Regular exercise is just as -- if not more -- important for seniors as it is for younger people. However, many seniors don’t get anywhere near the amount of exercise that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend (150 minutes of cardiovascular exercise per week plus at least two days of strength training). If you’re struggling to find the right exercise program, you ought to consider yoga. Yoga is a great compliment to other forms of exercise, and it also provides the following health benefits for seniors. 1. Better BalanceFalls are the leading cause of injury for seniors. One in four seniors falls each year, and one dies from fall-related injuries every 19 minutes. To decrease your risk of falls and the injuries that can accompany them, it’s important to work on your balance. Yoga is a great option to do this in a safe group environment. You can even look for yoga classes that are specifically designed for seniors. These classes often include props like chairs for extra support, and they typically move slower than traditional classes, so you’ll have the time you need to get situated in a pose before you have to transition to the next one. 2. Natural Pain ReliefWhether you suffer from arthritis-related pain or are in need of plantar fasciitis treatment, yoga can help. The movements practiced in yoga help to lubricate the joints, which improves mobility and flexibility. The more mobile you are, the less pain you’ll experience in your joints and muscles as you go about your day. Yoga can also improve your posture and make standing up straight much easier. 3. Increased Bone and Muscle StrengthYoga is considered a weight-bearing exercise, meaning that it requires you to stand on your feet (at least some of the time). When you’re standing, your bones and muscles have to work together to fight gravity and keep you standing upright. Exercises like walking, jogging, and playing tennis are also weight-bearing exercises. However, they can be too intense for some people, especially those who haven’t exercised in a long time. One of the many benefits of yoga for senior citizens is the fact that the movements are gentle on the joints. Yoga is a great option for seniors who want to strengthen their muscles and bones in a low-impact way while also preventing fractures and conditions like osteoporosis. Weight-bearing exercises like yoga also help seniors manage their weight. This is a crucial step in preventing a number of conditions, including heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and arthritis. 4. Reduced Blood PressureHypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is known to contribute to heart disease and kidney disease. To combat the oxidative stress that causes high blood pressure, seniors can practice yoga regularly. Recent studies show that the calming aspects of a regular yoga practice can fight this stress by helping seniors strengthen their antioxidant defenses. 5. Better Mental HealthIn addition to all the physical benefits of yoga, it also comes with a number of mental benefits that can’t be ignored.
Yoga encourages mindfulness and naturally lowers the body’s fight-or-flight response, making it a useful tool for preventing anxiety. The calm, restorative nature of yoga -- coupled with the supportive classroom environment -- can also help ward off feelings of depression, something many seniors experience as they age. Yoga is a great exercise option for seniors who want to feel better both physically and mentally. Check out a class near you today to start reaping all the benefits yoga has to offer.
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Owning a Website in RetirementAccording to the most recent statistical data available for the 2016 calendar year, over 85% of folks aged 50 - 64 and 65% of folks over 65 are regular internet users. With the constant push toward online banking, shopping and social communication, the amount of boomers and retirees will only continue to grow in the coming years. If you have a hobby, skill, or any kind of product or service you want offer for the benefit of other people, then owning a website in retirement can help build a solid bridge between you and your desired audience. Specifically, owning a website in retirement can provide the following benefits:
What Types of Websites Are There?There are three main types of websites that are common on the Internet today:
What is a Website Development Platform?A website development platform is the software program you choose to either build your website yourself on, or to have a professional construct your website for you on.
What Should Your Online Presence Include? Besides building a website, you should consider the following things in order to construct your safe, professional online presence:
Self-Built Versus Professional Designed Websites It is important to understand that just having a website is not a guarantee for online success personally or professionally speaking. After all, there are over 1 billion websites on the internet today. Therefore, you should make sure that your website looks professional and functions flawlessly if you want visitors to be impressed with the presentation of your idea, goods or services versus the many other websites they might choose to visit instead.
A professional website developer who is versed in design and search engine optimization can build you a visually appealing, psychologically appropriate, emotionally engaging, and fundamentally solid website separating you from other websites and/or businesses in less time, and with less hassle, than you could build a website yourself. This combination of factors significantly increases your chances for sustained, prominent online success. seOdona Organic Website Development ServicesseOdona offers professional website development services to a diverse array of people of all ages, professional backgrounds and general walks-of-life. Although seOdona began in Arizona, their dedicated team now operates satellite locations in Southern California and Washington State that allows their team to serving clients throughout the United States. The seOdona team specializes in designing elegant, intelligent and engaging websites that are organically search engine optimized to help clients achieve a prominent online presence personally or professionally. With very fair fees for their expertise and services, as well as a straightforward pricing policy, seOdona believes in educating and empowering its clients while positioning them for long-term online success. The seOdona team welcomes you to visit their beautiful, informative website by clicking here, and to contact them if you would to discuss your ideas and visions…. as well as set up a free, no-obligation consultation to help you decide if they are the right professional website development company for you! When you retire, it might be time to think about places you’re going to want to visit. Some people enjoy taking extended vacations or a long overdue sea cruise. Others have plans to move away and start a whole new life after retirement. With everything from different countries to different states, you can make the choice to retire somewhere beautiful a reality. If you’re thinking about moving to a new area after retirement, you not only need to consider your options for cities, states or countries to retire to, but you also need to plan on how you will have everything shipped to your new home. Shipping Within the United StatesShipping personal property as well as a motor vehicle within the United States can easily be handled with a phone call and a discussion with an agent to handle the move for you. You can go about this in a few ways. You can hire a moving company to come in and pack everything and get it loaded onto a moving truck and delivered to the new home or you can pack things on your own and either rent a moving truck to drive on your own or hire a company to load and deliver everything after you pack it all up. Before packing everything, be sure to take some time to downsize a little. Sort items to donate, give away, sell or trash. It doesn’t make sense to pay someone to move belongings that you will never use. For large items that you may want to keep but don’t want to bring along, you can place in storage to hold until you return or until you are ready to move them later. For cars, be sure to contact an auto transport company to have the car hauled via an open trailer or an enclosed trailer. An open trailer is the most common way to transport a car via interstate and is also the most economical way to do so. Up to ten or more cars can be loaded onto one trailer for delivery. If you have a luxury car or a classic car, enclosed transport is the safer option as your car will be fully enclosed during transport. Shipping to a Different CountryThough it may seem like a lot of work, shipping your household items and moving a vehicle to another country is not too hard to do with the help of a qualified shipping companies. Different countries throughout the world have specific laws, regulations and documents that are needed to move these items there. To make the transition from one place to the next smoother, it is essential that you find out which documents are needed for the destination country. At the very least, you will need these items for customs clearance to most countries worldwide.
Transporting a VehicleTransporting a vehicle to another country does come with certain challenges. Some countries will not allow vehicles that are older than a certain age to enter. Some countries make the vehicle pass an emissions test for entry. When you decide which country that you’re moving too, whether it is for a short or long period, check with your shipping agent as well as the customs agency in the country you will move to for information on vehicle requirements including safety and emissions inspections that may be required. Cost of ShippingThe cost of shipping varies widely. It depends on the number of items you’re bringing over, where they’re going too and the type of shipping you choose to use for the items or vehicle. Roll-on, roll-off shipping can provide an affordable rate for vehicles, but container shipping is required for household goods. Expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand to ship the items from one point to another. There may be an option to share a container with another customer who has a shipment for the same destination. Be sure to speak to the shipping company to see if there is a way to share a container with someone so you can save money. Time for ShippingYou want to make sure that you’re going to be able to get your household items or vehicle within a timely manner. That is understandable. However, keep in mind that some countries have customs that are harder to pass through. By having the necessary documents ready, as well as a professional shipping company, this can reduce the time needed to pass through customs. On average, expect to wait anywhere from 2 weeks up to 2 months for a motor vehicle or household items to be delivered to the destination.
The specific times, amounts and documents required for shipping depends on the destination of choice. Enjoy your retirement somewhere that you want to be when you make the decision to move. It can be well worth it when you find out everything that comes from relaxing in an area that you thoroughly enjoy. Remember, these are the best years of your life. Make them count! After you get engaged, everything starts to get crazy. You and your partner are scrambling to plan things for your wedding, and between choosing the cake and flowers, finding custom bridesmaid dresses, working on losing that extra holiday weight, producing & editing the wedding day video by viddedit and everything else you have to do to get ready, it seems you’ve taken away from the whole point of the celebration – focusing on the two of you! Even if you do manage to find time to spend together, it might seem like that time is spent discussing the details of the wedding and everything else you still have to do. Although it’s important to talk about and plan your wedding, it’s also important to find time to relax together, just enjoying each other’s company and talking about your future. Now that you’re engaged, it’s important to start planning your life together. You’re going to be sharing all the ups and the downs side-by-side, making sacrifices for your partner’s dreams and having sacrifices made for yours. You’ll have to adjust your schedule to include another person (or persons, if you and/or your partner already has kids), and you may even have new dreams that involve bringing new people in your life. An important part of planning a life together is setting goals as a couple. You should always keep individual goals and share them with each other so you can support and encourage each other along the way, but setting goals as a couple can strengthen your relationship, give you something to work toward when you’re feeling down, and give you something to celebrate together. Setting goals will help keep your marriage moving forward. Tips for Setting Goals as a CoupleThe process of setting goals as a couple is a lot like setting goals as an individual, but because there are two people involved with differing opinions and values, it can sometimes take more time and effort to decide on what goals you have and how to achieve them. Here are some tips to help you set goals together as a couple:
Goals You Should Set TogetherThere are so many different goals you can set together as a couple, but you want to focus on those that can help you strengthen your marriage, have some fun, and be more comfortable in life.
Goals to Strengthen Your Marriage – Marriage is wonderful, but it also takes work. Continually setting goals to strengthen your marriage can help you nurture and cultivate it, making it what you want it to be. Some goals you might set to help strengthen your marriage could include praying together daily, leaving love notes for each other, taking a vacation just the two of you each year, or reading a marriage book every year together. Other goals could include doing something new together every month, having regular date nights, volunteering together, showing appreciation for each other every day, or being intimate on a regular basis, even when life gets crazy. There are so many different ways you can strengthen your marriage and work on making it what you want it to be. Goals to be More Comfortable – Comfort can mean a number of different things to different people, but in this case let’s refer specifically to financial and physical comfort. Sit down and make goals for budgeting or saving for retirement. Make it a goal to improve your credit score, so you can buy your first home together. You can make a goal to learn more about financial investments and how to get started, or commit to educating yourselves about the different kinds of life insurance policies out there and how investing in one could help you and your family in the future. You could make a goal to save for a down payment on the new house or pay cash for a brand-new car; whatever you decide, make it a point to come together to set goals for where you want to be financially and how you plan to get there. Goals to Have Some Fun – Although marriage takes work, it can also be a lot of fun! You don’t have to make all your goals something serious or for the purpose of strengthening your marriage (besides, sometimes just having fun together is all you need to do precisely that!). Get creative and throw fun goals in the mix, like visiting to a foreign country, making a dish you’ve always wanted to try, taking up a sport together, learning how to paint, or visiting all 50 states. Not all of your goals have to be long-term or “someday” goals, either. You can set fun goals that you can accomplish next week or even this weekend. You could try throwing darts at paint filled balloons or eat at that new restaurant you’ve been curious about. Try paddle boarding or race down a zipline – whatever it is you choose to do, have fun doing it together. The happiest couples are those who know how to enjoy one another and make situations of all sorts fun, as long as they’re together. What goals do you and your fiance share? If you are over the age of 65 and still drive a car, you are one of 40 million seniors on the road in America, according to a study by a major consumer website. While driving your own car can be a pleasure and offer you a feeling of independence, it can be costly as well, especially when it comes to repairs and maintenance. However, there are several ways you can cut these costs and ease the financial pinch of owning a vehicle on a fixed income. 1. Keep Track of Maintenance RecordsWhile some garages may give you a sticker for your windshield to remind you when your next oil change should take place, keeping careful written records of all your car's maintenance needs can uncover small problems before they turn into major disasters. It is wise to track fluid changes, tire rotations, and brake pad replacements so you can schedule the next date well in advance to avoid repairs caused by accidental negligence. This can be especially important if you own an older car or drive one with high mileage. 2. Shop Around for Special DealsIf your car needs servicing and you do not have a regular mechanic, it may pay to shop around for deals that apply to you as a senior. Many shops offer daily deals for those 65 and over on services that include maintenance, tire replacement, and basic repairs. Review each deal carefully, as some may have hidden fees or exclusions that pop up at the time of payment. If you take your car in, remember to review the work order with the mechanic to ensure there are no additional costs that may negate a discount. 3. Ask Your Insurance Agent for GuidanceWhen it comes to finding repair and maintenance deals as a senior driver, you might not have to look any further than your insurance agent. He or she may be able to offer you extra insight on where to find the best deals or recommend a certified mechanic connected with the agency. Working with local insurance agents can yield considerable savings, as even large companies run hometown offices where you can chat with an insurance expert. Driving as a senior can present certain financial challenges, especially in the case of maintaining your car. However, deals, discounts, and a bit of diligence can help you cut costs.
Finding the best retirement plan to suit your needs can be a tricky task. After all, your life after retirement is completely dependent on this decision! Ultimately, in order to find the best retirement plan for you, you must decide whether you want to undertake a private pension scheme, pension from the government, a workplace pension or a personal and stakeholder pension. Whilst Wizzcash loans might be able to help you if you encounter a financial emergency while you are still working, if you are retired, then you may have to turn to an alternative option. There are several tips that you can take into consideration as you begin to save for your retirement. Discover how to find the best retirement plan for you below. Planning Your Retirement IncomeWhen it comes to finding the best retirement plan, it is paramount that you understand the options available to you and what they include. The main types include:
What To Consider When Choosing The Best Retirement Plan For YouYour Earnings Ultimately, the first step to finding the right retirement plan is to consider your earnings. It is paramount that you carefully plan your retirement income as it is one of the most effective ways to save money for later in your life. Overall, you may be able to attain:
You must identify how much money you will need when you retire, because you may discover that you need more money than the State Pension offers. When Do You Want To Pay Taxes? Understandably, nobody wants to pay taxes, but unfortunately, we have no choice. Luckily for you, when it comes to your retirement savings, you do in fact get to choose when you pay them. Ultimately, this is one of the major differences between two key types of retirement plans. If you opt for a traditional retirement plan, you might be able to qualify for a tax deduction regarding the volume of your contributions. However, when the time comes to withdraw the money in retirement, it will be taxable, just like normal income. With this in mind, some forms of contributions however aren’t conclusive, but when you withdraw the money in retirement, it will be 100% tax-free. Ultimately, when it comes to finding the best retirement plan for you, you must consider when you would favour a tax break more. Will You Need The Money Right Away? When it comes to finding the best retirement plan for you, it is paramount to consider whether you will need to access the money right away. This is because with pre-tax retirement plans, such as the traditional retirement plan, you are required to start taking distributions after the Stage Pension age. Essentially, this means that once you reach this age, you will have to withdraw an unquestionable percentage of your account’s value per year. With other retirement plans however, this is not a set requirement, and you can keep the money in your account for as long as you wish. Working Past State Pension Age When you reach State Pension age, you may decide that you don’t want to leave your job. Luckily for you, you don’t have to! If you do however stop working when you reach State Pension age, you will no longer have to pay National Insurance. Moreover, the law protects you against discrimination if you have surpassed State Pension age, so rest assured you can find a new job or stay in your current job without worry. Despite this, there are certain circumstances where employers may decide to set a compulsory retirement age, such as those in the construction industry. The VerdictThere are countless factors you need to consider when it comes to finding the best retirement plan for you, including taking your earnings into consideration to pick a suitable plan. Ultimately, there is no ‘best option´ for everyone, which is why when you answer these questions yourself, you will gain a better understanding of what retirement plan you would like to undertake. Good luck!
A little more than 20 percent of American adults currently suffer from arthritis, and that number is expected to increase to 26 percent by 2040. If you suffer from arthritis and want to minimize its effects by building strength and improving your mobility, try out these three tools today. Therapy Putty If your arthritis has weakened and limited your mobility in your hands, you may want to give therapy putty a try. Of all the tools available to people with arthritis, therapy putty is one of the lesser-known options. Many people even ask, “does therapy putty work?” The short answer is that, yes, it does work. Therapy putty comes in a variety of resistances to help people improve their fine motor skills and grip strength. It’s often used for stroke victims in occupational therapy, but people with arthritis can also benefit from it. Balance BoardBalance training has been proven to work wonders for people with osteoarthritis. It improves mobility and stability and also helps decrease joint pain. A balance board is a simple tool that helps you take your balance exercises to the next level. If you’re comfortable standing on one leg or doing exercises like squats, adding a balance board can give you the extra challenge you need to keep progressing. Simply stand on the board and practice balancing on one leg or doing your regular squats (with good form, of course). Resistance BandsStrength training is essential for everyone, including those who suffer from arthritis. Strength training improves balance and mobility while encouraging good posture and minimizing bone loss. If you’re not comfortable using weights or don’t have access to a gym, you can use resistance bands and resistance tubes to strength train from the comfort of your own home. Resistance bands are great for both isometric and isotonic exercises and can easily be stored in a closet or cupboard. You can even take them with you on the road, so you can still get your workouts in while traveling. Before you start using resistance bands in your workouts, inspect them carefully to make sure there aren’t any cracks or rips that could cause them to tear during an exercise. Final ThoughtsAny one of these three tools will make a great addition to your daily strength-building routine. If you haven’t established a strength-building routine yet, use these tools to help you start one!
Every year, thousands of seniors die from fall-related injuries. Many of these potentially lethal falls take place in the bathroom, particularly when seniors are entering or exiting the shower or bathtub. If you have a senior coming to visit or live with you, or you’re a senior who currently lives alone, these tips will help you keep your bathroom as safe as possible. 1. Install Grab BarsA grab bar is a tool that provides seniors with something to hold onto while they’re getting in and out of the bathtub. Grab bars are meant to hold more weight than a typical towel bar, so they’re secure and won’t snap off while being used. Look for a bar that is slip resistant and comes in a color that contrasts with the bathroom walls. It needs to be easy to spot, even if someone isn’t wearing their glasses. Grab bars can be attached to the wall with suction cups or bolts. Suction cup varieties may be more affordable, but it’s typically recommended to spend a little more to get one that can be mounted to the wall for extra security and safety. 2. Buy a Shower ChairSeniors who have trouble maintaining their balance while standing can benefit greatly from a shower chair. Even if they don’t need to sit the whole time they’re showering, the chair gives them peace of mind knowing they have the option to sit if they feel weak or dizzy. Look for shower chair that has rubber tips on its legs. This will prevent the chair from sliding when someone sits down or stands up. Some chairs look just like a regular stool or kitchen chair. These are fine for seniors who don’t have issues getting in and out of the shower by themselves. Other chairs come with one side that’s longer than the other. This longer side acts similar to a grab bar and provides extra stability for people getting in and out of the shower. 3. Make Washing Up EasierIt’s also important to invest in tools that make the process of bathing as simple as possible for seniors. A shower caddy positioned at arm’s height makes it easy for seniors to reach items like shampoo and soap as they need them, without having to stoop or stretch. Like the grab bar, it’s better to buy a caddy that can be mounted on the wall so it doesn’t accidentally get knocked down. You can also install dispensers for shampoo and body wash so that seniors don’t have to worry about bottles or bars of soap slipping out of their hands mid-use. A back scrubber can also help seniors avoid having to bend over or stretch while showering. For seniors, the best body brush for showers will have a long handle and a soft brush or loofah that won’t irritate the skin. It doesn’t take a lot of work to make your bathroom a safe place for seniors. These four simple tips will make a world of difference. 4. Use Non-Slip MatsNon-slip mats are essential for both in and outside of the tub or shower. Place one on the floor of the tub, as well as in front of the tub, in front of the toilet, and in front of the sink. These are places where seniors are most likely to fall while in the bathroom.
When shopping for non-slip mats, be sure to look for ones that have rubber on the bottom to prevent slipping and sliding. You may also want to buy mats that contrast with the color of the floor and shower so that seniors know where to step when they finish bathing. When it comes to plastic surgery, many people question whether they are too old for liposuction, otherwise referred to as lipo. Whilst some people believe that they are too old for liposuction, it is important to keep in mind that plastic surgery has no age limit. Whilst you will need to ensure you meet all the necessary health requirements in order to undergo surgery, whether you undergo treatment or not is entirely your choice. So, are you ever too old for liposuction? Find out below! The RequirementsWhilst you are never too old for liposuction, when it comes to plastic surgery for seniors, just like any individual seeking treatment, it is paramount that you meet the requirements. Due to there being such a high risk associated with certain types of surgery, when it comes to undergoing plastic surgery, it is paramount that you are in good health. By definition, good health is: “A state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” In addition to this, you should have no uncontrolled medical conditions present such as:
Your ExpectationsWhilst you are never too old for liposuction or many other plastic surgery procedures for that matter, it is vital that you have realistic expectations for the treatment you’re undergoing in order to avoid disappointment not getting the results you desire. When it comes to having realistic expectations, you must consider your age and how this might affect the outcome of the treatment. Regardless of your age, it vital to consider that you may not get the exceptional results a family member or friend received. This is because each individual’s body will react differently to the next, and thus it might not have as great an impact on your body. The ResultsOnce you have confirmed that you meet the requirements required to undergo liposuction and have clear expectations, you must know that even though liposuction may remove unwanted excess fat, the procedure may not provide the degree of skin tightening you desire or thought you was going to receive. Seniors that undergo plastic surgery, specifically liposuction, may experience sagging skin as older skin does not have the ability to retract as well as youthful skin. If you are simply seeking to remove undesirable fat from the abdominal area, a tummy tuck may be a more effective solution for you as opposed to undergoing liposuction. The Bottom LineAre you ever too old for liposuction? The answer is no. Providing you meet all the requirements and
do not have any underlying medical conditions, such as heart disease, we say go ahead with the treatment! However, it is paramount to keep in mind that you may not get the optimum results, which is why it is important to have realistic expectations before you head into surgery. Nevertheless, your surgeon will provide you with the best advice, and we thoroughly recommend speaking to your doctor prior to arranging your cosmetic surgery, as they will be able to point you in the right direction and ensure your safety. What do you think – are you ever too old for liposuction? Whether your teeth are in perfect condition, or are in need of a little TLC, there’s no denying that dentistry and what we know about our oral health as a whole is constantly expanding. From technological advances that make a whole range of methods available, from on-the- spot x-rays, to the best dental implants Turkey has to offer, the industry is growing – but that doesn’t mean we should stop caring for our teeth. As we age, ensuring that we practice good dental hygiene is paramount to preserving our teeth, but the question is – how exactly do we do that? That’s where we’re here to help. To find out more, why not read on? 1. Use An Electric ToothbrushOf all the advances in dental care that we have seen, the electric toothbrush has to be one of the best and most effective of them all. It may surprise you, but over 99% of all patients aren’t aware how to brush properly, no matter how much experience we all gain brushing twice every day of our lives. With the electric brush, it essentially does the work for us and even makes brushing for the full two minutes a piece of (proverbial) cake! Using an electric brush can ensure that you are reaching all the right places, and spots that might be difficult to reach accurately with a manual brush, so it might be time to invest! 2. Educate Yourself On Dental HygieneIn general, having some idea of what proper dental hygiene is and what you need to aim for is a great way of preparing your teeth for a long, healthy life. Nowadays, small cavities can be re- calcified, for example, and strong doses of fluoride can even lead to the rebuilding of enamel. While these are amazing options in dentistry, being able to spot when you’re getting small cavities will help you catch them early so that these options are, well, options! It’s also important to keep on top of your fillings and crowns – they need to be looked at every eight years, and even replaced! There is plenty of information regarding what you need to do, and a trip to the dentist can tell you all you need to know about your teeth and what you really need to keep an eye on. 3. Use A Night Guard If You Grind Your TeethGrinders, or people that clench their jaw or grind their teeth in their sleep, are at increased risk of tooth-damage. In fact, they can wear away a millimetre of tooth every year! That and the pressure on your jaw from grinding can also cause bone loss issues too. While some grinders may not realise that they grind, most do, and so if you know for a fact that you are one of them, why not invest in a night guard? As unattractive as you may feel, they will work wonders for saving your teeth! 4. Choose The Right DentistThe dentist you visit will play a huge role in the state of your teeth over time. After all, your dentist is the one who will care for your teeth if it all starts to go wrong. Make sure that the dental surgery you visit is up to date with the technology available, and that he or she is knowledgeable in what it is they can do to help you. They need to be looking after you, and if you don’t feel like they are doing that well enough, it might be time to find another dentist! 5. Find The Right Routine For YouWhile there are standard dental routines that we are taught to follow, we can adjust the routines
and regimes we follow to suit us and our teeth. There are better oral care products on the market now than ever before, and we can cater the toothpaste, mouthwash, floss and even toothbrushes that we use to match our teeth-types. Whether you’re cavity prone, sensitive, easily stained or have bad gums, there are options out there to suit your needs, so shop around and see what works best for you! Having a secure future for retirement requires exploring a variety of options. You also need to look at the different aspects of your life to ensure financial security when you retire. When it comes to retirement, perhaps, one of the most challenging to prepare is inflation. Often, retired individuals are on a fixed income, and the adjustments on the cost of living do not keep up with the actual costs. You may try to eliminate some monthly bills, but you have very little control over your electric bill. If you’re on a fixed income, it can be very devastating when your electric bill becomes doubled. Going solar in retirement is actually the best way to save money and control your power cost. Installing solar energy system on your home allows you to minimize your energy spending. Whether you are close to retirement or already there, it is important to find ways to cut back on your spending, and turning to solar is one of the best solutions. How to Save Money by Going Solar in Retirement? Here are some ways that solar panel can help cut back on energy spending.
Solar Reduces or even Eliminates your Electricity Bills. Solar energy systems can actually generate up to one-hundred percent of your electricity requirements. This means that you are able to eliminate your electricity bill and free up more cash each month to invest or spend on some other important things you need to purchase. Solar Improves the Value of your Property. If you are thinking of putting your house in the market in the future, then installing a solar energy system is a great investment. It has been found that many homebuyers are willing to pay more for houses with solar energy systems installed. Solar allows you to hedge against future increases in utility price. The utility electricity rates continue to go up each year, and just in 2015, they went up by anywhere from three percent to 9.6 percent. When you install solar energy system, you can generate your own electricity, you will be able to protect yourself against any unpredictable rate increases for your solar energy system’s lifetime. It usually lasts around twenty to thirty years. Going solar when you retire or even before your retirement is probably one of the best retirement plans you can consider to secure a financially-stable future. It allows you to improve the quality of your life and attain financial freedom and stability. Instead of worrying about your electric bills, you can have your own electricity source and save money for some other important spending. If you want to ensure a smooth transition into retirement, you need to consider all your available options. It also requires practicality and choosing the right strategy that works. Don’t overlook the benefits of installing solar energy systems on your home. This can actually be one of the most remarkable investment opportunities you can make when you retire. It is inevitable for small businesses to require outside financing to grow. There are diverse funding options available such that it has become easy for individuals to get small business loans. Nevertheless, such variety of lending options can present a challenge in that it is hard for business owners to be sure of the choices they are making in terms of the best loan provider. The following 5 tips will help you increase your chances of finding the best small loan provider that aligns with your needs. 1. Establish your needsKnowing what you need will determine the type of loan provider you choose. Different loan providers have varying terms and conditions. Being aware of what you need will help you establish whether taking a loan from a funding company is worth the struggle. Additionally, establishing your needs should also guide you to focus on a loan provider that offers loans based on your expected terms and conditions. 2. Have all the information about your businessPrior to making any loan application, ensure that all important information about your business is ready. Usually financial documents are key documents that any loan provider would want to see. Other important and necessary information include the ownership of the business, employer identification number, taxpayer ID, as well as income information. Having this information increases your chances of getting the loan approved quickly. 3. Screen various online lendersNowadays, majority of online lending companies are engaging in predatory practices. If you are not careful, the chances of being conned are high. It is advisable to work with a loan provider that is comfortable offering loan terms upfront. Also, look for one who has security disclosures on their web pages as well as a physical address. 4. Carry out a true-cost analysisDifferent loan providers have varying repayment terms, and APRs (the term that describes how much money you are subject to paying including the fees and interest rates). These two factors form the basis for comparing loans from different providers. If you are looking for a merchant cash advance, you should be ready to pay higher APRs, and a weekly or daily repayment terms. Online term loans are high in terms of APRs when compared to financing from traditional banks. They however; attract low interest rates than merchant cash advances. 5. Know the focus of lendersLenders often use different factors to measure a person's eligibility for a small business loan. For example, debt service coverage ratio (DSCR) is an element of consideration in the event you are looking for loans that are competitive in price, and are of better terms, and lower rates. Other lenders look for a strong personal credit score, and yet others focus on the property or inventory of your business.
While it is tempting to apply for a loan from any online lender available, taking the time to understand the terms and conditions can save you much inconvenience. As such, you need to take the time to research about the lender’s reputation, and read through the fine print before applying for your loan. Even if you have already called it quits and retire, there will still be situations where you have to apply for loans. And while your pension funds may provide you enough relief to get you through whatever issues you will be encountering, you will still need to get a little extra help on the financial side. A considerable amount of retirees are applying for financial loans for many different reasons, and not just for paying hefty hospital and medication bills. Most of them just want to acquire a substantial amount of capital to jumpstart business ideas, or to fund excursions towards across the globe. Still, acquiring debts come with a myriad of responsibilities. Ignoring these responsibilities may hinder you from fully enjoying your retirement. Apparently, it is best to settle these accounts the quickest way possible. And here are some ways you can do it. Get a debt consolidation loanDo you have an idea for business startup you have been itching to establish? Chances are, you will be borrowing a little extra money to make this idea come to life. Then again, being able to break even and re-pay the initial debt you acquired takes time. Moreover, you will need to expect for much of your income to go towards paying the amount you borrowed in the first place.This, apparently, slows down your business’ growth and it makes it even harder for you to breakeven. Fortunately, you can always apply for a debt consolidation loan which will help you get out of a debt trap and help your business move forward. Cut your credit As much as you want to go on a never ending shopping spree, you will also need to keep tabs on how much you’re spending. Going all out with your credit cards might be a good idea when you’re travelling to a place where you have to shell out a great deal of money to experience excitement. But considering that you’re already retired, it is best to just limit your credit. Especially when you are still struggling with existing debts, you may need to keep your spending sprees to a minimum - at least until you can payoff the loans you have applied for. Maintain a strict budgeting regime Probably the best way you can handle your loans is to simply create a budget. After you’re through with it, you can now set how much you are willing to allocate towards debt servicing. A good 20 percent will do, if you’re really set on erasing your debts across the board. Secure an alternative income source If anything, you will need to have a contingency plan at the ready to keep you financially stable. Having an alternate source of income (getting a part-time job as a consultant, for instance) can actually help you stave off the messier aspects of debt. What’s more, having more than one income source can actually help you generate income to be used to pay off debts. This will ultimately safeguard you from going bankrupt during your retirement.
Lack of awareness on various diseases makes it hard for those ailing to seek the appropriate treatment. It is unfortunate that due to this, some people end up losing their lives due to diseases that could have been cured had they been addressed early. As with other crippling illnesses, there are quite a number of people with Fibromyalgia who do not know that they are suffering from it or even how to manage it. This article provides a brief overview of this condition. What is Fibromyalgia?Fibromyalgia refers to a syndrome that is related to chronic arthritis. The affected individual experiences a combination of symptoms that might characterize widespread tenderness and muscle pain. This condition does not qualify as a joint disease since it does not include damage or inflammation to the tissues, muscles, or joints. Nevertheless, it has a close link to arthritis. Different people experience different symptoms of Fibromyalgia. Some complain of excessive fatigue while others only experience widespread pain. Symptoms of Fibromyalgia Although it is not easy to detect Fibromyalgia without carrying out the necessary tests, the following are some of the common symptoms:
Causes of FibromyalgiaAt the moment, there are no known causes of Fibromyalgia. Nevertheless, several theories exist. Here are some of the present beliefs in regards to the causes of Fibromyalgia:
Problems in transmission of pain: The central nervous system is tasked with the responsibility of transmitting pain signals within the human body. In the event that the chemicals used in the signals’ transmission are altered the affected individual experiences a period of high levels of pain. Imbalances in chemicals: When an individual has lower levels of serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline in the central nervous system, they are likely to suffer from sleep, appetite, and mood problems. Sleep problems: Other researchers have shown that the failure to have deep sleep can be a primary cause of Fibromyalgia as opposed to just a symptom. Fibromyalgia is a serious problem that can have adverse impacts on your health and affect your daily activities. It is advisable to look out for the symptoms of this condition. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is recommended that you seek help for Fibromyalgia from a qualified physician. After working for a long time at a certain company or institution, seniors will encounter the inevitability of retirement. It is that phase in a professional’s life that is supposed to mark the pinnacle of one’s career. You have worked your way to the top, and once you have reached the peak, it would only be a matter of time before you can recede into a life that’s a whole nother world. The thought of being able to relax for the first time and without a care in the world can pretty much scare you. But this shouldn’t discourage seniors to do something worthwhile during their retirement. In fact, retirees can always find ways to keep themselves occupied. And that’s only a matter of knowing what they really want to do in their time. But as most seniors aim to travel the world and savor every dish imaginable, some will still want to spend their time looking for places where they can invest their pension money. It’s never too late to look for nifty financial ideas and arrive at certain solutions to achieving one’s investment goals. For sure, you won’t be doing this just to accumulate more wealth. You will be doing this for the sake of your children and your grandchildren. Amassing a fortune at an age where you should be spending your days at a remote island in the Bahamas is still pretty much possible. You only need to know how to invest your money in financial plans that matter to you. Here’s a list to get you started. Set up a small businessAt present, it has become easier for people to establish their businesses and secure an alternative source of income. For a lot of seniors, this means looking for ideas that will culminate in a plan for a small business. What with social media and other technologies that make it easier for just about anyone to share information, it won’t be that difficult to create stores that sell whatever it is you are interested in. Usually, financing your small business is one thing that you should need to focus on. Luckily for you, there are companies offering small business loans that will help entrepreneurs like you to start a venture without much of a heavy burden on your back. Invest in stocks Aside from setting up an enterprise, you can also invest your money in secured stocks. More often than not, a lot of retirees would get very fat pensions from government and private institutions. While you can always exhaust everything on a weekend roadtrip coast-to-coast, it is still best to set aside a portion to buy shares in companies that show a good standing in the stock exchange. Buy bonds Already have investments in corporate stocks? You might as well set your sights on more secured treasury bonds issued by the government. They don’t really promire hefty returns, but these bonds offer a good way to invest your money and keep it from being wasted on Margarita parties.
Choosing where to retire abroad isn’t a decision that should be made lightly. After all, having worked your entire life, you want to take this opportunity to relax in a warm climate and take long strolls to the local beach, not regretting your decision to move abroad in the first place. We hope that this post will help you decide the best destinations to retire abroad for you, whether it is because you are seeking year-round beautiful weather, a high-quality life or low cost living. Find out the top 5 destinations to retire abroad below – and don’t forget your EHIC when the time comes to step on that plane! 1. Algarve Region, PortugalOne of the most popular destinations to retire abroad in Europe is the Algarve Region, located in Portugal. In fact, it has been said that the southwest region of Portugal in particular could be one of Europe’s most famous kept secrets, and we can see why! Algarve doesn’t just boast more blue-sky summery days than almost anywhere else in Europe though. In addition, you can truly make the most of the array of exciting activities the area has to offer, including numerous golf courses, with everything being highly affordable. As well as great weather and over 42 golf courses to choose from, retirement income is not taxed in Portugal. This means that you can receive pension income across the country tax-free. Result! 2. Valletta, MaltaThere are numerous reasons why you should retire in Malta. If you love the sun, you’ll be pleased to know that you can enjoy fantastic weather as the country, on average, boasts more than 3,000 hours sunshine each year, and like the Algarve Region, Vallette is highly affordable. Life on this beautiful Mediterranean island is relatively inexpensive too, as cost of living isn’t high here. If you’re worried about leaving beloved family and close friends behind, you will also be pleased to learn that Malta has a great transportation system, and it is far easier to travel from place to place via public transport than in a car, so arranging regular visits both to your new home and your original home country is not an issue. 3. Saint-Chinian, FranceHome to fewer than 2,000 residents, Saint-Chinian, located in France, is the perfect place to retire if you are seeking peace and quiet, and want to escape city life. This charming retirement destination boasts high-quality healthcare and good infrastructure, and thanks to the rapidly growing expat community, you won’t be lost for people to experience the slower pace of life with. Much like in Valletta and Algarve Region, the cost of living in Saint-Chinian is also low, so you can enjoy the better things in life, and be assured that you can live comfortably for years to come. 4. Lisbon, PortugalAs well as being a hot tourist destination, Lisbon is a great place to retire – and for good reason. Not only does Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, offer a calm but vibrant retirement, but it is perfect for those who want to escape the rush of fast-paced cities. Just like Valletta and Saint-Chinian, the cost of living in Lisbon remains relatively low, which is one of the area’s main attractions, and is perfect for those who want to stay surrounded by a little bit of English culture. Moreover, when you retire in Lisbon, you can expect year-round sun, modern infrastructure, affordable healthcare and a better quality of life. 5. Budapest, HungaryThere are numerous reasons why you should visit Budapest, even if you decide not to retire there. Not only does Hungary as a whole offer beautiful panoramic views, but it is one of the most historic countries in the world. Most importantly, though, expatriates enjoy living in Budapest for its friendly people, of which you are unlikely to find anywhere else. Nevertheless, if you are looking to bathe in the sun all day, Hungary may not be the dream retirement destination. Why? In Budapest, you can expect cold winters and dull weather from there on until summer rolls around. There are numerous places you can retire in Europe, these are just five. With so many countries, cities and towns to choose from when you retire, retiring abroad is certainly not a light decision to make, and one that shouldn’t be rushed, no matter how eager you are to start your new life in the sun! Where will you retire?
When is the best time to learn an instrument? 50 years ago. When is the second best time to learn an instrument? Right now! Perhaps you may feel as if you’ve missed the boat on the musical scene, but as you enjoy the extra time and freedom of retirement, you might be surprised to discover that picking up this new skill is not only ideal for your age group, but in certain aspects, can be even better! Don’t believe it? Read on. 1. You Are Already a Musical EncyclopediaOne advantage the older generations have over the younger ones, is that you’ve heard countless forms of music come and go, filling your memory with decades of different songs and styles. This knowledge alone will help you recognize certain chord structures and natural melodic flows, much better than a child who’s recently picked up the same instrument as you. 2. You Already Have the DisciplineEven if you believe that you don’t hold a musical bone in your body, you have still spent many professional years training yourself in problem solving and connecting life’s dots. Your brain is already hardwired to find the best approach at tackling obstacles, and unlike children, you are well-versed in the “practice makes perfect” methodology. 3. You Can Digest Concepts EasierMusic is all about the rules of sound, and the older you get, the easier you can delve into and analyze the abstracts behind the artform. Children may pick up skills much faster, but they have a tendency to learn in parrot fashion, whilst seniors have additional patience and curiosity to truly unravel the mysteries behind these scales and chords, which can become more valuable in the long run. 4. You’ll Enjoy The Learning Process4. You’ll Enjoy The Learning ProcessFor some people, they only wish their parents had forced them to learn an instrument when they were younger. But you must remember that a large majority of young people unwillingly pushed towards a musical pastime, ended up loathing this after school activity, and tend to remember it as a time of labor rather than pleasure. Adults who pick up an instrument do so because they want to, and play music for music’s sake, finally fulfilling an interest that they had fantasized about their whole lives. 5. You’ll Relieve StressPlaying an instrument not only gently removes you from reality, but has also been shown to improve your overall mood and sleep patterns, which works wonders for your stress levels and general mental health. As anyone can attest to, even just listening to the right music can calm you down whilst massaging any depression into a higher place of euphoria. So why not make some music of your own? 6. You’ll Exercise Your BodyAsk a drummer and they will tell you: percussion performances are the same as a full body workout! Then there are wind instruments, which teach you how to breath properly and help expand your lungs, whilst the guitar is great for finger exercises. Just don’t forget to warm up and research how to strengthen your hand for maximum virtuoso results. 7. You’ll Exercise Your BrainLike learning any new skill, playing music will challenge your mind to stay sharp and alert, which has been shown to increase your memory functions, and as a result, ward off dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. It also heightens your audio perception, as if training your nervous system to pay better attention to the world around you. 8. You’ll Avoid BoredomOne of the primary reasons most people tend to seek out fresh hobbies in their retirement years, is to escape the tedious monotony of no longer having as much work to do. Picking up a new instrument skill is one of the best known methods of passing the time, by filling your house with the relaxing sounds of music, whilst progressing your art further with each and every practice. 9. You’ll Build Self-EsteemSpending hours in front of your TV may be what you imagined retirement to be like, but this dull behavior can destroy your confidence, as you end each day with nothing of any value to show for it. Learning an instrument will not only grant your life additional meaning, but you can also accomplish it without even leaving the house if you don’t want to. 10. You’ll Improve Social InteractionDepending on your approach, you can even use your newfound passion to meet people. From visiting a tutor, to participating in group lessons, to having a topic of mutual interest with other musicians... there is no end to the links within the musical community. And who knows? Maybe you’ll even be performing with your band at next year's big social event! One step at a time.
The idea of pulling in a little extra income isn’t something that most people need to be sold on. But then there’s that pesky question of how — it’s not always easy to fit in another job opportunity outside of your usual grind. And when you do, that opportunity runs the risk of feeling like a drain on your precious free time. How to get around these pitfalls, you ask? Going to a magical land called Rover.com that will pay to you to hang out with four-legged furry friends. What everyone’s wagging their tails about Rover, as you can probably guess, isn’t your average side gig. This pet-sitter network is knit together by the experienced pet sitters like you, pet owners who use Rover for a variety of coverage needs, and the trustworthy Rover specialists themselves who make sure the entire experience is marked by strong communication and clear expectations. As a pet sitter (once approved), you have the power to tailor your Rover profile in a way that best showcases your pet-sitting experience and passion for dogs and/or cats. The Rover applicationAs a testament to their high quality standards, Rover’s sitter specialists approve about 20% of the folks who apply to become sitters. Applicants undergo a background check to ensure that all dogs and cats in the network are in trustworthy hands, plus Rover asks that you include testimonials on your profile that can speak to your sitting abilities. When approved and creating your bio on your sitter profile, you get the chance to tout your own experience and passion for pet care. On the job Rover sitting means that you work when you want, with whom you want, and how you want. You can watch dogs and cats for a weekend while their parents are away, provide drop-in visits for walks or general company, and so much more. The Rover profile also makes it easy to outline the kind of work you’re comfortable with and the animal breeds (and sizes) you have the most experience caring for. The Rover site gives you the agency to communicate with potential clients and get a feel for whether a job is right for you, so you never have to accept a job you don’t feel comfortable with or ready for. And as for the best part of being a Rover sitter, we don’t need to tell you. Four-legged friends are the best aspect of most things, after all — and this incredible side gig opportunity is no exception. Written by Casey Dickson, Rover.com community member. Rover is the nation's largest network of 5-star pet sitters and dog walkers.
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