Well Senior Blog

Two elderly men are sitting on a bench in a park, engaging in conversation. One man wears a black cap and vest, while the other wears a dark blue cap and glasses. The background is filled with greenery, suggesting a sunny day.

Disclosing a dementia or MCI diagnosis

May 1, 2024

It might feel scary to tell others if you’ve been diagnosed with dementia or even just mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Start with those you think will be the most supportive. Perhaps close family and friends. Common reactions. People will vary in how they respond to the news. Some will be genuinely caring and ask how…

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An elderly man with gray hair and glasses, wearing a beige polo shirt, is sitting on a couch and appears to be engaged in a conversation with a woman who has long brown hair, seen from the back. There is a plant in the background.

Choosing a healthcare power of attorney

April 3, 2024

Your healthcare power of attorney (HCPOA) is an individual you trust to speak for you when you are unable to voice your own decisions: A car accident, surgery, coma, dementia. In such circumstances, doctors need someone who knows you well and has had conversations with you to guide them in terms of the medical procedures…

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A group of seven older adults, both men and women, smiling and standing outdoors on a sunny day. They appear to be enjoying each other's company in a scenic, natural environment with trees and sunlight in the background. Some are wearing backpacks.

What is a “life plan community” (aka “CCRC”)?

March 6, 2024

Life plan communities—sometimes called “continuing care retirement communities” (CCRCs)—are private communities that offer residents a full range of care levels, depending on need. For those in independent living, amenities such as a golf course, gym, pool, and tennis and pickle ball courts are typically provided. Some communities even offer college-level classes, a salon, and grocery…

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An elderly couple with gray hair embraces lovingly in front of two houses labeled "Hers" and "His." The background features a colorful, scenic landscape with green hills, a bright sun, and pink flowering trees.

Living apart together

January 31, 2024

Can two households be better than one? In a trend called “living apart together” (LAT), a growing number of older adults are experimenting with committed relationships that also allow for autonomy. These are people who prefer intimacy and companionship in their lives. At the same time, marriage—or even living together—brings more entanglements than they want…

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Three apples are placed on a dark surface next to a wooden cutting board. Two of the apples are green, and one apple is red. The green apples are positioned in the upper left and lower left corners, while the red apple is in the lower right corner.

Medicare: Wellness and prevention

January 3, 2024

If you are used to having an “annual physical” and ask for that, original Medicare won’t pay for it. That is, original Medicare won’t pay doctors to do a general physical exam “to see what turns up”; you’ll pay out of pocket. (Medicare Advantage might have this as an “extra.” Check with your plan.) Medicare…

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Three elderly women with gray hair are sitting around a table outdoors, laughing and enjoying coffee from red mugs. The table is decorated with a mosaic pattern and a small blue pot. The background is blurred, suggesting a pleasant, sunny day.

Making friends in later life

December 6, 2023

We tend to think friendships should grow organically. They don’t. Particularly in our later years, when we often lose friends—to death, illness, or moving away—we need to be much more intentional about making new ones. This is especially so for “solo agers,” those without children and grandchildren. The younger generations in the family typically make…

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A stethoscope placed on a stack of U.S. dollar bills, including a hundred-dollar bill featuring Benjamin Franklin, and other denominations. Beside the money is a colorful bar graph showing different levels of data on a piece of paper.

What is IRMAA?

November 1, 2023

When Medicare first began in 1965, the idea was that it was for everyone over age 65, not just those who were poor. There would be no stigma. Things are different now. We live longer. Medical costs are rising. In 2003, Congress decided that those with higher incomes should chip in extra to share the…

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Illustration of a masked person in black clothing climbing over a fence towards a house. The house has windows, a door, and a surveillance camera mounted near the roof, aiming at the climber. Nearby are some bushes and trees.

Crime proofing your home

October 4, 2023

Seniors experience property crime thirteen times more often than violent crime.  Burglary is the most common. (Interestingly, it typically occurs between noon and 4:00 pm!)  The average loss is roughly $3,000, although that does not account for the emotional impact: A profound sense of violation and vulnerability. October is Crime Prevention Month. There are things…

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A smiling older woman with short white hair and glasses stands at a doorway. She wears a striped long-sleeve shirt and rests one hand on the doorframe. Behind her, a rustic wooden wall features a metal heart-shaped decoration.

Sharing your home

September 6, 2023

There are many advantages to having a housemate: Defraying expenses. Sharing household chores. Help with transportation. Companionship. Increased safety. Peace of mind. In a survey of older adults who shared their homes, 50% said that since gaining a housemate, they are happier, sleep better, are getting out more, and they call upon their families less…

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