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Senators Propose Boosting Seniors’ Social Security Benefits
Millions of seniors nationwide are among those who rely on the financial support they receive each month via their Social Security benefits checks. However, many say that these payouts have failed to keep up with inflation and the escalating prices of basic goods and services over time. One analysis showed that retirees have in fact lost significant buying power in the past two decades, all while they tend to face steep increases in health care costs as they age. As of 2023, Social Security benefits experienced one of the biggest losses of purchasing power – 36 percent – since 2000. A newly
Elder Financial Abuse: How an Elder Law Attorney Can Help
Elder financial abuse is a significant issue affecting many older adults nationwide. It involves someone exploiting or misusing an older person’s finances or assets for personal gain. Often, the perpetrator is in a position of trust, be it a family member, abusive partner, or paid caregiver. Recovering from elder financial abuse, both financially and emotionally, can be challenging. However, there are several strategies and resources available to help these victims. Types of Elder Financial Fraud Sadly, there are seemingly limitless financial fraud schemes that affect older Americans. The impact of financial abuse is enormous. One 2023 AARP report found that adults over age
HUD Housing Programs That Support Aging in Place
Ninety-three percent of adults 55 and older want to remain in their homes as they age, according to U.S. News & World Report. “Aging in place” involves growing old comfortably and safely in one’s dwelling. As adults age, they may want to remain in their homes and communities for several reasons. For one, remaining in one’s own residence preserves independence. When older adults remain in their home, they can continue local activities they enjoy and maintain their routines. They may be better able to maintain their quality of life. Staying in the same community fosters social support. It makes it easier to
Seniors and Caregivers: Establish an Emergency Action Plan
For seniors and their caregivers, having a plan in place should an emergency strike can provide some peace of mind in a turbulent world. A crisis, such as illness, trauma, natural disaster, or any other unexpected adverse event, may one day require you to act quickly and decisively. Thinking and adapting can be particularly difficult when you are facing a high-stress situation. This is why disaster experts emphasize the importance of planning and practicing for various types of emergencies. For example, you might decide to run a fire drill in your own home. If your loved one lives in a
11 Questions to Ask an Elder Law Attorney
Elder law encompasses a wide range of legal matters that affect older individuals. Attorneys who practice elder law advocate for seniors and execute legal plans to assist them in living better lives. Their expertise may encompass estate planning, as well as planning for retirement, Social Security, and long-term medical care. This specialty of the legal profession remains crucial for the well-being of this ever-increasing population. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 54 million seniors live in the U.S. This accounts for more than 16 percent of the total population. The number of American seniors is on track to grow
The Loneliness Epidemic: Helping Seniors Stay Connected
In recent years, researchers have been finding potential links between feelings of loneliness and negative health outcomes. Feeling lonely may put you at greater risk of premature death, serious health problems, and higher suicide rates. For many, the COVID-19 pandemic made social isolation even more difficult to avoid. In 2023, the United States Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy went so far as to issue a nationwide advisory on loneliness. In the report, he declared loneliness an epidemic and a major public health concern. Loneliness is a feeling of desolation from lacking human connections and interactions, although it’s not the
