Keep a ‘File of Life’ on your fridge
When firefighters respond to an emergency in a home, they’re trained to check the refrigerator. That’s where many homeowners keep a “File of Life” — a list of their medications, emergency contacts and other important information. The typed or handwritten list can be posted to the front or side of refrigerator with a magnet or in a magnetic sleeve. The File of Life lists... READ MORE
Old long-term care insurance policies fall short
Consumers who purchased long-term care insurance (LTC) policies several years ago have discovered that they did not have any protection from increases in premiums. State insurance departments in charge of regulating the industry have by and large allowed insurance companies to increase premiums for existing policies. In many cases, consumers’ premiums have more than doubled, and such... READ MORE
Home equity in retirement: Should you sell?
For many retirees, the home they’ve lived in for decades isn’t just a place to live. It’s the single largest asset in their financial portfolio. If your retirement savings feel a little tight, your house might hold untapped potential. How and when you use that equity matters. Should you sell and downsize? Take out a loan? Rent part of it? Hold it for your heirs? Here’s how to... READ MORE
How to help a loved one who hoards
Dear Savvy Senior, My dad has always been a pack rat, but since mom died a few years ago, he’s become more of a hoarder. The clutter in his house has gotten out of control and I don’t know what to do. Any suggestions? —Distraught in Centerville Dear Distraught, Unfortunately, hoarding or clutter addiction is a problem that’s become increasingly common in the U.S. It... READ MORE
Why move to a life plan community?
Deciding where to live later in life isn’t an easy task. Many older adults prefer to stay in their own homes but may need help managing medical issues or day-to-day tasks. Others might move in with their adult children or family members. One potential solution is moving into a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), also known as a life plan community. A life plan community is... READ MORE
Five smart ways to age-proof your home
A home is more than four walls — it’s where birthdays are celebrated, holiday dinners shared, illnesses weathered and losses mourned. Home is, as the saying goes, where the heart is. It’s little wonder that most people want to remain in their homes as they age, based on AARP research. Yet, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, less than half of U.S. houses are equipped with... READ MORE
DC Housing News January 2026
The Grandview opens in Bethesda, Maryland There’s a new Erickson Senior Living-managed community in Bethesda, Maryland. Residents started moving into The Grandview shortly before Thanksgiving and attended a ribbon-cutting on December 4. “Our vision for The Grandview has always been clear: create a place where residents feel supported, inspired and truly at home,” said Will Nance,... READ MORE
A Virginia community celebrates 30 years
As they prepare to celebrate their 30th anniversary in May, employees, administrators and residents at Falcons Landing in Potomac Falls, Virginia, are reflecting on what makes their retirement community special, a place where staff and residents have stayed for decades. Retirement communities often experience high staff turnover. Senior Living News reported that “the turnover rate for... READ MORE
Baltimore Housing News January 2026
Roland View Towers to be renovated Two apartment buildings that have overlooked Hampden and Roland Park since 1964 will soon get a new look. St. Mary’s Roland View Towers, affordable rental properties for people 55 and older, will be renovated starting next year. As part of the project, a glass elevator tower will be installed, in addition to a rooftop energy system. “The... READ MORE
Oak Crest celebrates 30th anniversary
Oak Crest Senior Living, home to 2,000 residents in Parkville, Maryland, turned 30 years old this year. To celebrate, the Erickson Senior Living community hosted a “Pioneer Brunch” in January, which recognized three residents and six employees who have been with Oak Crest since its opening in 1995. One of those staffers is Laurie Bender, senior sales associate, who started working ... READ MORE
