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A desire to have fewer possessions as we age seems contradictory, as many still gather and keep their often-overflowing collections from years and decades past, despite the popular advice of decluttering expert Marie Kondo.  Collections are objects that speak to us, and it’s tough to let go of favorites that reflect who we are, represent a mosaic of our memories. It may provide a link to past generations who often bequeathed their collections to us, whether we wanted them or not. For some, holding on or continuing to collect is a habit we don’t want to break. A vacation abroad...

It’s one of your worst nightmares. You walk alone into a crowded room of strangers. You freak out at the thought of standing with a drink in your hand, feeling like a wallflower.   How do you connect comfortably with someone? Anyone? You spot a person you think you’ve met before and would like to know better. You edge your way closer, hoping to catch their eye. But how do you begin the conversation? This is when your small talk chops come in handy. Some consider small talk trivial, banal and challenging. Don’t dismiss how hard it can be to do...

Many of us who are retired or semi-retired have extra time on our hands. And if life is serene and secure—you can pay the bills, spend time with family, and are relatively healthy, this is the time, months, weeks, days and hours, to do what you want to do…and when.   This time is a judgment-free zone. The only other person we might be beholden to is a partner/spouse who doesn’t object to our time away or our preoccupation. And perhaps, they’ll opt to join in if it’s a pastime that can handle a pair.  You may have developed a...

As we watched or read about the damage from the Texas floods, we saw images of drawn faces, swollen eyes and tears of those who lost loved ones. It was a pure tragedy. However, many people from all over the country rushed there to volunteer to look for bodies, clean up and rebuild, feed, house and nurture those affected. They were desperately needed. Volunteering is a tangible way to make a difference in others’ lives and transform your own in the process. Nearly anyone, regardless of age, can volunteer, and it’s not limited to times of tragedy but can happen...

Fess up seniors. Technology is not always the enemy; sometimes, it is our friend. At least once a day when we’re having an issue with it, we might declare, “I can’t stand technology!” Not so fast. Today technology can save your life. Embrace it. With advances and apps, technology can serve as a lifeline. It’s like always having a medical professional with you to monitor your wellness. How cool—and healthy--is that! For example, Smartphones and smartwatches centralize the management of your physical, mental and emotional well-being. There is ECG monitoring, fall detection and irregular heart rhythm warnings. There are also...