529 plan can help ease college 'sticker shock'

Real Estate Agents are all alike.Realtors? Theyre a dime a dozen! and What do agents really do anyway?I do hear these comments, and it does bother me.Not for the reasons you think it bothers me because we individual agents havent done job number one: introducing ourselves to you and the market as a person, and as a professional.  Im sure if you knew what each agents special sauce is youd think differently on that dime a dozen comment!In other words why should you use me as opposed to doing it yourself or choosing one of the more than 216,000 other licensed agents in Florida?Lets first address you DIYers when Greg and I moved from Spring Hill to Bradenton here in Florida, and even selling my home of 23 years in Alpharetta, GA I was a licensed agent, but not active.  I didnt have access to the MLS, lockboxes, or contracts.  I knew enough to pay an active practicing colleague for her valuable service, tools and support.  Not only was she able to do background research on the property I was purchasing, but she was also a partner in the transaction and a sounding board in the negotiation process. Bottom line was that I knew I stood to lose way more than the percentage of the deal that I had agreed to pay her.  I knew her knowledge, research and negotiation skills would net me a higher outcome than if I moved forward thinking I had all the answers (even being a licensed agent myself).  You see, it was my own property, my investment, and I was like many buyers and sellers too close to the transaction to be 100% objective.So, lets say I just convinced you to partner with an agent. Who should you choose?As you might guess, Im here to make the case that not all agents are alike, and certainly not equal.  What sets us apart is who we serve and how we do it.  So you, as the consumer, need to be very clear about what your needs are and what you want to accomplish.So now youre thinking, Come on Jude how am I supposed to know those answers?  I dont even know where to begin!  When I get a call from someone like you just entering into the market I ask to meet them, preferably in person in a coffee shop or at their home.  I like to spend a little time asking questions and getting to know their story, their vision, their desire, their situation.  You see, knowing all of this seemingly extra stuff helps me guide, advise, and add value to their transaction.If you consider working with an agent to help you buy a property and she just jumps straight to yes, Ill show you that property you might want to rethink the relationship because she wont have the insight she needs to be of true service.Same with if youre looking for an agent to sell your property.  If your first meeting with her is all about what she can do for you and what a stellar agent she is and she skips right over learning your needs wants, desires, time frame and goals then youll be working on her agenda, shell be flying blind, and thats a recipe for disaster.Bottom line as much as you need to vet the agent youre considering, make sure theyre curious about you.  (Thats my tip for those of you dating, too!)LIFE CHANGES ARE HARD.  HOME CHANGES DONT HAVE TO BE.

The respiratory system, like many of the other human systems (e.g., cardiovascular, digestive), is a wondrously complex and sophisticated arrangement of organs working together to maintain homeostasis.Contact an Office in Your AreaChronic obstructive pulmonary disease, more commonly referred to as COPD, is a health problem facing adults in the U.S. Because of its progressive nature and increased age as a leading factor, there is a greater prevalence of COPD in seniors. The good news is that many adults can easily reduce their risk of COPD through lifestyle management.  COPD represents a group of lung diseases, with the two most common being emphysema and chronic bronchitis.Symptoms of COPD includeConstant coughingWheezingShortness of breathCoughing up mucusTightness in the chestResearch also suggests that there may be a link between poor air quality and COPD. The American Lung Association estimates that between 80-90% of COPD cases result from smoking. Unsurprisingly, secondhand smoke is a significant risk factor as well. Seniors should take the following steps to reduce their risk of COPD:Older adults that smoke should get support from a primary care physician and take steps to quit. There are many programs, services, and products that can help.Seniors should avoid contact with secondhand smoke whenever possible.Reducing exposure to air pollution can help relieve symptoms. Many cities issue poor air quality warnings when these warnings are in effect, seniors should limit outside activities. Seniors should avoid airborne irritants (chemicals, fumes, etc.) in the home.A healthy diet and exercise plan can improve lung function and overall health with direction from a physician.Older adults should understand the impact of aging on their respiratory system and reduce their risk of any related diseases, illnesses, or conditions.Doctors may recommend getting vaccinations for both influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia to guard against further breathing complications.Comfort Keepers Can HelpComfort Keepers elevates the human spirit for todays seniors and their families through a unique, individualized approach to care that helps seniors thrive and achieve greater wellbeing by fostering everyday positive moments, connection, and a more purposeful life no matter their age or acuity. As part of a healthcare team, an in-home caregiver can assist with activities that slow disease progression or reduce the risk for those with respiratory issues. Comfort Keepers caregivers can help by supporting physician-recommended health programs, preparing meals, encouraging prescribed physical activity, reminding seniors to take medications, and providing transportation to scheduled appointments. References:Healthline. Everything You Need to Know About Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Web. 2018.Everyday Health. 5 Best Ways to Prevent COPD by Chris Iliades, MD. Web. 2018.Aging Care. An Overview of COPD by National Institutes of Health. Web. 2017.Unity Point Health. The Top 8 Respiratory Illnesses and Diseases. Web. 2014.American Lung Association. Lung Capacity and Aging. Web. 2017.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Chronic Respiratory Disease. Web. 2017.

As seniors age, physical activities can have not only positive physical effects, but positive cognitive effects as well.Contact an Office in Your AreaIn one study, 100 nursing-home residents performed resistance exercises three times a week for 10 weeks. At the end, the exercise group could lift significantly more weight, climb more stairs, and walk faster and farther than their sedentary counterparts.Its been proven time and again that exercise is good for seniors physical and mental health. Regular exercise, even in small amounts, can improve mood, relieve stress and improve health. According to the CDC, four of the five most expensive health conditions older adults face can be prevented or managed with physical activity. But, only about 35% of adults over the age of 65 are physically active. Any senior starting a new exercise plan should consult with their physician. And, it is helpful for family and members of the care team to assist and support physical activity in any way they can. For those that are physically able to begin an exercise program, regular movement can help them live a more vibrant and healthy life. Some of the health benefits include:Improved mental health, mood and outlookPrevention, or improvement of, diseases such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and osteoporosisReduced pain from arthritis and minimizing its severityDecreased risk of fallsEach individual has different needs when it comes to exercise and varying health conditions that may need to be taken into consideration before beginning an exercise regimen. A health professional to determine the best approach to physical activity with senior care.There are a variety of ways to incorporate aerobic activity, strength-building exercises, stretching and balance all without leaving the comfort of home! Aerobic exercise  Walking in place, dancing or aerobic routines can help get the heart rate up. These activities improve cardiovascular health and help older adults maintain a healthy weight. Strength building exercises  there are many easy strength-building exercises that can help seniors build the muscles they need to do everyday activities and prevent muscle loss. And, exercises can be done with household items or using body weight, so no expensive equipment is required. Stretching  Stretching before and after exercise can help prevent soreness after exercise. And, the additional benefit is improved flexibility, which is good for older adults physical health. For those looking to improve their flexibility even more, there are exercise routines available online that include yoga or stretching routines specifically for seniors.Balance exercises  Balance exercises help seniors prevent falls and improve mobility. Yoga, tai chi, and other low-impact activities can all help improve balance and overall physical health.Those that need a little assistance getting started should not hesitate to reach out to their doctor, family or caregiver. It is never too late to adopt an active lifestyle! Comfort Keepers Can HelpFor seniors that need a little extra help living an active lifestyle, Comfort Keepers caregivers can help with encouragement, support and assistance with physician-prescribed exercise plans. And, caregivers can encourage overall health through meal planning, grocery shopping, meal preparation and activities. Our custom care plans focus on physical and mental health and wellness activities. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today. ReferencesCenters for Disease Control and Prevention. Adults Need More Physical Activity. Web. 2019.Health and Human Services. Facts & Statistics: Physical Activity. Web. 2017.National Council on Aging. Exercise Programs That Promote Senior Fitness. Web.Readers Digest Canada, 5 of the Best Exercises for Seniors to Build Strength, Improve Balance and Boost Heart Health. Web. Harvard Health Publishing. Exercise after age 70. Web. 2007.