Blog
A Guide to the SSI and SSDI Appeals Process for Older Adults
Receiving a denial for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits can feel discouraging, especially for older adults who may already be dealing with health challenges, reduced income, or caregiving responsibilities. The good news is that a denial is not the end of the road. Many people who are initially denied benefits are later approved through the appeals process. Understanding how appeals work and acting quickly can significantly improve your chances of success. Understanding SSI and SSDI Although SSI and SSDI are both administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), they serve different purposes. SSI is a needs-based program for people with
Digital Tools to Protect Older Adults From Financial Abuse
Older adults lose billions of dollars each year to financial abuse and exploitation. In 2025, adults aged 60 and older in the United States reported $2.4 billion in losses to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), per CNBC. Because so many incidents go unreported, the FTC estimates that the actual cost of elder financial abuse and exploitation is likely much higher. Today, financial exploitation happens quietly – and digitally. Instead of stolen checks or forged signatures, abuse may involve compromised passwords, unauthorized online account access, or highly convincing phone calls or emails designed to pressure an older adult into sending money.
Some Older Adults May Qualify for a New $6,000 Tax Break
As of the 2025 tax year, many older Americans may realize a new tax benefit thanks to a provision in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The law, signed in July 2025, created a new annual tax deduction of up to $6,000 for taxpayers age 65 and older. Though the deduction is currently scheduled to expire at the end of 2028, it could provide some tax relief for millions of seniors while it is in effect. Understanding how this deduction works, who qualifies, and how it fits into the broader tax landscape can help older adults plan ahead and avoid surprises
New Research on Dementia Risk Factors, Screenings
With an estimated one in 10 older adults in the United States living with dementia, there is a growing focus on early detection and prevention. Dementia encompasses diseases that impair memory and cause cognitive decline. Common types of dementia include Alzheimer’s disease (the leading cause), Lewy Body dementia, and vascular dementia. Most forms of dementia worsen over time, with a period of cognitive impairment preceding a formal diagnosis. When cognitive decline causes a loss of sense of self and limits one’s independence, dementia can significantly reduce quality of life. Dementia is not a normal part of aging, despite what many people may assume.
Looking for Long-Term Care? See the 2026 Best Nursing Homes
Realizing that you or a loved one needs to move into a nursing home can be stressful. Just the process of looking for the right facility can seem daunting. You want to make sure the facility you choose is a good place and will offer the necessary care, safety, and comfort. Many factors come into play when searching for the right nursing home, such as staffing, quality of care, cost, and location. With all the factors to consider and all the options, it can be hard to choose. However, there are resources available, one of which is U.S. News & World
How Higher Medicare Costs Will Affect Older Adults in 2026
At a time when we are frequently confronting the rising cost of living, Medicare enrollees will soon see a rise in their premiums and deductibles. In mid-November 2025, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced the Medicare Parts A and B premiums and deductibles for 2026. What’s Changing in 2026 Perhaps the most notable change is the increase in what Medicare beneficiaries will have to pay. In short, both the recurring costs (premiums) and up-front costs (deductibles) for key parts of Medicare are increasing. Why the Increase? According to the CMS, the increases stem from projected price changes and assumed increases in