Hidden Gem: Your Local Independent Pharmacy

As you begin to transition to retirement, you'll find a mix of anticipated plans and unexpected challenges awaiting you. Transitioning into retirement marks a major life shift, and the unknowns ahead might stir up mixed feelings about retirement. You may wonder how to fill your time, explore new passions or derive meaning in this phase of life.After dedicating your life to preparing to transition to retirement, the moment has arrived. What will you make of it? Embrace a fresh perspective on aging: Spin the wheel of retirement roulette and let fate guide your journey. This approach highlights life's unpredictability and the excitement of discovering unexpected joys in retirement.Whether its retirement risks, rewards or retirement challenges that youre facing, were here to help. Together, lets go all in and cash out BIG together in retirement!Tips for Transitioning from Work to a Satisfying Retirement Start transitioning gradually: In the months leading to retirement transition, start cutting back on the amount of work that you do, allowing time for your successor to have time to get acclimated to the new role and introducing more free time into your daily life.Establish a daily routine: Provide structure and purpose to your day by creating (and sticking to!) a daily schedule. Doing this is going to help you create a purposeful life in retirement. Figure out what things you enjoy doing or those that you dont look forward to and see where you can move things around to fit your newfound freedom.Stay connected with friends and family: Leaving the workplace often means leaving friends and colleagues that you have become accustomed to having in your life every day. When you are retired, this may feel disorienting. Reach out to your friends and family members during this time or set up a time to have coffee with an old coworker a few times a month.Explore hobbies and make new connections: Its time to join that knitting club or the swimming class that you have been eyeing for a while. Taking up new or favorite hobbies can help you meet new people and form new bonds. Take this time to explore retirement adventures and do what you want to do! Do You Have Retirement Anxiety? A retirement transition can sometimes feel that youre putting all of your money on RED, just to see a lot of GREEN! But sometimes, were scared to make that gamble with our newfound freedom.Retirement anxiety refers to the feelings of stress, worry or apprehension that some individuals experience when approaching retirement. This anxiety can manifest in various ways, such as concerns about financial stability, loss of purpose or identity, changes in social relationships, fear of health issues and uncertainty about how to spend one's time in a satisfying retirement.Common sources of anxiety about retirement include:Financial concerns: Many people worry about whether they have saved enough money to sustain their desired lifestyle throughout retirement. Factors such as insufficient savings, unexpected expenses or economic downturns can exacerbate these worries.Loss of identity and purpose: Work often provides individuals with a sense of purpose, structure and social connection. Retiring may lead to feelings of loss or uncertainty about one's identity and role in society, particularly if one's identity is closely tied to their career.Health concerns: As people age, they may become more aware of their health and physical limitations. Concerns about declining health, access to healthcare and long-term care needs can contribute to retirement anxiety.Our Anthology at Boynton Beach community, nestled on the Florida coast among tall palm trees and lush greenery, offers walking paths and a fully equipped wellness center for residents to use to stay healthy, improve flexibility and reduce stress.Changes in social relationships: Transition to retirement can bring changes in social dynamics, especially if one's social circle primarily consists of coworkers or if the retiree's partner is still working. Adjusting to new routines and finding ways to maintain social connections can be challenging.At Anthology of Louisville, which offers premier senior living in Louisville, KY, our leadership team works to create and host activities and socialization opportunities for residents every day. Our vibrant activity programs are a favorite for our residents, allowing them to socialize in programs or even around the dinner table with fellow friends and neighbors.Its what makes Anthology such an exciting place to live! There are always new connections to be made.Addressing retirement anxiety often involves a combination of financial planning, emotional preparation and lifestyle adjustments. Seeking support from financial advisors, therapists, support groups and loved ones can help individuals navigate this transition more smoothly and alleviate some of the anxiety associated with the transition to retirement.Some seniors choose to go into independent or assisted living lifestyle options when entering retirement. Assisted living, especially, is beneficial for those who can no longer handle everyday tasks like housekeeping and cooking on their own.Anthology of Planos accommodations include a range of spacious, private floor plans with state-of-the-art amenities and built-in emergency alert systems in residences. Our dedicated team takes care of household tasks like cleaning, trash removal and linen services so you can spend your time doing more of the things you love. Looking for senior living in Plano? Wed love to meet you!Choose Your Adventure with Anthology Senior LivingWith Anthology Senior Living, you spin the wheel every day and decide where youd like it to take you. With this may sound equally exciting and terrifying, living at Anthology gives you the autonomy to choose how your days and your life go!Living at Anthology means that all of the mundane activities like housekeeping, laundry and transportation are covered and you can fill your days with the kind of activities that you are interested in.From excellent dining experiences to planned activities, events and amenities and everything in between spinning the wheel of retirement roulette is a chance to explore the unexpected and embrace the unpredictable everyday events that make life worth living! Retiring soon? Consider moving into a beautiful Anthology Senior Living community in retirement for the carefree lifestyle youve always craved. We call that rolling the dice and winning twice.

As our society progresses into the digital age, senior citizens are finding themselves increasingly targeted by financial scams. Whether its through deceptive phone calls, fraudulent emails or sophisticated online productions, older adults are often seen as easy prey for scammers looking to exploit their trust and vulnerability. However, there are ways that friends and family continue protecting seniors from scams through proactive collaboration. The consequences of falling victim to these scams can be financially and emotionally devastating, misleading seniors to give up their hard-earned savings and leaving them feeling isolated and betrayed. This financial deception can have long-term consequences on seniors who have been scammed. In this blog, well explore the prevalence of financial fraud cases targeting seniors, the tactics used by scammers and most importantly, how we can work together to protect elderly loved ones from falling victim to crimes against seniors. Common Types of Financial Deception Retirement scams result in a loss of more than $28 billion each year in the United States. Senior identity theft scams come in a variety of forms, such as identity theft, sweepstakes and lottery scams, and romance scams. Many scams come to senior citizens unsolicited a scammer calls or sends correspondence unprompted and uses a sense of urgency before seniors realize they have been taken advantage of. One of the most common financial crimes against the elderly involves sweepstakes or lottery scams informing them that they have received an unexpected windfall and must act immediately to ensure that they receive the winnings. This tactic is often to secure money through gift card purchases or to access bank accounts or debit cards. The lure of romance scams In 2020, romance scams accounted for the highest total reported losses among all scams reported to the Federal Trade Commission. Older adults are especially susceptible to romance scams, as the number of adults ages 55-64 who reported participating in online dating applications has doubled over the last few years. In 2020, seniors lost more than $139 million in relationship scams alone. Seniors are often at risk for isolation, loneliness and depression, and romance scams may present a new opportunity for a connection. People perpetrating these scams know the touchpoints to engage seniors in romantic interludes. Utilizing flattery and compliments makes victims feel special, lowering their defenses and making them more susceptible to the sales pitch (or scam). Scammers work to establish trust quickly, and then a sense of urgency emerges suddenly, the person on the other end of the phone needs a quick loan, or they are stranded and need to get home. These moments are the perfect opportunities for scammers to pounce on unsuspecting victims.Retirement scams are often rooted in false promises something that you will see throughout many crimes against seniors. Scammers prey on the basic needs and desires of every human the opportunity for more money or a late-in-life love. Seniors may lack technological familiarity and be susceptible to scams that prey on their trust. Because seniors do not navigate technology as younger generations do, they can be more vulnerable when a scammer presents themselves as an authority figure, such as a police officer or government official requesting information. Recognizing and Avoiding Financial Scams To protect loved ones against scams, have a conversation with them so that they know what kind of red flags to notice. Crimes against the elderly happen fairly quickly, based on a sense of urgency and misplaced trust. One of the first red flags to consider is that unsolicited phone calls or emails should be treated with extreme caution. If it sounds too good to be true, it often is. Many people get caught up in the get rich quick ideas that scammers often present. Seniors should watch out for these surprise offers and always verify the identity of callers when contacted. Scammers do not want to answer questions; they just want to take advantage of seniors. As soon as you try to uncover the truth, the scammer will often end the communication. Do not release personal information to people you do not know In addition, anyone who contacts you and requests personal information should also be thoroughly vetted for the need for that particular information. Businesses and organizations such as banks and the IRS have safety protocols in place to protect sensitive information, so they will not call you to request your account information directly. Its already known to them if you are a customer. Do not release this information, including bank account numbers, debit card numbers and PINs. This type of financial identity fraud is one of the easiest ways for scammers to access seniors assets. Do not send money to people you dont personally know Further protect yourself by not transferring or wiring money through financial services such as Western Union, which can be used worldwide. You may not be completely aware of who you are paying. Even more, seniors have fallen prey to losing an additional $12 million each year through cryptocurrency scams. Cryptocurrency is a relatively new form of payment that can be confusing if you are not familiar with it, and it can also be used worldwide. Once its been paid, there is no recourse to get it back. Be cautious of high-pressure sales tactics Life in 2024 moves very quickly, but beware of high-urgency tactics, such limited-time offers or limited quantities, which lowers seniors guards when it comes to taking the time to consider the proposition. During this time, scammers may brush off or diminish older adults objections or questions, pressing for an immediate resolution to the offer, which often includes accessing financial information. Ask for help from trusted professionals and close family members Many seniors do not report scam attempts or money loss because of embarrassment. When looking back after you have been scammed, the concerning red flags may be easier to see after you are out of the situation. If you have questions about the validity of an offer, purchase or unexpected romance, consult with trusted family members or financial advisors before releasing information or exchanging money. Family members should offer comfort and emotional assistance after loved ones have been scammed. It is often an embarrassing stigma to realize you have been scammed, paired with the personal financial deception as well. Friends and family members should lend an understanding ear and continue conversations and education to prevent further scams. Resources and reporting For elderly fraud protection and ongoing scams, The National Elder Fraud Hotline staffs compassionate and knowledgeable support specialists who can help older adults navigate the confusion and loss after fraud. This free service is available to all senior citizens and can be a valuable resource. When calling the Elder Fraud Hotline, seniors will reach a case manager who will help them through the reporting process at the federal, state and local levels. They will also be connected with other resources on a case-by-case basis. Additionally, protect yourself by investing in financial fraud prevention services. Research the best identity theft protection for seniors and make the decision that is right for your family. Attend locally hosted events from banks, nonprofit organizations and our Anthology communities such as Anthology of King of Prussia, Anthology of Millis and Anthology of Farmington Hills, which host scam prevention discussions and offer resources for residents to protect themselves from crimes against seniors. In conclusion, as we navigate the increasingly complex landscape of financial scams targeting the elderly, one of the most powerful tools at our disposal is continuing education. By empowering seniors with knowledge about common scams, red flags to watch for and strategies to protect themselves, we not only enhance their financial literacy but also bolster their ability to safeguard their hard-earned assets. As advocates for the well-being of our senior loved ones and community members, Anthology communities commit to providing ongoing education and support. Through collaboration and knowledge, we can help ensure that our residents remain vigilant, informed and resilient against financial exploitation.

Traveling with Medications Safely, Effectively and Hassle-FreeAlthough this article pertains to all ages who need to leave town with prescription medications, it is especially relevant to the active 55 plus community.  Lets be honest, as we get older, we often require more medications to treat a variety of illnesses.  In many instances, we are also taking care of a spouse, parent or other dependent when we travel, and must ensure they have all the required medications for travel as well.  The following are some tips to employ as you embark on your next adventure.  Simple planning ahead can save you from a host of problems, while helping you maintain your productively aging lifestyle.  Here are some things you can do before your trip, during your trip and after your trip to avoid medication pitfalls while you are away from home.Before your TripFirst, determine the number of days you will be gone and add at least an extra week to determine what you will need as a rule of thumb.  This can account for medication emergencies, travel delays, or other unforeseen circumstances.  Medication synchronization is a process that allows you to pick up all your medications at the same time.  If possible, ask your pharmacy about medication synchronization well in advance of your trip.  If you take the time to talk with your physician or pharmacist, this process can streamline your medication pick-up to all at once.  I often encourage patients to use mail order weeks in advance of their trip. This often provides greater quantities with fewer copays.  Also, ask your pharmacist if there have been any supply issues or manufacturer shortages with your medications.  If so, discuss with your doctor therapeutic alternatives you could try in the interim.  Certain medications, such as controlled substances (pain medications or stimulant medications) often have supply restrictions and are not afforded refills.  Tell your doctor to communicate to the pharmacy that it is ok to fill these medications early.  Remember, we cant just take your word for it that you are allowed to take the controlled substance early.  The doctor should preferably communicate via phone, electronic prescribing, or on the prescription that it is ok to fill these medications early. DO NOT (I repeat DO NOT) order your medications on your travel day or arrange to pick up medications on travel days (unless absolutely necessary)!!!!  You dont want to miss a flight due to poor planning and get stressed by having to deal with medication issues (air travel is already stressful enough nowadays).  Murphys Law, which states anything that can go wrong, WILL go wrong, applies to picking up medications at the pharmacy on your travel date.  This could range from being out of refills, the prescription expiring (in Colorado, prescriptions expire after a year, even if you have unlimited refills), the medication being on shortage or backordered, the doctor may have not put in the correct dose or many other issues that could arise.  Give yourself some comfortable leeway for medication pickup prior to your fun departure.  This is especially relevant around major holidays, such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, in which your doctor may be away, and pharmacies and health clinics may be closed!!  Before your trip have a written list of all your medications to take with you.  If you are tech savvy, try the HERO app (which is through Hero Health, Inc) and input your medications and their directions.  This may be convenient if you are being asked about your medications during your travel or in case of emergency. Be sure to have a list of pertinent medical information readily available on your person, or with a spouse (such as drug and food allergies, medical conditions such as epilepsy or any other things a medical professional would need to know in case you become unconscious or ill during your trip).  Although it goes without saying, make sure to include supplies and diagnostic materials when you travel (nebulizers, diagnostic kits such as blood glucose meters, needles etc).  Look at your itinerary, before your trip, and try to determine if there are situations that could cause you to either forget your medications or could create problems.  Remember, your disease or conditions dont take a vacation, so it is very important that you adhere to your medicines, so you dont end up with nightmares.  Before you go on your trip, investigate how to obtain the same or equivalent medications before departure, in case a replacement is needed due to loss, inadequate supply due to travel interruptions, or the need to resupply maintenance medications if the trip is long-term.  Make sure you have your physician/health insurance information in case you have a medical emergency away from home.  When traveling outside the country some hotels and resorts have medical staff on hand to assist with medical emergencies.  Try to get information on what these medical staff may offer prior to your trip.  They may be invaluable in instances of lost or stolen medications.  What about travel to foreign countries, what things do you need to consider?  Pharmaceutical regulations vary from country to country. Some countries have limited availability of certain drugs or prohibit their importation. In addition, travelers should not plan to have someone mail (including express couriers) medications to them.In the US, it is not legal for an individual to mail prescription drugs anywhere. In addition, other countries may have restrictions on unregistered drugs (i.e., medications not approved for use in that country) coming into their country by mail. Controlled substances and psychotropics are completely prohibited in some countries (e.g., the United Arab Emirates, Japan, Zambia), and possession of even a small amount of these substances for personal use may result in arrest, incarceration, and charges of drug trafficking. In some countries, controlled substances are not available at all for outpatient use (except cancer patients), even with a local doctor's prescription.A limited number of countries (e.g., Japan, Zambia, United Arab Emirates) prohibit certain common prescription medications as well as commonly used over-the-counter medications; these cannot be imported nor are they available. This includes ingredients found in inhalers and cold, cough, allergy, and sinus medications (e.g., diphenhydramine; Benadryl). Banned ingredients may also include those deemed to be stimulants, such as pseudoephedrine, levomethamphetamine, the common cough suppressant dextromethorphan, and dextroamphetamine (e.g., Adderall).  I advise checking with the destination's embassy about any med restrictions before travel...especially with controlled substances. Again, make sure that you are taking care of your health, even on vacay.Beginning and during your TripDuring your travels ALWAYS keep track of those carry-ons that contain your medications.  I like to put special ribbons on my carry-on and have my spouse and I double check our bag counts as we go from one point in our trip to the next (ie shuttles, boarding and deplaning).  Try to keep these personal belongings within your eyesight.  If you can, try to keep your medications in the original containers.  Although, TSA doesnt have a rule against pill boxes (and you can travel with them filled with your meds), the latches can come undone, and scatter medications throughout your carry-on.  It is a good strategy to use your pill boxes once you get to your destination, as it can help you keep track of your medications and prevent you from skipping medications.  Speaking of carry-on, that is the only place your medications should be stowed away in.  NEVER put your medications in your checked bags.  At TSA, I have had to carry a nebulizer machine for asthma.  I anticipate that they may want to observe the product (it looks like a bomb) so I put it separately in a bin with the carrying case ajar.  The same would go for diabetic supplies and instruments. You may bring medically necessary liquids, medications, and creams more than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters in your carry-on bag. Remove them from your carry-on bag to be screened separately from the rest of your belongings.  Try to keep your medications packed efficiently and in a neat manner (dont have stuff strewn about your carry-on or purse, or meds out of their bottles).  When you reach your destination store your meds safely and properly.  This is done by keeping them in a dry area without sunlight.  In your hotel, try to keep controlled substances (such as pain medications) out of plain sight, as they are targets for theft.  Do not talk about your pain medications in public, this could make you a target to unsavory people. Regarding theft or loss of medications use the pharmacy information you gathered before your trip (see Before your trip section) and contact your physician or home pharmacy to get a transfer.  If you are out of the country contact the resort medical director or the U.S. embassy in case of medication loss as well as law enforcement if there is suspected theft.  In many countrieseven those that require a prescriptionpharmacists may have the latitude to provide short-term or emergency refills (generally for a more common, benign, chronic medication) without a prescription.  While away for pleasure, it is easy to eat, or drink in excess.  Do know your limits and set reasonable goals.  If you must visit a medical facility or urgent care while on vacation, DO KEEP the billing information as you may be able to get reimbursed by your primary home insurance.  Again, your medical conditions do not take a vacation, and you want to stay healthy to take even more vacations.  When traveling, I have heard that clients/patients get excited when they see prescription medications being sold over the counter (OTC).  It is tempting to purchase these items as they are often cheaper and readily available.  Please note that foreign health agencies do not test as rigorously for the veracity of active ingredients (as well as other properties of the medication).  There is a high probability of counterfeit medications. The Los Angeles Times, recently reported in 2022 that 55 pills purchased from 29 pharmacies in eight cities in Mexico were tested, and more than 50% of the pills were determined to be counterfeit. More than a third of the 40 opioid pain medications purchased tested positive for illicit fentanyl rather than a prescription opioid medication. Twelve of 15 Adderall samples tested positive for other substances, including methamphetamine and ecstasy. Sometimes entire bottles that appeared to be factory-sealed were tainted.  In fact, when abroad, check with the local embassy to ensure a pharmacy is trustworthy and to get tips on obtaining medications that are not counterfeit.  In some developing countries you may also see antibiotics sold as OTC items. It is a bad idea to get a random antibiotic to treat what is ailing you.  For one, the antibiotic may not be ideal (even if you used it in the past) as there can be resistance, and it may be questionable if the product has the true dose content or could be counterfeit.  If you have an infection, it is best to see a doctor abroad who can at least direct you to trusted sources of medications and can use clinical judgement to determine the nature of the infection, and if there are risks that you have not thought of.  Remember that antibiotics are often used to treat specific bacteria.  If you try to use an antibiotic for a viral infection, it WILL BE ineffective, as antibiotics treat bacterial infections. Lastly, before leaving back home, ensure you pack your meds as you did before your trip.  On my last day of travel, when I am packing, I do a run through of my hotel room to make sure I have not forgot any important items (medications etc).  DO NOT discard empty prescription bottles with your medical info away in the trash.  Your prescriptions with your name, and medications can be used to commit fraud against you.  Do a bag checklist as you did previously.After your tripPut your medications away as soon as you can.  It is easy to get off track when you get back from vacation, but remember, your conditions dont take a vacation.  Be sure to submit billing receipts and to contact your insurance if you incurred medical expenses while on vacation.  While it is not a guarantee that you will get reimbursed, it is important that you submit your claims as soon as possible.  People often experience sickness after travel due to exposure to large crowds (such as in airports or on cruises).  Go see your physician immediately (especially if you have immune disorders or are on chemotherapeutic agents) to insure you are treated promptly.  Viral infections generally have a small window of time for treatment (such as COVID-19 and influenza).  Do get back to your normal diet as you likely indulged during your trip. I hope these tips were helpful!!!  As always, enjoy life, but stay healthy and happy in 2024.Sincerely,Keith Williams (Your personal pharmacist)Owner of Deeper Dive HorizonsVisit deeperdivehorizons.com for details on how I can help you navigate the health care world!!!