Businesses you can start with no money
Starting a business is often a pricey ordeal. But low- or even no-cost ideas exist for aspiring entrepreneurs with unique and marketable talent. Take inventory of the skills you already possess, recommends Holly Reisem Hanna, founder of a career blog called, “The Work at Home Woman.” List your past jobs, education, training, passions, skills and talents to help identify vocational... READ MORE
Oh, the joys of grandparenting! And yet…
Out comes his smartphone. He scrolls, scrolls, scrolls. Finally, he gurgles with pleasure. There she is on the screen — his first grandchild, a continent away in Seattle, but front and center in his life. I gurgle along with him. Yes, she sure is beautiful. Yes, oh, yes, she clearly looks like the grandfather who is holding the phone. But what I’m really noticing is how jealous ... READ MORE
‘Memory books’ can spark recollections
Family photo albums can help jog an elderly friend or relative’s memories, but consider taking the photo book idea one step further: Create a “memory book” that combines personal photos with brief family stories and historical information. These can be used to help people struggling with memory loss, and give younger family members a window into older relatives’ lives. Memory... READ MORE
Best ways to find companionship online
Dear Savvy Senior: What can you tell me about online dating for baby boomers? I’m 57 and recently divorced, and would like to find a new friend to spend time with. — Lonely Linda Dear Linda: Whether you’re interested in dating again or just looking for a friend to spend time with, online dating sites have become a very popular and effective way for baby boomers to meet new... READ MORE
Talk to your kids about their inheritance
Many parents fail to get their financial affairs in order, neglecting to take care of such things as wills, living wills and powers of attorney. But even those who think they’ve covered all of their estate-planning bases often leave one of the most important tasks undone: They fail to talk to their adult children about the money they’ll be leaving them someday. For many, I’ve... READ MORE
Beacon Links & Apps – March 2018
Online video support groups Connecting with others who share similar diseases or challenges as yourself can help you feel less alone and offer coping tips. The new website, aGroupForME, makes it easier to join a wide range of support groups, including ones that address addiction, depression, cancer, divorce and PTSD. There is currently no charge to use the service Using group video... READ MORE
How to reduce spring allergy symptoms
Q: I have spring allergies. Every year I think they won’t be too bad. In reality, it’s awful and I have a hard time getting ahead of the symptoms. Suggestions? A: People with spring allergies are usually affected by pollen from birch, elm, maple, oak or poplar trees, depending on where you live. Don’t wait until you get the runny, stuffy nose and itchy eyes. Get started on... READ MORE
What if your flight is canceled or delayed?
The odds of encountering turbulence in your travel plans when you’re flying are probably lower than you think: In the first 10 months of 2017, 18.4 percent of domestic airline flights were delayed on departure, and 1.6 percent were canceled, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. But when you’re the unlucky passenger stranded at the gate with no plane in sight, knowing ... READ MORE
Never eschew a nutrient-packed cashew
The cashew is a favorite nut flavor-wise, and is commonly regarded as a nutrition star for its punch of protein, heart-healthy fats, vitamins and minerals. Native to Brazil, the cashew was introduced to India and Africa by Portuguese explorers in the 16th century. The cashew tree, from its wood and bark to its fruit, was highly prized for its healing properties. In Brazil, cashew nut... READ MORE
How corporate tax cuts may affect stocks
Stocks rose for months on hopes that tax cuts will fuel a surge in corporate profits and dividend increases. But despite some volatility lately, you haven’t missed the rally — it should last well into 2018, especially for the parts of the market that may benefit the most. One way to cash in is with shares of small and midsize firms. Such companies tend to pay taxes at higher... READ MORE