Celebrate Earth Day with Five Simple Ways to Protect the Planet

April 15, 2025

Twenty million Americans celebrated the first Earth Day in 1970, and by 2020, that number had grown to over one billion people worldwide. April 22 marks a moment for us to ask what we can do to help the environment. A quick dip into the internet can leave us feeling overwhelmed, but there are things that we, as individuals, can do to make a difference. Here’s a quick list to get you started:

Eat Sustainable

We often think of eating sustainably as difficult or expensive. However, current research shows that what you eat can be as or more important than where your food was produced. While food production leads to 25% of the world’s emissions, transportation accounts for less than 10% of this amount. Thus, avoiding highly intensive foods like beef can make as much of a difference as joining a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program which supports local family farms by committing to purchasing produce and meats grown on the farm. Another great alternative is to take advantage of home delivery services that bring imperfect produce to your door, reducing the amount of waste from supermarkets.

Mending and Upcycling Clothing

Each year, 92 million tons of clothing get deposited in landfills. This fact alone turns mending your clothing into a smart way to help protect the planet. A quiet evening spent darning socks or replacing a shirt button can be enjoyable, but new trends are transforming mending into a fashion statement. Kate Sekules, author of Mend and a clothing mender, states that noticeable repairs used to be despised. “These days, fashion is quite in love with imperfection and deconstruction and patching,” she explains.

A quick tour through your closet will reveal pieces that can be upcycled for a new look and garments that can be donated instead of tossed. Research your local area organizations and schools for clothes closets and thrift stores that will recycle your attire. Even sneakers can get a new life through nonprofits like GotSneakers with the added value of keeping old shoes out of the landfill.

Walk More & Drive Less

Transportation is the source of the largest section of greenhouse gas emissions. One great way to reduce the amount of driving is by combining trips. Also known as trip-chaining, gathering up errands and doing all of them on one more extended trip saves gas and time. Win-win!

Reduce Plastic Usage

These days, most store products are wrapped in some form of plastic packaging. Eliminating it from our lives feels almost impossible. The Zero Waste Movement seems like a great idea, but challenging to implement. Reducing waste by 10% however feels achievable. “Zero waste isn’t an all-or-nothing proposition,” says Anne-Marie Bonneau, author of The Zero Waste Chef. “Some of the changes necessary to reach that 10 percent goal, which just about everyone can do, won’t hurt one bit.”

Some quick tips include using cloth bags when purchasing loose produce and bringing your own glass or metal containers to refill with bulk items.

Implementing just one of these strategies begins your journey to protecting the planet with a tiny step. This will hopefully result in significant change for the Earth.

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Half of all recyclables collected in the US are made up of paper, and most often paper used to document sensitive information gets shredded and burned. InsureYouKnow.org can help you get started by assuring secure and safe storage for your digital records. Storing this information digitally and shifting billing and other communications from paper to electronic means reduces paper use at the source.

Making Friends at Any Age: Why It’s Never Too Late

April 1, 2025

As you get older, you have more responsibilities and are busier than when you were younger, so it may seem like you have less time to make friends. Due to family and professional responsibilities and eventually retirement, people only go to a handful of locations outside their home.

“People make friends in all stages of life,” says Saba Lurie, licensed marriage and family therapist in Los Angeles. “Maintaining and making new friends as we age may be more difficult because we’re spending less time going to places such as work, religious and community centers.”

By being willing to connect with new people and stay in touch with our friends, developing a rich social network is possible as we age and is beneficial to our health.

The Liking Gap and Acceptance Prophecy

When people meet others for the first time, they perceive themselves to be less likeable than they are. Researchers call this phenomenon the “liking gap.” That means that when you meet people for the first time, they will likely enjoy your company more than you realize. If you keep that in mind, it may be easier to introduce yourself to new people and feel more confident in how you’re perceived.

If you believe that others will accept you, then the odds of you being accepted by them rise. Conversely, if you think other people won’t take you upon meeting you, the odds increase that they won’t. This is called the “acceptance prophecy.” So if you believe they’ll like you when you meet someone new, they probably will.

Remembering the liking gap and acceptance prophecy when interacting with others for the first time should empower you and give you the courage to put yourself out there more often.

Where to Meet New People

No matter what kind of friend you’re looking for, the best place to start is with what interests you. If your job is also a passion, you may want to try connecting with your coworkers at work and off hours.

But if your job is simply what you do and not necessarily what you love doing, consider incorporating more hobbies into your schedule. That could be joining a gardening meetup, running club, or pickup basketball game.

Outside of work and other hobbies, consider your identity. Are you a mom of young children, for instance? Then you may want to find a mommy and me playgroup or join the parent-teacher association at your child’s school.

Putting yourself around others with similar passions, interests, or lifestyles makes it easy to find things to discuss and relate to each other. “Take an art class, volunteer at the library. Develop some regular routines,” says Lurie. “You need to take a step in showing up.”

Companionship Versus Deep Connections

It’s important to remember that there are different kinds of friends. Some friends are good companions while at work or as a workout buddy at the gym. These types of connections can become more substantial in time, but if not, that doesn’t mean that these types of companions are less valuable. People who have more companions and social interactions with new people are happier than those who have fewer as well as being happier on days when they have more encounters. “These minimal social interactions give us something important that we missed during the pandemic: novelty,” says Gillian Sandstrom, senior lecturer in psychology at the University of Sussex. “We learn surprising things when we have unplanned encounters and conversations with people.”

Most people only form deep connections with a handful of people in their lifetime. These are the relationships that stand the test of time and distance. Many people with this kind of connection can go years without seeing each other but maintain closeness by checking in regularly with one another. With long-term friendships such as these, it’s important to work at fostering them, whether that’s making the point to see them in person when you can or by staying in regular contact with them through texting, phone calls, and video chats.

Keeping Friends Close During Hardships

Sometimes, life gets challenging or overwhelming. Many people will self-isolate when the going gets tough instead of reaching out to those around them, but the hard times hold friendship benefits. Reaching out to a friend when you need support can strengthen that bond, while feeling connected to others alleviates stress. Researchers have even found that people judged a hill to be less steep when accompanied by a friend.

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While making time for friends, whether old or new, may seem like yet another to-do on an already overflowing plate, feeling connected to others more often may help you feel like your life is more manageable. With Insureyouknow.org, you may keep track of your calendar, social obligations, and other essential appointments. By keeping your schedule organized, you can focus on showing up and enjoying the company of your comrades.

How to Prepare for College Living: A Survival Guide for Incoming Students

February 15, 2025

Congratulations! You’ve been accepted into college, and soon, you’ll embark on one of the most exciting adventures of your life, along with 16 million others. But before you start dreaming about campus life, late-night study sessions, and newfound independence, there are some practical steps to ensure a smooth transition. From dorm essentials to financial planning, this guide will help you prepare for college living.

1. Master the Art of Budgeting

Living on your own means managing your finances wisely. Here’s how to stay on top of your budget:

• Create a Budget: Track your expenses, including tuition, rent, food, transportation, and entertainment.
• Use Budgeting Apps: Apps like Mint, YNAB, or PocketGuard can help you stay organized.
• Open a Student Bank Account: Many banks offer students accounts with low or no fees.
• Look for Discounts: Your student ID is your best friend—use it for travel, entertainment, and shopping discounts.

2. Pack Smart: The College Essentials Checklist

You don’t want to arrive at college and realize you forgot something crucial. Here’s what to bring:

• Dorm Room Must-Haves:
  • Bedding (twin XL sheets, comforter, pillows)
  • Storage bins and organizers
  • Desk lamp and power strips
  • Laundry hamper and detergent
  • Shower caddy and flip-flops
• Tech Gear:
  • Laptop and chargers
  • Noise-canceling headphones
  • Portable hard drive or cloud storage subscription
• Kitchen Supplies:
  • Mini fridge (if allowed)
  • Microwave or coffee maker
  • Reusable water bottles and utensils
• Emergency Kit:
  • First aid supplies
  • Medications
  • Flashlight and extra batteries

3. Set Up Your Health & Insurance Plan

Make sure you have a solid plan in place for medical needs:

• Health Insurance: Check if you’re covered under your parent’s plan or if your college offers coverage.
• Locate Healthcare Providers: Know where the nearest doctor, dentist, and urgent care clinic are.
• Stock Up on Essentials: Pack prescription medications, vitamins, and a basic first-aid kit.

4. Learn Basic Life Skills

College is a time to gain independence, so mastering basic skills will help you thrive:

• Cooking Basics: Learn how to make simple meals to save money and eat healthier.
• Laundry 101: Know how to separate colors, use detergent, and read washing machine settings.
• Time Management: College life is busy—use planners or apps to manage assignments and social activities.

5. Prepare for Roommate Life

Sharing a living space can be a challenge, but good communication helps:

• Set Boundaries Early: Discuss sleep schedules, cleaning duties, and guest policies.
• Be Respectful: Small gestures, like cleaning up after yourself, go a long way.
• Resolve Conflicts Maturely: Address issues directly and respectfully to maintain a positive environment.

6. Get to Know Campus Resources

Colleges offer plenty of support services—take advantage of them!

• Academic Support: Visit tutoring centers and writing labs.
• Mental Health Services: Many colleges offer free or low-cost counseling.
• Career Services: Start networking and building your resume early.
• Student Organizations: Join clubs to meet new friends and enhance your college experience.

College is a time of growth, challenges, and unforgettable experiences. By planning ahead, you can make the transition smoother and set yourself up for success. Embrace the adventure, stay organized, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. You’ve got this!

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College graduation prompts transitioning from a school-based existence to one replete with adult responsibilities. By preparing for the unforeseen future, college grads who do their homework and keep their records at insureyouknow.org, can begin living their lives to the fullest.

Medicare Grocery Allowances: Who Qualifies and Is it Worth it? 

January 15, 2025

In 2020, the Medicare Advantage expanded coverage benefits for those with chronic conditions, such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, diabetes, end-stage renal or liver disease, heart disease, and more. The coverage expansion is referred to as the special supplemental benefits for the chronically ill or SSBCI. Some additional benefits include food allowances and prepared meals, but in some instances, they may even include over-the-counter medications, transportation, and in-home support services.

If you’re interested in receiving a grocery allowance or meal benefits or need food assistance, here’s everything you need to know about the additional coverage.

How the Medicare Grocery Allowance and Meal Benefits Work

Grocery allowances and meal benefits are not the same. If you qualify for grocery allowances, they are issued through prepaid debit cards on a monthly or quarterly basis. While the grocery allowance varies by state, it is usually $50 each quarter.

Under the CHRONIC Care Act, as of 2020, Medicare Advantage plans could also provide meals anytime to keep eligible recipients from needing hospitalization. Meal benefits are often more popular than grocery allowances, but it’s usually only offered for a limited amount of time, which is typically four weeks after a hospital stay.

Knowing Which Plans Offer Food Assistance

Not all Medicare Advantage plans include food allowances, so it’s important to determine if you qualify before choosing a plan. Traditional Medicare Part A and Part B and Medicare supplement plans, which are meant to supplement gaps in coverage, do not offer a grocery allowance. Some Part C Medicare Advantage Plans do offer grocery allowances and meal benefits, such as special needs plans or SNPs and dual-eligible special-needs plans D-SNPs. D-SNPs are meant for Medicare members who are also enrolled in Medicaid and who have a chronic condition. Those with Medicare Advantage plans who are disabled or who have a low-income subsidy or LIS may also be eligible to receive grocery benefits.

The CHRONIC Care Act of 2020 gave Medicare Advantage plans the ability to offer non-medical benefits such as funds for groceries. “Therefore, the Medicare Advantage plan can decide if they want to provide those benefits, and those benefits have to be designed only for the chronically ill,” says Alexandra Ashbrook, director of the Food Research and Action Center. “The non-medical services have to be targeted to people who have at least one chronic health condition, such as those at risk of hospitalization or some other adverse health outcome requiring intensive care coordination,” she says.

Qualifications for the grocery and meal benefits vary by plan, so it’s important to check with the plan’s provider to see what they offer and if your health condition qualifies. Choosing a plan based solely on food allowances isn’t the best approach over the long run. So, even if the plan offers a grocery or meal benefit, it may not justify what you pay for the plan. Whether or not the plan covers medical needs should always be the priority. Take into account every benefit the plan offers before making a decision.

What to do if You Don’t Qualify for Medicare Food Allowances

There are still other options for those who do not qualify for the grocery allowance through their Medicare Advantage Plan. Low-income seniors 60 or older can apply for food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP. Many people don’t even realize that they qualify for these benefits. “Unfortunately, only about 48% of eligible older adults are participating in SNAP,” Ashbrook says. “That’s a really important gap that health care providers and health systems could help to close before looking at any of the other additional food programs.”

Those who are 60 or older and have an income below 185% of the federal poverty income guidelines may also qualify for the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program SFMNP or the Commodity Supplemental Food Program or CSFP. The SFMNP provides coupons for fresh fruits and vegetables, which can be used at farmers’ markets and community farms, while the CSFP is a monthly package of healthy food that the USDA distributes to local agencies for participants to pick up. If eligible, some states even offer package deliveries.

To find out if you are eligible for SNAP or either of these additional programs, you may fill out an application online. If you’re a veteran, for instance, you may be more likely to qualify for USDA food assistance programs. Even if you are not eligible for Medicare grocery allowances, SNAP, or other supplemental programs, you still have options. Meals On Wheels is another program designed to help low-income seniors access prepared meals. The meals are provided on a sliding scale based on a recipient’s income to make them an affordable option for those in need.

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If any food assistance will help you, then exploring every available benefit will pay off. Whether it’s a Medicare food allowance or a USDA-based food assistance program, helping purchase and prepare healthy foods can go a long way in improving the quality of your everyday life. With Insureyouknow.org, you may keep track of your applications, health records, and grocery budgets in one easy-to-access place for all your meal planning needs.

The Health Benefits of Even the Shortest Vacations

December 15, 2024

Just like an athlete benefits from breaks during exercise, vacations are an important part of someone’s well-being. According to a Pew Research Center survey in 2023, nearly half of the U.S. workers surveyed said they take less time off than the paid time off their employers gave them, while globally, eighty-five percent of workers reported that vacations make them feel more optimistic and that regular vacations are important for their overall health.

“Not taking time off from work to go on vacation or simply rest can lead to overwork and burnout,” says Joyce Marter, a licensed psychotherapist. “People should use all the vacation time allotted to them—and sick days should also be used.

If you’ve been feeling the need for a true rest, here’s everything you need to know about getting the most out of even the shortest vacations.

The Right Amount of Time Off

While experts agree that any amount of vacation time is beneficial, three weeks per year may be just the right amount to benefit your health. The European Society of Cardiology conducted a 40-year-long study that found people who take less than three weeks of vacation time per year have a 37% greater risk of premature death, even despite living an otherwise healthy lifestyle.

Another study in 2020 showed that people who split two weeks of annual vacation time into five short breaks had a 24% lower risk of metabolic syndrome. Even the long weekend can come with serious benefits, as those who took a four-day vacation had improved stress-levels for an entire month after returning to work.

Since the positive effects of a trip usually fade after a month of being back home, taking several short trips throughout the year can be more beneficial than one or two long vacations. Plus, the planning process can make you feel happier than the trip itself, so allowing yourself to plan and look forward to a trip more often throughout the year extends the benefits of your vacation time even more.

The Right Way to Travel

Simply going on vacation won’t necessarily result in feeling as though you have a break. “I’ve heard countless times how exhausted people are when they come back from their vacation and feel like they ‘need a vacation from their vacation,’ and that’s because many times we pack so much into a very short amount of time,” says Esther Susag, a travel blogger. “We want to see everything, do everything, and not waste a minute.”

In order to benefit from any amount of time away, it’s important that you provide yourself with the opportunity to actually rest.

Slow travel is a more meditative approach to traveling that allows people to slow down, as the name suggests, and literally stop and smell the roses. “If you want to really unplug and relax without the stresses of traveling then slow travel may be for you,” says Mark Wolters, a YoutTube travel channel host. “You get to unpack your suitcases less, take fewer planes, trains and automobiles and just relax in a destination.

Once you’re on vacation, give yourself the gift of a loose plan. Do some research ahead of time and bring a list of some things you don’t want to miss when you’re there, as well as a few restaurant possibilities. For every day that you’re there, have a half day’s worth of activities planned, giving yourself the time and space in each place to really enjoy the experience. 

The Right Companion

In order to have a truly beneficial break, it becomes important to choose the people you vacation with carefully. “Spending time with family and friends are all things that we know can increase well-being and even reduce stress,” says Stephanie Preston, psychology professor at the University of Michigan. “There can be a lot of interpersonal conflict over how you manage the schedule and the priorities.”

While the idea of traveling with extended family, for instance, seems like a good idea on paper, trying to please everyone may prove to be the opposite of a relaxing getaway. 

That being said, vacations can also provide the opportunity to bond with your family members and create truly lasting connections with one another. When you plan to travel slowly, your adventure becomes more about being together as a family than about visiting as many attractions as possible. Slow travel provides the space not only to notice your surroundings but also to notice the people you are seeing them with.

The Right Location

Once you decide who to travel with, opt to stay at a vacation rental rather than a hotel. Rentals are rarely at the center of the tourist attractions. This provides both a more relaxing environment to unplug in but also immerses you more deeply into the local experience. Plus, with rentals that have fully stocked kitchens, there’s less of a reason to have to leave and more of an opportunity to stay in and unwind.

The Right Format

Most people intuitively sense that taking a break is good for their health. What’s most important for people to realize is that they don’t need a vacation to have a break. “Many people don’t often have a choice in how much rest is available to them,” says Julia Kocian, a social worker and mental health counselor. “The way society is set up, we treat rest as a privilege, not a right,” she says.

Whether it’s taking a walk in the evening or meditating while you fold the laundry, only you will know what activities best help you to relax. “I view rest as intentionally slowing down or stepping away from an activity, while taking a break can be more active, like going on a walk or stretching,” says Samantha Artherholt, a psychologist and professor at UW School of Medicine. “The goal of any sort of rest or break is it should feel relaxing. You should feel refreshed and better after the break than you did before.”

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Work yourself up towards taking more vacation time by finding ways to distribute downtime throughout your day and week. “The biggest thing is giving yourself permission to do it,” Artherholt says. When you learn more about what feels like rest to you, then you can start planning a handful of short vacations for yourself throughout the year. With Insureyouknow.org, you may store your destination research, savings goals, and travel plans all in one place. Remember that planning for your next vacation may be over half of the fun.

Returning to College: A Simple Guide for Adults

December 1, 2024

Going back to college as an adult can be intimidating, but most people don’t realize that almost forty percent of all college students are adult learners over the age of 25. In addition to adult learners, more than 20% of undergraduate students are parents. Reasons for returning to school differ, such as wanting to enter a new field, ensure job security, or to set an example for their children and loved ones. Some may just want to finish what they started, as 36 million Americans have left college without completing their programs.

There are several perks to going back to school as an adult. The older you get, the more likely you are to know what degree to pursue, what workload you’ll be taking on, and what kind of pay to expect after graduation. These factors actually make it more likely that an adult learner will graduate with a degree that leads them to a better work situation, whether that’s a larger paycheck or a better work-life balance. 

If you’ve been thinking about returning to school as an adult, here’s everything you should know before choosing the path that’s right for you. 

Choosing the Right School for Your Needs

Different schools and degrees will come with different time and financial costs. It’s worth comparing your options, such as opting for a lower-cost school like a community college or looking into online schools if you’ll need to continue managing a busy schedule. Some schools are open admission, meaning all applicants are accepted, such as with community colleges, while others are more selective. If you want to apply to selective schools, then start the process several months to a year before you want to start classes. 

Many schools offer flexible course schedules, including accelerated, self-paced, or part-time degree tracks. Online classes allow students to fit in their studies around their existing schedules. Remote and online learning options are no longer considered a lesser higher education experience and can often allow people juggling work and other adult responsibilities to achieve their school and career goals in a way that in-person classes would never allow them. 

Be realistic about the time your classes and coursework will take you to complete. Many students underestimate the time it takes to complete a program. Reach out to the admissions office and ask how the school can help fit in classes around your busy schedule. “Many colleges will allow you to consider full- or part-time enrollment,” says Elaine Rubin, an Edvisors communications specialist. “If you aren’t attending school full-time, it will take you longer to complete your program or degree, but it may make it manageable. It’s best to talk about this with an admission counselor.

Noncredit education or certificate programs are becoming more popular, particularly in fields like project and program management and content development. While some of these programs require a degree to enroll, others are designed for people looking to switch fields or feel more qualified in a certain skill set, like fund-raising or human resources management. If this is a path you’re considering, take note of whether the institution is accredited, which means they would be taught by faculty and would be more useful if you do end up choosing to pursue a degree later on. 

Paying for College Might be More Affordable Than You Thought

Paying for college as an adult isn’t much different than if you were going to college at 18. There are thousands of scholarships specifically meant for adult learners. In addition to scholarships, there are grants. Grants involve funds meant to pay for college that are usually given by the government and that you don’t need to pay back. Don’t make the mistake of assuming that you won’t qualify for college grants without applying first. Start by filling out the FAFSA online and contacting your potential school’s financial aid office.

Some of the most awarded grants include the Federal Pell Grant, which has a maximum payout of $7,395 for the 2024-2025 school year. The amount you’re awarded is determined by your financial need, the cost of your tuition, and whether you’ll be a part-time or full-time student. Other opportunities include a TEACH Grant, which is for students who want to become teachers but must agree to work in high-need areas for a certain amount of time after graduation, and state-based grants. 

A 529 plan is a savings account specifically meant for college savings, and many adults don’t realize that they can open one for themselves. One of the biggest reasons to open a 529 is because your earnings won’t be subject to federal income taxes. In addition, 34 states offer additional tax breaks on these account earnings. If you have family members who want to help you go back to school, they can add up to $14,000 per year to your account as a gift to you without being taxed on their contribution.

Many colleges have started allowing adult learners to turn their work experience into college credits, saving them both money and time. Many employers also offer tuition reimbursement as part of their benefits packages now, so looking into your employee benefits may be the first step in determining ways to pay for college. Education-focused workplaces, especially those in tech and healthcare, will sometimes even allow you time off work to focus on your educational pursuits.

Last but not least is the option of taking out student loans. If you use debt in a smart way and only take out what you need to cover the cost of your schooling, a student loan is not a bad idea. Plus, adult learners with money management experience are less likely to abuse student loans. If you know you’ll be graduating and obtaining a career with a better paycheck, you can devise a timeline for paying off your debt as soon as possible after graduation.  

Set Yourself Up for Success Before You Begin

Gathering your education records will be a good place to start when you’re narrowing down your different options. Not only will the schools you apply to require that you submit your transcripts, but you may also check to see if you have already met some of your degree requirements or prerequisites. If you have other technical schooling or certificates, then gather those as well. 

“Most program policies on transfer credit typically have a maximum limit of 10 years,” says Dr. Bri Newland, assistant dean of the New York University School of Professional Studies Division of Applied Undergraduate Studies. “However, it is crucial to schedule a meeting with an experienced academic advisor who will thoroughly assess your transcripts alongside you, regardless of whether you acquired these credits beyond the specified timeframe.”

When going back to college as an adult with other responsibilities like an existing career or family, staying organized will be essential to your survival. Once you get started with classes, keep track of deadlines and due dates, giving yourself plenty of time to study and complete coursework. Determine where and when you’ll get your work completed, such as a designated space at home or a campus library, and which days and times you’ll use to get your classwork completed. Developing a routine that you can stick to will ensure your success, even when unexpected obstacles arise. 

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Once you do some research, you’ll likely discover that going back to school and attaining the degree you desire is more feasible than you may have thought. With Insureyouknow.org, you may keep track of your transcripts and certificates, college applications, financial costs and payment methods, and eventually, your new degree.

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.

Elections 101 for Seniors

September 15, 2024

It can be difficult to get to the polls no matter your age, but that doesn’t mean anyone should forego their right to vote. In America, voting is a right possessed by every citizen and is one that should not be taken for granted. In many ways, voting is easier than ever, and senior citizens’ votes count more than most. So if you’re an older adult or family member of a senior citizen, it’s important to learn about all of the ways to vote in your state.

Seniors Actually Have the Voting Advantage

According to the American Association of Retired Persons (or AARP), a recent poll showed that voters aged 50 and over will decide the 2024 elections. People over the age of 65 make up the most reliable voting group, and the group with the largest voter turnout has the power to sway the election. The Pew Foundation found that voter turnout during the 2020 presidential election was at a decades-high level, with more than 158.4 million people, or 62% of U.S. citizens aged 18 and older, coming out to vote.

Since U.S. voter turnout actually increases with age, particularly during presidential elections, political campaigns often target older voters. While younger voters can be motivated by certain candidates, older generations have paid consistent attention to long-term policy issues. Senior citizens are especially concerned about changes to Social Security and Medicare, which serve as strong motivators for them to vote.

Seniors Have a Lot to be Motivated About

Senior citizens are the recipients of Social Security and Medicare, which both directly affect their finances and hence make them particularly attuned to policy changes. If they think one candidate winning the election may result in cuts to these programs, that’s a huge motivator to vote. In addition to Social Security and Medicare, the AARP poll found that seniors are also concerned about threats to democracy, the rising cost of caregiving, and the high costs of prescription drugs.

Because of these concerns, older voters view the government as playing a significant role in their lives. Senior citizens tend to be more well-informed about political issues than their younger counterparts. “Interest groups like the (AARP) and others serve to organize for the interest of senior citizens,” says Cleveland, Ohio law professor Atiba Ellis. “Other age demographics don’t have interest groups that seek to motivate participation from across an entire age demographic.”

Often, senior citizens have been members of their community for a long time. The longer someone has been a resident has a direct correlation to feelings of being tied to and invested in their communities. These strong social ties contribute to higher voting rates. Older voters are often more interested in the future of their neighborhoods, so they become politically engaged. “Many older Americans serve as poll workers or volunteer in campaigns,” says director of pre-law at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh Kristen Coopie. “These types of engagement naturally lead to their participation in elections.”

There’s Always Absentee Voting, Mail-In Ballots, and Early Voting

Absentee voting is made available for people who can’t make it to the polls on election day due to a disability or reasonable inability to make it. In order to absentee vote, you must register to do so and request an absentee ballot. When you request an absentee ballot, you must choose from a list of accepted “excuses” to not vote in person. In some states, simply being 65 or older is a valid reason for requesting an absentee ballot. In states that don’t allow age itself to be a reason, seniors may still qualify under another reason, such as illness or disability, so it’s definitely worth looking into. Many states even offer no-excuse absentee ballots, where you may request an absentee ballot without providing a reason at all.

Voting by mail makes it possible to vote when it might be impossible or difficult to make it to the polls. As long as you’re registered to vote and your state offers mail-in ballots, then you may be able to conveniently vote by mail. Your local voter registration office will know if your state offers mail-in ballots. Even before the pandemic, Washington, Oregon, Utah, Colorado, and Hawaii voted by mail, so if you live in one of these states, your ballot is automatically mailed to you. If you can vote by mail and choose to vote, make sure you request your ballot early and mail it in on time.

If you’re not sure about your state’s rules around absentee voting and mail-in ballots, Senior Living has compiled a list of states and what each offers their voters.

If it’s still possible for you to go to the polls or you’d prefer voting in person, then early voting allows you to exercise your right to vote and avoid the crowds. Early voting can provide a sense of relief that you’ve taken care of voting ahead of time and don’t need to worry about missing out on election day. Early voting locations and times will differ from those on election day, so just check local calendars beforehand to find the poll that will work best for you.

Help Getting to the Polls

Your state’s voter registration office wants everyone to vote and will likely be a wealth of resources for you in getting your vote cast. For instance, if getting transportation to the polls or getting into the polls is a concern for you, they will likely know which voting locations will offer curbside voting, as well as be willing to help you find transportation to cast your vote. For instance, the National Council for Aging partnered with Lyft during the 2022 midterm elections to provide free rideshare coupons for seniors needing rides to the poll. Seniors may also ask their family members or caregivers for help getting to the polls on election day or during early voting periods.

Insureyouknow.org The right to vote for every American, including seniors, is vital to protecting our democracy. While it can be an added to errand to get your vote in, it’s one that can be immensely fulfilling and should be thought of as a privilege rather than a tedious to-do. If you’re a senior concerned about getting to the polls or getting your vote cast, contact your state’s voter registration office with your concerns. With Insureyouknow.org, family members and caregivers can keep track of their voter’s registration, scheduling, and transportation needs. This year, make voting a family priority by planning to vote together during the upcoming 2024 elections. 

College Pathway for Students with Intellectual Disabilities

August 30, 2024

When raising a child with special needs, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to preparing for college. Everyone’s situation varies significantly depending on the intellectual or developmental disability. Many parents utilize high school-to-college transition programs, while others choose vocational or life-skills training routes.

Students with IDD (intellectual or developmental disabilities) such as autism, visual impairment, and deaf or hard of hearing, can complete a traditional college degree with accommodations provided through a college’s Disabled Students’ Programs and Services (DSPS) department. Students with intellectual disabilities that wouldn’t be able to participate in a regular college program still have options. There’s an increasing number of non-degree programs designed specifically for students with intellectual disabilities on college campuses. These programs allow students to take college courses part of the time while also learning how to live independently and gain work experience in businesses that fit their career goals.

No matter what goals you have for your child, it’s important to research the options available to you early on.

Make Post-Graduate Plans Well in Advance

Ninth grade is the perfect time to begin planning for after high school graduation. Parents and students should work closely with their school’s guidance counselors, transition specialists and any other outside resources, such as your state’s rehabilitation services department, to put a plan in place.

Chances are if you have a teen with special needs, then you have experience working closely with school personnel each year to coordinate all the necessary accommodations with their Individualized Education Plan (IEP). If you’re unclear about the transitional process or post-secondary options, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Many parents can find the planning process overwhelming, so working with the resources you already have is a great place to begin.

Work With the College You Choose for Support

When you begin to narrow down possible programs and colleges that might fit the needs of your child, get in touch with those potential schools and talk to them about what they offer. “For students choosing to attend college after graduation, contact the Special Services Office at the campus as you plan your college visits,” says Sandye Cox, a transition consultant at Region 10 Education Service Center in Richardson. “Students who have received special education accommodations at the high-school level may be eligible for services at the college level,” she says.

Project CASE (Connections for Academic Success and Employment) is a high school-to-college transition program, for example, that helps students ages 18 to 25 with developmental disabilities to earn an academic degree or technical certification, as well as seek employment. They help students keep a log of academic and social progress and work with them to set up expectations and back-up plans. Services such as these provide encouragement and help students remain motivated. Other centers like The Burkhart Center for Autism Education and Research at Texas Tech University assign a learning specialist to students accepted into the program to help them navigate college life. 

If you’re unsure about what a college has to offer your child, give them a call. You’ll likely discover there are many opportunities as campuses are striving to be accessible and suit every student’s unique needs.

Highly-Rated Colleges for Students With IDD

There are programs at colleges across the country designed to help neurodiverse students succeed, whether they have a physical disability, a developmental one, or one related to learning. When researching schools, get familiar with what accommodations and support services they offer students with disabilities. Other factors to check for are campus accessibility, a culture of diversity and inclusiveness among students, and whether or not the programs offered fit the career goals and interests of your child. Once you have a list of potential schools, contact the college’s office for disability services for more information and try visiting the campus in person before applying for admission.

Here are six of the best colleges for students with disabilities. 

1.     InclusiveU at Syracuse University. Developed out of the Taishoff Center for Inclusive Higher Education, this program offers students with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to experience fully inclusive college life at Syracuse University. They offer individualized coursework, mentors and Peer2Peer support, and weekly seminars on topics like health and wellbeing, budgeting, dating and relationships, and conflict resolution. They also help with pursuing semester-long internships and on-campus jobs, in addition to a variety of social and extracurricular activities.

2.     Next Steps at Vanderbilt University. Next Steps is a four-year program that helps students with intellectual disabilities to develop academically, socially, and professionally. Next Steps students are part of the Best Buddies program that fosters friendships with general education students. Peer mentors serve as lunch or workout partners, academic tutors, and daily planners to help students dive deeper into the typical college experience.

3.     Destination Dawgs at the University of Georgia. Destination Dawgs is a five-semester certificate program for students with intellectual disabilities. The program allows students to prepare for their transition into adulthood with on-campus housing, peer support, and career training. They offer courses alongside directed studies tailored to each students’ interests and career goals.

4.     IDEAL at Georgia State University. The IDEAL (Inclusive Digital Expression and Literacy) program is for students with mild intellectual disabilities between the ages of 18 and 25. They focus on the development of media literacy, storytelling, and media production skills so that each student can find their “voice.” Support is received through peer-mentors, and students can participate in internships with local businesses and arts organizations.

5.     The Mason LIFE Program at George Mason University. The Mason LIFE Program is a four-year program for young adults with IDDbb who seek the benefits of a supportive academic environment within a university setting. Students attend classes 20 hours a week in traditional courses alongside program courses like banking, mindfulness, and human sexuality and relationships.

6.     Aggie ACHIEVE at Texas A&M University. Aggie ACHIEVE (Academic Courses in Higher Inclusive Education and Vocational Experiences) is a four-year inclusive program designed to equip students with IDD for future employment. ACHIEVE students live on-campus and have access to all campus-related activities and events. Each student’s program is tailored to their unique goals, and they have internship opportunities within their field of interest.

Insureyouknow.org

Many parents want their children to remain close by and in-state. ThinkCollege.net is a user-friendly directory of college programs for every state. Insureyouknow.org can provide one easy-to-access place where you can compile your research, store educational records, and track your child’s achievements. “Do not assume that they won’t be able to achieve. Every student — disabled or not — needs a good education,” says Martha Siegel, a mother of a son who has Asperger’s. “Love your children and guide them, but give them independence,” she says.

Understanding What Hospice Care Means

July 1, 2024

When treatment for serious illnesses is causing more side effects than benefits, or when health problems become compounded, then a patient and their family members may begin to wonder about hospice. “We recognized as people consider hospice, it’s highly emotional times,” says medical director for Austin Palliative Care Dr. Kate Tindall. “It might include worries and fears.” But one of the things she hears most often from patients and their families is that they wish they had started sooner. Understanding who qualifies for hospice and what it entails is the first part of deciding what might be best for those with terminal conditions.

What is Hospice Care?

Hospice is meant to care for people who have an anticipated life expectancy of 6 months or less, when there is no cure for their ailment, and the focus of their care shifts to the management of their symptoms and their quality of life. With hospice, the patient’s comfort and dignity become the priority, so treatment of the condition ends and treatment of the symptoms, such as pain management, begins. There are no age restrictions placed around hospice care, meaning any child, adolescent, or adult who has been diagnosed with a terminal illness qualifies for hospice care.

An individual does not need to be bedridden or already in their final days of life in order to receive hospice care. Other common misconceptions about hospice care are that it is designed to cure any illness or prolong life. It is also not meant to hasten death or replace any existing care, such as those already provided by a physician.

Determining When it’s Time for Hospice

Establishing care is most beneficial for the patient and their caregivers when it is taken advantage of earlier rather than later. Hospice can be used for months as long as eligibility has been met. Once there is a significant decline in physical or cognitive function, the goal for treatment should become to help that individual live comfortably and forgo anymore physically debilitating treatments that have been unsuccessful in curing or halting the illness. 

Both individuals and their loved ones who would benefit from initiating hospice care are often unaware of the services or are uncomfortable asking about them. “It’s a hard conversation to have,” says professor of medicine and palliative care at the Duke University School of Medicine David Casarett. “Many people really want to continue aggressive treatment up until the very end.” While many wait for their providers to suggest it, it should be understood that if eligibility for hospice has been met, an individual and their caregivers can initiate hospice care on their own.

Establishing Hospice Care

In order to qualify for hospice care, a physician must certify that the patient is medically eligible, which means that the individual’s life expectancy is 6 months or less. Typically, the referral to hospice starts with the attending physician’s knowledge of that person’s medical history, while eligibility is then confirmed by the hospice physician. A hospice care team consists of professionals who are trained to treat physical, psychological, and the spiritual needs of the individual, while also providing support to family members and caregivers. Care is person-centered, with the importance being placed on the coordination of care, setting clear treatment goals, and communicating with all involved parties.

Receiving Care at Home

Hospice care is generally provided in the person’s home, whether it’s a personal residence or a care facility, such as a nursing home. “When people are close to the end of their lives, going to the hospital does not make them feel better anymore,” explains professor of medicine at the University of California Dr. Carly Zapata. “Because there’s not necessarily something that we can do to address their underlying illness.” Staying at home allows the individual to be around their personal things and close to their loved ones and pets, which can provide them with comfort during the end of their life.

What Does Hospice Care Include?

Hospice includes periodic visits to the patient and their family or caregivers but is available 24-7 if needed. Medication for symptom relief is administered, any medical equipment needed is provided, and toileting and other supplies such as diapers, wipes, wheelchairs, hospital beds are provided. What may surprise some people is that hospice patients may even receive physical and occupational therapy, speech-language pathology services, and dietary counseling.

If needed, short-term inpatient care may be established for those who cannot achieve adequate pain and symptom relief in their home setting. Short-term respite care may also become available to help family caregivers who are experiencing or are at risk for caregiver burnout. Bereavement care, or grief and loss counseling, is also offered to loved ones who may experience anticipatory grief. Grief counseling is available to family members for up to 13 months after the person’s death.

Paying for Hospice

The first step in finding a hospice agency is to search for ones that serve your county. If there are several options available, then it’s recommended to talk to more than one and see which agency will best fit the patient’s needs. Adequate research should be conducted since not all hospice agencies provide physical and occupational therapy. 

Hospice is a medicare benefit that all Medicare enrollees qualify for, but it may also be covered through private insurance and by Medicaid in almost every state. Military families may receive hospice through Tricare, while veterans with the Veterans Health Administration Standard Medical Benefits Package are also eligible for hospice. Hospice agencies will also accept individual self-pay, while there are also non-profit organizations that provide hospice services free of charge.

Discontinuing Hospice Care

Though it is uncommon, if a patient does improve or their condition stabilizes, they may no longer meet medical eligibility for hospice. If this happens, the patient is discharged from the program. Another situation that sometimes arises is when a person elects to try a curative therapy, such as a clinical study for a new medication or procedure. In order to do that, the patient must withdraw from hospice through what is called revocation. Both children and veterans are exempt from being disqualified from hospice care if they choose to also pursue curative treatments. Any person may always re-enroll in hospice care at any time as long as they meet the medical eligibility.

Opting for Palliative Care

Individuals with chronic conditions or life-threatening illnesses may opt for palliative care, which doesn’t require people to stop their treatments. Palliative care is a combination of treatment and comfort care and can be an important bridge to hospice care if patients become eligible. Because transitioning to hospice care can be an emotional choice, palliative care providers often help patients prepare for that. Many people avoid palliative care because they think it is equal to giving up and that death is imminent, but studies show that for many, palliative care allows them to live longer, happier lives. This is due to the benefits of symptom management and spiritual support.

Insureyouknow.org

While hospice care can be difficult to accept, it can provide people with the best quality of life possible in their final days, as well as provide their loved ones with valued support. With Insureyouknow.org, you may keep track of all medical and financial records in one easy-to-review place so that you may focus on caring for your loved one, your family, and yourself during this period of their care.