The VA Maintaining Systems and Strengthening Integrated Outside Networks Act, or VA Mission Act was primarily designed to provide options and aid to expand private health care options through the VA. The Act also will eliminate, in stages, the previous limitation for caregivers of veterans who were wounded before 9/11 to receive government training and…
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved a new drug under the trademark Aduhelm™ to treat Alzheimer’s disease. The drug, Aducanumab, is a therapeutic drug that clinically demonstrates a potential to delay further decline from Alzheimer’s disease and is also the first FDA approval for a drug that does more than address the…
Many older Americans are willing and able to work, however, in April 2020 the unemployment rate for eligible workers 55 and older increased to 13.6 percent. COVID-19 restrictions and associated layoffs account for some unemployment increases, but so does the lack of employment opportunities among older Americans. A coexisting challenge in the US is that…
The Covid-19 pandemic has brought an important question to the forefront; how far would you want extreme life-prolonging measures to be tried? For us who are particularly vulnerable – seniors, those with compromised immune systems, those already struggling with medical conditions – this question is particularly stark. Many people are familiar with DNR orders, “do…
It is imperative to create a last will and testament in order to make sure your final wishes regarding your asset disbursement are properly followed. If you have people who you love and care for, then creating a will for your peace of mind and their protection is the right thing to do. Though crafting…
Veterans have several educational and health care benefits offered through the Tricare and GI Bill by The US Department of Veterans. Even with these programs that help veterans and their families, other little-known services can improve their lives and ease the financial burden of medical care and other expenses. Check your veteran status to see…
At some point in life, you will probably be faced with the decision to move your spouse to a long-term care facility. At this emotionally difficult time, the last thing you need is the stress of not knowing where to find the money to pay for the steep costs of institutional care. Advance planning is…
It makes sense that more aging Americans have completed wills and estate plans compared to younger Americans. Still, a significant number — 19 percent of those over age 72 and 42 percent of those between 53 and 71, according to survey data — lack any type of estate plan. Although managing these details can…
It is important, now more than ever, that caregivers are properly prepared, especially during this Coronavirus Pandemic. Caregivers must balance the need for their care partner’s health and balance it with that person’s safety. As the US heads into seasonally extreme weather months, it is prudent to create or revisit existing plans for evacuating a…
Current medical and health care advancements have made it possible for dependents with special needs to live more useful lives than ever before. Many scientists regard the term special needs as a euphemism for disability. Yet, the difference between the two terms is primarily one of acceptance and preference as both terms describe the four…