How the Government Shutdown Could Affect Older Adults
The effects of the federal government shutting down may not always seem direct or immediate, but the risks and disruptions are real.
How the Government Shutdown Could Affect Older Adults
Takeaways
Many older adults rely on federal programs for income, health care, and support services, making them particularly vulnerable to disruptions caused by a government shutdown.
While core benefits such as Social Security and Medicare payments are largely protected, administrative functions, customer…
Emotional Wellness Among Older Adults in Long-Term Care
Takeaways
Emotional wellness is critical, but often overlooked, for older adults in long-term care.
Approaches that do not involve medications (e.g., gardening, reminiscence therapy, social activities, and technology) show promise in improving emotional well-being.
Families can also play a vital role in supporting…
2.8 Percent COLA Increase for 2026 Social Security Benefits
Takeaways
Social Security benefits will increase by 2.8 percent in 2026 due to the annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA).
This increase applies to Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients, with payments starting in January 2026 for Social Security and December 31,…
Why You Should Not Have a Joint Bank Account with Your Children
Many well-meaning parents add an adult child to their bank account to “make things easier.” It seems practical—your child can help pay bills, access money in an emergency, or step in if you become ill. Unfortunately, this simple act often…
Pairing Medicare Coverage With Your Current Health Insurance
Navigating Medicare alongside other health insurance types requires understanding which plan pays first to avoid penalties or coverage gaps.
Older Adults Struggle to Meet the Dual Burden of Housing and Care
Takeaways
A significant majority of older adults (nearly 70 percent) will require some form of long-term care, but many struggle to afford these services after covering housing costs, creating a “dual burden.”
There are significant disparities in affordability of long-term care services…
Why Aren’t More Older Adults Thinking About Long-Term Care?
Takeaways
Many older adults underestimate their likelihood of needing sustained, day-to-day care in their later years, and a significant portion of adults aged 50 and older are not adequately planning for long-term care.
After decades of handling our daily personal care needs…
Approaching Retirement Age? View the Senior Happiness Index
Takeaways
Florida, North Carolina, and Arizona might be popular retirement destinations – but they are not the happiest locations for seniors.
Caring.com’s 2025 Senior Happiness Index identifies states where seniors are most content, connected, and live longest.
Utah is ranked as the happiest…
How Continuing to Work Affects Social Security Benefits
Takeaways
Continuing to work while collecting Social Security can increase future benefits and provide additional income but may also result in benefit reductions before full retirement age.
Careful consideration of tax implications, Medicare enrollment, and personal financial goals is essential when deciding…
