior living industry. At the same time, a 2013 study by Erin Fitzgerald, MPA, and … Read more

According to AARP’s report “2021 Tech Trends and the 50+,” the pandemic accelerated seniors’ adoption of consumer technology. From smartphones and tablets to wearables such as the Apple Watch and Fitbit, more Americans age 50 and older are buying tech devices. The largest increase, however, has been in smart home technology. Between 2019 and 2020, … Read more

As COVID-19 cases rise again with the Delta variant, hospitals in many areas are under strain and the unvaccinated remain especially vulnerable. It’s understandable to feel anxious reading about renewed restrictions and remembering the isolation many experienced earlier in the pandemic. Yet there is an unexpected bright spot: residents of senior living communities are reporting … Read more

Watching your parents age can stir a complex mix of emotions: gratitude, worry, love, and uncertainty. For many adult children—especially those in the “sandwich generation” balancing their own children and aging parents—this time can feel overwhelming. Yet there are practical steps you can take now to reduce stress later, preserve your parents’ independence, and ensure … Read more

March is National Nutrition Month, an annual initiative from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics that highlights the importance of informed food choices and healthy habits around eating and physical activity. For older adults, proper nutrition is especially important. Family members and caregivers should watch for changes in appetite or weight, and be aware of … Read more

In last week’s post, we discussed a recent study that highlighted the importance of social engagement for helping older adults stay happy and healthy as they age. The same research also found that a large majority of respondents want to remain in their own homes, though many are unable to do so. The study produced … Read more

For many older adults and their families, researching senior living options can be an emotional and confusing process. From the overwhelming number of choices to inconsistent terminology and financial concerns, finding the right retirement community or senior living arrangement can feel more like a daunting task than an exciting next chapter. It’s understandable that people … Read more

I recently wrote about potential tax deductions for residents of continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), also known as life plan communities. Depending on your personal tax situation, you may be able to deduct a portion of your CCRC entry fee and some of your ongoing monthly fees, since they can qualify as prepaid medical expenses. … Read more

For many people, one appealing aspect of moving to a senior living community—such as a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) or life plan community—is the chance to live among neighbors who are at a similar stage of life. While diversity among neighbors can be valuable, some older adults prefer a community focused on retirement living. … Read more