Winter is the perfect time to settle in with a cozy blanket, a hot drink, and a good book. The colder months invite readers to dive into rich, immersive stories that transport them to other worlds or offer comfort and reflection. Whether you are looking to curl up with older titles or upcoming releases, here’s a diverse list of books to add to your “to be read” (TBR) stack this winter.

Books to Add to Your TBR Pile This Winter

These titles are all past releases that you might be able to easily find at your local library, whether in person or online:

This beautifully written novel, set in Alaska in the 1920s, mixes elements of magical realism and survival. A childless couple builds a snowman, only to find the next day that the snowman is gone and a mysterious young girl has appeared. It’s a poignant, wintery tale of love, loss, and the harshness of nature.

A sweeping and immersive novel, “The Overstory” weaves together the lives of several characters, each connected by their relationships to trees. Its profound themes of ecology, humanity, and interconnectedness make it a thought-provoking read for the winter season.

“The Night Circus,” by Erin Morgenstern

This atmospheric fantasy novel, featuring a magical circus that only opens at night, is ideal for cold evenings. With vivid descriptions and enchanting themes of love and competition, “The Night Circus” invites readers into a world of wonder, mystery, and intrigue.

Should you be searching for a few new releases to enjoy this winter, here are a few to consider:

“The Kennedy Girl,” by Julia Bryan Thomas

From popular author Julia Bryan Thomas comes a new release that’s sure to be a hit with readers. “The Kennedy Girl” follows the journey of an American orphan to France, where she becomes entangled in an international espionage scheme. Those who loved the glamour of “The Second Life of Mirielle West” or the intrigue of “The Secrets We Kept” may be especially interested in this one.

In this new story, author Grady Green calls his wife, Abby, to share some great news while she is driving home. He hears her slam on the brakes, get out of the car, and then—nothing. He tracks down her car on the edge of a cliff with the headlights on and the driver door open. But his wife has disappeared. A year later, still grief-stricken, he decides to travel. And then he sees a woman who looks exactly like his lost wife.

Before he became the famous Mark Twain, he was Samuel Langhorne Clemens. Born in 1835, he dreamed of piloting steamboats on the Mississippi. But the Civil War would disrupt those plans. Instead, a young Twain headed west to the Nevada Territory, where he worked for a local newspaper and became known for his brash and humorous writings. Acclaimed biographer Ron Chernow follows Twain’s journey from popular reporter to the father of American literature.

Author Nita Prose skyrocketed to success with her debut novel, “The Maid,” and continues to thrill readers with this third release. This new adventure for Molly begins when a daring art heist takes place at the Regency Grand, where she works. Molly’s life is threatened. But who would be out to get her and for what reason? The key to solving this mystery lies in an unexpected place: a diary written by Molly’s beloved, late grandmother. For the first time, Molly learns about her Gran’s secrets—which involve someone Molly knows well.

Your local library is still a great place to track down books old and new. Another tip to make winter reading a little easier on the budget is to take advantage of the Libby app. It’s free from public libraries all over the world. You can borrow books, audiobooks, magazines, and more.

From tips for healthy aging to ideas for staying safe when running after dark, the Life Protect 24/7 blog is a good resource for people of all ages. We encourage you to bookmark this blog and stop back often!

Looking for a few new book ideas for winter? Here are a few to consider, from older titles to new releases.

As the new year begins, it’s a good time to assess your financial situation and set goals for the months ahead. A financial check-in not only helps you evaluate your spending habits but also ensures that you’re on track to meet your financial goals. Whether you want to save more, pay off debt, or invest for the future, reviewing your finances now can provide a sense of control and clarity.

Here’s a guide on how to conduct a financial check-in for the new year, along with a handy checklist of tasks to keep your budget on track.

The first step in your financial check-in is to revisit your financial goals. Reflect on what you set out to accomplish last year and assess your progress. Have you been able to save for a vacation, pay off credit card debt, or build an emergency fund? Identify areas where you made progress and areas where you fell short.

Next, set new financial goals for the year ahead. Experts say your goals should be SMART: specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. For example, instead of saying “I want to save more,” say “I will save $3,000 for a down payment on a house by December 31.” Setting clear, actionable goals will help keep you motivated throughout the year.

The next step in your financial check-in is to take a close look at your income and expenses. Start by reviewing your income sources—salary, side gigs, investments, etc.—to ensure they’re accurate and up-to-date. If your income has increased or decreased over the past year, adjust your budget accordingly.

Then categorize your expenses. Go through bank statements, credit card bills, and any other financial documents to identify where your money is going. Look for any unnecessary subscriptions, impulse purchases, or categories where you’ve consistently overspent.

Your credit score plays a critical role in your financial health. A high score can make it easier to qualify for loans, credit cards, and mortgages, often at better interest rates. So be sure you understand what makes up your credit score. Review your credit report at least once a year to make sure all the information is accurate. If you spot any discrepancies, work to resolve them immediately.

If your credit score needs improvement, take steps to raise it. This could involve paying down high-interest debt, reducing credit card balances, or disputing any errors on your report. Aim for a score of at least 700 to be in the “good” range.

After reviewing your goals, income, and expenses, it’s time to fine-tune your budget. A well-planned budget should reflect both your current financial situation and your future goals. If you’ve been consistently overspending in certain categories, make adjustments to stay within your means. Consider using a budgeting app or spreadsheet to track your progress.

One useful budgeting method is the 50/30/20 rule:

50% of your income goes toward needs (rent, utilities, groceries, insurance).

30% goes toward wants (dining out, entertainment, travel).

20% goes toward savings and debt repayment.

This method provides a simple, balanced framework for managing your finances.

Review retirement and investment accounts

Take a look at your retirement accounts (401(k), IRA, etc.) and investment portfolio. Have you set realistic retirement goals? Are you on track to meet those goals? If retirement is in sight, make sure you understand programs like Medicare and Social Security. Both can impact your retirement lifestyle in significant ways.

Consider increasing your contributions if you’re able, especially if your employer offers a matching contribution. For investments, review your asset allocation and consider speaking with a financial advisor to ensure your portfolio aligns with your risk tolerance and long-term goals.

Make sure your emergency fund is sufficient to cover unexpected expenses. Aim for at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses in an easily accessible account. If you don’t have one, prioritize building it up this year.

Also, review your insurance policies—health, life, auto, home, etc. Ensure they provide adequate coverage for your current situation and you’re not overpaying for any unnecessary coverage.

Finally, we’ve created a tool we hope will help keep your budget on track in the upcoming year:

Set specific financial goals for the year ahead (e.g., save for a down payment, pay off credit card debt).

Review your income and update your budget if your salary or side income has changed.

Track your expenses and identify areas to cut back or eliminate unnecessary spending.

Check your credit score and resolve any issues.

Adjust your budget to reflect your financial goals, using a method like the 50/30/20 rule.

Review your retirement and investment accounts to assess whether you’re on track to meet long-term financial goals.

Revisit your emergency fund and ensure you have enough savings to cover unexpected expenses.

Review insurance policies to confirm you have adequate coverage and aren’t overpaying for any policies.

Plan for any major upcoming expenses, such as vacations, home repairs, or education costs.

One final tip for people preparing for retirement is to seek the advice of a professional well in advance. What Are Elder Law Attorneys and How Do They Help Seniors? is a good article to help you learn more.

Trying to start the new year with a hard focus on your finances? This information will be of interest.

How to Conduct a Financial Check-In for the New Year

As winter’s chill sets in, older adults often face unique skin care challenges. For a variety of reasons, including reduced oil production, thinner skin, and slower healing, aging skin is more susceptible to cold air, dry indoor heat, and winter wind. These elements can take a toll on your skin, leaving it feeling tight, dry, and irritated.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect and nourish your skin during the winter. Here are some tips to keep skin hydrated, healthy, and glowing all season long.

One of the most important things you can do for your skin in winter is to stay hydrated. As the air becomes drier, moisture in your skin evaporates more quickly, leading to dryness and irritation. While applying a rich moisturizer is essential, internal hydration is just as important.

Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. If you aren’t much of a water drinker, consider incorporating hydrating foods, such as fruits (like oranges and berries) and vegetables (like cucumbers and spinach), into your diet.

As we age, our skin becomes more delicate and loses some of its natural oils. Harsh cleansers can strip the skin of what little moisture it has. During winter, look for cleansers that are soap-free and designed for dry or sensitive skin. Cream-based or oil-based cleansers work well because they don’t strip the skin of its natural oils. You could also try some of the newer cleansing balms, designed to moisturize while also cleaning your skin.

Moisturizing is the cornerstone of winter skin care, especially for older adults. As we age, the skin’s ability to retain moisture declines. To combat this, use a rich, emollient moisturizer that helps lock in moisture and prevent dehydration.

Apply moisturizer immediately after washing your face or showering, when your skin is still damp, to lock in hydration. For extra protection, consider using an overnight hydrating mask or a thick layer of balm on particularly dry areas like elbows, knees, and hands.

It’s easy to forget about sunscreen during the winter months, especially when the sun seems less intense. However, harmful UV rays can damage the skin even on overcast days or in snow, which can reflect up to 80% of UV rays. Prolonged exposure to UV radiation can accelerate skin aging and increase the risk of skin cancer. Make it a habit to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even when indoors.

Indoor heating can cause the air in your home to become very dry, which exacerbates skin dryness. To counteract this, consider using a humidifier in your home, especially in your bedroom while you sleep. A humidifier adds moisture back into the air, helping to keep your skin hydrated overnight. Make sure to clean the humidifier regularly to prevent the growth of mold or bacteria.

Although a hot shower may feel good in the winter, hot water can strip your skin of natural oils. Try to reduce your shower temperature and bathe in lukewarm water instead. Keep showers short—around 10 to 15 minutes—and avoid using strong soaps, which can further dry out the skin.

In addition, try to avoid using space heaters or electric blankets directly on or near your skin. They can also dry out the skin and lead to irritation. Keep a bowl of water a safe distance away from heating sources to help maintain moisture in the air.

Whether it’s tips for keeping your skin healthy during the winter or ideas for planning an intergenerational outdoor movie night, new articles are posted on the Life Protect 24/7 blog each week. We invite you to bookmark this space and visit often!

Winter can be tough on our skin, especially as we grow older. Use these tips to keep your skin healthy this season.

Winter Skin Care Suggestions for Older Adults

As we head into the heart of winter, it’s a good idea to take time to prepare for potential emergencies. Snow or ice storms can wreak havoc on power lines. Icy roads may cause your car to slide off the road, leaving you stranded. While no one likes to imagine the worst, it’s best to be prepared.

We created this checklist to make it easier to put together winter emergency kits for both your home and your vehicle. Hopefully, you won’t need them. But should the need arise, knowing you are ready will give you peace of mind.

Assembling a Winter Emergency Kit for Your Home

Water: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends having on hand at least one gallon of water per person per day for three days.

Nonperishable foods: Your emergency kit should also include food items that require little to no preparation to consume. Examples are canned meats, energy bars, applesauce, nuts, and dried fruits.

Utensils: Don’t forget to have a manual can opener in case the power goes out. You might also want to include a multifunction Swiss army knife.

First aid kit: Stock your first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. These can be purchased inexpensively at home improvement stores and pharmacies. Also include any prescription medications.

Sleeping bags: If your house is without power for even a few hours during the winter, the indoor temperature can drop quickly. Sleeping bags can be a great addition to your emergency closet. But heavy blankets can work, too.

Light sources: Remember to stock your emergency kit with a variety of lighting options, including LED flashlights and battery-operated lanterns. Have extra batteries available.

Weather radio: Winter storms can impact television and internet availability. For these times, invest in a battery-operated weather radio.

Cell phone power pack: While it’s always a good idea to keep your cell phone charged when weather reports indicate a storm is approaching, that’s not always possible. A portable charger or power pack can be a lifesaver during an extended power outage.

Pet supplies: If you have pets, don’t forget to stock up on their necessary supplies. That means having extra gallons of water in your supply closet, along with food and any medications they may need.

Personal care: Stock items like soap, hand sanitizer, and sanitary supplies. An extra supply of medications is also important.

Cash: In case of power outages, having cash on hand can be crucial.

Sleeping bag and warm clothing: Keep a sleeping bag in your trunk, along with extra gloves, hats, and scarves. If you don’t normally wear winter boots when you head out, be sure to put a pair in your back seat or trunk.

Food and water: Also keep a bag in your vehicle with bottled water and nonperishable snacks, such as granola bars, dried fruit, and nuts. Be sure they are items that can be easily opened.

First aid kit: A compact first aid kit tailored for the car can hold essential care items without taking up too much space.

Road flares or reflective triangles: These increase visibility if you’re stuck on the side of the road.

Flashlight: Keep it in an easily accessible spot, along with extra batteries.

Portable phone charger: Ensure your phone stays charged for communication and navigation with a portable charger.

Area maps: While GPS is common, having a physical map can be useful if your device fails.

Battery jump-start pack: Essential for starting a dead battery, a jump-start pack is good to have on hand no matter the season. The newer styles are much easier to use than the jumper cables of the past.

Spare tire and jack: Ensure you have a functional spare tire and jack in the trunk. Even if you aren’t physically able to change a tire yourself, these items will be necessary for anyone you call for help.

Ice scraper/brush: While most people are aware of the need for an ice scraper or brush, it’s a winter essential you don’t want to be caught without. These are necessary for removing ice and snow from your windows.

Shovel and traction supplies: A small, collapsible shovel can help dig your car out of snow. And sand or kitty litter can provide traction to help get the vehicle moving again.

Hand warmers: Disposable hand warmers can provide immediate warmth in frigid conditions. You can find them online and at outdoor retailers and sporting goods stores.

Care items: Also include items like wipes, hand sanitizer, and tissues. If your trip will take you far from home during the winter, make sure to have a supply of necessary prescription medications, too.

Finally, consider purchasing a mobile monitoring unit. With a simple press of a button on the device, you can quickly be connected to help in the event of an emergency. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more!

Winter preparedness is essential for safety at home and in the car. This checklist can help you put together emergency kits for both.

What to Include in Your Winter Emergency Kits for Home and Car

Winter can be a beautiful time of year. Frost-covered trees and gently falling snow are pretty to look at. But for older adults, the season can also come with potential hazards, particularly when it comes to shoveling snow. As the snow accumulates, clearing driveways and sidewalks is an essential task, but it’s also a physically demanding one. It can lead to an injury or a health emergency, especially for those with certain health conditions or mobility issues.

That’s why learning more about snow-shoveling safety is a must for older adults. Here are some practical tips to help minimize the risks associated with shoveling snow.

Tips to Help Seniors Avoid Snow-Shoveling Injuries

Before picking up the shovel, assess the situation. If the snowstorm has left deep, heavy snow or if temperatures are dangerously low, consider skipping the task altogether. Heavy, wet snow is much harder to move and can strain the heart and muscles. In extreme cases, it can even lead to heart attacks. In fact, the American Heart Association says hundreds of people die of heart attacks caused by snow shoveling each year.

First, consider using a snow blower instead of a shovel. A snow blower significantly reduces the physical exertion required for snow removal. If you have frequent snowfalls and difficulty shoveling, it can be a worthwhile investment.

If you don’t have access to a snow blower, choosing the right snow shovel can make all the difference in reducing strain on your body. Look for a lightweight plastic shovel with a curved handle. This will allow you to maintain a more ergonomic posture while shoveling. Also, try to avoid shovels that are too long or too short, as they can cause you to strain your back or arms.

Just as you would prepare for any physical activity, it’s important to warm up before shoveling snow. Stretching your back, arms, and legs can help reduce the risk of muscle strain and injuries. Focus on stretches that improve flexibility in your back and legs, and make sure to gently move through each stretch without pushing too hard. A quick 5- or 10-minute warm-up routine can increase blood flow and prepare your body for the task ahead.

Shoveling snow can be physically taxing, especially if you’re not used to the activity. Take frequent breaks to avoid overexertion, which can lead to heart problems and falls. Pace yourself, and don’t try to clear the entire area all at once. Work in smaller sections, and stop every 10 to 15 minutes to rest. If you feel winded or dizzy, head back inside to take a break.

Overexertion can also increase the risk of dehydration. Make sure to drink plenty of water while shoveling, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and muscle cramps, increasing your risk of injury.

When shoveling snow, avoid bending at the waist to lift the snow. Instead, bend your knees and squat to lift the shovel, keeping your back straight. If the snow is too heavy, don’t try to lift it all at once. Instead, push the snow to one side and clear it in smaller amounts. Lifting heavy loads of snow improperly can strain your back and increase the risk of injury.

Additionally, avoid twisting your body when throwing snow to the side. Instead, use your legs to pivot while keeping your body in a straight line to prevent unnecessary strain on your back.

Proper footwear is essential when shoveling snow. Slip-and-fall accidents are common in icy conditions, and older adults are particularly vulnerable to serious injuries, such as fractures or sprains. Choose boots with nonslip soles that provide good traction. The boots should also be waterproof to keep your feet warm and dry, which is particularly important when shoveling for extended periods.

Finally, if shoveling snow starts to feel like too much for you, ask for help. Or consider hiring a snow-removal service to handle the job. Many communities offer snow-shoveling services for seniors, and some organizations provide volunteers for this purpose. Call the closest agency on aging to see if it keeps a list of resources that older adults can contact for assistance.

One more safety measure you can take when you’re shoveling snow is to invest in an emergency response system, such as the Life Protect 24/7 Mobile Monitoring Unit. You can slip one of these discreet devices into your coat pocket before you head outside. In the event that you do experience an emergency of some kind while shoveling, you can be connected to help with the simple press of a button. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more!

When it comes to shoveling snow, safety is a big concern, especially for seniors. Use these tips to avoid an injury.

Snow-Shoveling Safety Tips for Older Adults

Reflecting on the past year and setting goals for the new year is a powerful practice that can help you gain clarity, motivation, and direction. It may also help you identify patterns that might be holding you back from achieving your dreams. Having guideposts to direct your life for the next year can make it easier for you to set priorities and boundaries.

We’ve put together some guidelines to help you tackle this year-end project. Following these steps can make it easier to effectively reflect on the previous year and establish meaningful goals for the year ahead.

Evaluating the Past Year’s Goals and Setting New Ones

Start by finding a quiet and comfortable space where you can think without distractions. Gather materials like a journal, pen, or digital device to jot down your thoughts. If you wrote down goals this time last year, be sure to have a copy of those in hand. You might also want to have some prompts ready to guide your reflection.

Consider playing soft music or lighting a candle to create a calming atmosphere. The idea is to give yourself a setting that encourages reflection and introspection.

Planning for the new year should start with time spent reflecting on the past:

Identify your most meaningful experiences
Begin by summarizing key events from the last year. What were the highs and lows? Consider personal milestones, professional achievements, relationships, and challenges. Reflect on both significant events and everyday moments that had an impact on you.

Assess your emotions
As you recall these experiences, take note of the emotions associated with them. What made you feel proud, happy, or fulfilled? Conversely, what caused stress, disappointment, or frustration? Understanding your emotional responses can help you identify what truly matters to you.

Learn from the past
Think critically about what you learned over the past year. What skills did you develop? What mistakes did you make, and what lessons did they teach you? This analysis can provide valuable insights into your strengths and areas for improvement.

Step 3: Acknowledge and Celebrate Accomplishments

Take time to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. List everything you accomplished, from professional achievements to personal growth. Recognizing your successes boosts your confidence and reinforces a positive mindset as you move forward.

After celebrating your successes, turn your attention to areas where you faced challenges. What obstacles did you encounter? Were there goals you didn’t achieve? Instead of viewing these as failures, frame them as opportunities for growth. Ask yourself what you can do differently this year to overcome similar challenges.

Once you have a clear understanding of your past year, it’s time to set intentions for the new year. Start by brainstorming areas of your life that you want to focus on, such as career, health, relationships, or personal development.

Make Your Goals SMART
To create effective goals, consider using SMART criteria: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, instead of saying “I want to get fit,” rephrase your goal as “For the next three months, I will exercise five times a week for 30 minutes each time.”

Visualize Your Success
Imagine what achieving your goals will look and feel like. Visualization can enhance your motivation and commitment. Consider creating a vision board or writing a detailed description of what your life will look like once you achieve your goals.

Once you have set your goals, develop an action plan outlining the steps you need to take to achieve them. Break each goal down into smaller, manageable tasks. Assign deadlines to these tasks to create a sense of urgency and accountability. It’s important to challenge yourself while also making sure not to set unrealistic expectations.

Another key to success is to build in ways to hold yourself accountable. You could find an accountability buddy who is working on self-improvement, too—it could be a trusted friend, family member, or mentor who has your best interests in mind. Share your goals with one another and set a plan to check in on a routine basis. Regular check-ins can provide support, motivation, and constructive feedback, making it easier to stay on track.

Instead of waiting until a whole year has gone by, periodically review your progress. Reflect on what’s working, what isn’t, and whether your goals still resonate with you. Be open to adjusting your goals as needed, as life can bring unexpected changes.

Finally, it’s important to accept that not everyone likes or appreciates the formality of structured goal setting. If you are one of them, other options to consider might be to create a bucket list or to join the one little word movement. Either one can help you move forward, but in a more flexible manner.

Winter can be a great time of year to explore the peace of mind that comes from investing in a mobile monitoring unit for yourself or a loved one. These alert systems are small and easy to slide into a pocket or purse. If an emergency occurs, help can be summoned with the press of a button. Call 1-844-203-5617 for more details!

Are you looking for ways to streamline your goal setting for the new year? This information might be of interest.

Reflecting on the Year: Lessons Learned and Goals for the New Year

After the hustle and bustle of the holidays, a winter getaway can be an invigorating experience for older adults looking to escape the cold or simply enjoy a change of scenery. Whether it’s a cozy retreat in the mountains or a sunny beach vacation, the key to ensuring a memorable trip is thoughtful planning.

Here are some ideas and tips for seniors to consider when planning their winter getaway.

The first step in getting organized for your winter vacation is deciding on a destination. If you don’t already have one in mind, here are a few options to consider:

Warm-weather spots: Many seniors who live in colder climes prefer to head to a place with sunnier skies and warmer temperatures. Popular places include Florida, Arizona, and Southern California, where you can find beautiful beaches, scenic parks, and plenty of sunshine.

Mountain retreats: For those who enjoy winter sports or simply want a picturesque winter landscape, consider a mountain getaway. Locations like Aspen, Colorado, or Lake Tahoe, California, offer skiing, snowshoeing, and cozy lodges for relaxation. Many also have additional activities to enjoy, such as film festivals, boutique shopping, nightlife, and a variety of upscale restaurants.

Cultural cities: You might also want to consider exploring vibrant cities with rich histories and cultural offerings. Cities like New Orleans, Savannah, or Santa Fe might be fun. These cities provide warm weather, interesting architecture, and engaging events. You could also visit cities known for their museums, including quirky ones like the Spy Museum.

Comfort and accessibility are paramount, especially for seniors and people with mobility challenges. Keep these factors in mind as you plan:

Accommodations: Look for hotels or rental properties that cater to seniors, featuring accessible amenities such as elevators, grab bars, and easy access to dining options.

Transportation: Choose destinations with accessible transportation options, such as airports with senior-friendly services, shuttles, and public transit. Consider renting a car if that offers greater flexibility.

Healthcare access: While no one wants to think the worst will happen on vacation, sometimes it does. Take a few minutes to research nearby healthcare facilities, just in case. Knowing where to find medical assistance can provide peace of mind.

Winter getaways offer a range of activities, so think about what interests you and how you’d like to spend your vacation:

Outdoor adventures: If you enjoy being active, consider whether your potential vacation spot has easy access to skiing, snowshoeing, or hiking in scenic areas. Many resorts offer classes and guided tours for all skill levels.

Relaxation: A winter getaway is an excellent opportunity to unwind. You could look for a resort that offers spa services, yoga classes, art classes, writers’ workshops, or simple, scenic spots for quiet reflection.

Local events: Check local calendars for winter festivals, art exhibits, or music performances. Engaging with local culture can enrich your travel experience.

Traveling with friends or family can enhance the enjoyment of a getaway. Here are some tips for group travel:

Plan together: Involve travel companions in the planning process to ensure everyone’s preferences and needs are considered. This can include choosing activities, meals, and accommodations.

Ask about group discounts: Many hotels and attractions offer discounts for group bookings. Be sure to inquire about these when making reservations.

Share responsibilities: Divide tasks among the group. One person could handle accommodations, another could arrange transportation, and someone else could plan activities.

Creating a budget is essential for any trip. Consider these aspects:

Travel costs: Factor in transportation, accommodations, meals, and activities. Look for package deals that can provide savings.

Emergency fund: Set aside some funds for unexpected expenses such as medical emergencies or last-minute changes in plans.

Travel insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially for longer trips. Knowing that cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage are covered will give you peace of mind.

Preparation is key to a successful getaway. Here are some steps to take:

Packing: Make a packing list to ensure you have everything you need. Include clothing appropriate for the destination’s climate, comfortable footwear, and any necessary travel documents. It’s also a good idea to keep a change of clothes, medication, and your cell phone charger or battery pack in your carry-on bag.

Health checks: Schedule a health checkup before your trip. Discuss any concerns with your doctor and ensure you have enough medication for the duration of your getaway.

Emergency contacts: Create a list of emergency contacts, including family members, healthcare providers, and local emergency services in your destination.

Itinerary: Don’t forget to give a copy of your daily itinerary to loved ones who are staying at home. That way, they’ll know how to contact you in case of an emergency.

With careful planning, you’re almost sure to have a fun winter getaway with friends and family!

If the idea of heading off on vacation has you concerned about safety, know that you aren’t alone. It’s common for older adults to worry when they are far from familiar faces and places.

One suggestion is to invest in a mobile monitoring unit. These discreet devices can easily fit into a pocket or purse. In the event of an emergency, you only need to press a button to be connected with someone who can help. Because they work off wireless technology, you can take them anywhere you go. Call 1-844-203-5617 today to learn more!

Are you a senior who is starting to plan a winter
getaway? These step-by-step tips might be of interest.

Tips for Seniors Planning a Winter Getaway

During the holiday season, several generations of the family often come together. For some, it’s the first time they’ve all been together in months. A great way to strengthen family bonds and build memories is to organize a craft party for grandparents and grandchildren to enjoy together.

Don’t be concerned if you don’t consider yourself to be an arts-and-crafts person. There are so many activities you can take part in that don’t require any special skills. This comprehensive guide to planning a successful craft party can help you plan an event both generations will enjoy any time of year.

Start by selecting a theme. It’s a good way to provide focus and excitement for your craft party. Consider themes that resonate with both grandparents and grandchildren, such as:

Seasonal: While you might have winter on your mind this time of year, don’t limit yourself to just the holidays. When the snow is blowing and it’s cold outside, it might be fun to plan luau- or beach-themed activities. Platforms like Pinterest and Etsy are good sites to explore for ideas.

Nature-inspired: Projects using natural materials like twigs, pine cones, evergreens, leaves, and stones might also be good ones to try. You could make everything from bird feeders to tree garland.

Family heritage: Crafts that explore family traditions or ancestry, such as family trees or heritage scrapbooks, can be great memory-making activities—especially when multiple generations of the family are involved.

Painted rocks: Let’s face it, kids love painting rocks, and it’s an easy and fun activity with minimal cost. You can even make rock collecting a part of your intergenerational activity.

Once you have chosen a theme, it’s time to come up with a few specific projects for your gathering. Unless the grandchildren are all older, you’ll likely want to aim for projects that are engaging but not overly complex. Here are a few ideas to consider:

Photo frames: Decorate wooden or cardboard frames with paint, stickers, or embellishments. This allows grandchildren to personalize a frame for a favorite photo with their grandparents.

Memory boxes: Provide small craft-style boxes or jars, along with a variety of art supplies to decorate them with. They can be filled with favorite mementos, notes to one another, or secret treasures.

Birdhouses: Whether you use elements of nature to create unique birdhouses from scratch or purchase unfinished ones to decorate, this is an activity that can bring out everyone’s creative side.

Unless you are planning a project where you’ll be collecting bits of nature from around the yard or beach, you’ll probably want to get supplies together ahead of time. That will ensure everything runs smoothly during the party. Collect all the necessary supplies for the projects, such as:

Basic craft supplies: Assemble supplies such as scissors (including kid-sized, if needed), glue, markers, paints, brushes, and paper. You’ll probably want tablecloths or a roll of craft paper to protect tables, too.

Special materials: Depending on your projects, you may need specific items like wooden frames, jars, boxes, or natural materials.

Protective gear: Have smocks or old shirts on hand to protect clothing from paint and glue.

A welcoming environment sets the stage for a fun and enjoyable experience. Choose a suitable location for the craft party, whether it’s in your kitchen, the basement, or the garage, or even at a local park. Ensure the space is comfortable and has enough room for everyone to work. Consider the following:

Seating arrangements: Arrange tables and chairs to encourage interaction. Ensure there’s enough space for everyone to craft comfortably.

Table covers: Use disposable tablecloths to protect surfaces from spills and messes.

Lighting: Ensure the area is well-lit, especially for detailed craft work.

Music: This might be a great assignment for the grandkids to handle. You could consider asking them to create a playlist just for this occasion.

Crafting can be hard work! Snacks can provide a nice break and keep energy levels up throughout the party. So plan to have some healthy snacks, a few tasty treats, and a variety of drinks available. Maybe even choose a theme for your refreshments, such as all pumpkin snacks and beverages. It might help to choose easy-to-eat options that aren’t too messy, such as:

Fruits and vegetables: Platters of cut fruits and veggies with dips.

Finger foods: Mini sandwiches, cheese cubes, or popcorn.

Beverages: Water, juice, or a fun holiday-themed punch.

Finally, remember to document your adventures throughout the day by taking photos as family members are working and after the projects are finished. Be sure to get a few group shots of everyone with their completed crafts. After the party, consider creating a small photo album or scrapbook as a keepsake that grandparents and grandchildren can cherish together.

If you haven’t already done so, we encourage you to bookmark the Life Protect 24/7 blog and visit often. You’ll find articles on topics ranging from health and wellness to senior living, caregiving, and home safety! And we update the blog each week with the latest news and research.

Wondering how to bond with the grandkids this holiday season or over the summer? An intergenerational craft day might be the answer.

How to Organize an Intergenerational Craft Day

Finding the perfect gift for a loved one can sometimes be a daunting task. As can figuring how to celebrate the season with colleagues and supervisors—and if you are a business owner, with your clients. One avenue to consider is giving the gift of a donation to their favorite cause.

Incorporating charitable giving into your holiday traditions can enrich the season, fostering a spirit of generosity and community. As we celebrate with family, friends, and coworkers, we can also extend our hands to those in need. Here are some meaningful ways to make charitable giving a part of your holiday celebrations.

Supporting Charitable Organizations Through the Holidays

Creating a family tradition around charitable giving can instill values of compassion and generosity in future generations. Set aside time each year to choose a charity together. This could involve discussing the causes that mean the most to each family member, whether it’s supporting local food banks, animal shelters, or global initiatives. You can make a donation as a family to that cause.

Making this a regular part of your holiday routine reinforces the importance of giving back. It might even be nice for the younger generations to hold small fundraisers to cover the cost of the donation.

While monetary gifts are always appreciated by nonprofit organizations, your time can make a difference, too. Volunteering can be one of the most rewarding ways to give back. Gather your family and choose a local organization where you can volunteer together.

Whether you decide to serve meals at a shelter, participate in a community cleanup, or help at a food drive, working side by side can deepen family bonds while also making a positive impact.

Instead of traditional gifts, consider making a donation to a charity in honor of a family member or friend. Choose a cause that reflects their interests or values, and let them know about the donation with a thoughtful card explaining the impact of their gift. This gesture not only supports those in need but also reinforces the spirit of giving during the holidays.

Gathering supplies to create care packages for those in need is a hands-on way to give back. Organize a family assembly line to pack items like hygiene products, warm clothing, and nonperishable food. Consider distributing these packages to local shelters or community organizations. The act of creating and delivering care packages can instill gratitude and empathy in everyone involved.

Shop at Local Businesses That Support a Cause

Many local businesses give back to the community through charitable initiatives. By shopping at these establishments during the holidays, you can contribute to local charities while supporting the economy. Look for businesses that donate a percentage of their sales to causes you care about. This way, your holiday shopping can make a double impact.

Are you trying to make your holiday gift giving more meaningful this year? Charitable gifts might be the solution. Learn more here.

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