Upside of 50

Words That Pack a Cultural Punch

Miriam Murcutt — Mon, 13 Sep 2021 14:23:48 +0000

Since my partner and I sold our business (many years ago, when we both reached the ripe old age of 50), we’ve traveled much of the world, in part researching the books we’ve written together. So we’ve crossed the Tibetan plateau, traipsed through Spain staying only in ancient monasteries, hiked the icecaps of Greenland, and journeyed by river boat to the upper reaches of the Orinoco. On most of these trips, I’ve been assigned the role of linguist, my partner, Richard, being an ace map-reader but congenitally incapable of learning a second language. As the linguist, I’ve often discovered there’s a single word or phrase in a foreign tongue that encapsulates the character of an entire culture. For example, there’s the word nomohoni. You won’t know this word, because it’s used only by the Yanomami, a primitive tribe of Stone-Age Indians who live in the jungles of Venezuela and Brazil. We came across this word when we visited one of their settlements on that riverboat journey to the upper Orinoco. There’s no English equivalent, but roughly translated nomohoni means ‘to employ trickery to set a trap for your enemies so you can safely massacre them.’ That’s a complex concept to incorporate into a single word, and most societies (fortunately) don’t need it. The fact that the Yanomami do tells you a lot about their culture and why they’ve sometimes been called ‘the most violent people on Earth.’ Then there’s the word tingo, which again you won’t know, because it’s found only on Easter Island. There’s no counterpart in English, but broadly the word means ‘to borrow things from a friend’s house, one by one, until there is nothing left worth taking.’ Entire books have been written about Easter Island and the flaw in the islanders’ culture that caused their society to fail; but to my mind, this one word, all by itself, says everything you need to know. In Europe, the French have an expression, faire le pont, which literally translates as ‘to make the bridge.’ Again, there’s no concise English equivalent, but it means if a national holiday in France falls on a Thursday, then the entire country will ‘make the bridge’ by taking off the Friday too, and so creating a four-day break out of what otherwise would have been a normal weekend. What this tells you about the French, if you didn’t already know it, is that they don’t much like to work. I’ve tried to think of a word or phrase that captures American culture, but the best I’ve come up with is, we’re number one. It’s prideful and a little aggressive; and it stands in sharp contrast to the phrase the English selected when they were asked to condense their culture into a single phrase. After much debate and discussion, a national-wide survey came up with sorry for the inconvenience, a self-effacing apology that, if nothing else, helps explain why the national pastime in Britain is not cricket or soccer, but queueing (what we call standing in line). Other suggestions would be welcome, and since I’m American (by choice) and British (by birth), no offense will be taken.

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Fitness plan for slimming down in your 50s

Kathleen Trotter — Sat, 14 Mar 2020 22:22:37 +0000

The prospect of cutting down weight can be a daunting experience for the middle-aged, but it is possible when you take a holistic approach. Keep in mind that metabolism is one of the most complex processes in the human body (as evidenced by all the efforts by people to lose weight) and so because you won’t be able to consume a single food product to lose weight, or take up a diet that keeps you in perfect shape throughout, the best option is to target every aspect of human health that contributes to weight. In this article we look at a number of things that you can do every day to keep your metabolic rate optimized so that you don’t have problems with weight in your 50s. So here we go! Strength Training Strength training can seem like a leap for someone who’s never worked out before, but it’s actually pretty easy to get into. The trick is to pick something simple like cardio exercises, and prepare yourself for short, intense workout sessions that you can perform one after another without giving your body time to rest. Work with atrainer to come up with the best workout for you and prepare to sweat! Prepare and eat more meals at home If you’re not already doing this, it could be possible that you’re not getting the full range of nutrients that are needed for proper metabolic function. Bear in mind that supplements are sometimes necessary for getting essential vitamins and minerals into the bloodstream, but ultimately, the best way to provide nutrients to the body is with healthy, home-cooked meals. Eat a whole-foods-based diet Try to get as much whole foods into your diet as possible – that way, you will really the benefits of high fiber, proteins, and amino acids. Foods such as brown rice and unprocessed flour contain fiber and proteins in just the right amounts. And also, this will help to keep you feeling full for longer; and eliminate the need to load up on snacks. White flour should be consumed minimally, or avoided altogether; as well as deep-fried foods, which require much more stomach acid to digest. This won’t mean that food will such for you; it just means that you will have to cultivate a new taste for food. Set realistic goals Whatever your weight loss goals are, make sure not to overburden yourself with unrealistic goals and expectations. This is quite a common problem in weight loss and it can cause you to lose morale before any headway is made. So instead of comparing your progress with other people, remember that everybody’s body responds differently to exercise and dieting, and focus on implementing a system that allows you to lose weight over time. Boost your daily activity level If you take the car whenever you go out, then it might be time you started walking again. This doesn’t have to mean allocating an hour ever morning for walks (although that would be great!), instead, it means finding time to engage your body outdoors. We emphasize outdoors because it’s much easier to stay active for longer when you’re outside than in the gym or at the house. But on the same note, you can burn a lot of calories by doing extensive cleaning at home. However, since you won’t be doing this everyday, then why not take the dog out for a walk everyday, or spend time with family at the park where you can play games and have fun? Change how and when you eat Pay attention to you eating habits and avoid eating out of boredom. There’s always a chance that people eat food when in fact the body is asking for water; so make sure your body is not fooling you into thinking you’re hungry. Count the hours between meals if you have to and watch food portions. Get your sleep We understand that sleep deprivation is more prevalent in people who are past a certain age, but that makes it even more important to practice proper sleep hygiene. Don’t fall for the habit of sleeping four hours a night; that might cause other problems with your health. If you can’t sleep through the night, then speak to a health expert about the possibility of having a sleeping disorder. Evaluate your family health history People that have long-standing medical conditions may be at a higher risk of developing other health problems, so learn about your family medical history so that you can take the necessary steps to prevent diseases that are likely to affect you. This is also important when coming up with a fitness routine because you don’t want to strain your body beyond what’s possible. Stay connected with active friends Having a social life can do more for your health than you imagine. People who have strong social contacts throughout their lives tend to live longerand are generally happier. Find people that share your interests and enthusiasm for life and make them a constant in your daily life. This will go a long way in keeping you motivated to watch your health. Be a Kid Again We all make the mistake of taking life too seriously from time to time, but it’s a problem if this becomes who you are. Remember a time when you truly felt freeand kept the same attitude as you went about your business? Apply this system to your life and it will change the way you approach this s like weight loss.So in conclusion, take things easy and remember to smile! Get free exercises, journals, recipes and tips to become a fitter you!

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Healthy Habits Linked to a Long Life

Brian K. Kennedy, Ph.D., CSO of Ponce De Leon Health — Wed, 11 Dec 2019 23:43:46 +0000

Aging was long thought to be an inevitable and uncontrollable process of functional decline, leading to chronic diseases and, eventually, death. However, aging research has uncovered some surprises in recent years, and the goal of extending the human lifespan (how long we live) and the health-span (how long we are functional and live disease-free), is close at hand. In fact, evidence suggests that people already do things to enjoy longer and healthier lives. Many of these changes are linked to lifestyle modification. Take diet and exercise, for example. Getting regular exercise is the gold standard for a healthier, and longer life. An increasing amount of evidence suggests that a combination of endurance and resistance training can result in a longer health span. Moreover, diets that limit calorie intake and are weighted toward vegetables and fruits, along with complex carbohydrates, are associated with healthy aging. Limiting animal protein, dairy and processed foods made with simple carbohydrates are also important steps when considering a diet for living longer. Occasionally, it’s best not to eat at all! Fasting or time-restricted feeding (for instance, eating only during an eight or a twelve-hour window during the day) has shown long-term health benefits. When considering any changes to what or how often we eat, keep in mind that diets are somewhat individualized—some people are particularly sensitive to dairy or gluten and should modify their diets accordingly. Definitely pay attention to how the body reacts when eating different foods. Also, diet and exercise are linked, and when a person makes changes to one, it can have a negative effect on the other. For example, heavy exercise tends to make people crave higher calorie diets that include higher levels of animal proteins. As mentioned above, consuming higher amounts of protein is not linked to either a longer lifespan or health-span. More and more data suggest that stress is a major contributor to unhealthy aging. Mindfulness can be a successful strategy to reduce stress and maintain our overall, long-term health. I like to recommend different ways to increase mindfulness such as yoga, meditation, and Tai Chi. However, the first key is to recognize when you are stressed, and to take the right mitigation strategies that work best for you. Getting a good night’s sleep is critical to healthy aging. Sleep quality declines significantly with age and may have some catastrophic consequences to our health, if left unchecked. If you are having trouble getting sleep, it is best to seek medical help, before it takes a toll. Research is pointing to other possible strategies that may ultimately have a large impact on the aging process. Proposed interventions include drugs, supplements, and, in the future, regenerative medicine and gene therapy strategies. The drug Rapamycin confers dramatic extension of lifespan and health span in animal models, and the diabetes drug Metformin also shows promise. However, drugs have side effects. Some will take potentially years to be approved, and more research needs to be performed before they can be recommended for healthy people to slow aging. In contrast, supplements with high safety profiles like Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate (Ca-AKG), have been shown in mammalian models to increase a healthier lifespan. Clinical and pre-clinical studies with Calcium-AKG, and other natural products are ongoing, but the data is promising. On a final note, remember that sustainability is key when it comes to lifestyle modification. Make changes that you enjoy, and set reasonable goals that can be maintained. You will likely live longer, and you will almost definitely feel better and live healthier.

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10 Proven Tips for Weight Control During the Holidays

Fred Bollaci — Fri, 15 Nov 2019 23:00:58 +0000

1. Enjoy turkey meat which is not high calorie in itself, just don’t eat the skin. 2. Make stuffing with lots of veggies, apples. You can also use gluten free bread and low-fat or vegan cheese. 3. Instead of sweet potato casserole with marshmallows and sugar, make baked sweet potatoes or yams with a small amount of butter, cinnamon. It won’t need extra sugar. 4. Make a number of veggies sauteed with a little garlic and oil— green beans, collard greens, spinach, kale, broccoli rabe grilled, steamed, poached. Remember lightly sauteed asparagus with lemon is a lovely dish 5. Take a walk in between courses. 6. Serve coffee/tea frequently. 7. Consider lower calorie beverages for a toast. Do a little research to find them. For instance, a glass of Syltbar Prosecco Brut has 49 calories and their Rose has 63 calories vs 95-120 calories for other bubbles) 8. Serve bottled water along with wine. 9. For dessert make baked fruit. Apples, pears, peaches, nectarines, plums, can be poached in water or red wine for and baked at 350 degrees. They taste and smells like pie with 1/3 the calories and no added sugar or crust. 10. Or ask guests to bring creative desserts which aren’t pies or cakes. Consider pumpkin creme brûlée or panna cotta instead of pie. Or if you go out to a restaurant to celebrate, try this.

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Feng Shui – 5 Tips to Create a Happy, Healthy Home

Emma Williams — Fri, 08 Nov 2019 23:26:57 +0000

Feng Shui is an age-old practice, but its principles remain relevant. While it’s entirely possible to implement Feng Shui throughout your entire home using the rules found on a bagua chart or map, there are simpler ways to create the balance that’s needed for a happy, healthy home. Remove symbols of negativity Symbolism plays an important role in Feng Shui. The first step to creating a happy home is to remove anything that might lead to feelings of negativity. Anything that reminds you of fear, challenges, or discomfort should be removed. Anything that can’t be removed, but that might cause you to feel a sense of stress, should be stowed out of sight; for example, keep your bills stored in a file cabinet or desk drawer. Once you’ve removed things that promote feelings of negativity, replace them with items you love. Try beautiful artwork, photos of loved ones, or even a lovely lamp! Clear away clutter Energy, also known as chi, needs to flow from one area of your home to the next. Clutter causes stagnation and prevents fresh energy from flowing. Feng Shui experts recommend clearing away anything that doesn’t have a purpose, or that doesn’t bring you great joy. The reason for this is that clutter causes confusion and emotional negativity while acting as an anchor for energy, stopping the flow of chi and preventing good things from manifesting in our lives. Choose comfortably curved furnishings Too many straight lines can create a sense of harshness and cause energy to flow through the home too quickly. Soften the flow of energy and prevent the so-called “poison arrows” that can form when too many harsh lines and pointed angles are present. Choose soft, comfortable recliners that promote the relaxation that’s essential for good health, and opt for things like rounded tables, picture frames, and mirrors instead of severe, straight edges. Note: You don’t have to replace everything with straight edges; simply adding balance should help the flow of chi and create soft, welcoming focal points. Focus on the front door In Feng Shui, energy enters your home through the front door. You’ll want to make your front entryway appealing, so ensure that your porch or patio is clutter-free, well-lit, and tastefully decorated. Hang a mirror directly inside the entryway and place a rounded console table underneath. If you have no foyer, consider installing a shoji screen or simply adding elements such as a small, round table and a patterned rug to slow the flow of energy slightly and encourage happiness to take a wandering, circuitous route through your home. This tactic becomes even more important if there’s a straight visual line between your front door and your back door. Slowing the flow of chi will prevent energy from leaving too quickly. Balance the elements There are five elements in Feng Shui: Fire, water, earth, wood, and metal. Each should be represented within your home, either physically, or with artwork or colors that symbolize them. The fire element is a great example of one that’s often represented with bright, warm red or orange colors rather than an actual candle or fireplace. Finally, welcome freshness and beauty into your space at every opportunity. Focus on allowing fresh air, space and natural light into your home, add plants and flowers, play music that pleases your ears, use lovely aromatherapy products to add light, natural fragrance, and avoid negative media. With just a little bit of effort, it’s easy to transform your home into a healthy, comforting respite from the stresses of the world outside.

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See Betty White Talking About Women Comedians

Dianne Morris — Sun, 03 Nov 2019 23:53:26 +0000

Betty White reflects on Carol Burnett, Lucille Ball, and being a woman in comedy. Betty White was born January 17, 1922. She celebrated her 98th birthday in January. Vanity Fair quips, “when the star turned 96 she attributed to her long life to cold hot dogs and vodka.”

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Finding Love Again After Loss

Susan S. Etkin — Sat, 26 Oct 2019 18:16:07 +0000

Robert Browning wrote in his poem “Rabbi Ben Ezra”: “Grow old along with me!/The best is yet to be…” which, when considered in an idealistic, romantic light, communicates the idea of two people building a life together. It’s understood that the building process will take many years, that there likely will be ups and downs, but it’s also expected that immense joy will be found in the sharing of that life. There is a hopefulness in these words. Unfortunately, a plan such as this doesn’t always come to pass in the real world. We humans are vulnerable to loss, and all too frequently, loss happens when we least expect it. “So, you’re alone now?” he asked. “Yes,” she replied. “How long?” “Too long.” “I see. Love has eluded you.” “Not quite,” she noted. “I have yet to search.” The woman in the above exchange is not unlike many other single women, regardless of age, who have lost their mates, whether due to death, divorce, or the upending of a long-term relationship. They are stuck, unable to move on and try again. A phobia of sorts has set in: fear of loss. Why chance another heartbreak? Instead, they put aside their need for long-term companionship and their desire for sexual intimacy and re-examine themselves from the inside out, evaluating such areas as career goals and choices, lifestyle changes, finances, health issues and initiatives as well as their relationships with family and friends. A reflective period is often part of the healing process, a process that may take years. Some may decide to reinvent themselves as Alicia Keys writes in her song, “A Brand New Me.” Others may simply determine they are satisfied with the “before loss” model. Then suddenly and unexpectedly, something or someone triggers the dormant need and desire. There’s a stirring. “Oh, excuse, me. Are you using this machine?” she asked. “Not at all,” he answered. “Go right ahead. I just finished.” “Thanks.” He smiled and slowly walked away, allowing her time to examine the goods. Nice body, she thought. And his smile, that’s pretty nice too. The idea of having a relationship with another person doesn’t seem as unimaginable, repugnant, or disloyal. It’s not that memories have faded, but when recalled, they are less hurtful than before. At this point, single women who have experienced loss may not be active love seekers, but they become more observant of persons they encounter in the course of each day, especially those, who on the surface, appeal to them in some way or resemble somewhat their lost mates. They may even fantasize a bit. “What did you do over the weekend?” “I gardened and, well, you won’t believe this, I created profiles on Match and Our Time,” she replied. “You did what? You’re right. I can’t believe you actually did that!” “I decided to give the electronic dating sites a try though I’m very nervous about becoming active on them,” she confessed. “And I’m thinking of joining the Garden Club and taking out a membership at the new gym that opened up near the mall. You know, get out more, meet new people, and all that.” “Good for you. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.” Now the progression noted here may not apply to all women dealing with loss. But at last count, over eleven million widows alone live in the United States [JRank Organization: “The Demography of Widowhood: Age, Percent, and Women”]. Furthermore, the U.S. Census Bureau reports their average age to be fifty-nine. Certainly, they have a good number of years ahead of them to enjoy love and companionship. To put a slight damper on things, men don’t live as long as women, so if a woman is nearing retirement or the age of Social Security benefits, second or third chances of finding a man to love are not as promising. There will be women who don’t seek love after loss for too many reasons to address here. There will be women who actively seek love through a variety of channels; some will be successful while others will fall short of this goal. However, these pro-active women should be commended for their risk-taking mentality, their persistence, and their optimism. “Do you remember me?” Though on the phone, the quiver in his voice came through reminding her of her adolescent suitor, Robert, who asked the same question so many years ago. “Why, yes, I think I do. Weren’t you the guy I accidentally spilled my drink on at the bar?” she asked. “That’s me!” he said, his quiver gone. “Well, I’m very sorry about that.” “I’m not.” Read much more in her Book: And Now There’s You

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Why women choose wrong when it comes to Social Security

Marcia Mantell — Fri, 25 Oct 2019 20:00:03 +0000

A generalization perhaps. Yet ask any financial planning professional he/she will tell you that more often than not, women collect their Social Security far too soon—or too late—depending on their circumstances. What’s The Deal With Social Security for Women (Rethink Press, 2019) by Retirement Consultant and Baby Boomer Guru Marcia Mantell offers a down-to-earth, fun and understandable explanation of Social Security and strategies for women on how to advantageously plan Social Security as part of an overall retirement income plan. “Statistically, women live longer than men. In fact, 25 percent will see their late 90s. So, it stands to reason they should not collect at 62. Yet many do, essentially derailing their retirement income before they even get started,” said Mantell, who is also the author of What’s The Deal With Retirement Planning for Women, as well as the BoomerRetirementBriefs.com blog. “That’s just one scenario I dive into in the book.” Said Mantell, “What makes Social Security a more challenging topic for many women, particularly Baby Boomers, is that men are more likely to manage the household’s finances and retirement investing. Consequently, many lady Boomers are in the dark about their money for retirement and the important role Social Security can play in it. This book addresses those situations head on. I want to uncover some of the Social Security secrets for women before they claim their benefit.” Using real-life examples and interviews with some incredible women, What’s The Deal With Social Security for Women delves into a myriad of Social Security scenarios that take some of mystery out of the decisions. The book is set up in three distinct sections: Part 1 covers Social Security Basics from a bit of history to how your benefits are calculated; Part 2 explores the 4 Social Security claiming strategies for women who are married, divorced, widowed, or single; plus, some crazy situations with WEP & GPO; and Part 3 includes more Social Security must-knows and a final baker’s dozen of take-aways to help women stake their Social Security claim wisely and well. In addition, What’s The Deal With Social Security for Women offers background information on the Social Security program and the critical role women have played in its initiation and history. For example, the architect behind the Social Security Act was Secretary of Labor Frances Perkins. She was the first woman to hold a Cabinet position and served in the FDR administration. The first recipient of a Social Security check was also a woman. And Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg has been instrumental in removing gender biases from various protections. “The number one question I get when I talk to women is whether Social Security will even be there for them,” said Mantell. “While there is the potential for some changes to come, there is sufficient funding for the program to pay its obligations for decades into the future. But it was never meant to replace your paycheck. Social Security has always been a modest safety net for your retirement years. That’s why the decision when you claim is such a critical one. What’s the Deal with Social Security for Women

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First Date When You Are Over 50: The Ultimate Style Guide

Mia Taylor — Tue, 22 Oct 2019 00:54:03 +0000

Dating is hard, but once you reach a certain age, it definitely gets harder. If you’re over 50 and are trying to date, you probably know the challenges that come with being in the dating game. Some women feel genuinely lost, while others are doing really great, the point is, there are no rules that will guarantee you a happy relationship, but some things can certainly help you increase your chances of finding the right partner. One of them is learning how to dress on the first date, so here are some tips that will help you pick the right clothes and feel self-confident and pretty: 1. Act your age The biggest mistake women make is trying to act younger, which often makes them look comical, rather than sexy. Sure, having a great body is always a bonus, but wearing crop tops should be reserved for teenagers and younger women. Now, that doesn’t mean you should dress modestly, but embracing your age and being proud of it can make you look sexier than acting like a college student. The same goes for ultra-short skirts and shirts with weird patterns and childish prints. 2. Aim to conceal your imperfections Being older has its upsides for sure, but when it comes to body shape, some things are more difficult to take care of, such as excess skin, or a bit of body weight. Now, losing weight in the 50s can be more difficult, so unless you’re prepared for grueling gym sessions, it’s better to accept yourself and incorporate some physical activities such as yoga or Pilates, rather than excessive cardio. When it comes to picking clothes, it’s best to opt for pieces that will conceal your imperfections, such as high-waisted trousers and well-tailored blazers. Choosing clothes according to your body type can be a great place to start, as you’ll finally understand body weight isn’t the only factor when it comes to picking clothing items. 3. Classic clothes are always a good choice When you don’t know what to do, it’s best to stick to classic pieces such as a quality pair of jeans and a buttoned white shirt. These items will always look good and well-put, regardless of your age. So choosing a maxi dress with interesting prints will make you feel attractive and self-confident. Dresses and long skirts, paired with ankle boots or even biker boots will make your outfit stand out, especially if you love to experiment with various clothing items. 4. Make sure you’re comfortable Being comfortable doesn’t mean wearing a tracksuit and a pair of sneakers, but rather making sure you’re wearing clothes that are comfy enough so you won’t be distracted during the date. Some clothes are truly stunning and elegant but aren’t meant to be worn during casual dinners when you’re supposed to be relaxed while trying to have fun with your date. The same goes for high heels and ultra-tight clothes — they might look good in photos, but going on a first date should make you feel focused and self-assured, and uncomfortable clothes aren’t the best way to get there. 5. Don’t overdo it Men generally don’t pay attention to dressing up compared to women, so the safest way to look great is to not overdo it. The safest way to pick an appropriate outfit is to match it with the place you’re going to. So, casual date in a coffee shop doesn’t require a glamorous outfit, so it’s best to wear something less flashy and more comfortable. If you’re going to a fancy restaurant, then you know that you should pick an elegant outfit, and chances are your date will do the same. Also, since not all dating sites are created equal, meaning that people who register aren’t always likely to match your interests and personality, therefore always make sure to pick the one, such as that has interesting people who’ll be the right fit for you. Final thoughts Dressing for the first date isn’t hard, just keep in mind to pick the clothes suitable for the occasion, and always remember to be well-presented and tidy, as that’s the first thing people tend to notice about other people.

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Are Your Limiting Beliefs Holding You Back?

Phyliss Francis — Thu, 17 Oct 2019 01:23:34 +0000

As a woman of color, I bought into the belief from a young age that I started at a deficit. It didn’t help that statistics showed women made less money for every dollar our male counterparts made—and women of color make even less. My family taught me that I had to work hard to make money, and my life experiences reflect that. This is a limiting belief that most women and people of color are born into and carry throughout their life. Even though I had a strong work ethic, integrity, and excelled in all of my positions, I still felt that I was coming in from behind while working harder than most. This mindset is exhausting and does not have to be one that we choose. So how can we shift out of this state? Once I began investing in my personal growth and development, I started to see how my mindset informed everything I experienced. That there was another way. I saw that I was more than society’s labels or my self-imposed image, and understood how my outer reality was a reflection of my inner experiences. When I began to consciously shift how I thought and felt about things, my experiences began to change. I didn’t feel like I was being held back by being a woman of color. I was achieving almost every goal that I had set and was experiencing a life beyond my dreams. After experiencing this shift for myself, I began incorporating these processes from my own personal growth and learning into my small business coaching practice. And my clients were seeing accelerated results. Providing professional coaching from a holistic point of view—taking into account mental, physical, spiritual, and cultural roadblocks—has been most effective for myself and for my clients. By shifting your mindset and changing the way you approach the world, you’ll experience success as well as fulfillment. What’s the point of having the big house, the dream car, ideal relationship, or big bank account if you aren’t present or happy enough to enjoy it? After all, you can’t change the world, but you can certainly change how you go about existing in it.

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Money Stories: Women over 50

Christian McEwen — Fri, 11 Oct 2019 23:38:42 +0000

As women turn fifty, it is easy to feel anxious about the many challenges we face, not least the practicalities that have to do with money. Women earn on average 23% less than men, meaning that we make some $500,000 less over the course of a lifetime. We are more likely than men to work part time (with no benefits or retirement plans); more likely to interrupt our careers to serve as caretakers. Many of us too, were raised without the basic financial training enjoyed by our brothers and male cousins, leading to a muffled sense of incompetence, a “learned helplessness,” that persists into our later years. “I grew up thinking that finance and money belonged to a secret society that only males were allowed into,” writes the psychotherapist, Kate Levinson. It’s hardly surprising that when it comes to money, many of us prefer to duck the conversation altogether. We tell ourselves it’s simply not polite to mention it. We hide out in “lies, secrets and silence.” We keep our worries and our triumphs, our moments of ease and generosity, our nuggets of hard-won wisdom to ourselves. Such behavior is very much worth changing. Over the last ten years, I have interviewed more than fifty women about their relationship to money. Again and again, I have heard someone push past tears and confusion to clarify the role of money in her life. I have watched her searching, stumbling, gradually finding words, to arrive at a place of confidence and ease. Such story-telling in and of itself can be tremendously sustaining. But as those stories are carried out into the world — to schools and churches, libraries, community centers, even credit unions — their power continues to grow. Women are more generous than men; we give away 3.5% of our income as compared to men’s 1.8%. We make some 80% of consumer decisions. Our choices have an authority that we are only just beginning to acknowledge. For women to gather together and to share their money stories can be a transformative act, energizing and inspiring. Joining a group can itself create a surprising surge in happiness: as much as doubling our income. If it is true that most women become increasingly happy after the age of 55, with the peak of happiness towards the very end of life, then it makes sense to multiply such happiness, listening to each other, telling stories — and that includes our stories about money.

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How Healthcare Can Enable Healthy Aging

Dr Geoff Caplea — Fri, 11 Oct 2019 14:46:12 +0000

One of the most pressing issues facing healthcare today is population aging. Sometimes called the “grey wave” or “silver tsunami,” population aging is the shift in average age of a population from younger to older ages. Current projections from the U.S. Census Bureau point to 2030 as a milestone year in which older people will outnumber children for the first time in history. All baby boomers will be older than age 65 and one in every five residents will be retirement age. What population aging means for healthcare In addition to the increasing number of individuals older than 65, we are also experiencing a significant increase in the life expectancy of older adults given improvements in nutrition, physical activity and medical care. The net effect, however, is the same – an increased number of people consuming more healthcare services. In terms of direct impact on healthcare, an aging population will increase the demand for primary and specialty physicians, chronic disease management, age-friendly environments, and long-term care to more effectively meet the needs of aging adults at home and in their communities. Because these all have a cost, healthcare organizations (HCO) will need to take creative steps to manage the needs of aging adults. Without thoughtfully considering the scope and volume of the evolving needs of the population, health systems will become overwhelmed as this demographic shift continues. This issue spans outside of the United States Singapore, a country with one of the world’s highest life expectancies, will also be affected from the aging population trend. By 2030, one in four Singaporeans is expected to be over 65. As in the U.S., population aging will significantly increase healthcare costs and a transformation in how healthcare is delivered to meet the needs of an aging population. How can healthcare prepare for population aging? As with any business strategy, HCOs must start by identifying a shared goal with their patients and community — in this case, healthy aging. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines healthy aging “as the process of developing and maintaining the functional ability that enables well-being in older age.” While healthy aging means different things to different people, the primary goal is “creating environments and opportunities that enable people to be and do what they value throughout their lives.” The next step is to identify the current services they must expand and new services they must provide to successfully support patients and meet them “where they are.” Whether primary care or specialty care, care coordination and chronic disease management, or long-term care to enable patients to “age in place,” HCOs must consider the right balance of talented people and helpful technology to optimize healthy aging. Rapid population aging will undoubtedly create challenges for health systems in the U.S. and across the world. By understanding patient and community priorities and working with them to provide needed support and services, health systems and communities can successfully achieve healthy aging.

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How I Became an Ecommerce Entrepreneur After 50

Carole Rains — Thu, 10 Oct 2019 22:27:17 +0000

Starting a new career in midlife can be one of the most exciting and gratifying events of your life. I speak from experience as I became an ecommerce entrepreneur at age 54. Here’s why this career works so well for women 50+. A quick background: my previous careers included 17 years each in pharmaceutical marketing and as a chef. When the rigors of restaurant kitchen work became more than I wanted to bear, coupled with the desire for a flexible schedule that would allow me to travel, I made the decision to start my own online shop. That was 6 years ago and I’m so glad I took the leap. Here are the steps that led to my success: 1. I chose a niche I was passionate about. For a long time, I had dreamed of living in a cozy log cabin in the woods; I also regularly attended local craft fairs. I combined these two interests and founded Rustic Artistry, where I partner with American artisans who design and build rustic chic furniture and décor. I used the same personal interest criteria when I founded my second ecommerce business, Emu Joy, a line of natural skincare products made with power ingredient emu oil. After learning about the many uses for emu oil, I wanted to spread the word so that others could benefit as well. It makes talking to customers from both businesses a pleasure because I’m so proud of my products. 2. I educated myself. Before launching my site I spent several months devouring everything I could about ecommerce. It was so energizing to fill my brain with all this new knowledge. There are many resources available on the web for learning the ropes of ecommerce, including courses, blogs, webinars and You Tube videos on everything from website design to sourcing, marketing, fulfillment and more. Initially I was a bit overwhelmed by all the acronyms and technical terms but now they are second nature to me. 3. I attend ecommerce conferences. I’ll be honest, working from home can get lonely sometimes. My husband and friends don’t really understand what’s involved to run a successful online shop. Attending conferences has been an excellent way to meet and mingle with other people going through the same challenges. Not only have I learned how to improve my business, but I also developed friendships with people who truly understand what I do. 4. I believe in myself. Here’s where age really becomes an advantage. By midlife we have experienced many challenges and have managed to come out on the other side. In 2000 I attended a Tony Robbins program where I walked barefoot across 40 feet of hot coals, and also climbed up a telephone pole where I stood on top then leaped to a trapeze (yes, I was harnessed!). Both activities were a metaphor to teach me that I can do whatever I set my mind to. Women in midlife are smart and spunky, and we absolutely CAN create a new career for ourselves that is fulfilling and profitable. Her company is Rustic Artistry. And her other company is Emujoy

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5 Ways I Learned to Be More Present

Laura McDonald — Sat, 05 Oct 2019 23:56:20 +0000

This summer I made it my mission to plug into each moment, to be more present in all I do, the good, the bad and the mundane. I’m the type who can worry about things I have no control over (watching my kids body surf in the dark swell of the Atlantic) as well as stupid things like dishes piling up in the sink. I decided this summer was going to be different, I was gonna carpe diem the shit outta everyday and (for the most part) I have. Here are 5 ways I’ve approached being more present: 1. I slowed it down. I’ve been blessed with teaching a yoga-boot camp class on the beach this summer. I never know who or how many will show up or what they might expect. One morning I had 5 participants and the next I had 24. Instead of being anxious about this, I shifted my approach by planning for each class then let it all go, allowing myself to slow down and enjoy the uniqueness of the group that day, the lines of the beach that morning, moving and flowing organically with what nature brings as well as the personalities of the students. Finding myself “in the moment” while teaching these classes has been pure bliss. (That’s us on the beach in the photo below.) 2. I released regretting and dreading the end of my favorite season. You know that melancholy end of summer tug that grabs hold of your heart? As the last days of summer begin to wane, I am letting go of worrying about all the things I had planned to do (paddle boarding, reading through a stack of saved magazine articles, jogging everyday) and instead I’m striving to stand in the presence of every second of every day, not looking back with regret and embracing the moment without rushing into the future. 3. I got outside tuned into everything happening around me. At night I watch the stars and get lost in the shimmering dark sky. I love the smell of fresh cut grass and the hubbub of birds chattering in the trees. The sound and feel of my sneakers slapping on the pavement while my dog trots along side me. The breeze on my skin, seeing the way the light filters through the clouds, hearing the distant hum of a plane overhead, noticing the smile on that little girl’s face when she whizzes by on her bike. This is all part of life. Soak it up, breathe it in, feel it, smell it, hear it, see it, taste it. 4. I cleared my demon voice and made room for passion and creativity. The demon voice inside (we all have one, sorry to spill the beans) that spews judgement and criticisms and loves encouraging us to play out destructive scenarios is a super buzz-kill. I told it to shove off and this made room for some spontaneously delicious meals, a few story ideas, lost moments in books, attempts with my watercolors and some sweet moments creating lasting memories with friends and family. The point isn’t the end project, the point is not letting that demon voice rule you. Tuck it away so you can utilize the full potential of your mind and heart, your passion and creativity and share your love for life with the world. 5. I trusted and accepted myself and went to a party. Second guessing ourselves is a sure-fire way to build a raggedy roadblock to living in the moment. I was invited to attend a party with my husband recently where I would literally not know a single person there (and I was informed there were several large guard dogs on the property, which briefly brought back a traumatic childhood flash of Brownie, the mean neighborhood mutt who terrorized me on several occasions.) So that jacked up my anxiety level just a tad more. In the past I would have bailed, but I decided to just go, just be me, just not worry about the dogs. I ended up having a great time and made some new friends. I trusted that the evening would be what it would be and I got lost in the architecture of the old home we visited, the interesting and eclectic guests, the lush gardens, the delicious spinach enchiladas I ate on the patio, the stars in the sky on the drive home, and the late-night spontaneous stop my husband and I made at I-Hop for some pancakes. The evening turned out to be one of the best of the summer, and in case you’re wondering, the dogs were big teddy bears. I’m learning the goal is to not let the thoughts of the past or present collide and junk-up our experience of what is happening right now, in the present moment. It’s not always easy, and certainly not always second nature, but one thing is becoming clearer, my moments and I are getting chummier and I like it. This is a trend I will be enlisting in all four seasons, but summer will always be my favorite.

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Yum! Delicious Sweaters for Fall Weather

Ann Voorhees Baker — Sat, 05 Oct 2019 22:26:26 +0000

Fall is coming. It's time to refresh your wardrobe for the excitement of cool weather and brisk breezes. This year there are so many beautiful sweater choices. And - the best news - they're as easy and comfortable to wear as they are fashionable! Pullover sweaters work beautifully with a large range of body types. Add your favorite jewelry for additional drama. Choose a favorite color for a flattering new outfit. And pay attention to the materials themselves; the lushest, softest yarns feel so luxurious against your skin that they give you a sensual boost when you wear them - a secret pleasure to enjoy, just for yourself.

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7 Top Steps to Prepare Your House for Winter

Elizabeth Dodson — Fri, 04 Oct 2019 01:04:32 +0000

Cold weather affects your house too. Now's the time to take action to avoid problems.

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How To Reduce Your Drug Prescription Costs

Eleanor Foa Dienstag — Sat, 21 Sep 2019 00:23:54 +0000

This is a personal tale that, I hope, will help you better navigate the drug prescription game: especially if your insurer is Medicare. Medicare is my insurance provider. I also signed up for a Medicare Part D drug prescription Plan (Silver Script), but never had significant out-of-pocket costs. Recently, I also signed up for GOODRX, when I saw it advertised on television, because it is a free discount drug card anyone can use in conjunction with his or her Medicare Part D Plan or any private plan. With it, you can compare pharmacy prices and choose the least expensive purveyor of your medicine. Last month, my doctor prescribed an antibiotic medication for my GI disorder. His office suggested that I use Capsule, an online pharmacy in NYC that offers the best price, free home delivery of medications and, best of all, wrangles with insurance providers. My physician knew that the antibiotic he prescribed would be pricey so I followed his suggestion, called Capsule and got the shock of my life when Capsule told me that ( a) a 2-week prescription of the antibiotic cost $3,000, and (b) my Medicare Plan refused to cover it. “Do you have any discount coupons?” Capsule inquired. I didn’t, but then I recalled GOODRX. I gave them all the information on my card and, within a few minutes Capsule called me back and said, “The cost is down to $1,000. Now we’ll go back to your drug insurer and see if they’ll contribute to the cost.” Sure enough, Silver Script said they would now cover $500 of the $1,000. All of this seemed insane. I didn’t have a mortal disease. Nevertheless, for a variety of reasons, I decided to pay the $500 for Xifaxan. Capsule delivered my medication within a few hours to my apartment house doorman. When I went back to my doctor for a follow up, I told him how much the drug cost, how Capsule had wrangled the price down to $500 and how crazy all of this seemed. He looked at me, sadly, and then dropped another bombshell, “And if you were on a private prescription drug plan, the cost would be $20.” “What?” “Medicare, by law, cannot get volume discounts or in any way negotiate drug prices, and therefore wants to discourage its members from taking expensive medicines. On the other hand, private insurers, like Aetna or Blue Cross, etc., can and do negotiate drug prices, and therefore can deliver lower prices to their customers. It’s a horrible situation and we can only hope that this Congress will rectify the situation.” Were you aware of this? I was not. I thought it was only people with rare diseases or chronic illnesses that found themselves mortgaging their homes and losing all their savings to pay for drugs to keep them alive. How wrong I was. As it happens, this week House Speaker Nancy Pelosi unveiled her plan to lower prescription drug costs. It empowers the HHS secretary to negotiate drug prices and also includes a $2,000 out-of-pocket cap on prescription drugs for Medicare beneficiaries and the disabled. Now that I understand the situation I will communicate with my representatives in Congress to support Pelosi’s plan, and so should you. In the meantime, I will always ask my doctor how much a drug costs, continue to use GOODRX – and/or any other discount coupon available — and as a New York resident, will use Capsule (capsulecares.com, 212.675.3900), to fill my drug prescriptions.

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3 Mindful Tips to Support Your Mental Health

Julie Potiker — Thu, 19 Sep 2019 00:30:04 +0000

“It’s easy to let the stresses of daily life overwhelm us and send us into unhelpful thought patterns,” says Julie. “Before I learned mindfulness, I suffered greatly from depression and even had thoughts of suicide. Thanks to a wonderful therapist, though, and my committed study and practice of mindfulness techniques, I now have tools right at my fingertips that can help me through the hardest times. My goal is to share these tools with as many people as possible so others can feel empowered to help themselves, too.” 1. Observe Yourself Without Judgment: When you feel the intensity of a particularly challenging emotion welling up inside of you, see if you can call it out for what it is – i.e., “Oh, that’s anger. Oh, that’s worry.” Allow yourself to observe it with curiosity, not judging it but simply being aware of it. This is the heart of mindfulness. It will take some practice, but once you notice these feelings, you can work with them, giving yourself room to breathe and changing your relationship to them. 2. Comfort Yourself with Soothing Touch: Put a hand over your heart. Wrap your arms around yourself. Give yourself a gentle touch on the cheek or shoulder or your belly. Wherever touch feels most soothing and comforting to you, give that to yourself. This gentle touch activates your body’s mammalian caregiver response and releases oxytocin and opiates in your brain to counteract cortisol, the stress hormone. Try different spots out on yourself and see what works for you. If you’re in public and feel the need for comfort yet want to be discreet, pick a soothing touch that isn’t as obvious to others, such as softly holding your arms or placing one hand in the other. 3. Find a Here-and-Now Stone: This can be any stone that feels good to you; it doesn’t need to be anything fancy. You can find a stone on a walk in the woods, in your yard, at a beach, or even at a craft store. It just needs to be one that feels good in your hand. Once you’ve selected your stone, bring it everywhere with you. Keep it in a purse or pocket. Maybe even string it up to wear around your neck if that feels right. Then reach for it whenever you feel a bout of overwhelming emotion coming on. Allow the stone to ground you. Put your full attention on it. Why? You are choosing to put mindful attention on your stone rather than on ruminating. You are giving your brain a much-needed break from the chaos.

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Quick, Easy to Prepare (Healthy) Recipes

Dianne Morris — Wed, 11 Sep 2019 01:22:33 +0000

Here is a useful collection of delicious and easy-to-make recipes collected from various sources. Breakfast, lunch, or dinner—doesn’t matter which meal it is, you need it fast, and you don’t want to sacrifice nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for a big household or your numbers have dwindled to two, there are recipes aplenty that are fast, delicious, and healthy. Don’t be afraid to mix it up and try new foods or cooking methods. We’ve picked some of our favorites that are perfect for smaller families but can be doubled or tripled to feed a crowd. Some are traditional with a twist while others have unusual combinations that you’ll want to add to your regular recipe line up. Pumpkin Grilled Cheese Pumpkin turns tradition on its head with this recipe by Martha Stewart. It gives grilled cheese a definite fall flavor. Cheese and butter provide calcium, but they can also come with a lot of fat. Opt for low-fat cheeses like mozzarella and try whole wheat bread for some extra fiber. Peach Salsa Chicken A touch of sweet peaches tempers the kick of the jalapeno and combines it with classic chicken and rice. The heat of winter with summer peaches makes this a meal for any time of year. Plus, it takes all of 30 minutes to throw it together. Add a vegetable side dish and you’ve got a complete meal. We love that this one serves two people so no need to cut the recipe in half. Butter Chicken with Parmesan Cauliflower Rice Yes, we just suggested a chicken and rice recipe, but chicken and rice are so easy and delicious it’s hard not to add another. So we went with the path of least resistance and tacked on one more. This one takes a mere 15 minutes and substitutes regular rice with cauliflower rice to reduce carbs and bump up the nutritional value. Once all is said and done, it’s gluten-free and Keto-friendly. Caprese Zoodles If you haven’t tried zoodles yet it’s time to give them a whirl. A little fancy, a little fun, and a lot healthy is the perfect way to describe this salad. This fresh meal is perfect if you’re watching your meat intake and trying to cut down on carbs. You’ll need a spiralizer to make your zoodles then add the cheese and veggies. A touch of balsamic brings flavor and zip that make this a great dinner side dish or main lunch course. Easy 20-Minute Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Homemade teriyaki sauce beats anything in a bottle. If you’re cutting carbs, you can skip the rice and add quinoa or if you’re really adventurous, zoodles. Twenty minutes and you’ve got a delicious meal ready to go. You can always toss in a few more vegetables for variety and extra vitamins and minerals. Instant Pot Butternut Squash and Apple Soup Two delicious flavors of fall mix together in this recipe of pressure cooker perfection. Pressure cookers, multi-cookers, and slow cookers open the door to healthy cooking on your time table. You have to plan the meal in advance, but with recipes like this one that are meat-free, you can use the delayed start and have a hot meal ready whenever you need it. Conclusion Good health doesn’t have to be complicated or hard. The right mix of flavors can make a simple dish taste special. And with these recipes, you’ll bring simplicity back to your healthy cooking.

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The Good, Bad & Ugly About Cognitive Function

John Lewis — Tue, 10 Sep 2019 23:32:01 +0000

Reputable scientists are excited about how certain brain nutrients may improve brain health, even in people with moderate-to-severe Alzheimer’s dementia. First, the bad news. Approximately 5.5 million Americans currently suffer from Alzheimer’s dementia, which accounts for about 70 percent of total dementia cases. The risk of dementia doubles every five years after age 60, rising as high as 50 percent for those over age 85. Alzheimer’s dementia is the sixth-leading cause of death in the U.S., and it is the only one among the top 10 killers of Americans for which no cure or preventive measure exists. With these scary numbers, you would think companies would be pouring money into funding research for new treatments! Here is where it gets ugly Alarmingly, major drug companies are completely abandoning research into new drugs and treatments for Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative disorders. In the past year alone, at least a half-dozen Alzheimer’s drug hopefuls from major pharmaceutical companies bit the dust. The good news Scientists are currently working hard to research new tools and treatments to help people diagnosed with dementia and cognitive decline. One of them is John E. Lewis, Ph.D., a leading researcher who ran a landmark 12-month clinical trial, which found that certain brain nutrients improved cognitive function in people with moderate-to-severe Alzheimer’s dementia. “Many participants had a renewed ability to recall people, places, events and situations, which was remarkable given their disease severity and from what the caregivers reported to us. We published these findings are in the scientific literature,” says Lewis. The first article was published in 2013 in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease. Additional findings were published in 2017 in the Journal of Clinical and Translational Research. A third paper is pending publication. This could be a real game changer Lewis says that while some cognitive decline is natural as we age, our lifestyle can make it worse. For example, most people do not recognize the importance that proper nutrition plays in maintaining brain function. Food can be medicine for the brain. But in this quick-fix age of substituting a pill for food, Lewis cautions that people should be very careful before taking a nootropic (supplements marketed for their ability to improve cognitive function). “No magic bullets exist. In fact, the FDA very recently sent out numerous warnings to nootropic companies for making false claims.” Nonetheless, you should still consider supporting your cognitive health with nutrients that are based on sound science with published findings in a peer-reviewed scientific journal. “Certain brain-nourishing nutrients called polysaccharides may hold the key to treating cognitive and physical decline in people with Alzheimer’s dementia,” says Lewis. In his landmark study, participants were given one teaspoon, four times a day, of a dietary supplement with multiple natural ingredients including very unique forms of aloe vera and stabilized rice bran. The good news is that those same key ingredients recently became available to the public in a proprietary formula called CogniNurish. “This unique ingredient combination creates a broad-spectrum approach to providing the body with the raw materials it needs, including compounds that are crucial for allowing the cells to function optimally,” says Lewis. “This ingredient combination has been missing in the brain health space until now.” Lewis is excited to continue his research to learn more ways we can keep our brains in top shape as we age

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Tips for Keeping Your Grandchildren Safe While You Drive

Lucas Cappel — Wed, 04 Sep 2019 21:18:50 +0000

Knowing you’re still fit to drive is one thing. Taking the necessary safety precautions for traveling with kids is another. Protect your grandchildren from any road mishaps and emergencies using these valuable senior driving tips in this simple guide. We’re all getting on in years, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have fun with our grandkids. As long as you can honestly say that you’re fit to drive, you can keep taking the senior driving test to stay on the road. Your age shouldn’t deter you from making new memories with the newer additions to the family. If you’re looking for some senior driving tips, you’ve come to the right place. We have to keep our precious little ones safe, right? Senior citizens driving statistics can be scary, so why not take all the necessary precautions to stay out of harm’s way? In this senior guide for safe driving, we’re going to help you plan your next road trip with the kids. We’re going to cover some pointers to remember for a safe and memorable ride. If you’re interested in the latest auto safety gadgetry, check out these Bluetooth handsfree car kit reviews. Let’s begin! 1. Brush up on Your Defensive Driving Skills Defensive driving is all about staying focused and being aware of your surroundings at all times. To make sure you don’t get into any accidents, cut out distractions. Don’t answer calls or get too engaged in a car game. That’s a job for the grandparent in the passenger seat. Check your mirrors regularly and don’t depend on other drivers to do the right thing. Most drivers are single-minded and won’t go out of their way to let you pass or merge. Assume what’s going to happen 30 seconds ahead of you, so you’re always prepared to react. Most of all, lower your risk for any sort of collision by keeping your speed down. At the very least, follow speed limits. Doing so will help you have better control over your vehicle. If you’re not too confident skills, you can always take a senior driving course. 2. Get Your Health Checked As part of your senior driving assessment, you have to get your eyesight and hearing checked. This is to make sure that you see and hear everything around you adequately. You can always get Lasik eye surgery, get fitted for the proper glasses, and get a hearing aid to help you out. If you have any health conditions, ask your doctor about the medication you’re taking. Some of them might affect your ability to drive and react quickly. 3. Safe Packing Tips Kids need a lot of stuff. Make sure their parents have packed enough clothes and toys for the trip. If the kids are on some kind of medication, ask their parents how to administer it properly. To handle allergic reactions, have an EpiPen handy and know how to use it. If you have to bring your medication along, make sure they’re out of reach. Roving hands that can get into granny’s purse can be a nightmare to deal with. As for food, pack snacks that won’t be a choking hazard. For example, we wouldn’t advise you to pack grapes, hard candies, and popcorn. Instead, bring thinly sliced apples and pears, peas, grated zucchini, and yogurt. 4. Be Prepared to Stop a Lot You’re going to have to stop at roadside rest stops and gas stations so the kids can use the bathroom and let out pent-up energy. For younger children, choose a family or unisex bathroom so you can accompany them. For older kids, warn them about this stranger danger so that they don’t interact with anyone unfamiliar. 5. Know When to Use a Booster Seat Parents usually let their kids graduate from their booster seats way too early. The AAP recommends that you keep using a booster seat until the child reaches 4’9” tall and 8 to 12 years old. Use a seat belt to test this out. If your grandchild buckles him or herself in place and it cuts across the child’s neck, he or she is still too short. Using a booster seat will cut the risk for serious injury by up to 45% compared to using a seat belt alone. Conclusion: Being on the road with the kids gives us a perfect chance to bond and make connections. While you’re having a good time, it can’t hurt to always be on the side. Do you have any other safety tips to share with our readers? Share them below. Lucas Cappel Photo by Brett Sayles from Pexels

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