June 2025

CHOICES Corner

Retirement age has been advancing in recent years. Ten years ago, 76% of people 65 years old were retired. Today, only 33% are retired. There are many reasons for the change. The increase in age needed to qualify for full Social Security benefits is a major driver of the change. As a consequence of the change, older adults now face the decision whether to enroll in Medicare benefits at age 65 or continue to utilize employer-provided benefits. In some instances, employers may require Medicare enrollment for eligible employees. There are decisions to be made, and you need accurate information to make the best decisions.

There are several different kinds of health insurance. If you are becoming eligible for Medicare but you already have insurance, learn whether/how your current plan works with Medicare, and what decisions you need to make and actions you need to take

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This newsletter is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $577,233 with 100 percent funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.    

CAREGIVER Corner

Caregiver fatigue cannot be understated. Spouses, adult children, and family members alike are susceptible to caregiver fatigue, whether they are providing care twenty-four hours a day or caregiving from a distance. Whether caregivers are losing actual sleep or simply wearing down from the constant worry and obligations, help is needed before feelings of resentment and guilt set in or the caregivers’ health becomes compromised. 

Sleep is necessary to live; however, it is often a low priority in the whole caregiver scenario. Our bodies need six to nine hours of sleep and after age 65, we need six to eight hours per night. The brain relies on sleep to function effectively. Without adequate rest, the brain’s ability to access memory, control speech, and resolve problems is greatly hampered. 

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Spotlight on VOLUNTEERING

The Veteran Pen Pal project concludes its 10th year of introducing students from Hamden schools to local veterans through handwritten letters exchanged every 4-6 weeks. 

During the last few weeks of May, these Pen Pals had the opportunity to have lunch together and spend quality time not only with each other but also with the entire class. 

Sharing stories about what they learned from each other and the realization that they had much in common was significant. Handwriting has a considerable impact on reading and writing skills beyond just the time and effort it requires. 

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