WHAT’S ON OUR MIND

Since 1980, every ten years the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has developed a comprehensive agenda for the upcoming decade to increase the health and well-being of the entire nation.

What's the single most valuable thing you can do to stay healthy and happy as you age? Invest in your social connections.

You know you need to do it, and you promise to start tomorrow. But the road from the sofa to the gym, pool or yoga studio can prove insurmountable when the day dawns. You're just not into exercise. And you're not alone.‍

When Anita D. moved into a bustling active adult community in the Northeast two years ago, she didn't know a soul. Hoping to change that, she began chatting with a group gathered in her building's lobby. As it was close to New Year's Eve, she asked if anyone would be interested in getting together to raise a glass in the lobby if she provided pretzels and wine. Everyone liked the idea, and multiple toasts were made.

Recently, when a family member passed away unexpectedly, I saw financial chaos up close and personal: his wife couldn't access some accounts, didn't have login or bank information and didn't even know what credit cards or bills he had.