Next Avenue: News and Information for People Over 50
Website of an organization providing articles on a wide variety of aging-related topics, as well as links to related news sources. Constantly updated.
Warning to Retirees Who Take Up Music: The Cat May Flee the Room
New York Times
January 27, 2017
Many retirees take up musical instruments they played as youngsters, or start playing for the first time. Reactions of others in the house isn't always positive, but the effect on the musician always is.
A Housing Crisis for Seniors
New York Times
January 28, 2017
The senior population is growing rapidly in the suburbs, where suitable housing, transportation and other services are not generally available. The problem needs to be addressed soon.
Generation Us: Simple Strategies Make Cooking for One Easy and Enjoyable
Daily Progress (Charlottesville, VA)
February 16, 2017
Recognize that food preparation for one or two is a different stage of life, resulting in an adjustment in the kitchen. But there are easy ways to continue to nourish your body without a health compromise.
Easy Fixes Can Make a Home Safer for Seniors
Albuquerque Journal
February 19, 2017
Practical suggestions of things to do to make your home safer.
How to Find Your Missing Keys and Stop Losing Other Things
New York Times
April 3, 2017
Everybody forgets where they've put things. Here are tips for searching, and things to do so you don't have to search.
To Be a Genius, Think Like a 94-Year Old
New York Times
April 7, 2017
Profile of Dr. John Goodenough who, with a team from the University of Texas, Austin, just filed for his latest patent on a lightweight battery that could revolutionize things like electric cars. He's 94. At 57, he was co-inventor of the lithium-ion battery. Many younger people insist that old people can't be creative or inventive. Don't listen.
Moving to Be Near the Grandkids
Kiplinger's Personal Finance
May 2017
Things to consider before relocating to be near family.
More Older Couples Are "Shacking Up'
New York Times
May 8, 2017
Living together, without marrying, used to be something for younger people. For a variety of reasons, seniors are doing it too.
Use Your Phone as a Digital Magnifying Glass
New York Times
May 16, 2017
You can download an app, but there are also features built into smartphones that can use the camera as a magnifier. So you can read that menu even if you forgot your reading glasses.
Baby Boomers Look to Senior Concierge Services to Raise Income
New York Times
May 19, 2017
Senior concierge services, where older people pay for assistance with daily activities like shopping, reading aloud, or company, are a new employment opportunity for baby boomers. As the article points out, the Village movement provides many of these services for a much lower cost (full membership).
"No One Wants to Be Old": How to Put the "Non-age" in Nonagenarian
Kaiser Health News
June 26, 2017
Advice from folks in their 80s and 90s on how to remain active and younger feeling.
Hire Women Your Mom's Age
New York Times
August 5, 2017
Older women, who may have taken time off to care for family, are penalized when they seek a new job. They bring a lot of skills but may be overlooked by employers.
Writing the Script for Your Next Act
New York Times
August 4, 2017
As they approach retirement age, many people are experimenting with options for what comes next.
Graying of the Suburbs Presents Challenges for the Community
Daily Progress (Charlottesville, VA)
August 10, 2017
A rapidly growing percentage of those who live in the suburbs are seniors. The privacy and space they sought when they were younger now pose dangers. And the lack of public transportation isolates them further. Public officials are just beginning to grapple with the issue.
What Happens to Creativity as We Age?
New York Times
August 19, 2017
Report of a recent experiment to study how creative thinking and problem solving change with age. It turns out there are two ways of thinking: exploration and exploitation. Adults exploit acquired knowledge to solve a new problem using known solutions. Children and adolescents explore, trying "crazy" possibilities that may or may not work.
Aging Parents With Lots of Stuff, and Children Who Don't Want It
New York Times
August 18, 2017
What happens when seniors downsize and their kids don't want the china and crystal? There's a growing demand for companies who specialize in downsizing and relocation services.
Many Now Spending Retirement Years Caring for Elderly Parents
Daily Progress (Charlottesville, VA)
September 7, 2017
As the number of "old old" grows, their retired children are facing new responsibilities in caring for them. The financial and physical burdens are real.
Feeling Older? Here's How to Embrace It
New York Times
September 12, 2017
Feeling old is as much a state of mind as of years or even physical limitations. You can feel old at 30 or young at 80.
Safer Cars Help Keep Older Drivers on the Road
New York Times
August 28, 2017
Safety features on new cars - rear cameras, lane departure warnings, collision avoidance - make it easier for older drivers to stay mobile. Technology helps compensate for slower reaction times, loss of visual acuity, and other age-related issues.
5 Signs You Retired Too Early
CNN Money
September 12, 2017
For some, retirement is too tempting to resist. And then they discover that it was the wrong decision. You can recognize the symptoms and return to the workforce if you made the wrong decision.
Aging With Purpose in America is Underestimated
Next Avenue
October 23, 2017
One of the worst forms of ageism is the assumption that seniors are either incapacitated or uninterested in contributing to society. The opposite is true, of course. And
"aging with purpose" by volunteering and making a difference in the community helps everybody and adds to our self-value.
Why You Can't Think of the Word That's on the Tip of Your Tongue
New York Times
October 22, 2017
Don't worry, it isn't dementia. Everybody - all ages, all languages, all cultures - has trouble coming up with words, and especially with names, at times. It's called "tip of the tongue state" and there isn't much you can do about it, except using the words or names more frequently.
How to Age Well
New York Times
November 2017
Suggestions on how to stay healthier and happier as you get older. Includes diet and exercise, but also mental fitness, staying connected.....
Why Ageism Never Gets Old
New Yorker
November 20, 2017
Ageism and age discrimination are nothing new, but trends in Silicon Valley, Hollywood and beyond are making it more prevalent. The tech industry and its venture capitol allies find ways to push out workers over 40. Actresses over 40 are too old to be the romantic interest of actors over 60. The model/spokeswoman for a new "anti aging" beauty cream is under 30.......
Kids Are the Future? So Are Older Adults
Nonprofit AF
November 2017
Although the percentage of the population over 65 is growing rapidly, funding for nonprofit organizations serving or doing research on seniors is extremely limited and hard to get.
Why Older Women Will Rule the World: The Future is Female, MIT Expert Says
NBC News
December 5, 2017
Older women may feel overlooked, but Joseph F. Coughlin of MIT's Agelab points out that they are really in charge. Women live longer, there are more of them, they make most of the decisions for their families, they are better educated than ever (and than men, on average), they are creating new businesses as they are hitting a wall in the corporate world. Dr. Coughlin also offers advice on how women can prepare for their futures.
Are You Old? Infirm? Then Kindly Disappear
New York Times
December 16, 2017
Too many seniors and those with disabilities find themselves ignored, talked over or talked down to.
Asked About Retiring, They Have a Simple Answer: Why?
New York Times
December 16, 2017
Some people choose to continue working well past the "typical" age of 65 - even into their 80s and 90s. They love what they do, they feel they are still contributing. Why retire?
Aging Like a Fine Wine: Mellow, Not Bitter
Daily Progress (Charlottesville, VA)
December 31, 2017
"'Aging in place” never meant being stuck in one place. Being generous with our time, liberal with our compassion and malleable in our mindset can create new relationships and opportunities with outward and positive thinking.'"
There's Community and Consensus. But It's No Commune
New York Times
January 20, 2018
Cohousing - jointly owned communities of homes with shared space and shared governance - is growing, especially as a multigenerational way of promoting "aging in place." For more on senior choosing, see
This is the Future of Aging from Berkleyside (March 7, 2018)
Total Recall: A Reader's Guide to Memory Gain
New York Times
January 7, 2018
A reporter tests several books and online "games" that claim to improve memory. The results are less than spectacular, but some might be worth considering.
The Connection Between Retiring Early and Living Longer
New York Times
January 29, 2018
A small Dutch study indicates that retiring early can lengthen life. But it depends on what you do after you retire. Physical and social activities are among the factors cited.
You Can't Be Afraid of the Tech
New York Times
February 28, 2018
While older workers face skepticism from employers, there are a lot of opportunities for second careers using technology.
Remember, also, that the Corrales Library offers tech classes to help us be more comfortable with technology.
Many Americans Try Retirement, Then Change Their Minds
New York Times
March 30, 2018
"Unretirement" is increasingly common. Longer, healthier lives give more people the option to continue working, as are jobs that are less physically demanding than in the past. The reasons for going back to work are many, including the desire to make a contribution to society, to "keep using my brain," and to stay socially engaged. Surprisingly, given reports of fewer people saving enough for their old age, making more money is not as frequently cited as a reason to keep working.
How to Maintain Sibling Relationships
New York Times
May 8, 2018
Your siblings probably know you better than anyone else. Research shows that strong sibling relationships can help avoid problems with other relationships during your lifetime. But keeping those strong relationships takes work. Here are some tips on how to build or even restore relationships.
The Case for Having a Hobby
New York Times
May 10, 2018
A hobby can be very important when you're working. It's a place to go to relax and do something you really enjoy. When you retire, it can be even more important, as it provides a focus for your days.
How Exercise Can Help You Recall Words
New York Times
May 15, 2018
We all have those times when we just can't remember a word - it's right there....... This is very common, even among younger people. New research indicates that vigorous aerobic exercise can help you recall words more easily.
How to Age Well and Stay in Your Home
New York Times
May 21, 2018
Many seniors want to remain in their homes for the rest of their days. It is generally cheaper, even if you have to make modifications and have help from time to time. This article includes some tips and recommends a book, Age in Place, by by Lynda G. Shrager. Although aimed at adult children helping their aging parents, the information is equally useful for seniors planning their own "aging in place."
Fostering Connections Between Young and Old
New York Times
June 5, 2018
Research indicates that isolation can affect the health of all of us, but particularly the aging. Efforts to counter that isolation are growing in senior living arrangements and senior centers. Some senior communities providing housing for young adults in exchange for their participation in programs. Some senior centers also house day cares. Spending time with young people is good for you!
Still Looking for the Best Place to Retire? This Might Be Perfect for You
MarketWatch
June 2, 2018
More and more, retirees are choosing to stay where they are rather than move. "...Studies (and experience) show that it's hard to leave a place where you have roots....And being around a mix of people can give you a longer, happier life. If you spend time only among people your own age you'll be less stimulated than if you're around a diverse group, and that includes friends and family..." Cities and towns need to recognize this and look at ensuring that they are accessible for all citizens.
In a Tight Labor Market, Retirees Fill Gaps Their Previous Employers Can't
New York Times
July 13, 2018
The need for experienced employees in particular fields, such as health care, exceeds the supply of workers. So increasingly, employers are luring recent retirees back to work with flexible schedules, attractive pay, and other perks in addition to their existing pension payments.
The Secret to Aging Well? Contentment
New York Times
October 2, 2018
Aging really is in your head. While physical well being helps, the most important thing to aging well is contentment and acceptance. Don't dwell on the nagative.
How to Make U.S. Cities Blue Zones for Health Longevity
Next Avenue
November 2, 2018
"Blue zones" is a term used to describe places where average life expectancy is longer than average. Research into blue zones provides guidance on how cites can adapt and promote healthy aging. Social interaction, opportunities to feel valued (i.e. through volunteering), public transit and walkability are just some of the factors.
The Future of Aging Might Just Be in Margaritaville
New York Times
November 11, 2018
As life expectancy grows, and healthy aging becomes the norm, senior living communities are changing. While most people hope to remain in their homes as they age, some will always choose to move. One new community in Florida is "Margaritaville" inspired by the well known Jimmy Buffett song.
Companies Respond to an Urgent Health Care Need: Transportation
New York Times
August 9, 2018
Getting to the doctor's office can be a challenge if you don't drive. It's a bigger challenge for those who use a wheelchair, walker, oxygen tank, or other medical device that Uber, Lyft or even a taxi can't handle. A number of companies are working to meet the need. Rides can be scheduled by patients or providers for office visits, tests, discharge, or other needs. Fewer missed appointments means better health for the patient and reliable income for the provider.
No, they aren't in New Mexico yet. But we can hope they're coming.
Why the World Needs to Rethink Retirement
New York Times
December 4, 2018
As the world's population ages, with many nations seeing the number of elderly increasing much faster than that of younger people, countries around the world are hanging policies and encouraging older workers to keep working. This article reviews what's happening.
The Secret to a Long, Happy, Health Life? Think Age-Positive
CNN
January 3, 2019
Living longer and better can be the result of thinking positively about aging, and living in a community that brings people of all ages together. Isolating the aging isn't good for them or for the rest of the community.
A related New York Times article,
Bringing Older Americans Back into the Fold talks about efforts to re-integrate the older generation into the lives of the younger. It used to be the rule to have multiple generations living in the same house, or at least the same neighborhood. Now that it isn't, a variety of organizations are working to recreate that feeling.
Federally Funded Companions Keep Seniors Connected to Their Neighbors
NPR
January 20, 2019
A federal program, Senior Companions, pays seniors to visit their aging neighbors. Since isolation is one of the biggest problems among the aging, the program serves to assist them by keeping them connected. It also helps the visitors stay active and connected.
The Elderly and Driving: When Is It Time to Hit the Brakes?
New York Times
January 18, 2019
The "car key conversation," it turns out, is the one caregivers dread the most. Taking away the keys significantly decreases the independence of the elderly. But research shows that older drivers are as dangerous on the road as teenagers, and many don't acknowledge that they shouldn't be driving whether due to impaired vision, slower reaction time, side effects of drugs, dementia, or other causes. Doctors could play a role in helping with this, as could motor vehicle departments. Safety features on new cars may allow the elderly to keep driving longer, though, and more technology is on the way.
Want to Leave a Legacy? Be a Mentor
New York Times
March 4, 2019
While leaving money in your will is a great way to support future generations, not all of us can do that. Becoming a mentor - to a child or teen or to someone starting out in your profession - is something all of us can do to make a difference now. There are a lot of formal mentoring/volunteering programs you can join. Or think about organizations that you can reach out to directly - local schools, your alumni association, professional organizations, unions.... The list is endless.
Ageism: A "Prevalent and Insidious" Health Threat
New York Times
April 26, 2019
The World Health Organization has commissioned a series of studies of the effects of ageism, and the effectiveness of programs designed to combat it. Preliminary results indicate that ageism is real, and has real, negative impacts on the mental and physical health of older people. Programs to combat ageism have a mixed record of success.
Why Working Till Whenever Is a Risky Retirement Strategy
New York Times
May 16, 2019
A lot of people assume they will just keep working well past 65, and therefore don't need to worry so much about not saving enough. Layoffs, illness, and other factors can make those "plans" obsolete, however. Saving for retirement must be a priority.
Can We Live Longer But Stay Younger?
New Yorker
May 13, 2019
As the population ages and life expectancies expand, more and more research is going into helping us age better. These include medical research into how cells age and how to slow the process, as well as products and services for the aged. But helping people "age in place" is a big, and often ignored issue. Simple things like changing a light bulb or going out for ice cream become major challenges that may actually mean a person can't stay where they want. (Note: a long article, but interesting and worth the time)