Wishing You Safe and Healthy Holiday Travels

December 1, 2025

Traveling over the holidays is an opportunity to relax and reconnect with loved ones. But traveling during peak times can also be stressful. The crowds alone can cause some anxiety and concern. Last year, more than 132 million Americans travelled for the Thanksgiving weekend. By planning ahead, you can stay safe and healthy.

A survey of Motel 6 and Studio 6 found that 51 percent of holiday travelers plan to drive, compared to 13 percent who will travel by plane. It can be both easier and more affordable to drive, but according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, traveling by car during the holidays has the highest fatality rate of any major form of transportation.

Traveling by Car

By taking simple precautions, drivers can keep their passengers safe. “Number one: budget in extra time,” says Vicky Nguyen, a Consumer Investigative Correspondent for the Today Show. “Even just leaving 15 minutes earlier than normal can take some of the stress out of driving in general.”

Prepare in advance by doing the following:

• Complete any necessary automotive maintenance to ensure your car is ready for the road.
• Make sure you have a full tank of gas (or a full charge for an electric vehicle) the day before you leave.
• Pack the night before and aim for 7-8 hours of sleep.
• Pack water, snacks, and medicines for every passenger, including kids and pets.
• Get comfortable by adjusting your seat and preparing your navigation system before you get going.

“It also can’t hurt to map out your route and identify rest stops, gas stations, and food options,” says Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel. In the case of traffic or bad weather, build in extra time or reschedule your departure. Locate lodging along your route ahead of your trip, in case you need to stop for a night.

Your emergency essentials should include a portable cell phone charger, a first-aid kit, blankets for cold temperatures, a flashlight with extra batteries, jumper cables, and spare tires.

Follow basic driving safety guidelines, including buckling up, obeying the speed limit and other road laws, giving your full attention to the road, especially in construction zones, and avoiding distractions, such as cell phone use.

Plan to take breaks, about every two hours or 100 miles, to avoid getting sleepy on the road. Short walks and stretches during breaks can also help prevent and alleviate pain associated with prolonged sitting.

If you’re driving, keep gifts and other valuables out of sight, preferably in the trunk. At rest stops and in airports, stay alert, be aware of your surroundings, and keep your belongings close.

Traveling by Plane

If you’re flying, plan on getting to the airport two hours before your scheduled departure time. “We ask travelers to pack their patience, especially during peak travel days,” says Ha Nguyen McNeill, a TSA administrator.

Book an early flight. Flights departing after 9 a.m. are twice as likely to be delayed than those scheduled between 5-8 a.m.

Airlines are also reminding passengers to bring their Real ID, which is required for flying as of early May, and to download an airline’s app to track flight updates and receive alerts.

To avoid getting sick while flying, it’s essential to maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated for at least a few days before traveling. Pack simple, healthy snacks, such as nuts or dried fruit, and a refillable water bottle to bring with you. Keep any necessary medicine in a carry-on so that you can access it easily.

During your flight:

• Handle your own belongings as much as possible.
• Wash your hands whenever possible with soap and water, and carry hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes with you.
• Avoid touching your face or eyes. If you have to cough or sneeze, use a tissue. 
• If you’re sick, consider postponing your trip until you recover.

Keep Your Home Safe

No one wants to spend their vacation worrying about whether or not their house is safe. By taking basic precautions, homeowners can protect their properties from becoming easy targets of theft.

“A simple step is to lock everything. Ensure all doors, windows, and entry points are locked, including garage doors and sliding glass doors,” says Kimani George of the University of Alabama Police Department. “Secure exterior doors with sturdy deadbolt locks, and leave blinds or curtains in their usual positions. Completely closed curtains can make it obvious you’re away.”

Other steps to protect your home include the following:

• Use timers on indoor and outdoor lights to mimic a routine.
• Install visible cameras on the exterior of the home.
• Ask them to collect mail or packages (or suspend deliveries).
• Arrange for lawn maintenance to avoid the look of a vacant home
• Do not share travel plans on social media.

Announcing holiday plans or posting vacation pictures on social media puts you at a security risk. “By posting pictures of your trip on social media sites, you are alerting the public that your home is currently vacant,” says George. “It is a safer option to wait until you return home before sharing the memories of your travels.”

Insureyouknow.org

Holiday travel can be stressful, but being prepared can help you enjoy the time away with loved ones while staying safe and healthy. With Insureyouknow.org, you can keep all of your travel documents and personal identification in one place for easy planning and smooth travels.

Newly Married? Important Insurance and Legal Documents to Save Now

November 26, 2025

Most couples spend the first weeks of marriage figuring out things like whose coffee style wins, which side of the bed belongs to whom, and how two different families do holidays. It is fun, chaotic, and full of learning. What usually doesn’t get discussed at first is paperwork. Not exactly romantic, but surprisingly important.

At some point, something small happens that reminds couples that paperwork matters. Maybe the doctor’s office asks for updated insurance. Maybe the bank asks for proof of name change. Maybe a car insurance rep needs beneficiary information right away. Moments like these make people realize how helpful it would have been to organize everything sooner.

So, here is a simple guide to make life a little easier for newly married couples.

Start with the marriage certificate

This one becomes the “key” to a lot of changes. It opens the door to updating names, insurance, bank accounts, and tax filing status. It is worth keeping the original somewhere safe and also scanning a copy so it is easy to find when someone asks for it unexpectedly.

If there is a name change, IDs need updating

Changing a last name takes more effort than most people expect. A few things usually need updating:

• Driver’s license or state ID
• Passport
• Social Security information

Scanning the updated documents helps avoid digging through drawers later.

Review health insurance

Many couples take a look at their coverage after marriage. Sometimes one partner has the better plan, or combining coverage saves money. It helps to keep:

• Current policy papers
• Digital insurance cards
• Provider phone numbers

It is amazing how often those papers are needed during stressful times.

Life insurance becomes part of the picture

No one likes thinking about worst-case scenarios, especially right after a wedding. But life insurance is an act of love and responsibility. Storing the policy and beneficiary information makes sure everything is clear if it is ever needed.

Home and car insurance too

Once couples live together or share a car, insurance companies need updated details. It is easier later if things like renters or homeowners insurance, auto insurance papers, and proof of valuable belongings are collected in one spot instead of scattered everywhere.

Financial documents and beneficiary details

Money looks different once two lives merge. Some couples join accounts. Others keep things separate. Whatever the setup, it is helpful to keep a record of things like:

• Bank info
• Retirement plans and investment details
• Mortgage or loan documents

This stuff can get confusing fast if it is not organized.

Estate planning might sound early… but it matters

Nobody wants to think about wills or medical decisions during the honeymoon stage. Still, life happens, and having things like a will or medical directive stored safely can protect the person you love most. It is one of those things you do hoping it never has to be used.

Where should everything go?

A lot of couples start out with good intentions and then end up stuffing these papers into random folders, drawers, or email attachments. The safest route is somewhere they can always access, even during emergencies, usually a secure digital vault for documents. It keeps things organized, private, and available when life throws a surprise.

A simple takeaway

Marriage brings a lot of joy and a little chaos. While sorting through insurance and legal papers might not feel urgent, it is one of those grown-up things that protects everything two people are building together. Once documents are updated and stored safely, it becomes one less thing to worry about and more energy can go back to enjoying married life.

Coping After a Cancer Diagnosis: Finding Strength, Clarity, and Support

November 15, 2025

According to CDC data, nearly 39% of men and women will be diagnosed with cancer at some point during their lifetime. Finding out that you or a loved one has cancer can come as a shock and bring with it feelings of fear and anger. One challenge to treatment is that these emotions can make it difficult to process all of the information the doctor is presenting. Research shows that when emotions are high, a person’s decision-making ability is hindered, making it hard to choose a treatment plan.

Here are ways to help you cope after a cancer diagnosis, so that you can make the best decisions about your care.

Get the Facts

Gather as much information on your condition as you can. Not only will this help you make treatment decisions, but it can also feel empowering to become informed. Write down questions for your healthcare team as you think of them.

Questions to ask include:

• What kind of cancer do I have?
• Where is the cancer located?
• Has the cancer spread?
• Is this a curable form of cancer?
• What are my treatment options?

Bring a close family member or friend to your appointments for support and a second set of ears to help you remember what the doctors say.

Some people want all the facts while others want to let their healthcare providers make treatment decisions. Think about what works best for you before your appointments.

Be Honest About Your Well-Being

Now is the time to keep the lines of communication open between your doctors and loved ones. You may end up feeling alone if you sense that people are trying to protect you from your diagnosis, or if you try to be strong and hold in your feelings. Instead, be open and honest with everyone about your condition and what you’re feeling.

One in four individuals experiences depression and anxiety after a cancer diagnosis, so speaking up and seeking support early can make a meaningful difference.

“Education can be a powerful resource,” says Cynthia Brown, a breast cancer oncology nurse at Chester County Hospital in Pennsylvania. “Knowledge is power, and when you are more aware of the physical and mental symptoms you can experience throughout your cancer treatment, you can feel more confident in your ability to manage them, and be less afraid of the unknown.”

Accept Help When Offered

Let your loved ones help with errands, household tasks, meals, and taking you to appointments. It helps those you love to care for you and can be a way for them to cope during this difficult time.

To prevent those closest to you from burning out, accept help from anyone who asks if there’s anything they can do. Your loved ones will appreciate the extra help.

Focus on What You Can Control

Some say that putting their lives in order helps them feel more in control of their well-being. Being involved in your treatment plan, keeping track of appointments, and making lifestyle changes are all things you can control.

While you can’t control every thought, you can choose which ones not to dwell on. Instead of worrying, for example, pay attention to the parts of life that bring you joy.

“As much as I’m in my own head thinking, ‘Cancer, cancer, cancer,’ and spiraling, my kids still have school pickup and drop-off, and they still want cuddle time,” says Stephanie Wysaski, a 35-year-old mother diagnosed with breast cancer. “I just didn’t have time to worry. Life doesn’t stop.”

Reevaluate Your Priorities

Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be a turning point in an individual’s life. Many people experience a new perspective and examine what they’ve been putting value on. Find more time for what matters most to you, and cancel everything that doesn’t align with your goals. Be open and honest with your loved ones about any changes you may be making and explain why.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Even when you don’t feel well, healthy lifestyle choices will constantly improve your energy level. Eating a nutritious diet, getting enough rest, and continuing to exercise as much as you can will help with the stress and fatigue that come with cancer and treatment. Setting a schedule and sticking to a routine helps manage daily exercise, getting enough sleep, and preparing healthy meals.

Expand Your Circle

It can be hard for people who don’t have cancer to understand precisely what you’re going through. That’s why talking to others in a similar situation can be so helpful. Cancer survivors can share their experiences and tell you what to expect during treatment.

You can try talking to someone you already know, like a friend or family member who has had cancer, or join a support group. To find a group, ask your healthcare provider or contact your local chapter of the American Cancer Society.

Care For Caregivers

The effect of a diagnosis can affect everyone in that person’s life, creating a ripple effect through families and communities. Seeking support through counseling or a caregiver support meeting can provide relief and guidance during a difficult time. Caregivers must take time for their own well-being and remember that it’s essential in caring for their loved one too.

“If someone in your life has been diagnosed with cancer, it’s okay to take time to process your feelings as well,” says Brown. “Those emotions are still important—even if the diagnosis isn’t yours. You may be worried for your loved one or angry about the disease. And if you are providing care for this person, you may experience feelings of stress or burnout.”

Insureyouknow.org

You may utilize Insureyouknow.org to organize your affairs, including finances, medical records, treatment, plans, and new schedules. Taking care of what you can control will eliminate unnecessary stress during treatment and recovery.

Love in the Final Chapter: Caring for a Loved One in Home Hospice

October 15, 2025

When it comes to end-of-life care, 71% of Americans believe the goal should be to help people die without pain, discomfort, and stress. The focus of hospice care is on quality of life and symptom management, and it is designed to provide comfort to individuals with a life expectancy of six months or less. 

A team of medical professionals addresses the patient’s physical, psychological, and spiritual needs on a case-by-case basis, ensuring that every patient receives a care plan tailored to their specific needs. Care is most often delivered in the patient’s home, and the hospice team can support caregivers during this process.

Quality is Key

Hospice is end-of-life care, but that doesn’t mean someone receiving care will pass right away. While doctors recommend hospice when a patient only has six months or less to live and is no longer responding to curative treatments, many patients live longer. In such cases, what matters still is a patient’s quality of life, not quantity.

“Each person’s journey at the end of life is different,” says Jessica Kelly, a licensed hospice nurse in New York. “We tailor our care to meet those unique needs, whether that’s managing pain, supporting emotional well-being, or helping families share meaningful moments together.” 

Home Care Takes a Toll 

While it is nearly everyone’s preference to pass away in the comfort of their own home, the task of caregiving can be more than loved ones expect. “I do think that when patients are at home, they are in a peaceful environment,” says Parul Goyal, a palliative care physician. “It is comfortable for them. But it may not be comfortable for family members watching them take their last breath.”

The burden put on loved ones, especially spouses, can cause caregiver syndrome, which is characterized by the stress and burnout that comes from providing constant care to someone who is chronically or terminally ill. 

“Our long-term-care system in this country is really using families, unpaid family members,” says Katherine Ornstein, a professor of geriatrics and palliative medicine at Mount Sinai. “What we really need to do is to broaden the support that individuals and families can have as they’re caring for individuals throughout the course of serious illness.” 

Self-Care for Caregivers 

Providing care to a hospice patient can be both rewarding and difficult. Social psychology researchers Richard Schulz and Joan Monin found that caregivers suffer when they witness their loved one’s suffering without feeling like they can remedy it. It becomes important not just to care for the patient but for caregivers to care for themselves as well. 

One way to start accepting a terminal diagnosis is to begin getting a loved one’s affairs in order. It can be helpful to collect necessary documents and passwords and to begin sorting through possessions. Staying busy during the care process can help manage emotions as they arise. 

Handling Grief 

It’s easy to get paperwork and belongings in order. It’s not as easy to manage your grief. The loss of a loved one is among life‘s most significant stressors. Grief can affect every aspect of your health. While everyone’s experience is different, it is common to feel intense emotions during a loved one’s illness and after losing them.

Here are ways caregivers can take care after loss: 

• Express your emotions. Bottling them up will only intensify them. 
• Don’t put yourself on a timeline. People move forward at their own pace. Trust that your pain will lessen over time. 
• Take care of yourself as you grieve. Eat nourishing meals, stay hydrated, and sleep enough. 
• When you’re ready, exercise. It can reduce stress, tension, and sadness. 
• Hospice providers make grief support groups available to anyone who has lost a loved one in hospice care. 
• The Hospice Foundation also offers a newsletter to help during bereavement. 

When to Seek Help 

Most people find a way to adjust to their loss, but it is a painful and uncomfortable process. About 10% to 15% of people who are grieving have a complicated reaction to their loss. Grief experts agree that if grief is unmanageable, meaning someone has not returned to their pre-loss level of functioning within six to 12 months, it may be time to seek the professional help of a grief counselor. Your hospice team can help you find the care you need. 

Insureyouknow.org

Handling a loved one’s affairs is one way caregivers can manage their grief. With Insureyouknow.org, you may organize financial documents, property records, and other documentation of personal effects. Getting everything in order can bring you some peace of mind during emotionally challenging times. 

A Simple Guide to Choosing a Medical Power of Attorney

September 15, 2025

Studies show that the treatment wishes of patients vary greatly from those of their family members, yet only a third of Americans have a medical power of attorney in place. With a medical power of attorney, you can legally designate an agent to handle your medical decisions should you become unable to speak for yourself. It also includes instructions on the kinds of medical treatment you wish to receive. 

Even if you do not know your wishes, a medical POA ensures that the person you trust can make those decisions for you. “A medical power of attorney is a pretty powerful document,” says William Raftis, attorney for Student Legal Services at Texas Tech. “It grants a person to make medical decisions on behalf of another person in the case that they are unable to make such a decision for themselves.”

Without a Document 

When you don’t have a medical power of attorney and you are unable to tell the doctor your preferences, the following people would be legally authorized to make your healthcare decisions:

• A court-appointed guardian or conservator
• Your spouse or domestic partner
• One of your adult children or siblings 
• A close friend
• Your nearest living relative

It’s important to know that if you have a medical POA and get married, then that document is revoked. If you do not want your spouse to act as your agent, then you must have a new medical power of attorney written up.

Choosing an Agent 

To designate someone as your agent, you must sign a legal medical power of attorney document that names an agent and the healthcare decisions you’d like them to make if you become unable to. Your agent can decide whether or not to admit or discharge you from a hospital or nursing home, which treatments you receive, and who has access to your medical records. 

Many people mistakenly believe that designating an agent and signing a medical POA grants that person the authority to make all of your healthcare decisions. But a medical power of attorney is only necessary if you become unable to make your own decisions. 

Every state has its own legal requirements for medical POAs, such as witnesses and notarization, but you may not even need a lawyer to draw up a medical POA. Many states provide free forms through government websites. If your state does not offer forms online, consider inquiring with healthcare providers and hospitals, as they may also have forms available.

Comfort is Key 

The person you designate to be your agent should be somebody whom you trust. They should be over 18 years of age and should not be a doctor or healthcare professional. The person you choose should be someone who you know will carry out your wishes. You should discuss your wishes with them in advance and ensure that they will be comfortable making those decisions on your behalf. 

If it makes you more comfortable, you may appoint two people to serve as co-agents or a successive agent in case the first agent becomes unable to do so. Keep in mind that it may create confusion when multiple agents are involved in the decision-making process. Healthcare professionals may only be able to reach one agent in the event of an emergency, or agents may disagree about how to carry out your wishes best.

Make Those Decisions Now

In addition to choosing your agent, your medical power of attorney should state your wishes. 

The medical POA should state: 

• Whether or not you want to use machines to be kept alive or receive feeding tubes
• Name a legal guardian, if needed
• Whether or not you want to donate any organs in the event of your passing, and what to do with your remains 

If at some point, you change your mind about any of your directives or who you’d like to be your agent, then you should have a new medical power of attorney drawn up. 

Medical POA Safekeeping 

You should always inform your agent of any changes made to a medical POA and make sure they have the most up-to-date copy. Then store your document in a safe but easily accessible location. A medical power of attorney should be stored in both a physical safe place at home and a secure digital platform. Provide your attorney with a copy, as well as your healthcare providers and other trusted loved ones.

Why Documentation Matters 

Emergencies come without warning. Without documentation in place, confusion over what’s best for you will add stress to an already difficult circumstance. Every adult should have a medical power of attorney in place, even adult children going off to college. “Students are 18 and they are now legally adults,” says Raftis. “It’s really just a way to help empower the students to make sound medical decisions.”

Acting early guarantees that you will have the necessary support during an emergency. This proactive approach enables families to focus on their loved one’s care rather than paperwork. “It’s a gift to your family to get these plans in place,” says Sally Hurme, an elder law attorney in Virginia. “Why create chaos, indecision, confusion, frustration, turmoil =—all of these may happen if you don’t have advance directives.”

Insureyouknow.org

Being clear about how you want to be cared for doesn’t just protect you; it also ensures that you receive the care you need. It prevents your loved ones from having to make painful decisions on your behalf under emotional circumstances. In this way, a medical power of attorney provides peace of mind for both the individual and their loved ones. With Insureyouknow.org, you can store all of your medical records and healthcare documentation in one simple-to-review place, giving you more time to focus on what matters.

Digital Pet Records: Organize and Store Pet Documents Securely

September 3, 2025

Pet emergencies rarely arrive at the right time. A dog limps after a jump. A cat suddenly won’t breathe easily. Owners grab at folders, glove compartments, even the folded vaccination slip that’s been stuck under a fridge magnet for months, only to realize the insurance info or medical history is still missing.

The vet keeps asking questions. What shots were given? What allergies are known? Too much time slips away.

That’s why keeping pet records, health notes, policy papers, and vet numbers saved in one secure digital spot makes such a difference. Instead of chaos, the details are ready in seconds. And that can mean faster decisions and better care when pets need it most.

Why Digital Pet Records Matter

In a real emergency, minutes feel heavy. A vet may ask about past shots or allergies, but the papers are often buried, tucked in a kitchen drawer under receipts or lost in an old email. With digital pet records, the answers are ready in seconds, and treatment doesn’t have to wait.

The same holds true when care is handed off. A sitter, a family member, even a boarding kennel can check pet medical files online instead of relying on rushed notes over the phone.

The truth is, organized records bring peace of mind. Storing pet papers safely in one place removes clutter and helps ensure steady care, whether at home, traveling, or in an emergency room late at night.

What to Include in Your Digital Pet Emergency Kit

When something goes wrong, the last thing anyone wants is to dig through drawers for missing papers. A simple digital kit avoids that headache.

The basics come first: vaccination records and health notes. Vets usually ask for them before doing anything else.

If the pet has coverage, add the insurance policy number and provider. It saves phone calls later. Keep proof of ownership too, like microchip info, adoption papers, or even a vet’s ID slip.

An emergency contact list matters just as much. The family vet, a backup clinic, a sitter, and one relative who can step in should all be easy to reach.

Then there are the little things. Care notes about food, medicine, or allergies may sound small, but they help anyone give consistent care. Storing these pet papers online in one safe place means less panic and faster help when every minute counts.

How to Securely Store Pet Documents Using InsureYouKnow

InsureYouKnow makes it simple to keep pet papers in order. Snap a photo of a vaccine slip or scan an insurance form, then upload it with a clear label like “Bella – Shots” or “Max – Insurance.” No more shuffling through drawers when the vet is waiting.

The files stay safe with encryption, so medical notes and policy numbers are private but easy to reach. Reminders can be set for shots or policy renewals, which means nothing gets overlooked.

Sharing is easy too. A sitter, boarding place, or vet can be given access to just the records they need, making care smoother and less stressful.

With everything in one place, digital pet records stay organized, secure, and ready when pets need it most.

Organizing and Managing Pet Info

Saving files is just the start. How they’re organized matters. Clear labels like “Vaccination,” “Insurance,” or “Ownership” make documents easy to find.

Adding details like the pet’s name, birthdate, or microchip number helps avoid mix-ups, especially with multiple pets.

Updates are important too. After checkups, insurance renewals, or when a new pet joins, taking a few minutes to update records keeps digital pet documents accurate and ready when needed.

Emergency Scenarios Where This Helps

Imagine the dog collapses during an evening walk. Heart racing, the family grabs the leash and heads to the vet. They don’t have to dig through drawers or emails. Digital pet records are ready on a phone. Shots, allergies, medications, all visible in seconds. The vet can start treatment right away, and stress levels drop for everyone.

Not all emergencies are medical. Moving suddenly, last-minute boarding, or traveling with a pet can turn chaotic fast. Having pet papers stored securely online means sitters, boarding staff, or vets can see what’s needed without endless calls or searching.

A few organized files can turn panic into calm. Pet documents online make sure pets get the care they need, wherever and whenever an emergency strikes.

Conclusion

Just like people, pets have important papers that need care. The vet, insurance info, and vaccination slips all matter. If you’re running around during an emergency, it’s easy to lose track. That crumpled slip under the couch or buried email suddenly matters more than ever.

The truth is, digital pet records make life simpler. Snap a photo, upload it, and label it clearly. Share it with your vet, a sitter, or a boarding facility when needed. It’s quick, secure, and saves time when every second counts.

Take a few minutes today to set up your pet’s digital profile with InsureYouKnow. It’s simple, it’s safe, and it gives peace of mind knowing your furry friend’s records are ready when they’re needed most.

The Mental Health Gap: What Parents Miss and Teens Need

September 1, 2025

Your teen says they’re fine. But they’ve stopped texting friends, spend more time in their room, and their grades are slipping. Could you spot the signs if they were struggling? Only 58% of U.S. teenagers feel they get the emotional support they need—yet 93% of parents believe they’re providing enough.

Findings like these show that parents may not always realize when their child is struggling. Young people today face different challenges than their parents and previous generations did. More than ever, parents must understand the unique pressures young people are struggling with today.

Challenges Faced by Teens

Nearly 10% of all U.S. kids aged 3 to 17 experience anxiety, while 5% live with depression. A few causes are listed below:

• Many young people are dealing with packed schedules, the pressure to succeed in academics, sports, and extracurriculars, and the uncertainty of what comes after graduation. The pressure to excel can lead to burnout.
• With in-person learning, the fear of school shootings can create a general sense of day-to-day unease.
• Students who remember the pandemic lockdown may have posttraumatic stress from virtual learning and social isolation.
• Social media has introduced young people to near-constant comparison, leading to low self-esteem. Body dissatisfaction is leading to a rise in eating disorders.
• Concerns over climate change can also lead to feelings of hopelessness.

Warning Signs

As a parent, you have a good sense of what your child’s “normal” looks like. In addition to the more striking symptoms, such as mood swings, angry outbursts, or being more tearful than usual, you may notice:

• Changes in eating habits, weight, sleep, or other routines
• Loss of interest in the things they once enjoyed or quitting activities
• Withdrawing from close friends or family
• Academic struggles that seem different or more intense, such as a refusal to complete assignments
• Becoming more visibly worried or expressing constant worry
• Any signs of substance abuse or evidence of self-harm, such as cuts, burns, or bruises

Just because your child exhibits any of these symptoms does not mean they are experiencing a mental health crisis. Biological changes, including hormonal shifts that all teenagers must go through, can affect their mood and school performance.

“It’s kind of hard because these things correlate with puberty,” says Theresa Nguyen, vice president of policy and programs at Mental Health America. “It gets hard for parents because this period of time is so muddy.”

Converse Differently

Checking in with your child is an ongoing process, not a one-time occurrence. Normalizing regular conversations with your child supports their mental health and also gives them the foundation to come to you when they need help.

Kids avoid touchy subjects, especially if they fear being lectured or punished. Make sure your children know they can come to you with anything. Create a safe space for them by remaining approachable and nonreactive. Routine moments, such as car rides or dinner times, can be opportunities for discussion.

Avoid forcing conversations or asking direct questions like, “What’s wrong?” Instead, ask about specific things at school or what they might be looking forward to. They will be more willing to open up if they do not feel interrogated. Try listening more than you speak and resist the urge to give advice immediately.

The goal is not to fix everything for them, but to make sure they know they are supported. “As parents, our instinct is often to jump in with advice, but it’s very rare that that’s what teens are looking for,” says Lisa Damour, a clinical psychologist. “Teenagers often feel supported not through a conversation but through our steady presence. It’s about being around and available.”

Model Mental Wellness

Parents can show their teen how to care for their mental health by modeling those healthy behaviors themselves.

• Encourage good physical habits. Eat well and encourage exercise, both of which can be activities you do together. Every family member should have a bedtime and sleep routine.
• Limit screen time and social media. If your teen is resistant, approach it together as an experiment to see if it’s beneficial to take a break.
• Find activities that you enjoy and help them do the same. Ideally, you can find a few things to enjoy together, such as going for walks or watching movies.

“Lead by example,” advises Nguyen.

Get Help When All Else Fails

Your child’s pediatrician can help with any mental health concerns. They can explain treatment options, including medication, and refer you to a specialist for evaluation. Talking with a licensed mental health professional, for instance, can provide teens with a safe and judgment-free zone to process emotions and develop coping skills.

Your child’s care team can develop a crisis plan involving the steps to take if symptoms worsen. There are also courses for parents who want to learn more about mental health first aid. Teens who need to speak with someone immediately may always call The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or text “TALK” to 741741.

By staying organized, parents can create more time for family. “The single most powerful force for adolescent mental health is strong relationships with caring adults,” says Damour.

Your teen doesn’t need you to have all the answers. They just need to know you’re there every day, without conditions.

Insureyouknow.org

At Insureyouknow.org, parents may keep track of their child’s schedule, medical records, and other essential documents.

Having Surgery—Is Your Home Ready?

August 1, 2025

According to the National Library of Medicine, one in nine Americans has at least one surgery each year. The hospital discharge is just the beginning. Imagine returning home from surgery, groggy and sore, only to discover you can’t climb the stairs, reach the pain meds, or safely take a shower. That’s why preparing your home before the surgery is just as important as the procedure itself. Known as prehabilitation, this proactive approach helps reduce stress, lowers the risk of complications, and prepares you for a safer and smoother recovery.

Here’s everything you need to think about preparing before surgery.

Stay on Top of Recovery

Your doctor is the best resource for preparing for surgery. Ask them what to expect after surgery so that you know how to prepare best. Even when patients are discharged on the day of their surgery, it can take several months to return to normal activities. Following your surgeon’s care instructions can ensure a smooth recovery.

For older patients undergoing joint replacement procedures, physical therapy after surgery is crucial in regaining strength and mobility. “A knee or hip replacement is fundamentally a major surgery,” says Matthew Abdel, an orthopedic surgeon at the Mayo Clinic. “Everything related to that remains essential– preparing the patient, educating the patient, managing expectations, and having a multidisciplinary team in place – all must work together to allow that patient to go home that day safely.”

Things to consider:

• Learn the best way to contact your doctor if you need assistance after the surgery. If your doctor uses a patient portal to communicate with patients, make sure that you are registered and have access before your procedure.
• Know what your pain management plan will be. “Pain after surgery is something that a lot of patients fear,” says Sterling Elliott, a clinical pharmacist and a professor at Northwestern University. “Knowing how to make good decisions about your options, especially nonopioid ones, will help you feel better and make the best progress.”
• Research outpatient rehabilitation facilities that accept your insurance and would be willing to work seamlessly with your doctor.
• Stay on top of your follow-up appointments to ensure timely and effective communication.

Arranging for Help

You’ll likely need support with a variety of tasks after surgery, from getting a ride home from the hospital to potentially requiring round-the-clock care for several weeks. To ensure your safety, most surgeons recommend having someone stay with you the first night after surgery and arranging for a caregiver to be nearby or living with you for the first three to five days of recovery.

Think about the tasks around the home that you’ll be unable to do on your own. Determine who will be helping you after the surgery and make those arrangements in advance.

Things to consider:

• Arrange for someone to collect the mail, tend to the lawn, or dispose of the trash.
• Don’t forget to check the calendar. Reschedule any other appointments as needed and pay all your upcoming bills in advance. 
• If you have pets, consider asking a friend or family member to care for them or board them before the procedure. This will allow you to focus on your recovery and avoid an accident with an active pet.

Preparing the Home

Take time to thoroughly clean and organize your home before surgery. Simple touches—like freshly washed sheets on the bed—can provide comfort and make your recovery more restful. Think about the parts of the home that you’ll need access to the most after surgery.

Things to consider:

• Set up your bed on the first floor if possible.
• Ensure you have convenient access to a safe and easy-to-use bathroom during your recovery.
• Fill the closet with clothes that are easy to put on and take off. 
• Move everything you’ll need to where you can reach without having to bend down or stretch.
• Shortly before the surgery, buy the groceries you’ll need while recovering at home.
• Meal prep in advance or make full meals to keep you fed for a week or more.
• Place food in a cabinet between your waist and shoulder height and put the dishes you’ll use most on the kitchen counter.
• Use paper products if doing dishes would not be ideal while recovering.
• Keep your phone and charger handy.

To prevent falls, inspect every room for tripping hazards. This includes tucking away electrical cords, installing nightlights, getting clutter off the floor, and securing rugs. Rearrange furniture to create clear pathways for walking, especially if you’ll be using assistive equipment such as crutches or a wheelchair. For more extensive recovery periods, a home healthcare professional can visit your home to provide installation recommendations, such as grab bars in the bathroom or a stairlift in two-story homes.

While preparing the home for an upcoming surgery can be a lot of work upfront, the opportunity to recover in one’s home environment is beneficial. “It satisfies patients,” says Abdel. “You recuperate with your family. You recuperate in your home environment. You don’t feel like you’re institutionalized.”

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Many people feel apprehensive before surgery, but poor mental health can negatively affect recovery. Anxiety and depression are shown to increase pain and stress, as well as slow wound healing^​. Getting outside, making time for enjoyable activities, and eating a healthy diet are all ways people can care for their mental health before undergoing surgery. With Insureyouknow.org, you may store all of your medical and financial records in one accessible place, giving you one less thing to worry about while you recover.

Intergenerational Care Benefits Everyone Involved

September 29, 2024

September is Intergeneration Month, launched by The Intergenerational Foundation, to connect generations and urge people from varying age groups to socialize. The idea behind recognizing Intergeneration Month each September is to promote learning from each other, such as gaining a better understanding of history and the challenges that separate generations. By connecting with different age groups across generations, unlikely friendships form between those who would otherwise never have communicated with each other. 

People balancing raising young children and caring for aging parents may consider looking into what intergenerational daycare can offer. Facilities that provide both child care and senior care are on the rise, and that’s probably because, in addition to being a convenient solution for caretakers, the benefits to each age group are numerous.

If you’re considering Intergenerational Care for your loved ones, here’s everything you need to know. 

What is Intergenerational Care?

Intergenerational care centers provide care for both young children and older adults. “It’s also referred to as a ‘shared site,’” says  Merle Griff, the director of McKinley Center Intergenerational Project. “In many cases, there’s a senior area on one side of the building, a child care area on the other, and a hallway connecting the two. At various points during the day, they come together,” she says. The care provided can take on several forms, but at the core, it’s a service offered to multiple generations to provide care in one place across age groups.

The benefits of multi-generational care include forming connections between people who have a lot to teach one another and who would have otherwise never been allowed to meet. “It brings younger and older people together to increase social connectedness, enhance well-being for the benefit of all ages, and strengthen the web of support that is so integral to families and communities,” says Sheri Steinig, the director of Generations United. “People of different ages come together to learn, play, grow, and interact in planned intergenerational activities as well as through informal encounters,” she says.

The Different Kinds of Intergenerational Care

While intergenerational care means care across generations, the services provided vary. “There are many settings for intergenerational care,” says Steinig. “There can be programs at community centers and schools or care in daycare centers, retirement communities, nursing homes or assisted living and affordable housing,” she says. You may even provide intergenerational care in the form of a multigenerational household where more than two generations live. One in four American households are already multigenerational.

Intergenerational care centers look more like daycare facilities with adult daycare services or nursing home locations. “Each center is run their own way,” says Griff. “There are typically planned, structured interactions during the day,” she says. Both age groups are usually not combined for the entire day. Daily intergenerational activities may look like a combined sport, arts and crafts activity, comparison presentations between then and now, or even cradling opportunities, where seniors are paired with infants to rock and soothe to sleep. To date, there are fewer care centers than intergenerational programs. While there are only 150 sites across the country, care centers are expected to grow in popularity. For instance, The Mount Intergenerational Learning Center, a Seattle preschool within a nursing home, reports having over 400 children on their waiting list.

Intergenerational care programs are structured pairings between children of various ages and older adults. Programs such as these are designed to foster relationships between youth and seniors. It could be a pen pal program between elementary school kids and seniors, college students visiting nursing homes, multi-age choirs, or veterans going to schools to talk to students about their experiences.

To find a program such as this or a care center in your area, Generations United offers a search tool.

The Benefits of Intergenerational Bonds

Many grandparents live thousands of miles away from their grandchildren while aging adults live several states away from their children. According to a study from the University of California San Francisco, 43% of older adults report experiencing loneliness, and those who feel lonely are at a 59% increased risk of declining health.

That’s when intergenerational care can help. Older adults experience a sense of purpose and renewal after spending time with and helping young people. It helps seniors feel like they are not just receiving care but offering care. “Despite the dementia diagnosis, the maternal and paternal instincts can still kick in, and the seniors feel a sense of purpose,” says Jenna Hauss, the president of ONEgeneration. “They can care for others. They don’t always need to be cared for,” she says.

It isn’t just older generations that benefit from the connection. Children who spend time around older adults have fewer biases around such things as walkers and wheelchairs and become more comfortable with these differences. Multigenerational care promotes sensitivity among both age groups. Parents notice that their children are more empathetic, while older adults experience less loneliness, reduced agitation, and improved overall health.

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Intergenerational care addresses two important needs: early childcare and the increasing demand for senior services, but the benefits of this combined service reap rewards far beyond caretaking. Research is proving that both age groups experience different perks from intergenerational connections. If this sounds like it might be the right fit for you and your loved ones, Insureyouknow.org can help you search for care by storing all of your research, financial information, and medical records in one easy-to-review place.

Five Things Happy Retirees Have in Common

June 15, 2024

The transition into retirement can be difficult, when work no longer provides a sense of identity and accomplishment. The change can be startling, especially when most people don’t switch to part-time schedules on the way out of their full-time careers. “We don’t really shift our focus to, how do we live well in this extra time,” says M.T. Connolly, author of The Measure of Our Age. “A lot of people get happier as they age because they start to focus more on the meaningful parts of existence and emotional meaning and positive experience as finitude gets more real.”

While most people account for how much money they’ll need when it’s time to retire, there are many other factors to consider when planning for a fulfilling retirement. Here are five things that happy retirees have in common. 

Feeling a Sense of Purpose

There are several approaches to staying active and finding purpose after leaving a career. “Your retirement schedule should be less stressful and demanding than your previous one, but we don’t need to avoid all forms of work or service,” says Kevin Coleman, a family therapist. “Find some work that you take pride in and find intrinsically meaningful.”

Many retirees, for example, choose encore careers, where instead of working for the money, they are working for the enjoyment of the job. Besides finding a new job, there are other simple ways to feel purposeful during retirement. Purpose can be found by making oneself useful, such as by volunteering in the community, joining a community board, or participating in an enjoyable activity with a group, like a gardening club. Many retirees enjoy volunteering to take care of their grandchildren or helping their older friends with caregiving duties. Finding purpose doesn’t need to be complicated and can be achieved through simple acts of showing up for others and being open to new connections.

Finding Ways to Connect

As nearly 25% of those who are 65 and older feel socially isolated, finding ways to connect are important for mental and physical well-being during retirement. One way to connect is through storytelling. Sharing our stories with the people we care about strengthens our social bonds and helps us feel less lonely. Storytelling also helps people pass down their family memories, especially when we share stories with younger relatives, such as with grandchildren. It’s a nice feeling to think that your memories will live on through your loved ones. “The models we have for aging are largely either isolation or age segregation,” says Connolly. “There’s a loss when we don’t have intergenerational contact. It impoverishes our social environment.” Perhaps the best thing to do as you age is to cherish and foster these relationships with younger relatives.

Making Plans for the Retirement Years 

Budgeting for your retirement is crucial to happiness during the retirement years. Successful retirement planning includes paying off debts prior to retiring and saving for unexpected expenses or emergency funds in addition to a standard monthly budget. According to a survey conducted by Wes Moss, author of You Can Retire Sooner Than You Think, the happiest retirees are those who have between $700,000 and $1.25 million in liquid retirement savings, such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and cash. His research also found that retirees within five years or less of paying off their mortgages are four times more likely to be happy in retirement. This is because the mortgage payment is typically the most significant expense, so those retirees who own their homes feel safer and more at peace once they no longer have that bill. Plus, not having a mortgage payment due every month dramatically lowers their monthly expenses and can help retirement savings last longer.

Many retirees overlook retirement planning beyond their finances. New research from the Stanford Center on Longevity shows that where someone lives in retirement can affect their longevity. Researchers found that people over the age of 60 who lived in upper-income areas lived longer due to having more access to health and social services. They also credited strong social networks and a sense of community to living longer. So perhaps there’s a city or area that you’ve always dreamed of living in or you’d like to live closer to family. Think about where you want to live when you’re done working and then plan for it before you retire.

Setting New Retirement Goals

Beyond saving up and thinking about where you want to spend your retirement years, setting goals for once you’re in retirement is equally as important. “Research suggests that those who think about and plan for what they will do in retirement in advance are far happier and fulfilled once they actually retire and begin living this phase of life,” says financial planner Chris Urban. “Sometimes it is helpful for people to write down what they plan to do every day of the week, what goals they have, who they want to spend time with and what they want to do with them.”

While your goals before retirement were likely centered around career and finances, it will be important to set different kinds of goals once you’re retired. Having goals doesn’t become less important just because you’re no longer working. “If you really want something, maybe a new romance, then take a concrete step in that direction,” says psychiatry professor Ahron Friedberg. “Don’t ever tell yourself that it’s too late.”

Prioritizing Both Physical and Mental Health

With a full-time career no longer on the schedule, cooking healthy meals at home, getting enough sleep, and finding ways to be more physically active everyday will be easier. It will also be important to keep up on medical appointments and preventive therapies. A study conducted by Harvard shows that even people who become more physically active and adopt better diets later in their lives still lower their risks of cardiovascular illnesses and mortality more than their peers who do not. “Not all core pursuits include physical activity or exercise, but many of the top ones do. I refer to them as the ‘ings’—walking, running, biking, hiking, jogging, swimming, dancing, etc.,” says Moss. “These all involve some sort of motion and exercise.” The most sustainable form of physical activity will be doing more of those activities that you enjoy and that move your body.

In addition to caring for your physical health, focusing on your mental health is just as important, especially as you age. According to Harvard’s Medical newsletter, challenging your brain with mental exercise activates processes that help maintain individual brain cells and stimulate communication between them. So choose something new or that you’ve always wanted to learn. Take a course at a community college or learn how to play an instrument or speak a language. If you enjoy reading, visit the library every week for a new book. If you enjoy helping others learn, then looking into a part-time tutoring job or volunteering to tutor is a way to challenge yourself mentally, connect socially, and feel a sense of purpose.

Prioritizing your overall health includes asking for help when you need it. If you reach a point where you need assistance with daily tasks and activities, then you shouldn’t hesitate to ask for help early. Whether it’s family members or caregiving services, finding help with the things that are becoming difficult for you is the best way to maintain your independence for as long as you can so that you may continue to thrive during your retirement years.

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It’s important to think about how you want to spend your retirement before it’s here. While many people only consider their finances when they begin to plan for the future, there are other factors, including how you’ll spend your time, where you’ll live, and your overall health that will impact the quality of your retirement years. With Insureyouknow.org, storing all of your financial information, medical records, and planning documents in one easy-to-review place will help you plan for what can be the best years of your life.