From consequences related to the enactment of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act to changes in Veterans’ Pension Laws, we covered a lot of ground in 2018. It was a year that marked the passage of the CHRONIC Care Act, the ACA being struck … [Read more...]
Critter Corner: Why Seniors Should Consider Making New Year’s Resolutions
Dear Ernie and Jannette, Happy New Year! I typically don’t make New Year’s resolutions, because I know I won’t keep them. But, this year, I want things to be different. I read somewhere that setting resolutions has practical … [Read more...]
Is the Charitable Tax Deduction Gone for 2018?
Q. I give to charities every year during the holiday season. However, I’m concerned about the ramifications of doing so this year with the new tax law. Can I give as I usually do and take tax deductions, or is there something … [Read more...]
Will You be a Financial Burden to Your Adult Children?
Lois has a long history of money mismanagement, but she’s gotten much better about saving money as she’s gotten older. When her mother died, Lois inherited a modest sum, and was quite disciplined with the money. She didn’t buy the … [Read more...]
Is Suicide a “Rational” Option for Seniors?
Robert Shoots was a retired house painter who was happily remarried and enjoyed good health. He went fishing and played golf often, showing no signs of depression or other mental illness. Yet, Shoots took his own life, and he … [Read more...]
Falls Aren’t Just a Normal Part of Aging — They Are Preventable!
It’s fall -- an ideal time to put on a light sweater, take a walk in the crisp air, and watch the green leaves being replaced by dazzling amber, maroon, gold, and bronze hues. Besides the rustic colors, crunchy leaves beneath … [Read more...]
Critter Corner: Using Telehealth to Age-in-Place
Dear Ribbit, I am interested in possibly using telehealth instead of visiting the doctor's office. What are the advantages of doing so? Thanks, Em Helth --- Dear Em, Telehealth (sometimes also known as mHealth), is … [Read more...]
Adult Children Seek Guardianship of Their Astronaut Dad, Buzz Aldrin
In July 1969, the first person to set foot on the moon's surface was Neil Armstrong. Nine minutes later, Edwin Eugene "Buzz" Aldrin Jr. touched down. History was made! On the 50th anniversary of Apollo 11 next year, astronaut … [Read more...]
The Biggest Misconceptions About A Power of Attorney
Q. My lifelong friend, Peter, has an aunt who was never married and never had children of her own. Peter was the closest family member she had, but she was not a very trusting person, and didn't trust Peter or anyone, especially … [Read more...]