As another new year approaches, we’re often inundated with suggestions for making New Year’s resolutions. So-called experts tell us to set goals to be more productive, get healthier, make more money, or finally “fix” something about ourselves. But what if 2026 didn’t start with pressure or a quest for perfection? What if, instead, this year you gave yourself permission to slow down and find joy in the small, ordinary details of life?

Rather than chasing grand transformations, try cultivating an appreciation for the little things—the moments that often go unnoticed but are full of quiet magic. This mindset shift doesn’t require a drastic overhaul of your routine. Instead, it invites you to tune in, be present, and discover happiness in everyday experiences.

Here are some ideas to help you make 2026 a year of intentional, simple joy.

7 Steps for Finding Joy in the Simple Things in the New Year

Mindfulness doesn’t always have to involve meditating for an hour or going on a silent retreat. It can be as simple as paying full attention to your morning cup of coffee. Taking time to enjoy the smell, the warmth, and the first sip. Noticing how the sunlight spills across your floor, or the way your pet curls up beside you. These tiny observations ground you in the present and offer a surprising sense of peace.

Try this: Once a day, pause and name three things you notice or appreciate in your surroundings. Over time, your brain will learn to seek out those small delights more often.

Instead of a resolution tracker, start a gratitude or joy journal for 2026. Each day (or week), jot down one small thing that made you smile or feel grateful. Maybe it was a stranger’s kindness, a favorite song on the radio, or a walk that cleared your mind. These entries don’t have to be profound—they just have to be real.

When life feels heavy or routine, flipping through this journal can be a gentle reminder that joy is still present, even in the quiet corners of your day.

3. Savor Routines Instead of Rushing Through Them

Our lives are filled with routines that we tend to rush through on autopilot—making breakfast, doing laundry, commuting. But these can be opportunities to slow down and infuse your day with intention.

Try lighting a candle while you cook, listening to music while completing household tasks, or taking a slightly longer route to the grocery store to enjoy the scenery. These small adjustments to daily life can transform the mundane into something more nourishing.

In our fast-paced digital lives, it’s easy to half-listen or scroll through our phones while talking to others. In 2026, make an effort to truly be present during conversations. Look people in the eye. Ask meaningful questions. Listen with curiosity instead of rushing to respond.

Genuine connection often happens in fleeting moments—a shared laugh, a deep sigh, or a knowing glance. Savor those and enjoy the connections.

Joy often lives in the process, not the outcome. Instead of pushing yourself to “master” a hobby or skill, give yourself permission to create just for fun. Doodle, bake something new, write a silly poem, or take blurry photos of things that catch your eye. Plant and nurture a container herb garden on your patio or doorstep.

Remind yourself that the goal isn’t to impress but to play. Reclaim the kind of unfiltered joy you might have felt as a child making art with no concern about the final product.

Nature is constantly shifting, offering fresh sights, smells, and sounds with each season. Pay attention to these changes throughout the year, such as the first snowflakes, the scent of spring rain, the golden leaves of fall. Even in a busy urban environment, small natural wonders are always waiting to be noticed.

7. Let Go of “Bigger Is Better” Thinking

Joy doesn’t always come from milestones like promotions or vacations. Often, it’s found in the in-between moments—an unexpected compliment, the first page of a new book, or watching someone you love laughing uncontrollably.

Start measuring your year not by how much you accomplish, but by how often you feel present, at peace, or unexpectedly delighted. Doing so can make a real difference in your mental and physical well-being.

A Mobile Monitoring Device to Help You Stay Active

Sometimes older adults are held back from staying active and on the go by a fear that they’ll experience an emergency when they are away from home and on their own. One way to overcome that is with a mobile monitoring device. This discreet safety unit can be slipped into a pocket or purse. Because it works on wireless technology, you can use it to summon help if you need it. Call 1-844-203-5617 for more information!

Skip the New Year’s resolutions in 2026 and opt for finding ways to experience more joy instead. These tips can help you get started.

Forget the Resolutions: Make 2026 the Year of Finding Joy in the Smallest Moments

The holidays are about meaningful connection. As the season approaches, many of us look forward to gathering around the table, sharing old stories, and making new memories. But for many seniors, especially those who live far from loved ones and aren’t able to travel, spending the holidays with family in person isn’t always possible.

That doesn’t mean, however, that the season has to feel lonely. With a little creativity and the help of technology, people can still feel a part of it all, even when they are separated by many miles.

Here are some thoughtful and fun ways to celebrate the holidays virtually with the older adults in your life:

One of the highlights of the season is sharing a meal together. Coordinate a virtual dinner via Zoom, FaceTime, or another video platform. Cook the same recipes or send a meal delivery ahead of time so your senior loved one can enjoy the same dishes. Set up devices at the dinner table to create a sense of togetherness and allow for real-time conversation.

Before the holiday, mail a care package filled with festive items like cookies, gifts, holiday decorations, and a handwritten card. You could even include matching accessories like holiday pajamas, hats, or scarves. Then set a date and time to open the box together over a video call—the added tactile and visual element will make the virtual connection more meaningful. If your senior loved one buys and ships gifts for everyone, open those packages during the call, too.

Who doesn’t love a holiday movie classic like Home Alone, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, or It’s a Wonderful Life? Choose a classic holiday film and stream it at the same time while on a video call. Another option is to use a platform that synchronizes playback, like Teleparty or Kast, to watch the movie simultaneously. You can share reactions and favorite moments in real time—it will feel almost like you’re side by side on the couch, enjoying a bucket of popcorn.

Another fun way to feel connected during this special time of year is by sharing virtual tours of one another’s homes. Walk through the house room by room to show your loved one your decorations, and then encourage them to do the same. You can take it up a notch by creating a playlist of everyone’s favorite holiday songs and playing it softly in the background during the holiday tours.

Set up a video call and take turns sharing favorite holiday memories or family stories. Invite seniors to talk about how holidays were celebrated in their childhood or past decades. Don’t forget to include photos of past years’ celebrations. You could even record these stories to create a lasting family keepsake, an oral history that future generations will treasure.

Don’t Limit Your Celebrations to Winter Holidays

One final tip is to think beyond just the more popular winter holidays. When your kids have their Halloween costumes on, hop on a video chat so grandparents or other seniors in the family can see the younger generation ready to trick or treat. Think of ways to prepare for the new year ahead, such as through reflections and goal setting, and share your thoughts and aspirations with one another. Taking just a few extra minutes to include a faraway family member in events and activities can help bridge the distance and keep everyone feeling connected.

If you are like countless other adult children or family members of a senior, being separated by many miles can be stressful. Their safety is likely a leading concern. That’s where investing in a mobile monitoring device can be helpful.

If you aren’t familiar with them, this Frequently Asked Questions page might be of interest. You’ll find answers to everything from how the product works to the training required for the Medical Alert Care Specialists who respond to alerts!

Looking for ways to include a senior loved one who lives far away in your holiday gatherings? This information will be of interest.

Bridging the Distance: Celebrating the Holidays With Faraway Family

Caring for a senior loved one can be a full-time job, often filled with emotional, physical, and financial stress. If you have a friend who is a caregiver, whether for a parent, spouse, or relative, you may be wondering how you can assist them. It can be difficult to figure out just what they want or need, especially if you haven’t been through a similar experience yourself.

Caregiving can be isolating and lonely. If your friend is like many people who take on this role, they might be hesitant to ask others for help. But the support of a friend can make a huge difference in a caregiver’s personal well-being.

Ways to Support a Friend Who Is a Caregiver for a Senior

Here are ten meaningful ways you can help a caregiver friend:

Sometimes the best thing you can do is simply listen. Caregivers often feel overwhelmed and may just need to vent. You can create a safe, nonjudgmental space where your friend can talk about their frustrations and feelings without fear of criticism or “fix it” advice.

Instead of saying “Let me know if you need anything,” suggest something concrete. For example, ask “Can I come over Tuesday afternoon so you can take a break?” or “I’m going grocery shopping around 10 o’clock this morning, what can I pick up and drop off for you?” Specific offers are more helpful and easier to accept.

Respite care is one of the greatest gifts you can give a caregiver. Offer to stay with their loved one for a few hours so your friend can take a nap, go for a walk, or enjoy some alone time. Even short breaks can provide vital relief. Ask your friend if it would be helpful for you to research local, professional respite care options, such as in-home care or a short-term stay at an assisted living community.

Caregivers are often swamped with daily chores. Many times, they are trying to keep up with their home, as well as their older family member’s house. You might offer to clean the kitchen, rake leaves, do laundry, or even get their car washed. Helping them check off even small tasks from their long to-do list can reduce stress.

Maintaining good nutrition can be a real challenge for busy caregivers. Providing home-cooked meals or dropping off healthy takeout can be a lifesaver. You could even organize a Meal Train with mutual friends to provide regular deliveries. Make sure to ask about dietary needs for both your friend and the senior.

Isolation is common among caregivers. This is especially true for people who are caring for a spouse or parent with dementia or a mobility challenge—it may not be safe to leave them alone, even for short periods of time. Having friends who check in on a regular basis can make a difference. A quick text, video chat, or visit can remind your friend they’re not alone.

Caregivers may stop attending social events due to time constraints or emotional exhaustion. Keep inviting them. Even if they say no, receiving the invitation itself is meaningful. When possible, consider adapting social plans to accommodate their caregiving situation, like having your friend group bring lunch to their home for a visit.

Urge your friend to prioritize their own health. Caregivers often feel guilty when they take time out to tend to their own mental and physical well-being. You could gift them a massage or a journal, or encourage them to learn to meditate—even 10 minutes a day can help beat stress. Or you could offer to stay with their loved one so they can go for a walk, attend a yoga class, or simply rest.

Help Your Friend Connect With a Mobile Monitoring Device

One final suggestion is to share information on mobile monitoring devices with your friend. This discreet unit can be slipped in the pocket or purse of the care recipient. In the event of an emergency, they can press a button to be connected with help. The device can bring peace of mind for both the caregiver and the person they are caring for. Call 1-844-203-5617 today for more details!

Wondering what you can do to help a friend who is a caregiver for someone close to them? This article has useful ideas for showing support.

The holidays are often portrayed as a joyful season filled with festive shopping trips, gift exchanges, and gatherings with family and friends. Yet, for many people, it can be one of the loneliest times of the year.

Whether due to living a great distance from family, the recent loss of a loved one, relationship changes, or simply not having a close-knit social circle, isolation during the holidays is more common than many realize. Fortunately, there are practical and meaningful ways to prevent and manage loneliness during this time of year.

What can you do to avoid feeling isolated and lonely when most people you encounter seem to be celebrating the season? We have some suggestions you might find useful.

Managing Isolation and Loneliness During the Holidays

Acknowledge your feelings: The first step in addressing holiday loneliness is to accept your emotions without judgment. It’s okay to feel sad, isolated, or left out during a time that seems to demand happiness. Ignoring or suppressing these feelings often makes them worse. Recognizing these emotions allows you to take proactive steps to express them in healthy ways, such as journaling or engaging in crafts.

Create your own traditions: If traditional celebrations feel inaccessible or painful, consider creating new ones that reflect your current situation and interests. You might host a “Friendsgiving,” plan a solo trip you’ve always wanted to take, volunteer at a local shelter, or spend the day doing something that brings you joy, such as learning how to make sourdough bread, going for a hike, or indulging in a marathon viewing of a favorite old television series. Personal traditions, even simple ones, can give you a sense of control and meaning during a season that can otherwise feel empty.

Connect in new ways: Even if you’re physically alone during the holidays, technology can help you feel connected. Schedule video chats with friends or family. Join virtual communities or online events tailored to your interests, such as a book club, a support group, or a holiday-themed virtual meetup. Social media can be a double-edged sword, but when used thoughtfully, it can also provide a sense of connection and remind you that you’re not alone.

Reach out to others: One of the most effective ways to combat loneliness is to reach out, especially to others who may be feeling the same way. Remember that an estimated 66% of people feel lonely during the holidays. Send a holiday card, text an old friend, or invite someone over for a coffee or walk. Acts of kindness not only brighten someone else’s day but also improve your own mental well-being. Sometimes, just initiating contact can open the door to meaningful conversations and connections.

Volunteer your time: Helping others is a powerful antidote to loneliness. Volunteering during the holidays can create a sense of purpose and connection. You could help serve meals at a shelter, donate toys to children in need, or walk dogs at a local animal rescue. Giving back allows you to shift the focus from what’s missing in your life to how you can positively impact others.

Focus on your own wellness: Loneliness can directly affect your physical and mental health, so it’s important to take care of both. Prioritize regular exercise, a balanced diet, hydration, and adequate sleep. Incorporate mindfulness or relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing to help manage stress and anxiety. If feelings of loneliness persist or worsen, consider speaking with a mental health professional. Therapy can provide support and tools for managing emotions during difficult times.

Plan ahead: Planning ahead can reduce the emotional weight of the holidays. If you know certain days will be difficult, prepare activities or distractions in advance. Having a plan in place—even if it’s as simple as a movie marathon or a scheduled walk—can help you feel more in control and less caught off guard by difficult emotions.

A Mobile Monitoring Device Brings Peace of Mind

As you can, get out and about during the holidays. Don’t let yourself feel cooped up and alone. Should you be concerned about safety, consider investing in a mobile monitoring device. If an emergency happens when you are away from your home, a simple press of a button can connect you with someone who can help. Call 1-844-203-5617 today to learn more!

Wondering what you can do to avoid feeling isolated and alone during the holidays? Here are some suggestions you might find helpful.

Strategies for Coping With Loneliness During the Holidays

November is Diabetes Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing public understanding of one of the most prevalent chronic conditions worldwide. According to the International Diabetes Federation, an estimated 590 million people around the world have some form of this disease—that’s 1 in 9 adults. But diabetes is more than just a health statistic. It is a daily reality for people of all ages.

This month is an opportunity to educate the public on early detection and health management. To better understand the condition, let’s explore each of the three main types of diabetes: Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body produces little to no insulin, the hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar.

This form of diabetes was previously known as juvenile diabetes because it is typically diagnosed in children, teens, or young adults. However, it can occur at any age. The onset of Type 1 diabetes is often sudden and can include symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and blurred vision.

Unlike Type 2 diabetes, Type 1 cannot be prevented or reversed. Individuals with this condition must rely on daily insulin therapy, through injections or an insulin pump, to manage their blood sugar levels. Advances in technology, such as continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), have significantly improved quality of life for many living with Type 1 diabetes.

Type 2 Diabetes: A Lifestyle-Influenced Epidemic

The most common form of diabetes is Type 2, which accounts for 90%–95% of all diagnosed cases. Unlike in Type 1, the pancreas still produces insulin, but the body becomes resistant to its effects, leading to elevated blood glucose levels. Over time, insulin production may also decrease.

This form of diabetes typically develops in adults over the age of 45, but it’s increasingly being diagnosed in younger individuals, including children and adolescents, due to rising rates of obesity and sedentary lifestyles.

Risk factors for Type 2 diabetes include:

Certain ethnic backgrounds (e.g., African American, Hispanic/Latino, Native American)

Symptoms can be subtle and may develop gradually, making early detection challenging. These warning signs can include fatigue, increased hunger and thirst, slow healing of wounds, and numbness in the hands or feet.

Fortunately, Type 2 diabetes can be managed and even prevented with a healthy lifestyle, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight. In some cases, individuals with Type 2 who make significant changes may even achieve remission.

Gestational Diabetes: A Pregnancy-Related Condition

This form of diabetes occurs during pregnancy when hormonal changes prevent the body from producing enough insulin to meet the increased demands of the growing fetus. Gestational diabetes typically develops between the 24th and 28th week of pregnancy and affects about 2%–10% of pregnancies in the United States each year.

While gestational diabetes usually resolves after childbirth, it poses risks for both mother and baby during pregnancy. Women with gestational diabetes are more likely to experience high blood pressure and are at higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life. Babies born to mothers with gestational diabetes may be larger than average (macrosomia), increasing the risk of complications during delivery.

Managing gestational diabetes involves monitoring blood sugar levels, following a healthy diet, staying active, and sometimes taking insulin or other medications.

Diabetes Awareness Month is not only about education—it’s also about empathy and empowerment. Everyone’s story matters, whether they are managing the disease with daily insulin injections or making small dietary changes to reduce their risk.

Understanding the differences between Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes is crucial for early detection, effective management, and prevention. With continued research, education, and support, we can move toward a future in which fewer people develop diabetes and those living with it can lead healthier, fuller lives.

This November, let’s spread awareness, encourage healthier choices, and support the millions affected by diabetes.

If you are interested in wellness topics like this one, we encourage you to bookmark the Life Protect 24/7 Blog and visit often. We share new articles each week on topics ranging from caregiving to healthy living!

Diabetes is a growing concern worldwide. In honor of Diabetes Awareness Month, we are sharing information on the most common types of the disease.

Diabetes 101: What It Is and Tips for Prevention

Whether you are headed to a warmer destination or over the river and through the woods to visit a grandparent, traveling during the holidays can be a magical experience for families. It can be a time to bond and build memories.

But traveling as a family can also involve unique challenges, from crowded airports to traffic jams on highways. Including kids in a getaway during the busiest time of year requires extra planning, patience, and creativity. Then there are added safety struggles if you are traveling with a senior loved one who has dementia.

Whether you’re hitting the road or flying across the country, here are some tips to help families travel more smoothly during the holidays.

8 Ways to Make Seasonal Travel Easier for Families

The earlier you start planning your trip, the better. Book flights, accommodations, and rental cars as soon as possible to avoid last-minute stress and inflated prices. Consider flying on less popular travel days (such as Christmas Day or New Year’s Eve) to bypass crowds and save money. When driving, leave extra time for unexpected delays due to traffic or weather conditions.

Flexibility is also important. Have a backup plan in case your travel plan goes sideways. For example, if your ski trip to a big-name resort in the West gets canceled, be ready with ideas for alternate destinations, such as a local ski resort or another nearby family destination. Even a hotel with an indoor water park can be fun.

When you’re traveling with kids, packing efficiently is essential. Make a checklist to avoid forgetting must-have items like medications, favorite snacks, and comfort toys. If flying, pack a change of clothes for each child in your carry-on in case of spills or delays. Keep essentials, such as diapers, wipes, chargers, and snacks, within easy reach. Investing in a lightweight stroller or baby carrier can also be a lifesaver in airports or crowded places.

There’s no doubt about it, airport security can be a hassle, especially when you are traveling with children or a senior with memory loss. To make it easier:

Be sure everyone wears shoes that are easy to remove.

Prepack electronics and liquids for quick access.

Explain to your children ahead of time what to expect.

Hand preprinted notecards to security that explain the senior in your group has dementia.

Weigh the pros and cons of boarding early to get the kids settled against the agitation your family member with a memory impairment might experience from sitting so long on the plane.

Long trips can lead to cranky, bored children. Pack a variety of entertainment options, such as:

Tablets with downloaded movies or educational apps

Consider rotating activities to keep things fresh. Don’t forget headphones and chargers for electronic devices.

Travel disrupts normal schedules, but maintaining parts of your routine, such as meal or nap times, can help keep kids calm. Bring familiar bedtime items like a favorite blanket or stuffed animal to make sleeping in a new environment easier. If traveling across time zones, gradually ease into the new schedule, if possible.

Hunger and dehydration can make even the best-behaved child miserable. Pack a variety of healthy snacks, such as fruit, crackers, or granola bars. Bring refillable water bottles for everyone in the family. Avoid too much sugar, which can lead to hyperactivity followed by a crash. If you’re flying, keep gum or chewy snacks on hand to help kids with ear-pressure changes during takeoff and landing.

Even with perfect planning, things can go wrong. Flights get delayed, kids get sick, and traffic jams happen. That’s why it’s important not to schedule connecting flights or other travel times too close together. It’s also a good idea to carry basic first aid supplies in case of emergency.

Finally, try to keep a calm, positive attitude. Remember, your kids will take emotional cues from you, so showing flexibility and humor in tough situations can go a long way.

Instead of focusing solely on the destination, try to make the travel experience enjoyable. Play road trip games, listen to holiday music, or plan a fun stop along the way. Involve kids by letting them help pack their own bag or choose activities.

One final suggestion is to consider investing in a mobile monitoring device if you have a traveling companion with memory loss or a child who tends to wander away. In the event they become separated, a quick press of a button can connect them with someone who can help. Contact Life Protect 24/7 to learn more!

Traveling during the holidays can be tough for anyone. But when your plans include children or a senior with dementia, it’s even more difficult. These tips can help.

Tips for Families Traveling During the Holiday Rush

As autumn approaches and pumpkins begin to appear on porches, in pies, and in those very popular lattes, it’s easy to overlook that this iconic seasonal fruit is more than just festive decor or flavoring. In fact, pumpkin is a nutrition powerhouse.

Whether you enjoy it roasted, pureed, or baked in muffins, pumpkin offers a wide range of health benefits. Let’s explore why you should make pumpkin a staple in your fall meals. We’ll also share a few healthy, flavorful recipes to get you started.

Pumpkin is technically a fruit, though it’s often used like a vegetable in savory dishes. One cup of cooked, unsweetened pumpkin contains:

79% of the daily recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for vitamin A

What makes pumpkin especially beneficial is the combination of high nutrient density and low caloric content. It’s ideal for those watching their weight or seeking to improve their overall diet.

Eating pumpkin has many health benefits. Incorporating it into your diet can:

Encourage eye health: Pumpkin is packed with beta-carotene, a compound your body converts into vitamin A. This vitamin is essential for maintaining healthy vision, especially as we age. The antioxidant properties of beta-carotene may also help reduce the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.

Boost immunity: Thanks to its high vitamin A and C content, eating pumpkin supports a stronger immune system. Vitamin C encourages white blood cell production, while vitamin A helps regulate immune responses.

Aid in weight management: Pumpkin is low in calories but high in fiber, which helps you feel full longer and supports healthy digestion. The fiber also helps regulate blood sugar levels and promotes a healthy gut microbiome.

Support heart health: The potassium in pumpkin can help reduce blood pressure, especially when balanced with lower sodium intake. Additionally, antioxidants like vitamin C and beta-carotene reduce inflammation and oxidative stress—two factors linked to heart disease.

Promote healthy skin: Beta-carotene acts as a natural sunblock, helping to protect your skin from UV damage. Plus, the vitamin C in pumpkin helps your body produce collagen, which keeps skin firm and youthful.

Ready to start cooking with pumpkin? Here are some delicious, health-conscious recipes that go far beyond pie.

Pumpkin Red Lentil Soup: Vegan and gluten-free, this soup makes a high-protein meal that’s ideal for cozy fall evenings. It’s also a good lunch option served with a side salad.

Roasted Pumpkin Salad: This simple, six-ingredient salad is a great choice for lunch or a light dinner. And it’s quick and easy to prepare.

Healthy Pumpkin Muffins: Excellent for breakfast or a snack, these muffins are packed with oats and natural sweetness. You can bake a batch and freeze some for later.

One-Pot Vegan Pumpkin Alfredo: A rich and comforting dish that’s free of the heavy cream you typically find in an alfredo recipe. It’s a hearty meal for a cool fall or winter day.

Pumpkin Chia Seed Pudding: Perfect as a make-ahead breakfast or dessert, this tasty dish is full of fiber and omega-3s. Your whole family will enjoy this one.

Stay Safe This Fall With a Mobile Monitoring Device

Fall is often when people like to head out to the pumpkin patch, go on a nature walk, or take a hike in a nearby park. The cooler, less humid days make these outings more enjoyable. To give you added peace of mind, especially if you are going alone, consider investing in a mobile monitoring unit.

These devices can easily be slipped into your pocket or backpack. In the event of an emergency, a simple press of a button can connect you with help. Call 1-844-203-5617 for more details!

It’s pumpkin season! Learn about the health benefits of this popular fruit, as well as a few ways to incorporate it into fall menus.

Pumpkin Everything: Healthy and Easy Pumpkin Recipes

As we head into another flu season, it’s important to learn more about the annual influenza vaccine. Many seniors faithfully receive the shot every fall, while others believe some of the common misconceptions about the vaccine and fail to get one. During seasons when the virus is especially bad, that can be deadly.

With age comes increased vulnerability to some diseases and many viruses. That’s often because as we grow older, our immune system becomes less robust. One illness that older adults are at greater risk for is the flu. Adults aged 65 and older account for the majority of flu-related hospitalizations and deaths.

Experts forecast another challenging season this year. Possibly even as severe as 2024-25—according to Pharmacy Times, last year’s flu season was one of the worst in recent years, especially for seniors. It led to higher-than-usual numbers of physician office visits and hospitalizations.

If you or a senior loved one has fears related to the flu shot, talk with your primary care physician. They can help separate fact from fiction. For many people, the following myths are what keep them from receiving the level of protection the annual influenza vaccine can offer.

Busting the Most Common Flu Shot Misconceptions

Myth: “The flu shot will give me the flu.”

Fact: Contrary to popular belief, the flu shot doesn’t contain a live virus. Inactivated vaccines cannot cause influenza. Common side effects like fatigue or mild fever are not actual illness. Instead, these are signs your immune system is responding.

Myth: “If the vaccine isn’t a perfect match, there’s no point in getting it.”
Fact: It’s true that the vaccine isn’t always a perfect match for the strains that emerge in a particular season. But although strain mismatch may reduce overall prevention rates, getting vaccinated still lessens severity of illness, hospitalization risk, and mortality. This is especially true for seniors.

Myth: “You don’t really need to get vaccinated annually.”
Fact: The strains of virus that make the rounds change each year. And seniors are at highest risk of complications related to the flu, such as pneumonia or exacerbation of a chronic health condition. So, it is important to schedule an annual vaccination.

Factors such as timing and cost are important to consider. Some people are fearful of getting their shot in September or October because they believe the protection will fade before the season is over. Others are worried about the expense or whether they can combine vaccines. Here’s what we know:

Best time: While it’s important to discuss timing with your doctor, most recommend aiming to get vaccinated between September and mid-October. This helps ensure optimal protection before flu activity peaks in winter.

Simultaneous vaccines: It’s usually safe to receive flu, COVID-19 (if an updated fall dose is available), and RSV vaccines at the same visit—but spacing them out may reduce side-effect overlap. If you have concerns, talk them over with your primary care physician.

Access and cost: Most insurance plans cover the flu shot at no cost, and you don’t have to wait for an appointment with your physician to get vaccinated. Vaccines are widely available in clinics, pharmacies, and community health centers.

Finally, don’t rely solely on your flu shot to stay healthy this winter. Take steps to increase your body’s immunity before the season begins. For tips on how to do that, read Natural Ways to Boost the Immune System: Hydration, Sleep, Diet, and More.

Are you a senior who is wondering if you really need a flu shot? Learn what experts are saying about the upcoming flu season and what you should take into consideration.

The Flu Shot and You: What Seniors Should Consider

Every October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month brings attention to one of the most common cancers worldwide. While it often evokes images of pink ribbons and fundraising walks, this annual observance is about much more—it’s about education, early detection, advocacy, and support for those affected by breast cancer. And although women are far more likely to be diagnosed, men can get breast cancer, too.

Here’s what everyone, regardless of gender, should know.

Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor that may be felt as a lump or seen on an imaging test. If untreated, it can spread to other parts of the body.

Here are a few basic facts about this disease:

1 in 8 women in the US will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime.

About 1% of all breast cancer cases occur in men.

Early detection dramatically improves survival rates.

While anyone can develop breast cancer, certain factors increase your risk:

Family history: Having a close relative with breast cancer (especially under age 50) raises your risk.

Genetics: Inherited mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes increase risk.

Hormone exposure: Early menstruation, late menopause, hormone replacement therapy, and having children late or not at all can also increase risk.

Lifestyle: Alcohol use, obesity, and lack of physical activity are known risk factors.

Although less commonly affected, men can also develop breast cancer. This is especially the case if they have high estrogen levels, liver disease, or a strong family history of the disease.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

The most common symptom of breast cancer is a new lump in the breast or underarm, but others include:

Swelling or thickening of part of the breast

Redness or flaky skin on the nipple or breast

Men should also watch for lumps in the chest area, nipple discharge, or changes in nipple shape or color.

Don’t ignore any of these symptoms, even if you’re under 40 or male.

There’s no doubt about it, early detection saves lives. When breast cancer is caught in its earliest stages and the disease is localized, the five-year relative survival rate is 99%. The primary methods of early detection include:

Mammograms: Recommended yearly or every two years, starting at age 40 for women at average risk.

Breast ultrasounds: May be used if you have dense breasts or if an area of a mammogram is unclear.

Clinical breast exams: Performed by a healthcare provider.

Self-exam and awareness: Know what’s normal for your body and report any changes promptly.

For women with a strong family history or genetic risk, earlier and more frequent screenings (including MRIs) may be recommended. Men with a family history or known BRCA mutations should also speak with their primary care provider about screening and genetic counseling.

If you are diagnosed with breast cancer, the good news is that treatment options have come a long way over the past few decades. From targeted drug therapy to immunotherapy, modern treatments have improved survival rates and quality of life.

If you have an interest in healthy living, caregiving, or senior safety, we encourage you to bookmark the Life Protect 24/7 blog. Each week we share a new article on topics ranging from flu shot basics to natural ways of boosting your immune system.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Learn more about the disease, as well as symptoms and methods of early detection for women and men.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month: What Women (and Men) Should Know

Each year, Fire Prevention Week serves as an important reminder to take proactive steps to reduce the risk of home fires—and if a fire does break out, to have a system in place to protect members of your household.

Established in 1925 and observed every year in early October, Fire Prevention Week commemorates the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. It is designed to educate families and communities on potential hazards and modern fire safety practices. The 2025 theme is a good one: Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.

Why Fire Prevention Matters More Than Ever

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), a home fire occurs every 95 seconds in the US. Most deadly fires happen at night, while people are sleeping. Seniors, children, and those with disabilities are particularly vulnerable in the event a fire breaks out.

The good news? Most home fires are preventable with a combination of awareness, planning, and smart habits. Here are eight essential fire prevention steps you can take to help you and your family stay safe:

Smoke alarms are your first line of defense. The NFPA recommends that you:

Install smoke alarms inside every bedroom, outside each sleeping area, and on every level of the home (including basements).

Replace batteries at least once a year (or sooner if low-battery warnings chirp).

Consider upgrading to interconnected smoke alarms—when one sounds, they all do. Smart smoke detectors can also send alerts to your phone.

Everyone in your home should know how to get out safely if a fire breaks out:

Draw a map of your home showing all doors and windows.

Choose an outside meeting place (like a tree or mailbox).

Do a practice run of the plan twice a year, including during the night.

Be sure to practice using mobility aids or assisting family members who may need help evacuating.

Cooking remains the leading cause of home fires. To reduce risk:

Turn pot handles inward to prevent spills.

Keep flammable items like towels and curtains away from the stovetop.

Avoid cooking if you’re drowsy or under the influence of alcohol or medication.

Have a lid nearby to smother small grease fires—never use water.

As colder months approach, space heaters and fireplaces are common hazards. To operate them safely:

Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from heat sources.

In honor of Fire Prevention Week, Life Protect 24/7 shares tips to help families plan and prepare. From evacuation practice to kitchen safety, here’s what to know.

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