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The Bay Area's Resource For Active, Healthy Living After 50
Issue 120 March 2025
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Check Out Featured
Stories In This Issue
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The Challenge Of Caregiving.
Tips And Resources
Whether caring for an aging parent,
a sick spouse or a child with special needs, caregivers face immense emotional, physical and financial challenges.
Need Help With A Loved One?
Check out Assisting Hands for homecare serving the SF Bay Area.
"The Quiet After"--Preston Houston
For three years, he had cared for Lisa as ALS took its slow, merciless toll. Now the house was silent.
Thinking Of Moving To a Senior Living Community?
Let Katie Cooney help you find the perfect place. She does the homework and takes you on tours. At no cost to you. Call 408.513.7838.
Ask Larry: "Should I Get Out Of The Market?"
With the stock market losing trillions, these are nervous times for everyone, regardless of your age.
"This. That. And More Stuff"--Evelyn Preston, Money Lady
"As I age, there’s the question of which will last longer, me or the house? We’re both beginning to require extensive and expensive maintenance."
Looking For Financial Freedom?
Need extra income? Your biggest gift may be the equity in your home. Call Marilyn Brown Ross to see if a reverse mortgage is right for you. 408.722.0010.
Iceland: Road Trip Around And Through The
Land Of Fire And Ice--Don Mankin, Travel Writer
Swirling iridescent lights danced slowly across the pitch-black sky. It was only my second night in Iceland, and I was experiencing a light show unmatched since my psychedelic 60s.
"How I Stay Active At 97"--Art Lind
I credit much of my health to my Chiropractor son, Greg, who gives me a "tune-up" every week. He encourages me to stay active to grow stronger and to maintain my balance.
Looking For Independent Senior Living?
Senior living doesn't get any better than living at Chateau-Cupertino whether you're in retirement or just ready for the next
great phase of your life. Call Marie Louise Cates 408.446.4300.
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Be Kind To One Another
ActiveOver50 is a monthly, online newsletter for active, healthy living after 50 reaching over 100,000 boomers and seniors. Share it with friends and family—it’s completely free!
For more stories and news about boomers and seniors, visit ActiveOver50.com.
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Tips For Caregivers
Involve other family members
Share the caregiving responsibilities with other family members to reduce stress and burnout.
Prioritize self-care
Make time for activities that help you relax and recharge.
Seek emotional support
Connect with other caregivers or therapists to process your emotions and experiences.
Learn about caregiving responsibilities
Educate yourself on the specific needs of the person you are caring for.
Monitor medication use
Ensure that the person you are caring for is taking their medications as prescribed.
Seek help online
Search online for local and national information on caregiving.
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The Challenge Of Caregiving
Check Local And National Resources For Help
According to an AARP report, one in five adults in the U.S. — an estimated 53 million people — is taking care of an aging family member.
Caregiving is one of the most demanding and under appreciated
roles a person can take on. Many take a financial hit, whether from covering out-of-pocket expenses like transportation, home modifications and medical equipment, cutting back on work hours
to make time for caregiving duties, dipping into savings to make ends meet or all of the above.
Whether caring for an aging parent, a sick spouse or a child with special needs, caregivers face immense emotional, physical and financial challenges.
The good news is there are many local and national resources available for caregivers including support groups, nonprofit organizations and homecare providers.
READ MORE
| | Hand n' Hand Senior Placement | |
When It's Someone You Love
By Katie Cooney
Is someone you love struggling to live safely at home alone? Are daily tasks becoming overwhelming or do they need more care than family can provide?
When it's time to explore options for senior living, in-home care
or community resources, I’m here to help.
As a Certified Senior Advisor, I specialize in guiding families through the complex and emotional decisions surrounding senior care. Whether your loved one has had a medical event, is experiencing memory challenges or simply needs extra support,
I provide concierge-style assistance to match them with the right care and living arrangements.
From assisted living and memory care to in-home services and local resources, I take the stress out of finding trusted solutions.
My goal is to ensure safety, dignity and peace of mind for your loved one—and for you. Let me help you navigate the next step in their journey with knowledge, compassion and care.
📞 Contact me today for a free consultation. Because when it comes to senior care, you don’t have to figure it out alone.
info@handnhandsp.com | 408-513-7838 handnhandseniorplacement.com
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Discover Resort-Style Living For The 55+ In San Jose, CA
Luxury properties, professionally landscaped, golf course views, city views, openness of the community, trees and waterfalls.
We have many properties for sale at The Villages Golf & Country Club in San Jose, CA. Resort-style senior living for the active adult 55+ years. Mid $400,000s to $1,000,000+.
To receive an exclusive tour of the community and preview selected properties, call Carla Griffin today. 408.274.8766.
Visit bandarealtors.biz.
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The Quiet After
By Preston Houston
David still made two cups of coffee in the morning.
Habit, he told himself. A cruel one. The second cup
sat untouched on the counter, growing cold.
For three years, he had cared for Lisa as ALS took its slow, merciless toll. First, the cane, then the wheelchair, then the hospital bed in their living room. He learned to lift her without hurting her, to feed her when her hands failed, to understand words that barely made it past her lips.
It was exhausting—physically, emotionally, in ways he hadn’t known were possible. The sleepless nights listening for her breathing. The guilt when he felt frustrated or longed for a moment alone. The constant battle between love and exhaustion.
People had told him to take breaks, to ask for help but how could he? How do you step away from the person you love when they need you?
READ MORE
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Iceland: Road Trip Around And Through The Land Of Fire And Ice
By Don Mankin, Travel Writer
Swirling iridescent lights danced slowly across the pitch-black sky. It was only my second night in Iceland, and I was experiencing a light show unmatched since my psychedelic 60s.
I was in Stykkisholmur in West Iceland, near the beginning of a two-week road trip around Iceland from mid-to late September. For the first week, I traveled with my friend and colleague, Michael Bennett, the founder of Seattle-based travel design company, Explorer-X (explorer-x.com). On the second week, I continued the adventure on my own.
READ MORE
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"This.That. And
More Stuff"
By Evelyn Preston, Money Lady
When I write about money and finances, I relate to most
of the topics—especially home maintenance. As I age, there’s the question of which will last longer, me or the house? We’re both beginning to require extensive and expensive maintenance.
From my 2005 replacement-for-life double pane windows to a 20-year roof warranty, I believed—and had written proof—in both companies’ claims and assurances. But with time, weather and the economy...all things changed.
A few years after our original roofer sold out, the new owner stopped “leak-fix” promises for old customers. The window company moved, changed names and rudely cut my call short.
Other fevered attempts at house repair over the years ranged from good to really bad…friends’ referrals, the Next Door site and Angie’s List to finally finding a top-notch contractor for our kitchen remodel.
Better yet, his subs were outstanding! I found that sticking with the trade professionals (plumbing, electrical, painting, etc.,) used by top builders and designers turns out consistently positive. Running future requests for these experts through the original contractor (if they’re willing,) will get faster attention, positive support and at times, even a discount.
READ MORE
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Your Reverse Mortgage Questions Answered by
a Local Expert With 15+ Years' Experience
Q: Will the bank own my home?
The bank does not take ownership of your home; they simply extend
a loan to you. You continue to own and live in your home and are responsible for payment of property taxes, required insurance and if applicable, HOA fees.
Q: Do my children/family members lose their inheritance?
No, a borrower may designate an heir of their choosing.The heir(s) will inherit the home after the last surviving borrower passes away and may then choose to keep (by paying off the amount of reverse mortgage balance) or sell the home. Should they choose to sell, any remaining equity after paying off the loan (minus interest and fees) would be theirs.
Q: What is the lending limit of the HECM reverse mortgage?
As of January 1, 2023, it increased to $1,089,300. Which means
it's very likely you can qualify for more money.
To learn more about reverse mortgages, call me today 408.722.0010. Email: gmross2404@comcast.net.
Marilyn Brown Ross reverse mortgage professional
NMLS #453436/1221981
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German Shepherds offer a blend of loyalty, intelligence, affection and protection that makes them exceptional companions. Their loyalty is a defining characteristic, leading them to be devoted and steadfast companions.
Their inherent protective instincts mean they are naturally inclined to watch over and safeguard their loved ones which can provide a sense of security and comfort. To help us save more lives, please consider fostering or adopting a German Shepherd in need.
German Shepherd Rescue of Northern California
800-728-3473
Over the past 23 years, GSRNC has found loving forever homes for over 4,900 deserving German Shepherd Dogs.
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ASK LARRY
"Should I Get
Out Of The Market?"
With the stock market losing trillions in the last month, these are nervous times for everyone, regardless of your age.
However, if over 70, your investment strategy should prioritize preserving wealth over taking unnecessary risks. If the stock market
is dropping, consider:
Your time horizon – If you rely on investments for daily expenses, you may not have time to wait for a full recovery.
Diversification – If you're heavily in stocks, shifting some to bonds, cash or dividend-paying assets might reduce risk.
Withdrawal needs – If you need cash soon, keeping money in a volatile market could be risky.
Emotional vs. rational decisions – Selling in a panic can lock in losses. Assess if you truly need to sell or can ride it out. A financial advisor can help tailor a strategy based on your needs.
Got a question or comment? Ask me anything. If I don't know
the answer, I'll find someone who does. Ask Larry is written by Larry Hayes, ActiveOver50 publisher. Email: Larry@activeover50.com. Visit: ActiveOver50.com.
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Discover Chateau-Cupertino
Senior Independent Living Community With a Flair
Senior living doesn't get any better than living at
Chateau-Cupertino whether you're in retirement or just ready for the next great phase of your life. Enjoy a home-life environment in your own senior apartment with three fresh served home-style meals daily.
Housekeeping and laundry services, all basic utilities, great activity programs, game rooms and transportation--all included starting at $3,400 per month.
Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Cupertino is one of the best places to live in the San Francisco Bay Area--home to world famous Apple.
Come and see for yourself. Chateau-Cupertino.
Call 408.446.4300. Or email: MarieLouise@chateau-cupertino.com.
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"How I Stay
Active At 97"
By Art Lind
Residence: The Villages Golf & Country Club, San Jose
Past occupation(s): Telegrapher for South Pacific, machinist, insurance agent, 28 years with Lockheed in finance and contracts. Retired at age 60.
Q: What kind of physical activities do you do to stay active?
I play tennis 4 times/week; table tennis 3 times/week; duplicate bridge 3 times/week; pickleball, spec tennis, pool, and bocce once/week. Additionally, I'm in the Fitness Center twice/week.
Q: What are some small habits that have helped you stay fit over the years?
I'm faithful to my Christian commitment; am at peace with God. I'm at peace with my neighbors. I know the difference between right and wrong and I try to wrong no one. I try to keep a minimum of stress in my life.
Q: Are there any foods you swear by for keeping healthy and active?
I try to keep mostly fresh organic fruit and vegetables in my diet. I try to stay clear of food additives and consume very little sugar. I avoid all vaccinations.
Q: What keeps you motivated to stay active at 97?
I enjoy playing tennis and other sports. I'm preparing to play in an international tournament in Croatia in October this year. I credit much of my health to my Chiropractor son, Greg, who gives me a "tune-up" every week. He keeps encouraging me to stay active in the Fitness Center to grow stronger and maintain my balance.
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To Add A Chuckle To Your Day, Check Out John Donaghue's Latest Comics.
Under Cardiac Arrest is a comic series starring a quirky couple loosely based on John Donaghue's parents. Besides thousands of followers online, UCA has been translated into greeting cards, shirts, mugs and a book.
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