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.

Turn off space heaters when you leave a room or go to bed.

Get chimneys and wood stoves cleaned and inspected annually.

Use a sturdy screen to stop sparks from escaping fireplaces.

Don’t use a space heater with an extension cord.

Fires caused by electrical malfunctions can be especially dangerous. To lower the likelihood of an electrical problem:

Don’t overload outlets or power strips.

Avoid running cords under rugs or furniture.

Hire a licensed electrician for any wiring issues.

Unplug appliances when not in use, especially heat-producing ones like toasters or hair tools.

Keep flammable liquids such as gasoline, paint thinners, and propane outside your home in approved containers. Store them away from heat sources, including water heaters and pilot lights.

7. Install Fire Extinguishers and Know How to Use Them

Place fire extinguishers in key locations: kitchen, garage, and near exits. Learn how to operate them using the PASS method:

Make sure your family knows when to use a fire extinguisher and when to evacuate instead.

For older adults, children, and people with disabilities:

Use visual alarms or bed shaker alarms for the hearing impaired.

Teach children fire safety without causing fear. Practice drills can be made fun.

Make it a habit to keep necessary medications, eyeglasses, and emergency contacts near your bed in case of a nighttime fire.

One final suggestion is to consider investing in a mobile monitoring unit, especially if you are an older adult or live alone. You can store this small device on your nightstand. In the event of a fire or other emergency, you can evacuate and quickly summon help with the press of a button. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more!

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.

Fire Prevention Week: Safety Tips to Protect Your Home and Family

Winter brings a variety of struggles for older adults. For those with mobility challenges, icy sidewalks and driveways can make the risk of falling very real. The colder season can also exacerbate health conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma. Then there are those concerns we might not pay much attention to at first, such as skin health.

As the temperatures drop and winter sets in, many people begin to notice changes in their skin. Dryness, itching, and irritation become common complaints. For seniors, these issues can be more than just uncomfortable.

Aging skin is naturally thinner, more delicate, and slower to heal, making it especially vulnerable during the coldest months of the year. Understanding how to care for fragile skin in winter is essential for maintaining comfort, preventing damage, and supporting overall health.

As we age, our skin undergoes several changes that affect its resilience:

Thinning of the epidermis: The outer layer of skin becomes thinner and less able to retain moisture.

Reduced oil production: Sebaceous glands produce less oil, leading to dryness and cracking.

Weaker collagen and elastin: These proteins decline with age, reducing the skin’s strength and elasticity.

Slower cell regeneration: Cuts and scrapes take longer to heal, increasing the risk of infection.

During winter, these age-related changes are compounded by cold air, harsh winds, and dry indoor heating—all of which strip moisture from the skin.

Common Winter Skin Challenges for Seniors

Some of the most common skin issues older adults face in winter include:

Cracks or fissures, especially on hands and feet

Left unaddressed, these symptoms can worsen and lead to painful conditions such as dermatitis, infections, or skin tears.

Caring for aging skin during the winter requires a gentle, consistent approach. Here are some practical and effective strategies:

Using a rich, fragrance-free moisturizer is the cornerstone of winter skin care. Apply lotion immediately after bathing, while the skin is still damp, to lock in moisture. Look for products containing ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid, which help maintain the skin’s natural barrier.

Many soaps and cleansers strip the skin of its natural oils. Seniors should use mild, moisturizing cleansers that are free of alcohol, fragrances, and dyes. Avoid long, hot showers and baths, as they can worsen dryness.

Drinking plenty of water helps keep the skin hydrated from the inside out. Encourage regular water intake, even if seniors don’t feel as thirsty during colder months.

When going outside, it’s essential to cover exposed skin. Wear gloves, scarves, and hats to protect against wind and cold. Use a humidifier indoors to counteract dry, heated air.

Because older skin is more prone to tears and bruising, it’s important to check regularly for any new or worsening skin issues. Notify a healthcare provider if there are signs of infection, persistent dryness, or wounds that won’t heal.

While we’re discussing winter health concerns for seniors, there’s another one that makes its return late in the fall and usually sticks around until spring: the influenza virus. If you haven’t already, be sure to schedule an appointment for your annual flu shot. For those on the fence about whether it works or not, read The Health Benefits of an Annual Flu Shot to learn more!

Winter skin issues can be more than annoying and uncomfortable. Here’s what seniors should know, including how to avoid serious problems.

Seniors and Skin Care: How to Prepare Your Skin for Winter

Most of us think of spring as a time to give our homes a good cleaning and refresh. It helps to shed winter and welcome sunnier days. But fall can be an equally good time to dig in and clean. As the holiday season approaches, the excitement of decorating, hosting parties, and opening gifts with loved ones starts to build. Before the festivities begin, create a plan to declutter and deep clean your home.

Tackling decluttering tasks reduces stress and makes decorating more enjoyable and efficient. It also creates a welcoming environment for guests. Here are some smart strategies for decluttering and deep cleaning before the holiday season begins.

Holiday decorations, gifts, and gatherings all bring extra “stuff” into your home. If your space is already cluttered or disorganized, the added layers can create chaos. For older adults, that can raise the risk of a serious fall. Decluttering in advance clears physical and mental space, allowing you to focus on what really matters—enjoying the season.

Here are a few suggestions for a pre-holiday declutter and cleaning:

Start by creating a schedule that breaks your home into zones (kitchen, living room, bedrooms, bathrooms, etc.). Assign a day or weekend to each space so you don’t get overwhelmed. Beginning early—ideally in late October or early November—will give you ample time to work at a manageable pace.

In each room, sort items into four categories: keep, donate, discard, and relocate. Be honest with yourself about what you use and love, and why you are hanging on to some items you don’t.

Living room: Remove old magazines, unused electronics, tangled cords, and excess décor. Make space for holiday decorations and guests.

Kitchen: Toss expired pantry items, clear countertops, and organize cabinets. Free up space for holiday baking and entertaining.

Bedrooms: Donate clothing and accessories you haven’t worn in a year. Store off-season items to create more space.

Bathrooms: Discard expired toiletries and medications. Clean out under-sink storage to prepare for guest use.

Entryway: Clear shoes, coats, and mail clutter to create a welcoming first impression.

Once each area is decluttered, do a thorough deep clean. Here’s a checklist to help you tackle key tasks:

Dust and wipe down surfaces: Clean the baseboards, ceiling fans, and vents, as well as behind furniture.

Wash windows and curtains: Let in as much natural light as possible before the shorter days set in.

Clean upholstery and carpets: Vacuum and shampoo to remove allergens and freshen up your home.

Disinfect high-touch areas: Wipe down doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls.

Tackle the kitchen and bathrooms: Scrub sinks, appliances, tile, and grout. Don’t forget inside the fridge and oven.

Once clean and clutter-free, it’s easier to prepare for holiday activities:

Set up a storage spot for gifts/wrapping supplies: Designate a space in your home to store holiday necessities and gifts so you can keep everything tidy and hidden from prying eyes.

Create a guest-ready space: Freshen guest rooms with toiletries, personal care items, and clean linens, and make space in closets and drawers. Even if you don’t think you’ll have overnight guests, it’s nice to have a place for visitors to go to touch up their makeup or freshen their hair.

Prep the dining area: Polish silverware, clean serving dishes, and make sure you have enough seating. Also check that you have enough appetizer plates, napkins, and glasses in case guests drop by unexpectedly. The same goes for your bar. Whether it’s alcoholic or nonalcoholic beverages, be certain you are well-stocked.

If you are struggling to come up with gift ideas for people in your family, consider a mobile monitoring unit. They make great presents for seniors, runners, and children. Contact us today for more details!

The holiday season will be more enjoyable and efficient if you declutter and deep clean your house before the decorations go up. Follow these helpful steps.

Tips for Decluttering Your Home Before the Holidays

Each year, Medicare beneficiaries have the opportunity to review and make changes to their health and drug coverage during the annual Medicare Open Enrollment period. The window to do so is from October 15 to December 7, and any changes you make during that time will take effect on January 1 of the following year. It is the only chance most people will have during the year to switch plans or make adjustments to their current Medicare coverage.

It’s always a good idea to get an early start on reviewing options. Whether you’re considering a new Medicare Advantage Plan, reviewing your prescription drug coverage, or exploring additional benefits, preparation is key to making informed decisions. And that sometimes takes more than a little time.

Medicare Open Enrollment, also known as the Annual Election Period (AEP), is a designated time when Medicare recipients can:

Switch from Original Medicare (Parts A and B) to a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C)

Switch from a Medicare Advantage Plan back to Original Medicare

Change from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another

Join, drop, or change a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D)

After this period, your ability to make changes is limited unless you are eligible for a Special Enrollment Period. This requires a qualifying life event, such as moving or losing other coverage.

Review Your Plan, Even If You Are Happy With It

Medicare plans can change from year to year. Premiums, copayments, deductibles, drug formularies (covered medications), and provider networks may all be updated. Even if you have been satisfied with your plan in the past, it might not meet your needs in the coming year.

That’s why it’s essential to carefully review the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) that your plan sends out each fall. This document outlines all changes to your current plan for the upcoming year.

In addition, your own health situation might have changed. You may have new prescriptions, different doctors, or increased healthcare needs. Comparing your current coverage to other available options can help ensure you get the best value and the coverage that matches your needs.

Review current coverage: Gather all recent medical bills, pharmacy records, and your current Medicare plan documents. Understand what your plan covered well—and what it didn’t.

Check for plan changes: Look over the ANOC and check for changes in premiums, coverage, and provider networks. Make sure your preferred doctors and medications will still be covered.

Use Medicare’s official tools: There are a variety of resources and tools designed to help make this process go more smoothly. You can find them by visiting Medicare.gov. One of the most popular is the Medicare Plan Finder, which allows you to see the options available in your area and compare costs, coverage, and ratings for different plans.

Seek professional guidance: If you find this process tough to navigate, know that you aren’t alone. You can receive help from your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). These services are typically free, and counselors offer unbiased advice.

One final suggestion is to set aside a few blocks of time on your calendar to explore your options. Don’t wait until the last minute. Make your changes well before the December 7 deadline to ensure there are no delays in processing your new plan.

We know the Medicare benefit can be more than a little confusing. If you are a senior who is new to the program, you are especially likely to have some questions. One resource that can help answer them is Medicare 101 for New Retirees. The article covers everything from costs to coverage.

Medicare’s annual open enrollment is on the horizon. This information will help you learn more about this once-a-year window to make changes to your plan.

Get Ready for Medicare’s Annual Open Enrollment

As the weather in the Midwest begins to cool off and the days become shorter, people may feel the need to stay indoors more. And for some, the cold season can mark the return of an unwelcome condition known as seasonal affective disorder.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at certain times of the year, most commonly during the fall and winter months. As the days grow shorter and sunlight becomes scarce, many individuals experience a noticeable dip in mood, energy levels, and overall well-being. While it may seem like just a case of the “winter blues,” SAD is a serious condition that can significantly impact daily life if left untreated.

SAD is closely linked to the changes in daylight that occur during the fall and winter. The reduced level of sunlight can disrupt the body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythm, leading to feelings of depression. This lack of sunlight may also lead to a drop in serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood, and disrupt levels of melatonin, which is involved in sleep and mood regulation.

Do you struggle with the winter blues when cold weather makes its return? You might have a condition known as SAD. Learn more here.

Blog

Tips for Families Traveling During the Holiday Rush

Pumpkin Everything: Healthy and Easy Pumpkin Recipes

The Flu Shot and You: What Seniors Should Consider

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

Fire Prevention Week: Safety Tips to Protect Your Home and Family