Flowers are not the only signs of spring — count in fruits and vegetables for colorful eating. The American Dietetic Assoc. say colorful foods — such as blueberries, strawberries, avocados and carrots — not only have fiber and nutrients, but they may promote cardiovascular health. “I like to say to my clients, ‘Eat the...Read More
The tax filing season is drawing to a close, and with it comes thousands of dollars of tax returns. Whether your getting a hefty return or just lining your pockets, here are a few tips that could help make those returns last a little longer. Jimmy Goodrum, district manager for State (NC) Employees Credit Union, said recipients need to understand th...Read More
When loved ones struggle with finances, it’s natural to want to help. However, sometimes it’s difficult to provide assistance without straining a relationship or compromising one’s own financial well-being. “The economy may be getting better, but many consumers are still struggling to make ends meet,” said Mike Sulliva...Read More
Dear Doctor: I am 53-years-old and my hair has gone quite gray in the past year. I’m wondering if stress could have caused it. If not, what else might be the culprit? Dear Reader: Each hair in your head keeps the color it has. If a single strand of hair starts out brown (or red or black or blond), it is never going to turn gray. If a hair is ...Read More
The effort to repeal Obamacare has failed – so start making your early retirement plans now? Not so fast. Even though the Affordable Care Act remains in place for now, the stakes are high for early retirees. The health care law’s subsidies are still there to help you pay for health insurance until you reach Medicare age at 65. But you...Read More
It’s here! Spring! (Well, maybe….) Think you have what it takes to get in shape? Spring is “gut check” time. And if those abs — or arms or thighs — aren’t ready for public display, here are some ways to start a new workout routine: If you are working out but have reached a plateau and are bored: Spring cle...Read More
It seems like every day there are new breakthroughs that promise to make us look and feel younger. Creams and lotions make claims to erase the hands of time, so how do we separate the hype from reality? When we reviewed the most current statistics reported by the American Society for Plastic Surgeons, we learned that among the 15.5 million cosmet...Read More
Lou Rose responded to a post about retired Professor Robert Pritchard’s suggestion that Social Security eliminate penalties for working and collecting between age 62 and full retirement age. He wrote that he and his wife were working past full retirement age — 66 — in order to save at least a year’s worth of cash. But he worries that the money will...Read More
Making the decision to move from a larger home to a smaller one can be very hard. Your home, after all, is a source of comfort and is filled with beloved memories. For many, it’s where you watched your family grow. But sometimes you may not have a choice, especially as the years go by. As an older adult, the practicality of downsizing may out...Read More
Thanks to changes in the industry, today’s doctors spend on average of just 10 to 15 minutes with each patient. As a result, the experience can be both confusing and frustrating if communication is lacking. Many patients leave the office not understanding the doctor’s directions. Ultimately, however, your health is your responsibility. ...Read More