Watering right saves money (and plants)
Until I installed soaker hoses throughout my vegetable beds last year, I’d always watered my plants by hand, which over the years had become tiresome. Standing outside holding a garden hose wasn’t exactly my idea of a good time, but it directs water precisely to the soil above roots, making sure it lands where it’s needed. That eliminates waste, and goes a long way toward... READ MORE
How to declutter if moving or downsizing
Spring — and spring cleaning — are now upon us. With the changing seasons, you may be changing seasons of your life, too, including looking for ways to declutter your home, especially if you’re moving or downsizing. Once he retired, Jakob Miller finally had the time and energy to organize his three-bedroom home. “As I entered my golden years, I realized that I needed to... READ MORE
In-home care can help you age in place
Most people want to age in place and live at home for as long as possible: According to an AARP survey, three-quarters of people 50 and older are hoping to do so. But managing this successfully may mean hiring outside help, such as health aides who can assist you with daily activities that have become challenging. You might wonder when exactly it will make sense to seek that service.... READ MORE
Finding the right retirement community
Many older adults decide that a retirement community will be their next move. However, retirement communities can vary significantly in terms of their housing options, amenities, healthcare services and the lifestyle that they offer. Here are seven steps to help find the right retirement community for you. 1. Choose a location for the retirement community search Step one is to figure... READ MORE
Never too early to develop your care plan
At some point, most older people will need help getting through the day. Someone turning 65 today has a 70% chance of eventually requiring assistance with basic living activities, such as bathing, dressing and using the toilet, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. That’s the grim reality. Even grimmer is that Medicare typically doesn’t pay for such... READ MORE
Smart home devices boost aging in place
Dear Savvy Senior, I’ve been talking to my mobility challenged mother, who lives alone, about automating her house with some smart home products to make it more convenient. She’s very interested, but we’d like to get your opinion as to which types of smart devices are most helpful for older adults aging in place. —Searching Daughter Dear Searching, If your mother is game,... READ MORE
Three steps to help downsize in a hurry
Ideally, you’d spend months or even years carefully purging excess belongings — but life may have other plans. Maybe you or someone you love has a health crisis and needs to move into assisted living. Or perhaps someone has died, and their home has to be cleared before next month’s rent is due. Maybe you’re just moving soon and want to significantly lighten your load. If you... READ MORE
Some pros and cons of retiring abroad
Retirement is one of the most exciting phases in a person’s life, and for good reason: Suddenly, for the first time in decades — or maybe even ever — all your time is yours. It’s an opportunity to try different things, embark on new adventures, or simply relax for once. But where should you spend your time embracing the luxury of retirement? While plenty of people opt to stay... READ MORE
Has time come to buy your dream house?
I don’t know about you, but over the last few years, the conversation at just about every barbecue or dinner party inevitably turns to how high real estate prices have become. And just as quickly, the blame is laid at the feet of Airbnb — the online short-term rental company that enables homeowners to rent out spare rooms or entire homes, giving travelers alternatives to traditional... READ MORE
Five facts to know about assisted living
If you or a loved one can no longer live safely at home, assisted living may be the answer. Residents typically live in their own rooms or apartments and get housekeeping services, meals and help with personal care. But facilities can vary enormously, and people’s expectations about assisted living often clash with reality, experts say. Here are some important things to know. 1.... READ MORE