Longevity might just be less about strong medicine and more about strong connection to others. Research shows that having meaningful social ties is a good predictor of living longer and better. Social connections can help protect your heart, sharpen your mind, and boost joy and resilience. On the other hand, loneliness and the resulting emotional pain can activate your body's stress response, just like physical pain. Loneliness is also associated with a higher rate of illness and premature death. If you aim for long-term health and independence, nurturing connection is essential.
 
The changes that come with aging, such as retirement or health challenges, can make it harder to maintain social ties. One way to foster connection is by finding a "third place," a casual setting that is not a home or workplace. It is where the same people see each other repeatedly and community naturally forms. It might be a café, a library, a senior center class, or a park. Going regularly encourages interaction and a sense of familiarity with others. If you are relocating, look for a neighborhood with social spaces, friendly people, and walkability. These factors make connection easier and more sustainable.
 
Belonging to a group also supports connection and provides a source of shared identity. Being part of something such as a faith community or a values-based club offers structure and continuity despite life's ups and downs. Regular participation in a meaningful activity also strengthens mental health. Your consistent involvement actually matters more than the type of group.
 
Giving to others is another proven way to strengthen social bonds. Mentoring, tutoring, volunteering, or simply offering your time to a neighbor all are ways of helping and being with others that can boost your own physical and mental health. The act of giving provides a sense of purpose and often leads to new relationships with others who share your values.
 
If you're finding yourself wishing you had more social connection, think about ways to schedule it into your life. Try committing to two meaningful connections each week, such as a shared meal or a walk with a friend. Maybe sign up for a class or schedule a regular Zoom date with family. Or start very small by going to the same coffee shop every week until the other regulars begin to recognize you. Over time, the consistent, genuine contact adds up. No matter what the situation, to deepen connection even with your closest friends, look the other in the eyes, listen closely, and ask follow-up questions. In the end, relationships aren't just part of a good life, they're the foundation of it.
 
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Exercise at this stage in life is less about pushing hard and more about protecting your independence and mobility. It's about choosing the right kind of movement to support your energy, ease—and your joints. Being able to get up and down from the floor at age eighty doesn't just happen. It takes intentional behavior now to meet your goals for later life. Regardless of whether you've always exercised or you're just getting started, it's never too late to review what you're doing to keep your body moving. Even a few hours of activity a week can help keep your heart pumping, preserve muscle, and steady your balance. There are three key types of movement to incorporate in your life:

1.Aerobic (cardio) movement. Boosts heart and lung health, supports brain function, and helps prevent diabetes and heart disease. Examples: Brisk walking, dancing, swimming, pickleball, biking.

2.Strength or resistance training. Counteracts the natural loss of muscle mass that comes with aging. Lack of muscle affects your energy and ability to carry groceries, climb stairs, or rise from a chair. Examples: Using resistance bands or handheld weights, leg lifts/pushups, digging/hauling.

3.Balance and flexibility exercises. Reduces fall risk and improves coordination. For balance: tai chi, yoga, standing on one foot, heel-to-toe walking. For flexibility, stretch after all exercise.

If you haven't been active in a while or have a chronic condition, check with your doctor first. Physical therapy may be advised to address old injuries or concerns. Once cleared, start slowly, both for safety and to increase the likelihood that you'll stick with it. Just ten minutes a day makes a difference. As your strength and confidence grow, increase your time and intensity, building toward the recommended 150 minutes a week of aerobic activity.

Find a mix of activities that you enjoy and that fit your lifestyle. Some people like routine; some like variety. Try doing things solo and with others. (Working out with a friend or group can really boost motivation!) There are many options these days. You might share a wellness app with friends, try a virtual class or free video workout at home, or go to a group activity in person. If you'd like a structured class, online platforms, community centers, local studios, and Medicare's SilverSneakers are all good places to look.

Along the way, set realistic goals for yourself and celebrate milestones. What matters most is that you keep moving with intention. You're not just exercising, you're building the future you want to live in, today.

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Thanks to longer lifespans, retirement isn't a short chapter. It might be close to a third of your life! It sounds so inviting: Life as a blank canvas, with long mornings, travel—a new kind of "freedom." In fact, many retirees find that once the structure of work fades, they feel surprisingly unmoored. After decades of purpose-driven days, the stillness can feel disorienting. It is not uncommon for retirees to report feeling caught between relief and restlessness, and even some depression.

It helps, then, to reframe this life stage not as an end, but a beginning. Whether you're retiring solo or with a partner, take time to reflect not just on what has been left behind, but on what you'd like to step toward. Think about what excites you, what gives your life meaning, and what might bring new connections. 

Here are three common challenges to expect and thoughtful ways to approach them:

Loss of structure. Work shapes your days in many ways, subtle and specific. It likely determines when you rise, eat, and exercise, and ensures some contact with others.

Try this: Don't mindlessly fill your calendar, but do plan some activity to give your week a shape. Experiment: A daily walk? Mornings for a creative project? Wednesdays, lunch with a friend? Repeating simple rituals can create flow without the pressure of productivity.

Shifting identity. If your work has defined you, stepping away can lead to the question, Who am I now?

Try this: It may feel awkward at first to lack a secure focus or a solid answer to that perennial question, "What do you do?" Think about what's always mattered to you: science, art, nature, children—? Try mentoring, volunteering, exploring a passion project, or picking up something you once set aside. Seek what feels true to you now.

Social disconnection. The quiet can feel peaceful … until it feels lonely. Without workplace chatter and collaboration, the days can stretch. If you live with someone, you may need to find new ways of sharing that space.

Try this: Make an effort to build new social circles. Join a local organization that meets regularly. Return to a religious or spiritual practice. Take a class with your partner. We are wired for connection and creating a routine around it helps make sure it happens.

Research shows that purpose and a positive mindset toward aging support both emotional and physical health. Approach retirement with intention. The years ahead can be full of reinvention, connection, and fulfillment.  

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Research shows that many factors linked to dementia are within your control. While age and genetics play a role in developing the condition, lifestyle is a significant part of the puzzle. How you live today influences how sharp your mind will be tomorrow.

Know your risk factors. A 2024 report by a Lancet Commission highlights fourteen modifiable risk factors that account for up to 48% of dementia cases worldwide. They include less education, hearing loss, high blood pressure, smoking, obesity, depression, physical inactivity, diabetes, excessive alcohol use, traumatic brain injury, social isolation, air pollution, vision loss, and high cholesterol.

At this point in your life, you may not have control over every single factor, but there is still a lot you can do to help shape your future. And, according to dementia researchers, lifestyle changes are not only more accessible, they may be more effective than the latest drug treatments. Daily choices—not just luck or genes—are proving powerful in prevention.

Stay active. Cognitive resilience comes from being engaged—mentally, socially, and physically. Even if your years in school were brief, keeping your brain stimulated now reduces dementia risk. That might mean learning a new language, volunteering, or joining a book group. Social events also provide novelty and challenge that are good for the brain. Researchers point to the importance of regular physical movement, too. Individuals who regularly walk, dance, garden—are physically active somehow—retain better cognition. And movement also fights obesity.

Manage chronic conditions. Getting high blood pressure, diabetes, and/or high cholesterol under control may require medication. However, the healthy choices that positively affect these diseases also support the brain. Addressing hearing loss is important too. Untreated hearing loss is strongly correlated with dementia, possibly due to the isolation and reduced mental stimulation it can cause. The same goes for vision loss.

Be thoughtful about what you consume. A growing body of research supports the MIND diet—a hybrid of the Mediterranean and DASH diets—as brain friendly. Think leafy greens, nuts, berries, fish, and whole grains. When it comes to alcohol, moderation is key, as is quitting smoking.

If you're curious about genetic factors that might affect your risk, testing can offer some insight. But even with a higher risk, daily habits play a key role in preserving brain health. Lifestyle changes aren't a guarantee, but they are a smart foundation for aging well.

Want help planning for a healthy future?
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​With many older adults wishing to age in place, demand is growing for innovative housing options. An ADU—accessory dwelling unit—is a small, separate living space built on the same property as a single-family home. You may know them as in-law suites, granny pods, or casitas. ADUs offer flexible options as housing needs change over time. They can provide space to generate rental income, serve as a creative retreat, host visitors, or offer a private place for a caregiver.
 
You may even plan to downsize into one yourself, perhaps located in the backyard of a family member's home. If that idea appeals to you, take time for detailed consideration of the pros and cons and discuss them with your family. How might the arrangement change the dynamics between you? Would there be enough privacy? Who would cover the cost of the building? Would you pay rent? If you decide to go forward, it would be wise to draw up a written agreement so everyone is clear about what's expected.
 
If you'd like to stay in your current home but are looking ahead to a time when you need more help, an ADU could potentially serve as housing for a caregiver. Pursuing that option means weighing the benefits against the cost of building and the time spent overseeing the project. Down the road you would also be in charge of managing a caregiver or tenant, which is no small task. Would there be outside support available if you weren't able to do it yourself?
 
Building and zoning basics. There are several ways to add an ADU. You can convert a garage or basement, build an addition, or purchase a prefabricated unit. Many builders now create modern, energy-efficient units designed with aging in place in mind. Features known as "universal design" make them safer and more comfortable as you age. They include things such as no-step entries, wide hallways, and easy-to-use bathrooms. Garage conversions work well because they usually start at ground level.
 
But before you begin anything, it's important to check with the local city or county department of housing. Rules and permitting requirements vary widely. Most cities don't allow ADUs to be used as short-term vacation rentals, but many do support them as a way to create affordable housing and help older adults stay in their homes. However, permits, parking requirements, and utility costs can all affect your timeline and budget.
 
When thoughtfully designed and well integrated into your long-term goals, an ADU is more than a structure—it's a strategy.
 
Want help planning to age in place?
Call the experts in aging well at 203-826-9206.

If you're someone who plans ahead—you keep your finances in order, maintain your home, and map out your next chapter before embarking—you already understand the value of routine maintenance. The same principle applies to your health. And one of the determinants of health that's often overlooked? The potential for chronic inflammation.

A certain amount of acute inflammation is necessary in life, kicking in to protect your body when a virus or bacteria invades. In these instances, your immune system rushes in to help and then backs off after healing has occurred. When your immune system doesn't quit, you have chronic inflammation, or what scientists call inflammaging. It can creep in with age. Starting around age fifty, the immune system can get a little too enthusiastic, overproducing cytokines and other inflammatory cells. That means your body might stay stuck in "attack mode." Over time, that extra wear and tear can lay the groundwork for other health-related challenges. Evidence is growing that chronic inflammation is involved with many problems common in aging, such as heart disease, some cancers, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's.

But here's the good news: you can help your body calm the fire.

Stop the spark starters. There are certain habits that keep the flames alive—such as smoking, too much alcohol, or chronic stress. They send false alarms to your immune system. Carrying extra weight can be a factor too, since fat cells release inflammation-promoting cytokines. Even small changes in these areas can make a big difference in how your body feels and functions.

Fuel the cleanup crew. Healthy habits help curb chronic inflammation. Regular movement, even a brisk walk five days a week, helps your body get back in balance. A stress-reduction practice such as mindfulness or tai chi can cue your immune system that it's time to ease up its attack. Quality sleep (seven to eight hours) gives your brain time to do its nightly cleanup. And your diet? Make it colorful and whole: leafy greens, berries, beans, nuts, olive oil, and fatty fish such as salmon. Consider exploring the Mediterranean and DASH diets with your health provider.

These lifestyle changes are an investment in your future. Chronic inflammation is one marker of how well your body is aging. Staying on top of it means staying strong, sharp, and ready for what's next. You've worked hard to build a life you love. Help protect your body so you can keep enjoying it.

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​

The next time you renew your license, you may be required to take written and behind-the-wheel driving tests rather than mail a form. If this is the case, don't panic or go into denial! Take some steps to get prepared. That way, you'll go into the test knowledgeable and confident. And remember, preparing for a driving test isn't just about passing—it's about ensuring your safety and the safety of others. It's worth the time to plan thoughtfully.

Check the DMV website to understand any age-related requirements that may apply to you. You might note potential assessments related to vision or cognition, and limits on night driving. Give yourself time to address any challenges that crop up.

Check on your vision. Schedule an eye exam. If new glasses are needed, allow yourself a period of adjustment. If cataracts are an issue, surgery can greatly improve vision, but appointments can take weeks or months to secure. Get on the doctor's schedule now!

Study online for the written exam. Traffic laws evolve and are specific to city and state. You already know a lot, but details on the test can trip up even the most competent drivers. Online study courses cover essentials such as current speed limits within different zones, parking distances, and right-of-way rules. They'll help you brush up on computerized test taking, too.

Take a refresher course. AARP and AAA offer mature driver courses to update your skills and ensure you know how to use the newer vehicle technologies. Completing one may even earn you an insurance discount! For a more personalized approach, hire a professional driving instructor for a private coaching lesson.

Adapt to physical and mobility challenges. Do you have physical limitations, such as poor range of motion in your neck? Consider consulting an occupational therapist to identify useful strategies. You might learn how to adjust your driving habits or adapt your vehicle. Simple modifications, such as pedal extenders or steering wheel grips, can enhance comfort and control. Talk with your doctor if reaction time or mobility is a concern.

Beyond getting your license renewed now, likely there will come a time when you are no longer driving. While you may have family and friends to help, look now at the public transportation, rideshare services, and community programs that might serve you in the future.

Need help preparing for the changes of aging?
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Sleep apnea isn't just about snoring or getting up tired. It's about your brain waking you over and over again through the night to get you to breathe. Not only do you miss out on restorative sleep, but the multiple interruptions in breathing also put extra strain on your heart. That puts you at risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, or stroke. And the poor sleep may cause fatigue, fuzzy memory, poor concentration, and feelings of depression. Luckily, there are many options for treatment to effectively manage this condition.
 
There are three main types of sleep apnea. With all types, your body reflexively awakens you just enough to get you breathing again, but this disturbs your sleep cycle.

• Obstructive sleep apnea: The most common type. Throat muscles relax and block your airway, or you have excess airway tissue.
• Central sleep apnea: The brain doesn't send the right signals to the breathing muscles.
• Complex sleep apnea: A mix of obstructive and central symptoms.

 
Common risk factors. Being age sixty-plus. Carrying extra weight, which can narrow your airway. Being male, a smoker, drinking heavily, or having heart disease or nasal congestion increases your chances significantly. Also, use of opioids, tranquilizers, or sleeping pills.
 
Getting a diagnosis. If you think you might have sleep apnea, talk to your doctor about your symptoms. Your doctor may ask you to do a sleep study, either at a clinic or at home. These tests measure your breathing patterns and oxygen levels to confirm the diagnosis.
 
Questions to ask. If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea, get detailed information. Ask your doctor: What type of sleep apnea do I have? What types of treatment are possible? Which would suit me best? Is there a specialist who can help me through the next steps?
 
Top treatments

• CPAP machines: A face mask delivers steady air pressure to keep your airways open. May require trying several styles to find the best fit.
• Oral appliances: These adjust your jaw or tongue to prevent blockage.
• Lifestyle changes: Losing weight, quitting smoking, and/or sleeping on your side can help.
• Surgery: Used in rare cases to remove tissue or reposition the jaw.

If you find that you're avoiding using a suggested device, talk again with your doctor about options. Find something that works for you. Your life and quality of life depend on it!
 
Need help navigating the changes of aging?
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​

Do you dream about simplifying your life? Wish you could spend less time on to-dos and more time engaged in new interests? An independent living community might represent that dream come true. Consider these perks: home maintenance and landscaping cared for, meals prepared, and plentiful opportunities for socializing.

Why choose independent living?
Many people move to independent living to downsize from a now-too-large home, or to relocate to a quieter neighborhood and do less driving. Some people seek relief from decades of cooking and cleaning. Another big draw is having a built-in community and activities, from book clubs to seminars to fitness centers. Life is more predictable, too, with a contract that specifies your all-inclusive monthly outlay.

How to evaluate one community versus another
Perhaps you've narrowed the field to a few options in the same area. But which would be the best fit for you? Compare services side by side. Here's what to consider:

• Amenities. Make a must-have list of what suits your lifestyle. Do you need a pool? A library? A garden? Are overnight guests and children allowed? What technology is included? Is there a spiritual focus? What kinds of meals and meal plans are involved?
• Community. Visit during a social event to experience the atmosphere. Stay overnight to really test it out. Does it feel welcoming, or too quiet? Make multiple random visits, and ask to stay for lunch or dinner (marketing usually has a budget for a one-time meal). The residents are living your future! Ask what they like and what they wish they had known before moving in. Is there a residents' council and other avenues for residents' input?
• Staff. Pay attention to how the staff interacts with residents. Are they attentive, friendly, and professional? This makes a huge difference in your daily experience.
• Location. Would you be close to frequented spots, such as favorite stores or doctor's office? What about proximity to friends and family? Find out what transportation is provided.
• Finances. These are typically rental communities. Check what's included in monthly fees and the community's financial health. Learn the history of fee increases. Avoid surprises: Take home and study all the rules, fees, and contracts.
• Legal review. Ideally, have an elderlaw attorney look over your contract. Know your options for leaving if you wish to move for any future reason.

Need help planning your next move?
Call the experts in aging at 203-826-9206.