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Some financial decisions can be challenging like whether to use your money to reduce your debt or to invest. If you already have a significant amount of debt and not a lot in savings or investments, it can be hard to figure out which issue should be a priority.Theres no simple answer, and everyones situation is different, but here are a few suggestions for helping you make a good choice: Evaluate your cash flow. If you already have enough after-tax income to meet your monthly living expenses, you might lean toward investing any leftover cash, but if you are just getting by, possibly due to heavy debt payments, then you might be better off using your funds to reduce your debt load. Build an emergency fund. Paying off your debt as fast as possible may seem like the responsible thing to do, but not having an adequate emergency fund or saving for your future could leave your finances at a permanent disadvantage. It's a good move to have an emergency fund containing three to six months worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid, low-risk account. Once you have such a fund, you could use it, instead of going into debt or adding to your debt to pay for unexpected costs, such as a new furnace or a major car repair. Evaluate your debts. Some of your debts are actually more expensive to you than others. This expense level doesnt necessarily refer to the size of the debt, however. You might have a large mortgage, for instance, but because your interest payments are typically tax deductible, your after-tax interest rate may be relatively modest. Therefore, you might consider investing rather than paying down your mortgage. But if you have consumer loans or credit cards that carry a high interest rate and whose interest payments are not deductible, you might be better off paying down or refinancing this debt. Take advantage of any employer match. If your employer sponsors a retirement plan and offers a match, you will want to prioritize contributing at least what is required to receive the match. Its essentially free money. So, if your employer matches up to 3% of your contributions, for example, you should contribute at least 3% of your income to this retirement account. Additionally, some employers will match a portion of your contributions to a Health Savings Account. Eventually, youll likely want to get to a point of saving more than just the match, but youll have to weigh the benefit of additional contributions against the cost of any debt you're carrying.  Make it easier on yourself. To make achieving these goals easier, automate as much as you can. For example, you can divert part of your paycheck into an emergency savings account or a retirement account through automatic payments for any debt reduction or savings needs. While it may seem like a huge endeavor to pay off your debt while still saving for the future, it doesnt have to be. Taking small, incremental steps is key to helping you get to where you want to go. Chad Choate III, AAMS 828 3rd Avenue West Bradenton, FL 34205 941-462-2445 chad.chaote@edwardjones.comThis article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

There are many options to consider when it comes to senior living. Based on your budget, location, health needs, and the type of lifestyle youre looking for, one housing option may suit you better than others.Independent living, as offered by Erickson Senior Living communities nationwide, combines the benefits of a vibrant, active lifestyle with the convenience of maintenance-free living. Erickson communities offer a full continuum of senior housing optionsincluding independent living, memory care, and skilled nursingso you can remain in the community even if your needs change over time. Residents enjoy the comfort of predictable monthly expenses that cover nearly all regular living costs, from utilities and maintenance to 24/7 security and amenities. With resort-style features like fitness centers, pools, restaurant-style dining venues, and social activities right outside your door, Erickson Senior Living managed communities are designed for those seeking both relaxation and engagement in their retirement.It was getting to be too much for me, taking care of a big, seven-room cottage all alone. When I visited Brooksby, I walked around and saw that I could take an elevator to get wherever I wanted to go. And all the apartment homes were one level! says Patricia K., who lives in Brooksby Village, an Erickson Senior Living managed community in Peabody, Massachusetts.Independent living in an Erickson Senior Living managed community also provides multiple opportunities for social interactions, on-site dining venues that resemble five-star restaurants, and fitness and well-being programs to keep residents active and thriving. Lets delve into what constitutes independent living and how it differs from other senior living options.Understanding Independent LivingFor older adults who no longer want the responsibilities and expenses of homeownership, independent senior living may be the right choice. Residences range from one-bedroom to large three-bedroom floor plans, and delicious dining options can be enjoyed in multiple restaurants. Independent living communities like those offered by Erickson Senior Living have well-being classes, fitness centers, clubs, special events, and other activities.Independent living services can be found in various formsactive adult communities, senior apartments, and continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs)just to name a few.While active adult communitiesalso known as 55-plus communitiesand senior apartments may provide amenities like pickleball courts, fitness centers, pools, and clubhouses, residents are responsible for the upkeep of the interior of their residences as well as all meals.Meanwhile, CCRCs, including the growing network of Erickson Senior Living managed communities throughout the U.S., provide well-appointed, maintenance-free residences, health and well-being services, nutritious and delicious meals prepared by professional chefs, and a variety of socialization opportunities all in one place. Erickson Senior Living managed communities also provide a continuum of care on campus, so should the health care needs of a resident change, they can easily access additional support such as skilled nursing, assisted living, and memory care services. Key Features and Amenities of Independent Living CommunitiesErickson Senior Living managed communities provide a worry-free lifestyle, giving residents more time to stay active at the fitness center or pool; keep their minds sharp through organized cultural events, lectures, and educational offerings; and enjoy dining with friends at a variety of on-site restaurants. Most living facilities allow residents to choose from a meal plan based on their dining preferences and budget.Programming runs the gamut: fitness classes tailored to seniors, seminars, classes offered by local colleges and other educational institutions, organized trips to local and regional attractions, clubs for all interests, volunteering opportunities on- and off-campus, and special events like happy hours and cookouts.Benefits of Independent LivingResidents of Erickson Senior Living managed communities can wave goodbye to their snow shovels, hedge clippers, and lawn mowers, as those and most other chores are handled by the community. Erickson Senior Living managed communities also take care of minor home repairs, creating more free time for you to enjoy the on-site amenities, and they are designed with climate-controlled walkways so that residents can enjoy all activities and dining, even in inclement weather.Erickson Senior Living managed communities have dedicated resident services staff members who organize a host of clubs and activities, providing great opportunities to socializean important component of healthy aging.We are active people, so we wanted to be somewhere we could lead active lifestyles. What impressed me the most was the level of activity in the clubhouses. People were completing puzzles, playing cards and board games, and doing crafts. There was always something going on, says Debby V., a resident of Charlestown, an Erickson Senior Living community in Catonsville, Maryland.Debbys neighbor, Elaine E., adds that having all of her activities in one place has made her life more enjoyable.We had no idea that this kind of place even existed! Instead of hopping in the car, meeting friends for dinner or attending a concert is just a short walk down the hall. Im so glad we moved to Charlestown. There is always something to do here, from morning to night, she says.Considerations When Choosing an Independent Living CommunityThere are many factors that will play a role when choosing the right independent living community for you. Here are a few:Goals: What are your main motivations for moving? On-site health care? More socialization? Maintenance-free living?Timing: Do you need to move ASAP, or are you just beginning the planning stage?Location: Do you want to stay in the same area close to friends, move closer to children, or relocate to the mountains or somewhere warm?Its also vital that you visit the independent living facilities youre considering multiple times. Here are some questions to ask when visiting:What types of programming are offered, and can residents provide feedback?What types of support services are offeredhousekeeping, security, transportation, etc.?Is there a nutritionist or dietician on staff?Whats included in the monthly service package?Do staff members undergo screenings and background checks prior to employment?Are resident clubs, groups, and social activities offered?Are classes, lectures, and other learning opportunities offered regularly?Any volunteer opportunities inside and outside the community?Is there a plan in place for natural disasters and other crises?What is the financial health of the community for future capital improvements?Is there a waiting list or priority list?Can I stay overnight to try out the community?Financial Aspects of Independent LivingWhile financial specifics may vary from community to community, generally independent living residents at Erickson Senior Living managed communities pay a one-time entrance feewhere a percentage is also refundable, should you leave the community or decide to pass it on to heirsand a monthly service package that covers almost all regular living expenses, including utilities, maintenance, property taxes, cable TV, 24/7 security, activities, and select meals. The predictable monthly service package makes it easy to manage your retirement budget and enjoy a vibrant and worry-free lifestyle.Norma H., who lives in Highland Springs, an Erickson Senior Living managed community in North Dallas, Texas, loves how she no longer has to worry about regular upkeep of her home, as all maintenance is taken care of for her.Now, when a maintenance issue arises, I just pick up the phone and call General Services. The staff here are really friendly, and they go out of their way to do whatever they can for us. They do all the little extra things with a smile, she says.In addition, Erickson Senior Living managed communities operate on a fee-for-service model where independent living residents only pay for higher levels of health care if and when its needed.Embracing the Independent Living LifestyleYouve earned your retirement. Independent living can provide a maintenance-free lifestyle that gives you more time to relax, participate in fun activities, better your health, and stimulate your mind. If youd like to pursue longtime hobbies with neighbors or make friends while discovering new interests, independent living is the option for you.Carolyn U., who lives in Maris Grove, an Erickson Senior Living managed community located in the Brandywine Valley of Pennsylvania, credits the active lifestyle at Maris Grove, for her all-around well-being.Participating in the clubs and activities at Maris Grove has greatly contributed to my physical health and wellness. No need to get in my car; everything is right here. When you live in a house alone, you have to call people and schedule get-togethers. At Maris Grove, it happens automatically. We see each other in the hallway, in club meetings, or just walking outside. Its a tremendous feeling, to be here and to be so well taken care of, Carolyn shares.If independent living at an Erickson Senior Living managed community sounds like it could be a good fit for you, you can view all of the independent living CCRC locations. You can also request a free, comprehensive brochure for more details.

With over a dozen amenities included in the plans for Emerson Lakes, an Erickson Senior Living community under construction in Lakewood Ranch, Fla., it will be easy for future residents to lead vibrant, engaging lifestyles."Studies have shown that staying active supports overall well-being and helps people live independently longer," says Adam Zubowsky, the community's sales director. "As a result, Emerson Lakes was designed to ensure our residents will have access to as many activities as possible."And, with many amenities just steps from each home, residents can explore new hobbies and take classes with friends whenever they desire."Unlike living in a house, where you might be a 15-minute drive away from the nearest gym or restaurant, Emerson Lakes will be rich with opportunities to engage with others right at home," Zubowsky explains.So many optionsFor fitness enthusiasts, there's no need to drive to the gym, nor is a membership required.Coral Ridge, the first clubhouse planned for Emerson Lakes, will boast an impressive fitness center with state-of-the-art equipment including Matrix treadmills, Echelon bikes, an Echelon rower, an ergometer for upper body workouts, and a strength circuit.The fitness center will be staffed with professional trainers and fitness coordinators to help guide residents on the equipment and develop exercise plans they can follow on a regular basis.In addition, there will be an assortment of fitness classes--held in the indoor studio and on the outdoor courtyard--focusing on balance, yoga, and line dancing, just to name a few.For those who prefer the water, Emerson Lakes will have an aquatics center with a 25-meter outdoor pool, complete with lap lanes. Water aerobics classes, which have proven to be popular at other Erickson Senior Living communities, will be offered as well.And for people with a competitive spirit, games at the community's two outdoor pickleball courts and two bocce courts are sure to please. Or sit back, chat with new friends, and cheer on your neighbors!Step by stepAnother pastime of many Erickson Senior Living residents is to stroll along community walking paths and take in sights like ornate ponds, flower gardens, foliage, and some of the area's beautiful wildlife.With meticulous landscaping and peaceful lakes planned for Emerson Lakes' 46-acre campus, future residents are sure to enjoy this activity as well.  And because Emerson Lakes is nestled within the master planned Lakewood Ranch community on Florida's West Coast, residents will be able to extend their daily walks to visit the area's three developed town centers, where shops, boutiques, restaurants, and cafes can be found.On your termsFor some retirees living in their houses, grocery shopping for the week and getting to a doctor's appointment can be a hassle--especially when you have to brave the Florida heat or showers.With multiple restaurants and a medical center right on campus, Emerson Lakes has been designed to promote independence, so you can easily check off those to-do list items--or get rid of them completely.Because Erickson Senior Living's monthly service package includes a meal plan of choice, many residents forgo grocery shopping and, instead, dine at community restaurants for lunch and dinner. The variety of fresh, delicious dishes prepared by expert chefs in Emerson Lakes' restaurants will please every palate.There will also be an on-site medical center, staffed with medical professionals experienced in senior health care, open for flu shots, sick visits, and primary care.And thanks to the climate-controlled walkways that connect all buildings on campus, weather won't have an impact on residents' busy schedules."The weather won't keep our residents from seeing their doctor, exercising in the fitness center, participating in their favorite activities, or attending programs and events in the community," Zubowsky says.Proactive planningIf you've always envisioned maintaining an active lifestyle in retirement, Zubowsky recommends joining Emerson Lakes' Priority List.In addition to gaining right of first refusal on available floor plans, members receive exclusive community updates, like when new residence buildings are coming, and invitations to social and educational events."Emerson Lakes is already over 80% reserved in its first phase of construction. If you want to move in around the anticipated 2026 opening date, the Priority List can help," says Zubowsky. "Retirees are planning ahead so they can live independently and enjoy all that the community has to offer!"To learn more about independent senior living at Emerson Lakes, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.