Society of Certified Senior Advisors

Seniors Are Using AI for Mental Health. Is It Safe?

2026-07-14T10:39:31.180-07:00

Like people of all ages, older adults are talking to AI chatbots for life advice and companionship. Mental health researchers are racing to catch up.

The loneliness epidemic is in full swing: about 40% of people over age 45 in the U.S. report feeling lonely. In one sense, artificial intelligence is rising to meet the moment. Socially isolated people need care and connection, and AI chatbots can provide both. But social isolation is also a risk factor for poor mental health, and people with mental health vulnerabilities are more at risk of developing AI-associated delusions.

Case Study: A 72-year-old woman’s husband passed away 4 years ago, and she regularly experiences feelings of loneliness. She started talking with an AI chatbot after her neighbor’s grandson introduced her to the online tool. At first she would talk with the bot for a few minutes at a time, but she progressively started spending more and more hours a day chatting. She developed the strong belief that the chatbot is in love with her–what clinicians call an “erotomanic delusional disorder,” a kind of paranoia. She has started spending less time with neighbors and family in order to talk with the AI, and now that her family understands what is happening, they are at a loss as to how to help her break the delusion.

This case is adapted from a study that came out in May titled “Digitally deluded: Late-onset delusional disorder linked to virtual companionship and AI chatbots in older adults.”

Teens and young adults, because their brains and critical thinking skills are still developing, are particularly vulnerable to psychosis, and new research is showing that they may also be especially vulnerable to AI-associated delusions. Some experts are now starting to express the same concerns for the older adults who have risk factors–like social isolation–for mental illness, even if they’ve never been diagnosed with a psychiatric problem. In the study cited above, the researchers conclude that the AI chatbots caused the “late-onset”--that is, late-in-life onset–of delusional disorders.

This is an emerging area of research, and the relationships between AI engagement, social isolation, delusional thinking, and dementia are complex. For now, the best precaution for seniors and others when interacting with AI chatbots is to keep in close touch with humans, too. Loved ones and care partners have a critical role to play in keeping family members connected and safely grounded in reality.

AI Chatbots Can Support Mental Health

In a University of Michigan poll on how older adults use and think about AI, opinions were overall positive. Just over half (55%) of people over 50 in the survey had used AI chatbots; of those, 12% said they had used the bots for social connection. 92% said they would want to know if information they were reading or hearing was generated by AI. And 81% said they wanted to learn more about the risks associated with AI.

Case Study: A 75-year-old woman with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease chats with an AI-enabled desktop robot daily. She likes to share stories and ask questions of the robot; she has someone to talk to even when her daughter, her primary caregiver, is busy. The AI makes her feel heard and encouraged. She reports feeling calmer after a 20-minute chat with the bot.

Conversation eases loneliness, and conversation with chatbots has been shown to have this same effect. To a certain degree, AI chatbots can even deliver cognitive therapies for people with dementia, like reminiscence therapy. This therapy involves asking questions and looking at photos to bring up pleasant memories, and has been shown to increase well-being and increase feelings of connection between loved ones and caregivers.

…But May Not Be Safe for Everyone

“Research is needed to determine whether the benefits of anthropomorphized AI for older adults outweighs the risks,” writes Dr. Julian De Freitas of the Harvard Business School in a recent study. “The very features that make these systems engaging,” he writes, “may also make them dangerous for vulnerable users.” AI chatbots are built to be agreeable, which makes them pleasant to converse with, but which also means they may “reinforce hallucinations and delusional thinking seen in dementia patients,” says De Freitas. Social isolation and dementia are underlying mental health risk factors or vulnerabilities that could put people at risk of developing disordered thinking or psychosis.

AI companies, including OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT, report they are working on improving chatbots’ ability to recognize delusional thinking and redirect it, rather than reinforce it.

Tips for Protecting Mental Health While Using AI Chatbots

Talking about the possible risks of AI chatbots with loved ones is a great first step. The University of Michigan offers these tips for caregivers and loved ones of anyone who might be experiencing AI-related delusions.

Notice signs for concern, including if the person avoids activities they once enjoyed or makes themselves less available.
If the person is expressing delusional or psychotic thinking, it’s important to connect them with a health care professional as soon as possible.
A person in crisis or a person concerned about them can call or text the national suicide and crisis hotline at 988.

While AI-related delusions aren’t common, and the risk to most people is considered low, families and individuals using the technology should be aware that we don’t yet know how to estimate an individual’s risk of developing disordered thinking with AI chatbot use. As with any new technology, medicine, or other breakthrough: use with care and critical thinking.

Additional Sources

https://www.aarp.org/pri/topics/social-leisure/relationships/loneliness-social-connections-2025/

https://beckelderlaw.com/ai-companion-risks-to-the-elderly/

Enjoying the Summer for Less

2026-07-14T10:04:48.636-07:00

With airfare and gas prices pushing through the roof, Americans are looking for ways to make summer fun affordable.

Summer is full of opportunities for older adults and families to get out and enjoy themselves, but the cost of travel this season is putting a damper on some families’ plans. Still, there are plenty of ways to save. Here are money-saving tips and a few simple actions that can make a real difference.

Money-Saving Tips for Summer

Keep these tips in your back pocket when making summer plans.

Saving on travel. Although these discounts are well-publicized, not everyone eligible takes advantage of seniors-only fare discounts on Amtrak and airlines, plus AAA and AARP travel benefits. Remember off-peak timing, too; for example, the cheapest days to fly before Labor Day are all in the last three weeks of August, when kids are gearing up to go back to school. And don’t sleep on discount national and state park passes. At age 62, we’re eligible for a Senior Lifetime Pass to National Parks, which costs $80 and never expires.

A Few Simple Scripts for Asking for Senior Discounts

Most of us hesitate to ask for discounts, but the question is almost always welcome, and the worst answer is no. Try one of these low-pressure openers:

At a ticket window, attraction, or restaurant: "Do you offer a senior discount?"
If they want to soften it: "I'm not sure if you have one, but do you offer any senior or AARP discounts?"
When booking by phone: "Before I book, are there any senior discounts or promotions available?"
If nothing is posted but they think one might exist: "I'm 70…is there a rate for seniors?"

Truly, few staff will be surprised by the question. Most likely, after saving those first dollars, asking will become second nature!

Accessing low-cost local activities. Look for free museum days, library summer programming, senior center events, community concerts and festivals, and farmer's markets with live music. Check out this month’s Coffee Break column for accessibility features to look for at festivals!
Asking for discounts. It’s worth it to ask; many discounts aren't posted. Requesting a senior rate is normal and expected, not embarrassing. You can even employ a simple script to make the conversation easier; see the sidebar for ideas.
Tapping into assistance programs. Again, not everyone eligible for benefits like SNAP and utility assistance actually signs up for them, and these programs mean real cash. Area Agencies on Aging may offer programs to help you access these resources and free up spending money.

Going the Extra Mile to Save the Extra Dollars

Here are some bonus tips for the highly-motivated summer saver.

Call ahead to verify discounts. Confirm that advertised senior rates and other discounts are current. (Even if they’re not, you might get a discount anyway just for the effort you made to call!)
Write down your “free fun” list. If you’re at risk of spending money going out to a restaurant because you can’t think of anything else to do, write down all the local, fun, and FREE activities you’ve found, and post it somewhere you’ll see it. Make it easy for your future self to make financially healthy choices.
Connect with friends and neighbors for group outings. Group trips to events are often cheaper per person, so text your friends, make a plan, and make sure everyone gets those discounts! Senior-friendly group travel agencies make booking easy.
Throw a pizza party–for free. If you’ve read this far, you’ve earned a special tip. A small group of people called the Wednesday Night Pizza Club https://www.wednesdaynightpizzaclub.com/ wants to end social isolation and bring neighbors and friends together on weeknights. Their mission is to get YOU to get together with at least two other people on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday–just to hang out and eat pizza. Get pre-approved by filling out a short form, throw your pizza party, and submit for reimbursement. It’s free, cheesy summer fun.

This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional financial advice from a qualified financial advisor.

Additional Sources

https://www.cardinalbay.org/blog/end-of-summer-bucket-list-ideas-for-seniors-and-families

https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/save-on-summer-travel-2026-lmandp5/

https://avcchomecare.com/summer-activates-for-seniors/

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

To Dye, Or Not To Dye? The Research on Hair Color

2026-07-10T13:50:03.098-07:00

Studies have linked prolonged hair dye exposure to an increased risk of bladder cancer in professional hairstylists. What should consumers know?

Hair coloring is one of the most common cosmetic practices in the world. Most estimates of the number of women over 40 in the U.S. who use some form of dye range between 65% to 75%. And yet, if you've ever Googled “is hair dye safe,” you've probably come away more confused than when you started.

Certain studies have shown hair dyes to raise the risk of types of cancer, including breast cancer, bladder cancer, and certain kinds of blood-related cancers. The link is most conclusive for professional salon workers who have spent years using the chemical products. On January 23, 2025, hairstylist Hector Corvera sued 10 leading hair dye companies alleging that his bladder cancer diagnosis was caused by exposure over two decades to the chemicals in the hair dyes he used during his daily work. Since then, at least a dozen salon professionals who developed bladder cancer have filed lawsuits against various companies. “We’re not talking about chemicals in hair dyes that might be carcinogenic or possibly carcinogenic. These are known chemicals that cause cancer,” Corvera’s attorney Allen Smith told NBC.

Indeed, according to the American Cancer Society, studies have consistently shown a small increased risk of bladder cancer in professional hairstylists who use hair dye regularly. No similar risk has been proven in people who dye their hair regularly. But that proven link between cancer and years-long exposure as a professional begs the question: How much hair dye exposure is too much? Is it healthy for women to dye their hair every few months over many years? And are there safer, more natural options for coloring hair?

Recognize These Ingredients

If you’re looking to avoid potentially harmful additives in hair dyes, keep an eye out for these ingredients listed on the box.

P-Phenylenediamine (PPD): PPD is an almost universally-used ingredient in permanent hair dyes. It’s a type of organic compound derived from ammonia that reacts with other parts of the formula to create color. PPD is the most studied ingredient in relation to cancer risk, and darker dye colors tend to contain higher levels of it. Unfortunately, it’s difficult to avoid, as it’s a key ingredient that makes permanent hair color permanent.

Coal-tar ingredients: Even though these ingredients are made from petroleum these days, the name “coal-tar” has stuck from many years ago when they were used to add colorfastness and brightness to clothing, food, and cosmetics. These “synthetic-organic” compounds may cause cancer, and they also are known to cause eye injury and allergic reactions in some people. If you see this FDA warning on the box, the hair dye contains coal-tar products:

Caution - This product contains ingredients which may cause skin irritation on certain individuals and a preliminary test according to accompanying directions should first be made. This product must not be used for dyeing the eyelashes or eyebrows; to do so may cause blindness. (FD&C Act, 601(a))

Ethanolamines: These amino alcohols are often used as a substitute for ammonia, but they are also possibly carcinogenic to humans. Different forms appear on hair dye labels as MEA, DEA, and TEA.

Unfortunately, this is an abbreviated list. There are over 180 cosmetic ingredients of concern listed by the European Commission, many of which appear in hair dyes and are not banned in the U.S.

Interpret Marketing Terms

If only we could believe a package when it tells us the hair dye product is “all-natural.” Hair dye brands use plant and nature-related buzzwords to create an impression of naturalness that may not reflect reality. Terms like "botanical," "herbal," "plant-powered," and "nature-inspired" suggest products are derived from natural sources, but these ingredients are often present in tiny amounts alongside synthetic chemicals. Another red herring: color descriptors like "earthy tones" refer only to the shade, not the formula.

Yet another common tactic is highlighting what a product doesn't contain, which shifts attention away from what it does. "Ammonia-free" sounds safer, but brands simply substitute other harsh chemicals like ethanolamines. Prefixes like "bio-" and phrases like "naturally derived" or "mineral-based" sound scientific, yet have no regulated definition in cosmetics. An ingredient can start from a natural source and be so heavily processed that it bears little resemblance to its origin.

Labels like "vegan," "cruelty-free," and "organic" carry real meaning in other contexts but can mislead when applied to hair dye. Vegan means no animal products, and cruelty-free means no animal testing, but neither says anything about chemical content. "Organic" is only meaningful when third-party certified. And words like "gentle," "nourishing," and "natural-looking" describe feelings or results, not formulas.

When the list of potentially harmful hair dye ingredients is so long, and the label provides little assistance, the best course of action is to look for credible certifications like COSMOS Organic or Ecocert. Their seal of approval may not mean that a product is completely non-carcinogenic, but it means the product passed a rigorous and reputable test for safe and truly naturally-derived ingredients.

Additional Sources

https://thenewknew.com/organic-hair-dye-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly/

https://www.aboutlawsuits.com/hair-dye-lawsuit/

https://www.madison-reed.com/blog/ppd-and-why-we-don-t-use-it

https://www.healthline.com/health/cancer/does-hair-dye-cause-cancer

According to one 2013 review, “enough evidence exists to help counsel questioning patients.”

Three Common Sleep Problems and the Products That Can Help

2026-07-10T10:37:24.141-07:00

Having trouble sleeping? Here are some products that may help…along with some that probably won’t.

Everyone has to lie in bed counting sheep sometimes, and insomnia can worsen with age. Many products on the market claim to be able to help us catch those Z’s. Here are three common sleep issues and tips for solving them, with or without the latest technology.

Problem: Trouble falling asleep.

Potential Solutions: We’re all familiar with tried-and-true strategies for improving your odds of getting a good night’s sleep (see sidebar). Can blue light blocking glasses help? There’s evidence that wearing blue light glasses in the hours before bedtime, especially while using screens, help the body cue into a night-time rhythm. The best blue light glasses are durable, lightweight, unobtrusive, and stylish.

6 Healthy Sleep Habits for Older Adults

Older adults need about 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Getting a good night's sleep supports physical health, mental health, and overall well-being. Improve your sleep with these tips.

Develop a regular sleep schedule and bedtime routine
Avoid napping in the late afternoon or evening
Try to avoid electronic screens, such as cell phones and TVs, in the bedroom
Keep your bedroom quiet and at a comfortable temperature
Exercise at regular times each day, but not within three hours of bedtime
Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and large meals late in the day

Source: National Institutes of Health

What about grounding blankets, sheets, and mattress pads? These new “earthing” products, offered by several manufacturers, look and feel like regular sheets and blankets, with a cord that connects to the grounding port of a wall electrical outlet. They advertise that they will connect you to the Earth’s electrical field, promoting deep relaxation, reduced inflammation, and reduction of free radicals. None of those claims have studies backing them up, but grounding blankets and sheets may indeed promote sleep, according to a few small studies. The most-cited one is a small 2004 pilot with just 12 subjects, which found that sleeping grounded via a mattress pad helped normalize cortisol rhythms and improved subjective sleep quality. A more recent 2025 randomized controlled trial with 60 participants found reduced stress, insomnia severity, and daytime sleepiness after about a month of nightly grounding pad use. Starting at around $115 and up, grounding sleep products could be worth a try for those who are curious and looking for new, side-effect-free ways to improve sleep quality.

Problem: Contact dermatitis or acne from sweaty sheets

Potential Solutions: The universal consensus on how often to wash your sheets is once a week. After you spend hours in them each night, sheets collect dead skin, body sweat and oils, dust, pet hair, and other allergens. These cause skin problems in some people and respiratory issues in others. If you’re having trouble sleeping and aren’t sure of the cause, washing your sheets more often could help. Having more sets of sheets on hand enables more frequent washes.

What doesn’t help? Probably the trendy copper- and silver-thread sheets marketed to kill germs while you sleep. These minerals have anti-microbial properties and are showing up in pillowcases, sheets, gloves, and masks for sleep. They probably do kill some germs, but “they’re no match for the power of soap, hot water, and agitation,” according to Wirecutter. And at least one manufacturer of silver-thread sheets still recommends washing them at least every 10 days.

Problem: Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS), a neurological condition that causes a desire to move the legs. It often presents in the evening at bedtime, and tends to worsen with age

Potential Solutions: Magnesium and CBD (the hemp-derived cousin to THC) products are available to ease the peculiar discomfort of RLS. The evidence for magnesium supplements for RLS is promising but still limited. A 2024 study found that 200mg of magnesium citrate daily for 8 weeks significantly reduced RLS symptom scores and improved quality of life, but the sample size was small (12 patients). In other studies, the benefit appears strongest in people who are actually magnesium deficient. When considering magnesium supplements–which come in pills, teas, powders, and tinctures–bear in mind that doses above 350mg/day increase the risk of GI side effects like diarrhea. Check for third-party testing certifications, like from NSF, when buying supplements. As for topical magnesium sprays, they're marketed as avoiding the digestive side effects of oral forms, but there's no clinical trial evidence they work to alleviate RLS.

The evidence for CBD is even thinner, mostly anecdotal and early-stage. There is no FDA-approved CBD medication or dosage for RLS, though anecdotal reports suggest it may reduce symptoms for some people. Tinctures are absorbed relatively quickly under the tongue, while topical creams and balms provide more localized relief to the legs. So, while no strong evidence exists for either magnesium or CBD products to treat RLS, the nature of the condition itself remains mysterious to scientists; we still don’t know what causes the chronic condition. If you read good reviews and experience a positive (possibly placebo) effect, we’ll wait for the research to catch up.

There’s no cure for RLS, but there are many homeopathic tips. Avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and sugar close to bedtime can help – and may help anyone sleep better, whether or not they’re among the 7% of all people who experience RLS. Getting enough exercise during the day can also help. Iron deficiency can also contribute to RLS. Talk to your doctor before taking any iron supplements. For people with other conditions of which RLS is a symptom, like kidney disease or diabetes, other medications may alleviate the feeling of restless legs.

Sources:

https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/sleep/sleep-and-older-adults https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/how-often-you-should-wash-your-sheets/ https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/restless-legs-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20377168

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

How Music Festivals Are Making Accessibility the Norm

2026-07-09T08:55:49.730-07:00

It's festival season, and the best live music experiences are the most inclusive.

In 2007, just six months after sustaining a spinal cord injury in a car accident, Austin Whitney attended the giant music festival Coachella in his wheelchair. He was feeling depressed during that time, and thinks back to the festival as a turning point: he made new friends, saw favorite artists, and simply enjoyed life again for the first time since the accident. But as he became a live music aficionado, he confronted the lack of accessibility features at festivals.

“I had shows where people had to put me on their backs and carry me down stairs,” Whitney told New Mobility magazine. “I had shows where I couldn’t see a stage and couldn’t use the restroom.” In time, with a few friends and his training in law school, he founded both the for-profit Accessibility Live, now the leading consulting provider for ADA-compliant live events, and the non-profit organization Accessible Festivals, which educates the public and helps get people with disabilities to festivals. It’s now Whitney’s job to make Coachella– along with dozens of other festivals and conventions– a seamless and inclusive experience for all attendees.

2026 Summer Music Festivals of Note

Newport Classical Music Festival, July 2-19: For 57 years, classical music has come alive by the sea at this major festival featuring over 30 concerts. The famous and even longer-running Newport Folk Festival takes place the following week; there’s a waitlist.
Summerfest is a nine-day music festival in Milwaukee with over 600 artists and a robust accessibility plan. It takes place over 3 separate weekends in June and July.
Satchmo Summerfest, from the producers of the French Quarter Festival, honors Louis Armstrong and his musical legacy during a two-day festival August 1-2 in New Orleans.

Find festivals near you with the search tools at Music Festival Wizard.

Look for These Inclusive Design Strategies at Music Festivals

Seniors with limited mobility or low vision or hearing may assume that a music festival wouldn’t feel like a welcoming place. But thanks to the work of advocates like Whitney, many big live events are more accessible now than they were 20 years ago. And while most older adults don’t need ADA-accessible venues, greater accessibility can make the festival experience more enjoyable and safer for everyone.

Before buying those tickets, check a festival’s website or ask the organizers to make sure they’re adopting these now-common accessibility features.

Accessible Parking. Reserved spaces close to entrances with extra width for ramps and mobility aids. Many festivals offer a free shuttle or golf-cart service from accessible lots to the main venue.
Accessible Viewing Areas. Wheelchair-accessible viewing platforms or areas near all stages. Keep in mind that these are often first-come, first-served; it’s a good idea to check with the festival organizers to see if it’s possible to reserve space ahead of time.
Accessible Camping. Designated camping zones with level ground, proximity to accessible facilities, and paved or compacted pathways. Some festivals have dedicated accessible camping areas with power hookups for medical equipment. (In case you missed it, last month Senior Spirit covered camping tips for seniors–they’ll serve you well when camping at a music festival!)
Sign Language Interpretation & Live Captioning. ASL interpreters positioned near stages, and real-time captions displayed on screens for performances, announcements, and MC introductions. Check the festival schedule for interpreted sets.
Assisted Listening Systems. Hearing loop technology or FM/infrared receivers available at the accessibility desk, compatible with most hearing aids. Some festivals also have vibrating backpacks that enable deaf concertgoers to better feel the beat of the music.
ADA Accessible Bathrooms. Wider stalls, grab bars, and step-free access.
Navigating Uneven Ground. Paved, matted, or compacted pathways between stages and facilities to reduce tripping hazards on grass, gravel, or mud. Look for festivals that provide site maps highlighting smooth routes and rest areas.

If you have fond memories of holding a lighter aloft and singing in unison with thousands of other fans, there’s no reason to assume that experience isn’t still accessible today. Music festivals are more popular and more inclusive than ever, meaning you’re probably not too far from an accessible festival playing your favorite music this summer.

Sources:

https://batec-mobility.com/en/accessible-music-festivals/

https://wheelchairgetaways.com/a-guide-to-accessible-music-festivals-in-the-u-s

https://fundacionmusicforall.org/

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

Famous & 65

2026-07-07T11:38:31.056-07:00

Look who's turning 65 this month

Find out which celebrities are turning 65 this month!

July 15

This dedicated UNESCO Ambassador for Peace and advocate for youth empowerment is also a hugely acclaimed and prolific actor on screen and stage. Since making his debut in Fast Times at Ridgemont High, the Texas native has starred and appeared in a bevy of hits including Platoon, The Crying Game, Ghost Dog, and Arrival. He won every major awards body's top prize in 2006 for his terrifying yet oddly sympathetic portrayal of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin in The Last King of Scotland. He later brought gravitas and his distinctive drooping left eye to the Star Wars universe in Rogue One and Andor.

Answer: Who is…. (click here to reveal)?

July 23

Another famous Texan turning 65 in July, this charismatic actor first won America's heart playing sweet-natured bartender Woody Boyd on Cheers. Then, he systematically dismantled that wholesome image with raw performances in a series of dark action films including Natural Born Killers, The People vs. Larry Flynt, and No Country for Old Men. The son of a convicted hitman, he earned multiple Oscar nominations while also becoming one of Hollywood's most committed real-life eccentrics. He follows a raw vegan diet, passionately advocates for marijuana legalization, and reportedly lives off the grid as much as possible.

Answer: Who is…. (click here to reveal)?

July 30

After famously lying about his age at fourteen to land a small role in Apocalypse Now, this Brooklyn native began a distinguished Hollywood career before he could even drive. He electrified audiences as the terrifying Ike Turner in What's Love Got to Do With It and cemented legend status as the philosophical rebel leader Morpheus in the Matrix trilogy, delivering “red pill or blue pill” into the permanent lexicon of popular culture. On TV, he brought quiet authority to CSI and Black-ish. Last year, he executive-produced and appeared in the science fiction horror film The Astronaut.

Answer: Who is…. (click here to reveal)?

Sources:

Wikipedia

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

Turning Your Home Into Financial Freedom By Dr. Brenda Oldham

2026-06-11T09:59:19.793-07:00

Whether you want to trade in your keys for something smaller or stay exactly where you are with a larger safety net, your home equity is the key to a more secure retirement.

Senior home equity in the U.S. is at a record high: $14.66 trillion in January 2026. “At a time when inflation pressures and the fear of outliving one’s retirement savings remain top concerns for retirees, home equity stands out as a powerful, yet often underutilized, financial resource,” says National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association (NRMLA) president Steve Irwin.

June is traditionally the hottest month for real estate, but financial freedom doesn’t always mean packing a moving truck. As you look at the blooming garden and the rising sun this month, it is the perfect time to evaluate how that brick-and-mortar investment can better support your lifestyle.

Path One: Strategic Downsizing

The first path to freedom is strategic downsizing. Selling a large family home in today’s peak June market can unlock a massive amount of liquid capital. By moving to a "right-sized" residence—perhaps a single-story condo or a vibrant senior community—sellers can eliminate the physical burden of stairs and the financial drain of high property taxes and maintenance. This path allows you to "bank" your equity, providing a "freedom fund" that can pay for travel, health care, or a living legacy for your grandchildren, all while simplifying your daily life.

Path Two: Reverse Mortgage

For those who say, "I love my home and never want to leave," a reverse mortgage offers a second path to independence. Also called a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), this tool allows homeowners aged 62 and older to convert a portion of their home equity into tax-free cash without having to sell the house or take on new monthly mortgage payments. It can be a literal lifesaver for those on a fixed income, providing a lump sum, a line of credit, or monthly tenure payments. In this scenario, you keep the title to your home and the memories within it, while the home finally starts "paying you back" for all the years you spent maintaining it. A reverse mortgage should be the last part of your retirement plan, not the first. It is an excellent tool for “aging in place,” but only if you have a clear plan for how to handle property taxes and potential long-term care needs down the road.

Choosing a Path

Choosing between downsizing and a reverse mortgage is a deeply personal decision that requires a holistic look at your long-term goals. While downsizing offers a fresh start and lower overhead, a reverse mortgage offers stability and aging-in-place comfort.

As a Certified Senior Advisor, my goal is to help you weigh these options against your tax needs and estate plans. For a decision as significant as leveraging home equity or liquidating assets, never rely on a single source of advice. Instead, consult a multidisciplinary team to ensure all legal, financial, and personal angles are covered. Consider adding these members to your team:

Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)®: To provide a holistic perspective that balances financial needs with health, social, and quality-of-life goals.
Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or Fiduciary Advisor: To calculate how a house sale or reverse mortgage affects long-term cash flow, inflation protection, and investment strategy.
Elder Law Attorney: To review how these decisions impact estate planning, "look-back" periods for Medicaid eligibility, and the rights of heirs.
Tax Professional (CPA or Enrolled Agent): To explain the capital gains implications of a home sale or the "means-tested" impact of receiving a lump sum of cash.
HUD-Approved Housing Counselor: (Specifically for reverse mortgages) To provide an unbiased, third-party explanation of the loan’s requirements as mandated by federal law.

In addition to building your team, also consider consulting these key resources:

The "Cost of Waiting" Data: Research from sites like CareScout, a subsidiary of Genworth, can help you compare how much you’re spending on home maintenance (lawn, roof, taxes) vs. what you might be paying at a senior living community.
HECM Safeguards: The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) enforces guidelines for reverse mortgages. Modern HECMs have "non-recourse" clauses, meaning the heir will never owe more than the home is worth.

For many seniors, the family home is a vault of untapped wealth. Especially when the high cost of living puts pressure on daily finances, consider assembling a team to help you determine whether and how to tap your home’s equity.

This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional financial advice from a qualified financial advisor.

High Tech for High Temps

2026-06-10T14:36:08.849-07:00

Summer heat poses health risks for older adults. New personal cooling innovations are here to help.

After 65, we don’t stop loving to soak up the sun. Early summer is an important time to be careful about keeping cool, especially for older adults. Heat stroke happens when the body heats up faster than it can cool itself down, and over age 65, the risk of heat stroke increases because the body doesn’t adjust to dramatic changes in temperature like it used to. People over 65 are also more likely to have chronic health conditions or be on medication that disrupts the body’s ability to regulate its temperature.

Tried-and-true, low-tech strategies will help keep you cool when the mercury rises (see sidebar). And there’s also new technology to make staying cool this summer easier–and even stylish.

Water Bottles

Dehydration is a main cause of heat-related illness, and smart water bottles are here to help you remember to drink more water. The Hidrate Spark water bottle comes with an app that will track your water drinking habits and remind you to keep up your drinking pace. It also works with Apple FindMy–handy for those who chronically lose water bottles. If you want the cool water without the reminders, insulated bottles like those from Hydroflask or Odwalla will keep ice water cool for hours, even if left in a hot car.

Low-Tech Ways to Beat the Heat

Gadgets help, but don’t forget about all the old-fashioned and effective ways to keep cool and safe in hot weather.
Drink plenty of water–before you feel thirsty.
Opt for loose, light-colored, and lightweight clothing. Cotton is a sure bet.
Take a cool shower or bath.
Stay in air-conditioned spaces as much as possible. If you don’t have AC at home, make a plan for where you’ll go when it gets dangerously hot outside, whether that’s a friend or family member’s home or a designated public cooling station. Don’t rely just on fans during heat advisories.
If you don’t have AC, use light-blocking curtains and do any baking at night to keep the temperature of your house lower.
Take it easy. The hottest days of the year are not the days to prioritize yard work or even any strenuous indoor projects.

If you or anyone else shows signs of heat-related illness, take action immediately by cooling the person and, if they seem confused, dizzy, or lose consciousness, call 911.

Fans

Bladeless neck fans were catching on last summer, and you may start to notice them even more this year. These wearable fans look a little like a pair of headphones draped around the neck. Rechargeable and relatively quiet, they provide a cooling breeze to help keep body temperature lower on hot days. Coming in at around $30, these fans are available from a number of different brands.

For the home, fan technology has grown quieter and more powerful over the years. Tower fans project a strong but nearly silent breeze and oscillate to cool a room significantly. Some indoor/outdoor fans almost provide cooling mist.

Bedding

For those hot nights when it’s impossible to find the cool side of the pillow, enter cooling pillow technology. With microfoam infused with cooling gel, these pillows stay cool all night long, which for some sleepers makes the difference between tossing and turning and a good night’s sleep.

A cooling blanket is a type of bedding designed to regulate body temperature and prevent overheating during sleep. Unlike traditional blankets, they're typically made from breathable, moisture-wicking materials like bamboo, Tencel, phase-change fabrics, or specialized cooling fibers that actively draw heat away from the body rather than trapping it. Some are simply lightweight and breathable, while others use more advanced technology like gel-infused layers or fabrics that absorb and release heat.

Similarly, cooling mattresses and mattress toppers may help regulate body temperature during the night. Cooling foam allows air to circulate around the body like traditional mattresses don’t. These cooler bedding materials are particularly helpful for people with certain medical conditions that cause night sweats or anyone who shares a bed with a partner who runs warm.

Clothing

Hats are essential for staying cool by keeping the sun’s rays off the face and neck, and there have been a few genuine breakthroughs in sun hat technology recently. Advanced UPF-rated fabrics like Columbia's Omni-Shade technology and tightly woven materials are now blocking both UV and UVB rays more effectively than ever. For a deep dive into the most effective sun hats of this summer, check out GearLab’s investigation.

If you really run hot, there’s also the viral cooling beauty invention, the Esarora Ice Roller, that helps cool down and de-puff the face. Keeping cool may feel luxurious, but remember, it’s essential for a safe and healthy summer. See you in the shade.

Sources:

https://www.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/home/best-products-to-stay-cool

https://www.cdc.gov/heat-health/risk-factors/heat-and-older-adults-aged-65.html

https://www.brownhealth.org/be-well/how-seniors-can-stay-safe-summer

https://www.efficiencyvermont.com/blog/how-to/summer-guide-to-energy-savings-comfort

https://www.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/reviews/best-cooling-pillow

https://bedsurehome.com/products/reversible-cooling-blanket

https://www.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/reviews/best-cooling-fans

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

Tap Water: Filtering Fact from Fiction

2026-06-09T12:33:54.088-07:00

Do you need a drinking water filter? The answer depends on where you live and personal preference.

Some people love their tap water, and others feel squeamish at the thought of drinking straight from the tap. Tap water’s mixed reputation makes sense: after all, it isn’t the same everywhere. Depending on where you live, you might want to consider a water filter. Here’s why, how to find out more about your tap water, and tips for choosing the best filter for your needs.

Common Tap Water Contaminants

There are two main categories of contaminants that different filters process out of tap water: chemicals and microbes. Unwanted chemicals may be present in drinking water because of old plumbing, agricultural or industrial pollution, or natural deposits in the ground. Arsenic, lead, copper, nitrate, and radon are common problem chemicals. Another is PFAS, a class of forever chemicals. All of these are best to avoid because they are associated with higher cancer risk.

Microbes that can make their way into the drinking water supply include E.coli, giardia, hepatitis A, legionella, norovirus, rotavirus, and salmonella. These can cause diseases with nasty symptoms and complications including fever, diarrhea, stomach pain, and rashes.

Showerhead Filters

Drinking water safety is one concern. What about shower water? Even if your water is safe to drink, some hair care experts suggest that chemicals in tap water can affect the hair and scalp, especially for people with sensitive skin. A showerhead filter may improve the texture and health of hair. One dermatologist recommends MDhair and Jolie brand filters for removing chlorine and heavy metals.

That’s a scary list, but it’s important to note that most tap water in the U.S. is safe to drink. Under the Safe Drinking Water Act, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates more than 90 contaminants in the public water supply. It’s the exception, rather than the norm, that these chemicals and germs are present in water in concentrations high enough to cause health effects.

How to Learn About Your Tap Water

But for peace of mind, any resident can read the details on their tap water and decide if a filter is right for them.

The first way to learn more about your tap water is to look up its “report card” online. For those whose tap water comes from a public facility, that facility is required to send residents a Consumer Confidence Report every summer. These should be available through the EPA website, but may not be uploaded for every zip code. Unfortunately, the reports are also notoriously difficult to read and interpret.

An easier way to look up a report on your water is through the Environmental Working Group (EWG). They provide a zip code lookup tool and easy-to-read list of the contaminants that government testing found in your facility’s water supply. EWG also offers comparisons between the amount of contaminant found in the water, the government limit, and EWG’s recommended limit. “Getting a passing grade from the federal government does not mean the water meets the latest health guidelines,” EWG says. Their lookup tool provides valuable data for those who want to do their own research.

The second way to find out more about your tap water is to test it yourself. People who drink well water don’t have access to online water utility reports and will want to test their well water at least once/year. Consumer Reports says that these two testing kit services provide accurate results: mytapscore.com and watercheck.com charge $189 and $195, respectively, for basic water testing kits and processing.

Finding a Filter

So, you’ve read the report and decided you want to invest in a water filter. Options abound. EWG provides helpful guides to show which kinds of filters will remove which chemicals and/or microbes from your water, so that’s a good place to start.

When choosing a filter, NSF/ANSI provides the industry standard. Different ratings apply to different purposes, for example:

NSF P231 purifiers are rated to remove microbiological contaminants according to EPA guidelines.
NSF/ANSI 42 filters are rated to remove contaminants that affect the taste of water, like chlorine.
NSF/ANSI 53 filters are rated to reduce contaminants that cause health effects.

There are a ton of filters on the market, so looking for the NSF certification can help to narrow the search and ensure you’re getting a solid product.

When a serious contamination is present, and even washing clothes with the water is not advised, a whole-home filtration system will filter water at the entry point to the house. Those systems have large upfront costs and are usually not needed, so most people opt for an under-sink filter, faucet filter, or pitcher filter. Depending on the rating, these will remove different contaminants from tap water. It’s important to match the filter to your water’s test results and your own personal standards for water purity.

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/drinking-water/causes/chemicals-that-can-contaminate-tap-water.html

https://www.cdc.gov/drinking-water/causes/germs-that-can-contaminate-tap-water.html

https://apnews.com/article/water-filters-pfas-tap-drinking-041e85cc583e4a7e21b52861cc9b31a4

https://www.epa.gov/privatewells/protect-your-homes-water

https://www.cdc.gov/drinking-water/prevention/about-choosing-home-water-filters.html

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

For Seniors, How Much Protein Is Enough?

2026-06-09T10:25:13.155-07:00

One in three adults over age 50 don't get enough protein. Adding more protein can translate into real increases in strength and overall health.

Protein is trending. These days, you can purchase high-protein cereal, pancake mix, potato chips, even high-protein iced coffee. The hype around protein might lead some people to dismiss it as a passing trend, but not so fast. While there’s no reason to start adding ultra-processed protein-enhanced chips to your diet, the nutrient itself is essential for healthy aging.

Protein intake has been shown to help counteract the gradual diminishment of muscle mass, also called sarcopenia, that tends to start after age 30. The effects of sarcopenia affect around five to 13 percent of people aged 60 to 70, and up to half of people over 80. Those effects include difficulty getting up from chairs, slower walking, balance problems, and fatigue. All these difficulties contribute to an overall higher risk of falls. Plus, loss of muscle mass has been linked to a weakened immune system.

In other words, adequate protein intake has been shown to help the body avoid two of the main age-related mortality factors: falls and communicable diseases. So, how should seniors ensure they’re eating enough protein?

The Benchmarks

According to the National Resource Center on Nutrition and Aging, people over 19 should aim for 0.9 grams of protein per kilogram of weight. People over 65 should up that amount to 1.0 to 1.2 grams per kilogram of weight; in other words, at least half a gram of protein per pound of body weight, so a person who weighs 180 pounds should aim for 90 grams/day.

Is that a lot? For Americans over age 50, the answer would seem to be yes: about a third don’t get enough protein. But the good news is that starting to eat more protein at any age can create a noticeable impact on energy and strength.

Once you know your target, familiarize yourself with how much protein is offered by typical serving sizes of common foods. A 3-ounce serving of cooked chicken breast (about the size of a deck of cards) has roughly 26 grams of protein, making it one of the most protein-dense everyday foods. The same size serving of canned tuna or salmon is similar, coming in around 22–25 grams. A half-cup of cooked lentils or black beans has about 9 grams. Among other high-protein everyday foods, a quarter-cup of almonds or peanuts has about 7 to 8 grams, and two tablespoons of peanut butter delivers about 7 grams.

Eggs are a convenient benchmark: one large egg has about 6 grams, so a two-egg breakfast gives you around 12 grams. Greek yogurt is a standout among dairy products, with 6 ounces typically offering 15 to 17 grams, while regular yogurt has roughly half that. A cup of cottage cheese is another strong option at about 25 grams, and a cup of milk provides around 8 grams of protein.

Getting Enough Protein in a Day

Prioritizing these foods is the best way to increase protein intake. Doctors and researchers do not recommend opting for the trendy protein-enhanced ultraprocessed foods over these whole foods. The tradeoffs in empty calories and additives mean these foods are not, on balance, healthy options. Whole foods offer much more fiber, another essential nutrient for healthy aging.

That said, ultraprocessed foods aren’t the only way to sneak more protein in a daily diet. By topping oatmeal with chia seeds, and sprinkling milk powder into creamy soups or smoothies, you’re adding several grams of protein. And processed oral nutrition supplements in the form of powders, ready-to-drink liquids, or puddings may be ideal for some people who have difficulty chewing or swallowing.

Experts recommend aiming for 20-30 grams of protein at each meal, depending on your needs. Spacing protein intake out across the course of a day allows the body to absorb and process the maximum amount of the nutrient. And while you’re strategizing how to add more protein into each meal, keep in mind that Vitamin D is important for metabolizing protein. Many adults benefit from taking Vitamin D supplements–ask your doctor if this could be a good option for you.

Protein is even more important for people with other health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or kidney disease. People who are taking GL-P1 weight loss drugs may also need more protein. Again, ask your doctor to help determine your specific needs or refer you to a nutritionist for help planning meals.

For seniors who haven’t been hitting the recommended protein intake, eating more protein-rich foods may help them to start feeling healthier and stronger. This is one trend worth jumping on.

Sources:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3060646/

https://www.aarp.org/health/healthy-living/foods-to-preserve-muscle-mass/

https://www.ncoa.org/article/8-signs-of-protein-deficiency-in-older-adults /

https://www.ncoa.org/article/how-much-protein-do-older-adults-need/

https://acl.gov/sites/default/files/nutrition/Nutrition-Needs_Protein_FINAL-2.18.20_508.pdf

https://publichealth.jhu.edu/2026/americas-protein-obsession-explained

Camping Tips for Seniors

2026-06-04T14:01:10.079-07:00

Tent camping is for everyone. And with a few new pieces of gear, it can even be comfortable.

Woodsmoke, fireflies, s’mores, singing. Memories of camping trips bring up all these sensory details. (Maybe also sore backs, itchy bug bites, and chilly feet.) Whether the memories are happy, uncomfortable, or both, camping is nostalgic for many seniors. And in retirement, weekday campsite reservations are just a few clicks away.

June can be the perfect time to get back into the woods. June is not only National Camping Month, but also Great Outdoors Month. On June 13, National Get Outdoors Day, the U.S. Forest Service waives day use fees at most of its sites. And on June 21, the summer solstice, campers have more daylight to enjoy than on any other day of the year.

If you’re drawn to the thought of roasting marshmallows over the fire out of cell service range, here are some words of encouragement and a few tips for getting outdoors, even if it’s been years since you last pitched a tent.

Camping Is Good For You

Time in nature has myriad science-backed health benefits, particularly for older adults. Exposure to green space has been shown to reduce hospital admissions for Alzheimer’s disease. Spending time outdoors in nature is also linked to decreased stress, improved cognitive function, improved mood, and reduction in chronic disease. Nature is a powerful force for well-being.

When planned carefully, camping is also good for your wallet. While hotel rooms go for $120, $150 and up per night, most campsites cost less than $50. Of course, gear adds to that total, but once you’ve made that up-front investment, making camping a habit can really stretch your vacation budget.

Find Your Perfect Site

State parks are still a top option for beautiful campsites with amenities like bathrooms, showers, parking pads, picnic tables, and fire pits. New websites offer other campsite booking options, too. On Hipcamp, you can search for private and unique campsites. The website lets you filter for “glamping” options (that’s glamorous camping, for the uninitiated). When glamping, the primary objective is to be out in nature and feeling luxurious at the same time. Glamping might entail a tiny house, a yurt, a furnished canvas tent, or other unique accommodations with a cozy, even magical feel. The Dyrt is a similar site that also lists public campgrounds, with reviews.

Reserving ahead–sometimes months in advance, for the most popular sites–is advised, to ensure you find a site with all the amenities you desire. When the day arrives, be sure to arrive early enough to set up your tent in plenty of daylight.

Gather the Essential Gear

Those who were avid campers in their youth might feel a certain way about upgrading to glamping, or even upgrading their sleeping pad. But embracing new gear can make a big difference in comfort and enjoyment of a camping weekend.

For most seniors, a sturdy camping chair is a must for a tent camping weekend.
If you’re buying a new tent, consider choosing a “cabin tent” that you can stand up in, for ease of motion. If possible, buy the tent in person to make sure it’s easy for you to set up. (If you haven’t bought a tent in many years, prepare for a pleasant surprise–tent pole technology has come a long way!)
Get a headlamp rather than relying on a handheld flashlight.
Trekking poles seriously ease pressure on the knees and assist with balance on hikes.
For a good night’s sleep, consider investing in a warmer sleeping bag than you used to need as a younger camper.
A cabin tent can accommodate a cot for campers who want to avoid having to get all the way down the ground and back up again. There are also lots of high-quality self-inflating mattress pads on the market.

Plan for Mealtime

Sometimes food just tastes better outdoors. When packing for a tent camping weekend, there are always freeze dried meals for the novelty, if you want to eat like an astronaut. But really, freeze dried meals are ideal for backpackers, where every ounce of weight counts. Car camping leaves room for more gourmet fare.

If you’re packing a cooler with burgers, meat, or other perishable foods, plan to cook them on the first night.
Foods that don’t need refrigeration, like cans of tuna, peanut butter, bread, and fruit, make meals and cleanup easy.
Bring water bottles to refill, or plenty of water if there’s none on site. Older adults are more susceptible to dehydration and heat illness, so if water isn’t your drink of choice, make sure to pack plenty of your favorite hydrating beverage.
Remember utensils, including a knife, and tools like aluminum foil for cooking over the fire.
Reusable dishes and cups reduce waste. Bring along a small amount of dish soap and a sponge for cleaning up in the campground utility sink. Single use dishware makes things easier; remember to bring a bag to collect all trash and leave the campsite just as you found it.

This summer, make any day Get Outdoors Day, and create some new camping memories.

Sources:

https://www.seniorsguide.com/lifestyle/12-tent-camping-tips-for-seniors/

https://12oaks.net/camping-for-seniors/

https://www.who.int/europe/activities/improving-health-and-well-being-through-nature

https://rethinkrural.raydientrural.com/blog/camping-for-seniors

https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/retirees-are-getting-into-camping-heres-how-you-can

Famous & 65

2026-06-04T13:31:26.360-07:00

Look who's turning 65 this month

Find out which celebrities are turning 65 this month!

June 9

This Canadian-American charmer became a household name playing the Reagan-loving Alex P. Keaton on Family Ties before rocketing to superstardom as time-traveling teenager Marty McFly in one of the most beloved film franchises in Hollywood history. Equally acclaimed for his later role on Spin City, he stunned the world in 1998 when he publicly revealed he had been privately battling Parkinson's disease for seven years. He founded a research foundation that has since influenced the course of Parkinson’s research and raised over a billion dollars toward finding a cure.

Answer: Who is…. (click here to reveal)?

June 14

This flamboyant pop icon stormed the early 1980s wearing braided hair, elaborate makeup, and flowing robes that made him impossible to ignore. A white British man, this birthday boy’s voice was so soulful that many radio listeners initially assumed he was a Black American woman. As frontman of Culture Club, he delivered global hits like “Karma Chameleon” and “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me,” winning a Grammy for Best New Artist in 1984. His very public struggles with heroin addiction and legal troubles dominated tabloids for years, yet he staged multiple comebacks. He was a beloved and pioneering figure in LGBTQ+ visibility before such representation was widely celebrated.

Answer: Who is…. (click here to reveal)?

June 21

This Paris-born son of Spanish exiles spent decades as a restless musical nomad, blending punk, reggae, cumbia, salsa, and North African rhythms into a new, border-defying sound. After leading the beloved French group Mano Negra, he went solo in 1998 and released Clandestino, a lo-fi masterpiece recorded across multiple continents that became one of the best-selling world music albums ever. Fiercely anti-globalization and deeply political, he famously shuns mainstream commercial success, preferring impromptu street concerts and solidarity with marginalized communities over stadium tours and record label machinery.

Answer: Who is…. (click here to reveal)?

June 25

After toiling in obscurity well into his thirties, this famously British comedian co-wrote and starred in a little BBC mockumentary about a painfully deluded paper company manager. The cringe-inducing show became so influential that it spawned dozens of international adaptations including an American version that ran for nine seasons. He parlayed that success into a Hollywood acting career and multiple Netflix specials. To American audiences, he’s perhaps most famous for his wickedly barbed hosting stints at the Golden Globes, where he roasted Hollywood's elite to their faces with spectacular, consequence-free audacity.

Answer: Who is…. (click here to reveal)?

Sources:

Wikipedia

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

Automating Pet Care with the Latest Tech for Cat and Dog Parents

2026-05-08T09:32:00.000-07:00

Today's pet care gadgets make playtime and mealtime a breeze.

Smart home technology isn’t just for humans. From automated litter boxes to food bowls to pet doors, today’s pet care is high tech. That’s good news for seniors and people with mobility considerations, because these gadgets help reduce the repetitive motions that come with caring for our furry friends,gtfrty like bending down to refill food bowls, scoop poop, or retrieve a toy to play fetch. People with balance issues may want to limit these motions as much as possible.

For many, one of the great benefits of aging in place is being able to continue to care for dogs and cats. These automated tools can lighten the pet care workload and help seniors keep their pets healthy and close.

Automated Pooper Scoopers

Automatic litter boxes are a godsend to people who love cats but hate the daily chore of scooping. The most upscale models turn like a front-loading washing machine (only when they sense no cat present) to sift the cat waste from the clean litter. But if $699 for a litter box isn’t in your budget, there are somewhat less expensive models that advertise 15 days of no scooping (for one cat).

Can you buy a robot to pick up dog poop from the backyard? Not yet. But, no surprise, it’s in development. Prototypes include the Poomba (like a Roomba, but… you know) and the Poopcopter, a drone that uses AI to detect dog waste, hovers over it, and scoops it up while owners are miles away. These are not yet, and may or may not ever be, available to the public for purchase. For now, there are ergonomic pooper scoopers that help save the back and knees from repeated bending and scooping. A lightweight long-handled scooper is easy to carry on a walk.

Food dispensers

Automatic pet feeders save owners time and effort, and they also help with portion control for pets on a diet. Dry food dispensers for dogs and cats can be programmed to release a certain amount of food at set times during the day. Don’t be surprised if your pet gets wise to the schedule and starts to sit and wait by the food bowl. Some owners appreciate that the food robot–rather than they themselves–becomes the object of their pet’s impatient attention at mealtime.

Wet food dispensers are a newer option. Fill up four to six compartments with a wet food meal portion, and the robot will reveal them to your pet at the scheduled time.

Electric or battery-powered water fountains provide fresh running water and need to be refilled and refreshed less often than simple water bowls. Stainless steel fountains will be easier to clean and promote less bacteria growth as compared to plastic fountains. You can pay between $20 for a basic fountain and $200 for large models with multi-filtration systems.

Automatic pet doors

When dog or cat parents are out of the house for an extended period of time, they may want their pup or cat to be able to enter and leave the house at will. Or they may just want to avoid having to stand up and sit down constantly for the fickle pet who can’t decide if they want to be in or out.

Smart pet doors solve the problem while allowing owners to keep the doors locked and the house secure. Automatic flap doors will unlock and open only when your pet approaches—and they won’t open for just any pet or critter. The door reads the electronic identifier on their collar before granting entry. Some smart cat doors can even use the microchip your cat already has implanted as their personal “key card.”

Smart Toys for Playtime

Kittens and puppies have an inexhaustible desire to play–at least, their owners get exhausted much more quickly than they do. Interactive play time has been shown to reduce anxiety and destructive behaviors in dogs and cats. But the repeated motions of games of fetch can be difficult for seniors with mobility issues. Luckily, rechargeable and battery-powered toys extend playtime while giving pet parents a break.

Treat dispenser toys like the PetSafe Interactive Feeder get cats moving as they try to roll the ball to release its tasty contents. Fancier options, like the Cheerable Wicked Egg for dogs and cats, light up, make noise, and move autonomously to “kill boredom” while owners are otherwise occupied.

With a simple laser pointer, seniors can stay seated in one place while providing mind-blowing entertainment for cats. Automated laser pointer toys like the Dancing Dot make the game even easier: the hands-free gadget projects the elusive red dot in a random motion that cats love, even when owners are away or otherwise occupied.

Keeping pets healthy and entertained has never been simpler, if you’re willing to invest in some new technology. Have you tried any of these gadgets in your home? Let us know how they work for you!

Sources:

https://cheerble.com/blogs/cheerble-blog/keep-your-pup-mentally-stimulated-and-engaged-with-smart-dog-toys

https://www.fau.edu/engineering/senior-design/projects/fall2022/poomba-automated-dog-waste-cleaner/

https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/poopcopter-ai-drone-scoops-dog-poop

https://www.seniorsguide.com/aging-in-place/10-pet-care-products-for-seniors-from-feeding-to-playtime/

Ask These Ten Questions to Save Money on Prescriptions

2026-05-08T09:18:00.000-07:00

Asking the right questions could help you shrink your next prescription bill.

The cost of medication seems to keep rising, but there are small actions consumers can take to nudge those prescription costs in a downward direction. Before you fill your next script, ask yourself these ten questions.

1. Am I getting the generic version of the drug? If not, could I request it? According to a 2022 report by the Association for Accessible Medicines, generic drugs fill 91% of U.S. prescriptions, yet they only account for 18.2% of spending on prescription drugs. In other words, the vast majority of dollars that Americans spend filling prescriptions, they spend on brand-name drugs. The average brand-name co-pay is $56.12, while the average generic co-pay is $6.16, and generic co-pays are under $20 about 93% of the time. So, ask your doctor this question to make sure you’re not inadvertently paying way more than necessary for the formulation you need.

In almost every instance, the generic form of a drug will meet a patient’s needs the same way the name brand will. That’s because the generic drug needs to be bioequivalent to its counterpart in order to gain approval from the FDA. When talking to your doctor, consider asking about these two factors that may tilt the decision in favor of a name brand drug, and away from savings, for health reasons:

For certain blood thinners, cancer drugs, and seizure drugs, even a very small alteration in ingredient quantities could cause side effects or lessen the effectiveness of the drug.
Those with certain allergies may need to choose name brand medications in some instances.

2. If I need or want the brand-name drug, does the manufacturer offer coupons or rebates? To help patients afford brand-name prices, the drug company will often provide rebates. Check their website or call to ask what discounts they offer. Your doctor may also be able to provide free samples, sometimes saving you a month’s co-pay.

3. Do I qualify for a manufacturer’s Prescription Assistance Program? Many drug manufacturers also offer free or reduced medication to people who meet specific income eligibility criteria. Websites like NeedyMeds and RxAssist provide search tools to find which of your prescriptions might qualify for coverage.

4. Would a 90-day supply have a lower per-pill cost? Check your co-pay for different amounts of prescription and compare. Your up-front costs may be more, but in the end, you could end up paying less per pill, or per day.

5. Is there a coupon for my prescription on GoodRx, SingleCare, or another app? The beauty of these savings platforms is that they’re available to everyone, regardless of insurance status. GoodRx, SingleCare, and other savings apps are not insurance, but they can help you save money with valuable coupons for prescription drugs. GoodRx and SingleCare are free to use; GoodRx also offers a paid version. They are a form of payment, so they can’t be combined with insurance–for that reason, they come in handy for uninsured people, and for insured people who haven’t yet met their deductible or who need a medication their insurance doesn’t cover. Keep in mind that GoodRx prescription purchases won’t count toward the $2,100 annual Medicare cap.

6. What discounts can my pharmacy offer? Some pharmacies like Costco and Publix offer their own discount cards, similar to GoodRx or SingleCare. It’s always worth asking how your local pharmacy might be able to help you save. And, for extra savings, keep in mind that when flu season rolls around again, some supermarkets will give you a discount on your grocery haul when you get your flu or COVID shot at their in-store pharmacy.

7. Does my pharmacy or insurance provider deliver? Looking at the big picture, you can save time and gas money by skipping the regular pharmacy trips, if you can get prescriptions delivered. Providers like Kaiser Permanente, United Healthcare, and others offer free delivery for most prescriptions.

8. Does my insurance require me to use in-network pharmacies? Some providers, including Medicare Part D, will offer lower co-pays on prescriptions filled at their in-network pharmacies. If you’re not sure whether that’s the case for your provider, it’s definitely worth checking.

9. Am I eligible for Medicare Part D Extra Help? For people who meet federal income guidelines, the Medicare Extra Help program can lower copays and deductibles. For help navigating the application process, State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIP) offer free guidance.

10. Could I fill my pet’s prescription at my pharmacy for less? In comparison with the vet’s office, human pharmacies might be able to fill your pet’s prescription at a lower cost. Ask your vet for a written prescription to be able to compare prices. GoodRx and other coupon apps might be able to help you out with pet meds, too!

Additional Sources

https://www.uhc.com/news-articles/benefits-and-coverage/9-ways-to-save-on-prescriptions

https://www.211.org/about-usblog/7-easy-ways-save-prescriptions-today

https://smartasset.com/personal-finance/singlecare-vs-goodrx

This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional financial advice from a qualified financial advisor.

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

On Trend: IV Therapy Drips

2026-05-07T12:35:00.000-07:00

Can intravenous vitamin therapy boost energy and immunity?

Ah, a day at the spa: the sauna, a massage, a facial…and an IV drip? Increasingly, around the country, medical spas and other wellness providers are offering vitamin or nutritional intravenous therapy. What’s behind the trend, and what should seniors know?

What Is IV Therapy?

IV therapy involves intravenous treatments of vitamins and minerals advertised to improve general energy and wellness, improve hydration, treat vitamin deficiency, prevent or treat headaches, or even cure hangovers. Historically, IV drips have been prescribed by doctors as part of larger medical treatment plans for cancer, alcohol abuse disorder, dehydration, and other conditions. Today, more and more providers are offering elective IV therapy, often in a spa-like atmosphere.

Some naturopathic doctors have been incorporating IV therapy drips into their practice for decades. Jeff Goodman, ND, of Ocean Healthcare Group in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, says the results speak for themselves after 40 years of administering nutritional IV therapy to his patients. Each new patient undergoes bloodwork and a personal analysis to determine any nutrient deficiencies, and with that baseline, Dr. Goodman and his team develop a combination of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to meet their needs. Unfortunately, he says, many places offering IV drips use a cookie cutter approach that doesn’t result in the outcomes he sees in his patients: improved nutrient levels in the blood and increased energy and well-being.

Indeed, many places offering IV therapy today aren’t staffed by doctors or nurses, including many of the new medical spas. The number of medical spas in the U.S. doubled from about 5,000 to over 10,000 in just the past five years.

Evidence for IV Therapy Benefits

To date, the scientific consensus is that, for most people, the benefits of vitamin IV therapy are limited. The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) recently concluded, “Expensive IV therapy isn’t backed by science and could be risky for your health.” They note that a scientific review in 2023 found no evidence that IV vitamin therapies provide benefits for healthy adults. According to the study, only a critical illness or a severe vitamin deficiency, like scurvy, calls for an IV vitamin treatment. Other studies have suggested that Vitamin C IV therapy could improve side effects of cancer treatment, and one study showed improvements in chronic pain symptoms for people with fibromyalgia. But no large-scale research has yet shown measurable improvements in generally healthy people.

Some medical spas advertise IV therapy as a hangover cure, but CSPI says don’t waste your money–drinking water and resting are just as effective. An IV drip might be prescribed to someone with alcohol poisoning or chronic alcohol abuse disorder, but for a run-of-the-mill hangover, it’s probably overkill.

Similarly, some IV therapy providers advertise “anti-aging” vitamin drips. It makes sense that medical spas would want to sell us the idea that we can inject youth into our veins. But experts say a healthy diet, exercise, sleep, and limiting alcohol and tobacco are still the path to healthy aging.

Considering the limited evidence for benefits, IV therapies can be costly. One IV treatment usually costs between $100 to $250 and up, with option add-ons like a B-12 injection for $30 or more. However, most insurance and Medicare will cover treatments prescribed by a doctor as medically necessary.

IV Therapy: Risk Considerations

Today’s IV therapies are relatively safe, but people interested in trying elective IV treatment should consider the possible risks and side effects. Discuss these not just with the IV provider, but also with your primary care doctor.

Brent A. Bauer, M.D., director of research at the Mayo Clinic section of Integrative Medicine and Health, cautions : “Anything we place in the human body can carry risk, including those things which are thought to be natural, such as vitamins or fluids. High doses of certain vitamins and minerals have been linked to kidney damage, heart rhythm abnormalities, blood pressure changes, gastrointestinal symptoms and damage of the peripheral nerves.” There’s also a small risk of bleeding and vein damage from any IV treatment, he says.

Older adults should be especially cautious when considering optional IV therapies.

Diphenhydramine (Benadryl), included in some IV therapies, is on the Beers Criteria, a list of medications considered potentially inappropriate for older adults, due to risks of confusion, sedation, and falls.
Older adults are at greater risk of vein damage from any injection because veins tend to become more fragile with age.
Hydration is often part of IV treatment and generally safe, but those with heart or kidney conditions should ensure their provider knows their full history.

Make sure any provider administering IV therapy has a complete medication list, knows about any heart, kidney, or cognitive health conditions, and is aware of age-related sensitivities.

Additional sources:

Seiler, J. (April 2026). Mixed bag: What’s in that luxury IV, anyway? Nutrition Action. Center for Science in the Public Interest, pp. 14-15.

https://levoguemedspa.com/post/vitamin-iv-therapy-cost

https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/living-well/iv-vitamin-therapy-understanding-the-lack-of-proven-benefit-and-potential-risks-of-this-health-fad/

https://mydoctorhealthcare.com/iv-vitamin-therapy-safety-for-seniors/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/ketorolac-oral-route-injection-route/description/drg-20066882

One Drink: Too Many? Alcohol and the Aging Brain

2026-05-07T10:01:00.000-07:00

In light of new research on alcohol-related dementia and other risks, health-conscious people are re-evaluating their drinking choices--especially after 65.

Well, it may not be the news we wanted, but it’s the news we needed. If you haven’t yet heard, contrary to prior research, no amount of alcohol is good for our health. Even moderate alcohol consumption contributes meaningfully to mortality rates, especially due to cancer and heart disease.

Another understanding is also growing in the public health community: a level of drinking that doctors may consider “low-risk” for the general adult population may be high-risk for people over 65.

Unique Risks for Older Adults

Dr. Paul Sacco, a professor of social work at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, told the New York Times that older adults may not realize that the amount of alcohol they used to tolerate, even a few years ago, has now become intolerable. Even if they feel okay after one or more drinks, they might not clock that the alcohol is affecting their physical and mental health differently than it did when they were younger. Especially for older people who struggle to meet nutritional goals, nutritional deficiencies can amplify the effects of alcohol consumption.

And for older adults, those effects carry increased risks to health, including the risk of falls and dangerous medication interactions. Among people over 65, alcohol impairs working memory at much lower doses as compared to younger people.

And the effects on memory and cognition are not just temporary. Alcohol consumption over time has a cumulative negative effect on brain health. A 2024 study that followed more than 310,000 British drinkers over 10 years found that alcohol predicted dementia, and that there was “no safe level of alcohol consumption for dementia.” This study did not distinguish between Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

Alcohol-Related Dementia: Both Preventable and Treatable

This and other recent studies suggest that alcohol may contribute to the development of dementia in any form. But a specific kind of dementia, alcohol-related dementia (ARD), refers to brain damage and associated symptoms related to years of heavy drinking. Dr. Reza Hosseini Ghomi, MD, MSE tells an important story about his experience diagnosing ARD in a 67-year-old retired engineer who was experiencing memory problems. Dr. Ghomi writes that when he asked the patient if he drank alcohol, “he said a glass of wine with dinner. His wife said nothing, then quietly corrected: more like three or four glasses, every night for the past 20 years.”

Alcohol-related dementia (ARD) may look like Alzheimer’s disease, but the causes, symptoms, and treatments are different. Alzheimer’s is caused by a buildup of amyloid plaques, but ARD is caused by thiamine deficiency as a result of alcohol toxicity. Alzheimer’s often affects short-term memory first, while ARD affects judgement and planning; that is, frontal lobe function. While there’s currently no treatment to reverse Alzheimer’s, ARD can be stabilized and improved in most cases when the person stops drinking.

After 18 months without a drink, and with thiamine supplementation, Dr. Ghomi’s patient’s cognition improved meaningfully. The neuropsychiatrist stresses that families and patients must drop the stigma around alcohol consumption and be transparent with their doctors. Providers, in turn, should keep ARD in mind when diagnosing patients with dementia symptoms and perform the short AUDIT-C screening to identify harmful drinking habits. Pretending the problem doesn’t exist is the worst course of action and could lead to the deterioration of a treatable condition.

Healthy Aging Doesn’t Include Multiple Drinks a Day

Dr. Ghomi writes: “If you are drinking more than one or two drinks daily and you are over 50, your brain is aging faster than it should. That is not judgment. It is biology.”

Even the previous one-drink-a-day advice is now out of date, say many professionals. For optimal brain and physical health, the right amount of alcohol is no alcohol.

Still, as Dr. Sacco of the University of Maryland, Baltimore says, “drinking has meaning for people,” and whether to completely stop drinking or moderate drinking with care, is a call “to make in consultation with your doctor and your loved ones.”

Additional Sources

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/alcohol-related-dementia

Four Ways to Support AAPI Clients and Families

2026-05-05T13:00:00.000-07:00

Celebrating and serving older adults during Asian American clients and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

Every May, the U.S. celebrates the contributions and cultures of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders during AAPI Heritage Month. The AAPI community is one of the most diverse in the country, encompassing people with roots in dozens of countries across East Asia, Southeast Asia, South Asia, and the Pacific Islands.

The month of May provides a national occasion to celebrate the many contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to American life, including achievements in film and the arts, key influences on American food culture, activism and civil rights work, and scientific breakthroughs. To name just two influential Asian Americans on an endless list, May is a time to remember Dr. Roseli Ocampo-Friedmann, who laid the groundwork for studying life on Mars, and Alice Wong, founder of the Disability Visibility Project.

Professional Organizations Serving AAPI Seniors

The National Asian Pacific Center on Aging (NAPCA) advocates for the dignity and well-being of AAPI older adults and operates senior employment programs, multilingual helplines, and community services nationwide. CSAs who want to list their business as a culturally and linguistically compatible care provider can sign up to be included in NAPCA’s Care Finder. NAPCA also hosts a video library of AAPI elders’ stories.
The Southeast Asia Resource Action Center (SEARAC) advocates for Cambodian, Laotian, and Vietnamese Americans, including older adults and refugees navigating complex benefits and health care systems.
The Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF) works to improve health access and equity for AAPI communities, with resources relevant to senior care providers.

Like the broader U.S. population, the AAPI community is aging. In 2019, there were approximately 2.5 million Asian American adults over 65 in the U.S. That number is projected to grow significantly in coming decades, to almost 8 million by 2060, driven by immigration trends and the aging of established AAPI communities. According to the Administration for Community Living, a little more than half of Asian American older adults live in just three states– California, New York, and Texas–though communities exist in every region of the country. AAPI adults have some of the highest rates of family caregiving in the U.S., often shaped by cultural values around devotion to family. Compared to the national average of 19%, about 25% of AAPI households are multigenerational.

CSAs everywhere, and particularly those serving older adults in California, New York, and Texas, can be intentional about providing culturally appropriate outreach and services to AAPI families. Take the month of May as an opportunity to try some of these tips for supporting the AAPI seniors in your community.

1. Connect with AAPI-serving organizations in your area. In most cities and many suburban areas, there are nonprofits, community centers, and advocacy organizations specifically serving AAPI residents. Building relationships with these groups is one of the most effective ways to reach AAPI older adults who might not otherwise seek out your services. The National Asian Pacific Center on Aging (NAPCA) operates a national network and can help connect service providers with local resources. Organizations like the Korean American Senior Center, local chapters of the Japanese American Citizens League, or regional South Asian community organizations may be active in your area and eager to partner with senior-focused professionals.

2. Offer resources in multiple languages. The AAPI community is linguistically diverse in ways that can be easy to underestimate. Chinese, Tagalog, Vietnamese, Korean, Hindi, Japanese, and Khmer are among the most widely spoken languages in AAPI households in the U.S., and older adults, particularly those who immigrated later in life, may speak their native language more comfortably than English. According to NAPCA, language barriers are one of the most significant obstacles preventing AAPI seniors from accessing health care and social services. Providing intake forms, informational materials, and follow-up communications in the languages most common to your local AAPI population can improve health or other outcomes while signaling your commitment to serving this community.

3. Learn about the most common challenges facing AAPI older adults and their families. AAPI older adults experience high rates of certain cancers, tuberculosis, hepatitis B, and diabetes, with risk levels varying considerably by ethnic subgroup. According to the Alzheimer's Association, AAPI adults are among the least likely to receive a timely dementia diagnosis, in part due to cultural stigma around cognitive decline and distrust of medical institutions. AAPI immigrants who arrived later in life may have limited eligibility for Medicare and Social Security. And AAPI family caregivers frequently take on caregiving duties without seeking outside support. NAPCA offers a Multilingual Helpline that connects caregivers and older adults to resources in English, Cantonese, Mandarin, Vietnamese, and Korean.

4. Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month! Despite being the fastest-growing racial group in the U.S., AAPI Americans remain underrepresented in media, advertising, and public life. Established as a monthlong national celebration in 1992, AAPI Heritage Month is a meaningful opportunity to show your clients, colleagues, and community that you see and value this community. The month's official organizers offer resources and ideas for celebrating. Consider sharing stories of AAPI history on social media, featuring AAPI-led organizations in your newsletter, or simply taking time to learn something new about the communities you serve.

Sources:

https://acl.gov/sites/default/files/Profile%20of%20OA/AsianProfileReport2021.pdf

https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2021/04/09/asian-americans-are-the-fastest-growing-racial-or-ethnic-group-in-the-u-s/

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

Famous & 65

2026-05-05T10:17:00.000-07:00

Look who's turning 65 this month

Find out which celebrities are turning 65 this month!

May 6

This silver-haired leading man first charmed TV audiences as Dr. Doug Ross on ER before becoming one of Hollywood's biggest stars. Starting in 2000, he starred in a series of blockbusters including Ocean's Eleven; O Brother, Where Art Thou?; Michael Clayton; and Good Night, and Good Luck. A co-founder of Casamigos tequila, he's also well-known and respected for his humanitarian work, including with the Not On Our Watch Project to end genocide. After decades as one of the world’s most eligible bachelors, he married a human rights attorney in 2014, and they’ve been one of the world's most glamorous power couples ever since.

Answer: Who is…. (click here to reveal)?

May 13

This flamboyant NBA Hall of Famer racked up five championship rings while dyeing his hair every color imaginable and showing up to book signings in a wedding dress. Nicknamed “The Worm,” his ferocious rebounding made him indispensable to both the Bad Boy Pistons and the Chicago Bulls, alongside Michael Jordan. Off the court, he became perhaps the most unlikely diplomat in American history, forging a bizarre and widely scrutinized friendship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. His “hoops diplomacy” to bring basketball to the authoritarian-led country as recently as 2018 has raised plenty of eyebrows.

Answer: Who is…. (click here to reveal)?

May 17

This reclusive Irish artist retreated from the spotlight to a literal castle outside Dublin, where she crafted multilayered vocal soundscapes that defied easy categorization. Her 1988 solo debut introduced a signature sound blending Celtic melody, new age atmospherics, and orchestral production. Her album Watermark and haunting tracks like “Orinoco Flow” made her one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Composer Howard Shore earned a rare collaboration with this artist for two tracks on the 2001 soundtrack for The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. As she enters her 65th year, she remains famously private, rarely touring or granting interviews.

Answer: Who is…. (click here to reveal)?

May 29

Like our May 17th birthday celebrant, this singer-songwriter also debuted in 1988, with a self-titled album. This raspy-voiced Kansas native earned a devoted following and her place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with her guitar-driven rock and confessional lyrics. She’s been nominated for 15 Grammys over the years and taken home two, for “Come to My Window” and “Ain’t It Heavy.” She also won an Oscar for Best Original Song for “I Need to Wake Up” from An Inconvenient Truth. She’s a breast cancer survivor who documented her journey openly, and after coming out as gay in 1993, she’s been an advocate for the LGBTQ community ever since.

Answer: Who is…. (click here to reveal)?

Sources:

Wikipedia

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

From Sci-Fi to the Living Room: Robots in Eldercare

2026-04-10T09:34:00.000-07:00

Robotic technology is making strides and offering seniors a lift.

It’s been almost 22 years since Paro, the first robot designed for use in eldercare, made its debut. Paro, clinically proven to reduce stress and anxiety in people with dementia, looks like a fluffy baby seal. It responds with movement and sound to a person’s touch. Used in homecare settings around the world, makers of the Paro robot say it encourages nurturing feelings and empowers people to become the carers as well as the cared-for.

While robots have been making their mark in eldercare for decades, in today’s AI-assisted environments, more robots than ever before are entering the rooms where older adults live. In continuing care communities, you’ll likely soon see robots of all kinds–not just fluffy ones. In fact, the eldercare assistive robot market is expected to exceed $3.5 billion worldwide this year. In countries including Japan and South Korea, where over 21% of the population is over 65 years old, robots are already making waves. China’s government is even investing in humanoid eldercare robots, in an attempt to bridge a looming gap in the workforce needed to care for a growing older adult population.

At this stage in robotic evolution, robots in eldercare fall into two main categories: robots for physical assistance, and robots for emotional and social support. In each category, so far, there are examples of both research-backed successes and…technical difficulties.

Robots Providing a Lift Off the Couch

One promising use of robotic technology gaining some popularity is the lift assist robot. As one example, MIT researchers have developed the Elderly Bodily Assistance Robot, or E-BAR. looks like a set of robotic handlebar arms on wheels. The robot can follow a person around their living space, offering support as needed by holding its arms to either side of the person. If it detects a falling motion, E-BAR will assist to prevent a fall. The robot also has the capacity to lift a person from a flat or sitting position to standing.

Seniors, says E-BAR designer and MIT graduate student Roberto Bolli, “overwhelmingly do not like to wear harnesses or assistive devices. The idea behind the E-BAR structure is, it provides body weight support, active assistance with gait, and fall catching while also being completely unobstructed in the front. You can just get out anytime.”

Another, perhaps less successful, example of a lift assist robot is the Hug robot deployed in Japan. Intended to give seniors with limited mobility more independence and save strain on caregivers, the Hug robot can lift a person from sitting to standing and support them with long periods of standing. In a study at a Japanese hospital, though, researchers found that nurses felt reluctant to use the robot or even hostile toward it, saying that having to move it around to different rooms caused more work than it saved. Plus, many residents couldn’t be lifted comfortably with the robot.

Since the need for lift assistance exists, this technology will probably improve. Some cutting-edge robotic exoskeletons are helping people with limited mobility to get up and walk for the first time in years. Many companies have developed robotic assists for the legs, and these “lower limb exoskeletons” show real potential for helping older adults with leg conditions to walk again.

Robots Providing a Lift for the Spirit

Since Paro, that first emotional support robot, others have beeped and blinked their way into seniors’ living rooms, and sometimes their hearts.

Senior Spirit previously reported on ElliQ, https://elliq.com/products/membership the tabletop robot paired with a small screen. ElliQ is designed to provide companionship and care reminders in an empathetic and conversational tone. It’s AI-enabled and HIPAA compliant. “She” can help users place phone and video calls, check the weather, and practice mindfulness.

Deployed across South Korea for years, the companion robot Hyodol may make its U.S. debut in 2026 after gaining FDA approval in 2024. Marketed as the first AI-assisted doll for eldercare, Hyodol looks like a plush child’s doll that interacts like “a seven-year old grandchild.” It converses in natural language and has motion and touch sensors that allow a range of motions. Unlike a seven-year-old grandchild, it also dispenses medication reminders and, if it detects alarming mental changes or a fall, will connect to 24/7 emergency services. Hyodol has an associated mobile app for healthcare providers to monitor patient interactions.

While Wired says Hyodol looks like “something you’d find in a haunted attic,” research has found that some older adults show improved depressive symptoms after interacting with the AI doll. With Hyodol and other human-like emotional support robots, such as Ryan from the University of Denver, seniors’ mileage will vary. Some people will never choose to invite an internet-connected smart doll into their lives, while others will value the entertainment, practical reminders, and companionship it provides.

For seniors in the latter group, robots may be available for free or low cost. Some common emotional support robots, including robotic pets like Paro and the ElliQ companion robot, can be accessed through Area Agencies on Aging or local libraries. Look for free access first, because Paro costs more than $6,000, and ElliQ leases for $249 plus a monthly subscription of about $50.

The truly humanoid robot that can provide both physical and emotional support…who knows if we’ll ever get there? Even if the perfect robot arrives, the need for human caregivers sure isn’t going away.

Sources:

https://blog.robozaps.com/b/humanoid-robots-in-elderly-care

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/1683478X.2017.1406576

https://www.technologyreview.com/2023/01/09/1065135/japan-automating-eldercare-robots/

https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-022-00072-z

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

Investing in Gold and Silver in Today's Hot Market

2026-04-09T12:28:00.000-07:00

Gold and silver prices are through the roof. What should investors know?

For people who invest in gold and silver, the first few months of 2026 have been a rollercoaster ride. Responding to international conflict and uncertainty in all directions, precious metal prices have risen to historic levels–and then sharply corrected, several times. Some of the factors influencing the numbers include the U.S.-Iran conflict, recent jobs reports, and releases of economic data.

Experts warn, of course, against reacting to short-term jumps in the market. But there are some signs that gold and silver will retain the value they’ve gained, and even continue their upward trend. The level of geopolitical uncertainty in recent years continues to push people toward the relatively straightforward value store that gold and silver represent. Plus, in the long term, the demand for silver will almost certainly rise because it’s a key input for electrification and solar energy.

As of this writing, gold and silver are pushing record highs. The Olympic medals awarded in Milan this year have never been worth more.

To determine whether it’s time to sell or purchase gold and silver, trust a financial advisor and your own careful research. For insight into the process for the curious beginner, read on.

Purchasing and Storing Gold and Silver

As with any investment, it’s essential to first establish trust with the people with whom you’re doing business in gold and silver. One place to start is the American Numismatic Association (ANA), the national trade association for coin dealers. ANA hosts National Coin Week April 19-26, 2026, so there may be special events, like coin shows, coming up in your area. You can also visit their website to find local coin dealers who belong to ANA and follow their code of ethics.

Before doing business with a dealer, it’s a good idea to check your state’s attorney general to confirm that no complaints have been filed against them. Always look at reviews, and never respond to unsolicited offers in the mail, email, social media, or over the phone. The adage holds true with gold and silver as with any financial offer: if it sounds too good to be true, it absolutely is.

Many people picture a stack of gold bars when they think of investing in precious metals, and that’s one popular option. But some people choose to purchase something useful so they can enjoy their investment. Silver cutlery, gold artwork, and precious jewelry can make a home sparkle while storing value for the future.

Not all investments in gold involve physical gold bars, coins, or jewelry. Investors can choose mutual funds and EFTs that offer options for gold and silver. Investing directly in mining companies is another way to attempt to profit from rising gold and silver prices. For retirement savings, a gold IRA may be a way to diversify a portfolio with gold and silver without having to store precious metals.

Investors who store gold and silver, either at home or in a secure location like a bank, may choose to do so in order to have complete control over their investment. Storage comes with its own expense and planning, though. When storing silver at home, it’s important to use a climate controlled safe so that the silver doesn’t oxidize.

In the case of theft, hurricane, fire, flood, or other disaster, insurance could save the day. Investors can often add a rider on their home insurance to protect gold and silver–but as the number and value of gold bars rises, home insurance may not cover it. A dedicated policy may be necessary, and those with a significant investment may choose to store the gold in a secure facility with its own insurance.

As with other valuable possessions, it’s a good idea to keep an inventory of gold and silver. Be sure to retain all receipts from purchases to help with insurance claims and future sales.

Cashing In

Today, many investors are taking advantage of the high prices to liquify gold and silver, freeing up cash for other purposes. When that time comes, it’s important to find a reputable dealer. Good signs include many years in business, leadership listed on their website, a lack of complaints, and positive reviews. Reputable dealers will also:

Clearly list the “spot price” (which changes and is publicly available) and their dealer premium
Clearly disclose any shipping or other fees
Never offer extreme discounts on the spot price
Never pressure you to buy more than you planned

If a dealer makes you feel rushed or pressured at all, walk away; it’s a scam tactic. Even in such a volatile market for gold and silver, there’s always time to consider financial decisions.

Here’s the bottom line: while gold and silver are often viewed as a hedge against inflation, their prices can be volatile and may fluctuate significantly over short periods. Financial professionals often suggest limiting precious metals to a small percentage of an overall investment strategy to maintain diversification.

Sources:

https://www.cftc.gov/LearnAndProtect/AdvisoriesAndArticles/Metals10Things.html

https://goldsilver.com/industry-news/article/gold-silver-prices-short-term-noise-long-term-signal/

https://www.forbes.com/sites/conormurray/2026/02/07/olympic-medals-worth-more-than-ever-as-gold-silver-cost-soar/

https://www.cnbc.com/select/should-you-invest-in-gold-or-silver-3-ways-to-invest/

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/how-to-find-a-reputable-silver-dealer-in-todays-market/

This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional financial advice from a qualified financial advisor.

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

Pushing Back Against Everyday Ageism

2026-04-09T10:46:00.000-07:00

Ageism is everywhere, and it can be subtle. To challenge anti-aging comments, practice a few gentle retorts.

When it comes to growing older, attitude matters. In a now-famous study, researchers found that people who held positive beliefs about aging lived an average of seven and half years longer than those who thought aging was a terrible thing. And yet, ageist beliefs pervade our everyday lives.

Changing the Narrative, a nonprofit dedicated to combating ageism, offers suggestions for investigating our own ageist beliefs and pushing back against ageism when we recognize it. Especially for CSAs and anyone who works with older adults, confronting internalized ageism is essential to best serve clients.

Kris Geerken with Changing the Narrative says one place to challenge ageism is in the doctor's office. A healthcare provider might shrug off a 70-year-old patient’s complaint of back pain, saying that’s what they can expect at their age.

"You'll say, 'No, this really matters to me,'" Geerken told NPR. "'My quality of life is really important to me. There are activities that I do… I need to know how I address this pain so that I can continue to do the things I value."

Because of our own unexamined ageist beliefs–also known as internalized ageism–we may similarly shrug off our own health issues or those of our family members, even those that are actually treatable.

“If, for instance, a family member has a negative stereotype about aging and doesn’t take their elderly loved one to get medical help,” explains Dr. Jan Busby-Whitehead, chief of the Division of Geriatric Medicine at the University of North Carolina. “If they just say, ‘oh, everyone this age has memory loss, everyone this age can’t walk or everyone this age has bladder leakage,’ then the older person may not get the appropriate help they need.” The older family member in this situation may need to self-advocate, and CSAs can also support. “A treatable cause of memory loss is a low Vitamin B12 level, and this can be improved with taking the vitamin either as an injection or as a pill,” says Dr. Busby-Whitehead. “A problem with walking might be improved with physical therapy. Many causes of bladder leaking are treatable.” In these situations, ageism is a greater issue than the physical symptoms.

Recognizing Internalized Ageism

Fighting ageism starts internally. Even professionals who work with older adults may sometimes use ageist language without even recognizing it. The phrase “young at heart,” for example, suggests that older people, in general, stop learning and growing, when in fact people learn and grow throughout their entire lives. Some phrases to replace “young at heart” that don’t carry an implicit bias in favor of youth could be “creative” or “lighthearted.”

To recognize internalized ageism, Changing the Narrative suggests:

Ask yourself if you have negative thoughts about yourself based on your age.
Notice how you talk about people who are older and younger than you.
Take a free test to help you understand your own implicit biases around age. (The gold standard is the Harvard Implicit Bias Test.)
Read and watch stories about older people that portray their subjects in their full humanity and personality.

Responding to Ageism in Conversation

Ageist remarks are common: you might hear someone assume that an older person can’t use technology or is forgetful. You might also hear someone using elderspeak, or infantilizing language like “sweetie” or “dear” with older people.

When the comment is referring to someone else, here are some ways Changing the Narrative suggests to push back, gently, against the ageist remark:

“I try to think about what they are doing, not how old they are.”
“My friend is great with technology. She taught me to use my smartwatch.”
“Why do you believe that?”
“Have you ever been stereotyped because of your age? What was that like?”
“Rather than say, ‘She looks great for her age,’ I would just say, ‘She looks great.’”
“What’s something you’ve learned from someone older than you?”

In a job interview, questions like, “Are you sure you have the energy for this position?” or “When did you graduate?” or even, “How old are you?” can qualify as downright discriminatory. Rather than go the confrontational route (at least, if you still want the job), consider a response like, “I don’t believe my age is important, so let me focus on my qualifications.”

In a doctor’s office or job interview, and in everyday conversation, ageist beliefs make a mark. Recognizing and challenging them can also make a real impact.

Sources:

https://changingthenarrativeco.org/ageism-activism-center/

https://changingthenarrativeco.org/2019/11/12/ageism-starts-with-us/

https://www.ihire.com/resourcecenter/jobseeker/pages/10-age-discrimination-interview-questions-you-might-encounter-and-how-to-answer-them

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

The Brain Needs a Workout, Too: Games for Cognitive Health

2026-04-08T14:18:00.000-07:00

Can a computer game help reduce dementia risk? One study says yes.

Games can be serious business. That’s true in the NFL, at the poker table, in Marty Supreme–and in Alzheimer’s research.

In a randomized control study published in February, more than 2,800 people over 65 years of age completed between 14 to 22 hours of speed processing cognitive training in the form of a computer game. Twenty years later, this group of participants had a 25% lower risk of developing dementia.

While researchers stress that more studies must be done, they’re also expressing surprise, even astonishment, at the finding: just a small number of hours of computer-based training can have a significant effect on brain health decades later.

The game used in the study, Double Decision from the company BrainHQ, trains players on processing speed. (Study participants who played memory and reasoning games didn’t show significant improvements in dementia risk over time.) This “speed training” game has also been shown to improve safe driving skills and expand peripheral vision. It asks players to remember which objects they saw in the center of the screen, while also noticing objects appearing to the sides.

The cognitive benefits of learning a new instrument, dance, or game, like pickleball, are similar to the benefits of playing Double Decision or other speed training games. And with those activities, physical and social interaction add on to the beneficial effects, says Dr. Andrew Budson of Boston University, neurologist and author of Why We Forget and How to Remember Better: The Science Behind Memory. He said he was impressed by the recent findings about dementia risk, but that more research is needed. He also wouldn’t personally prescribe computer games over other pursuits for brain health…except perhaps television. “If someone is debating, ‘Should I watch television for three hours or do computer games for three hours?’ my answer is yes, it would be better to do the computer games,” he told AARP.

Brain Training Games That Support Cognitive Function

According to the UK’s Alzheimer’s Society, people should be wary of cognitive games claiming to lower one’s risk of dementia. This research is too new, and not all games have shown the same results.

The good news is that, even though only very limited evidence so far shows how people can use games to lower dementia risk, many studies have shown how games can help people improve their memory, attention, and motor speed at any age.

Crossword puzzles. Some evidence suggests that crossword puzzles can support strong memory into later life.
Sudoku and other numbers-based puzzles. Playing regular games of Sudoku has been shown to improve cognitive function.
Video games like Angry Birds. Yes, it’s true: at least one study shows that video games including Super Mario and Angry Birds can improve memory in older adults.
Pattern recognition and matching games. These games can help improve short-term memory. AARP has a fun library of these online games.

Brain exercises may not be a panacea, but they are financially accessible to most people and carry little risk. The biggest risk might be frustration when the game gets difficult. Another factor to consider is balancing screen time with other pursuits that, as Dr. Budson pointed out, may carry the additional benefits of social interaction and physical exercise. Both of these, of course, have been strongly correlated with brain health in later life.

Don’t clear your schedule to make room for computerized brain games. But next time you open the crossword, Mahjong, or Angry Birds apps, know that you are indeed doing your future brain a little favor.

Sources:

https://www.npr.org/2025/10/22/nx-s1-5581409/mental-exercise-reverse-brain-change-aging-acetylcholine

https://www.npr.org/2026/02/18/nx-s1-5716010/brain-training-exercise-cut-dementia-risk-decades

https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/4-worthwhile-brain-games-older-adults-3

https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/can-brain-training-smartphone-apps-and-computer-games-really-help-you-stay-sharp

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

Planting April Flowers for a Summer of Blooms

2026-04-07T09:49:00.000-07:00

After an especially snowy winter in many parts of the country, we're finally in the season of flowers.

For gardeners, April is when the year really begins. This month is an ideal time to plant flowers from seed and start planning your garden. Prepping for No Mow May? Interested in growing flowers indoors? Or just trying to give your window boxes a little life? We’ve got you covered with these tips to bring color to your home and yard all season.

Planting Spring Flowers for Cutting

Once they bloom later this spring and into the summer, these flowers will be perfect to cut for bouquets. Some of these bright flowers need to be started indoors this month and then transplanted into a garden after several weeks of germination.

Finding Free and Low-Cost Seeds and Plants

Local libraries. Some local libraries host “seed libraries” where patrons can pick up the seeds they’re looking for.
State university Agricultural Extension programs. Land-grant universities often host Extension programs that support farmers and growers in their respective states. The IFAS Extension at University of Florida, for example, offers lawn and garden resources on their website. Reach out to your local extension for tips and connections to find free and low-cost plants.
Community seed exchange events. Neighborhood associations, schools, and other local organizations host seed and seedling exchange get-togethers, especially in April and May. Everyone brings last year’s extra seeds or any plants they’ve started indoors that won’t fit into their garden plot this year. Chances are, a neighbor has extra butternut seeds and would love to take those extra cilantro seeds off your hands!

Zinnias grow quickly and burst into bright pinks, reds, purples, and oranges. They love sun and heat. Plant them indoors and then transplant outside.
Sunflowers can be directly sown in April. Mexican sunflowers, or tithonia, are small bright orange flowers that look wonderful in bouquets. All types of sunflowers attract birds and bees during their long blooming periods.
Baby’s breath or gypsophila produce delicate white flowers that make great filler for bouquets. They’re also commonly used in dried flower arrangements. Sow them directly into the soil in April.
Bee balm has a lovely citrus scent that attracts pollinators and people. These bright red flowers can be sown directly or started indoors.

Choosing Varieties for Indoor Spaces

While lots of flower species will only bloom outside, many others will bloom, and keep blooming, indoors with the right care. Consider these flowers for indoor color. Look for varieties that love shade.

Begonias bloom in shade and indoors in pots, with small colorful flowers. They’re much easier to start from a cutting than from seed. Once they’re rooted, they’re very easy to care for.
Petunias come in varieties that do well in low light and will thrive indoors. These bell-shaped flowers can be pink, purple, white, or a variety of other colors, and they look lovely in hanging baskets.
Violas, small purple-ish flowers that can often be found in yards, also do well in containers indoors.
Orchids flower year over year indoors with the right care, and it’s a joy to watch the delicate flowers emerge.
Amaryllis, like orchids, will flower annually indoors, with even more spectacular blooms.
African violets are perhaps the quintessential indoor flowering potted plant. They can be famously tricky to grow from seed and to keep blooming year after year, but the challenge makes those blooms even more rewarding.

Native Perennial Flowers

If you have outdoor space and want that “wildscaped” look, a native garden is the way to go. By choosing native flowers, grasses, and sedges, you’re also feeding the local pollinators who keep our ecosystem healthy. Plus, unlike tropical annuals, these native perennials will come back year after year.

Moss phlox does well in sunny, shallow soil and comes in a wide variety of colors. It attracts bees and butterflies and then, once it finishes blooming, forms a weed-suppressant ground cover that will bloom again next year.
Wild or spotted geranium makes for a great edge plant between the yard and forested areas. It produces small blue flowers on and off all season.
Golden Alexander, in the carrot family, is a host plant for Black Swallowtail butterflies. It shines with bright yellow flowers, does well in mostly-sunny spots, and is resistant to deer.
Purple coneflower, or echinacea, is a beautiful perennial that bees, butterflies, and birds all love. It’s related to black-eyed susans, another favorite native flower.

Of course, which plants are considered native will depend on your growing zone. The Native Plant Finder from the National Wildlife Federation can help you find the right flowering plants for your yard.

Sources:

https://www.homesandgardens.com/gardens/flowers-to-plant-in-april-2025

https://www.plantflix.com/blogs/news/5-flowers-that-bloom-indoors-and-how-to-keep-them-flowering

https://grownative.org/learn/native-landscape-plans/

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

Famous & 65

2026-04-07T09:19:00.000-07:00

Look who's turning 65 this month

Find out which celebrities are turning 65 this month!

April 1

This Scottish singer stunned the world in 2009 with a televised audition that became one of the most viral moments in entertainment history. Walking onto the stage of Britain’s Got Talent with an unassuming demeanor, she silenced skeptics the moment she began singing “I Dreamed a Dream” from Les Misérables. The performance launched her into instant international fame, and her debut album became one of the fastest-selling releases in U.K. chart history. She’s gone on to sell millions of records worldwide and remains beloved for her beautiful soprano and her down-to-earth style.

Answer: Who is…. (click here to reveal)?

April 3

This comedian and actor rocketed to fame in the early 1980s as one of the youngest breakout stars in the history of Saturday Night Live, where he’s credited with helping revive the show. The catchphrase of one of his characters, a world-weary Gumby, became a classic SNL quote: “I'm Gumby, dammit!” He quickly became a box-office star with blockbuster films including Beverly Hills Cop, Coming to America, and The Nutty Professor. He’s famous for playing multiple characters in the same film. While many of his roles have been raunchy, he’s also starred in family fare: he voiced the fast-talking Donkey in the Shrek franchise and the wisecracking Mushu in Mulan. A Golden Globe winner and Academy Award nominee for Dreamgirls, he’s also a singer and appeared in two music videos with Michael Jackson.

Answer: Who is…. (click here to reveal)?

April 23

This stand-up comedian and actor was the first Mexican American to produce a network sitcom built around his own life. Rising from a tough childhood in Los Angeles, his first break came when Sandra Bullock saw one of his stand-up shows and invited him to star in his own comedy. His self-titled ABC series ran for six seasons, becoming a landmark show for Latino representation on U.S. television. He also briefly hosted his own late-night show, starred in films including the classic Real Women Have Curves, and voiced animated characters including in the Smurfs and Rio movie franchises. His philanthropy has included a focus on his Los Angeles community and kidney disease awareness, after he underwent a transplant in 2005.

Answer: Who is…. (click here to reveal)?

Sources:

Wikipedia

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors

www.csa.us

The Latest in AgeTech: 2026

2026-03-12T10:20:00.000-07:00

We round up the most compelling new AgeTech startups featured at this year's major technology conference.

Each year, AARP hosts an AgeTech Collaborative event at CES, the major technology conference produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA). This January, this enormous event convened over 148,000 attendees in Las Vegas. One of the attractions of AARP’s Collaborative is the Startup Showcase, where founders demonstrate their innovations in health and wellness, care management, and nutrition.

Here are some of the most exciting ideas to come out of the 2026 Showcase. All of the products below reported low inventory due to popular demand at the time of writing. Clearly, they’re making waves in AgeTech this year and setting the bar for next year’s startup innovators.

iGuard Home. As Senior Spirit reported recently, seniors are at twice the risk of dying in a house fire as compared to younger adults, and cooking fires are the number one cause of house fires. Enter iGuard, a startup solution that uses motion sensing to keep seniors and others safe while cooking. The iGuard bills itself as “an easy to use motion sensor control device that simply shuts off the stove when it doesn’t see any motion in the kitchen for a full five minutes.” It works on gas and electric stoves, and can be manually adjusted if the user chooses to set a longer timer–while cooking a stew, for example. Older adults, care partners, and property managers all gain peace of mind from the technology, iGuard says. The devices have been on the market for a short time, and a new, updated version is now available for pre-order, expected to ship in mid-April. The cost listed on the website is $495.

Osteoboost. People diagnosed with osteopenia (low bone density) will soon have a new non-medication option for treatment. Named one of the TIME Best Inventions of 2025 and marketed to menopausal women, Osteoboost looks like a thick belt worn over clothing. It works by delivering vibrations to the lower back, stimulating the body’s natural bone-building capacity in a way similar to high-impact exercise. Clinical trials have yielded impressive results: compared to a control group, women using Osteoboost at least 3 times per week for about 30 minutes lost 85% less bone density in the spine and 55% less in the hip. Available by prescription only, Osteoboost sells on the website for a self-pay rate of $995. At the time of writing, it was backordered 8-12 weeks due to popular demand.

Elemind. Good sleep is critical to physical and mental health at any age. Yet as we age, we’re more likely to be living with health conditions that make it difficult to get a full night’s rest. With hundreds of satisfied customers, Elemind is a wearable sensor that works by “reading and responding to your individual brainwaves,” directing your brain to sleep “on-demand.” It looks straight out of Star Trek: a headband with a central button (and, of course, an associated phone app). Elemind has conducted clinical trials to show that their "neuromodulation technology” helps people fall asleep faster and sleep more deeply. Users slip the headband on before going to bed and let the device sync to their brainwaves in a way that promotes sleep. Elemind is available without a prescription for $399. As with Osteoboost, its website advertises that customers can use FSA or HSA funds to purchase the technology.

Cadense. Like the innovations above, Cadense tackles a common aging-related hazard–in this case, falls–with cutting-edge technology. Cadense shoes aim to prevent falls for people with difficulty walking. These “adaptive sneakers” and sandals help to “reduce toe catching and support safer, more confident movement.” They advertise: “No hesitation. No overthinking. Just safer steps.” Marketed to seniors and people with multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, or other conditions that make it difficult to lift the front of the foot while walking, Cadense shoes promote a gliding motion while also gripping in the right spots with every step. With an easy one-handed closure, they also look quite stylish and come in men’s and women’s styles in a variety of colors. The original women’s adaptive sneaker costs $199.99.

Brainwaves and bone vibrations, smart stoves and shoes–we live in amazing times. While the prices are currently out of reach for many people, here’s hoping these innovators will find ways to lower the price points and make their inventions accessible to more people in the coming months.

Additional sources:

https://www.ncoa.org/article/sleep-statistics-older-adults/

Blog posting provided by Society of Certified Senior Advisors