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In today’s digital age, social media is a great way
for seniors to stay connected to friends and family. With the right guidance,
seniors can join platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and
YouTube to create connections online. Although some may be hesitant to start
using social media, it is important that they understand how beneficial it can
be for finding new ways to connect with those they care about.
Getting Started with Social Media
For those who have never used social media before, the first
step is to find what will work best for them. There are many platforms
available for seniors to choose from; however, the most popular options are
generally Facebook and YouTube. Both of these sites offer easy-to-navigate
interfaces that allow users to quickly get up and running without needing any
prior experience. Additionally, both sites have dedicated support teams that
can answer questions or provide help if needed.
Once signed up, seniors can start sharing messages with friends
and family members all over the world in just a few clicks. Through instant
messaging apps like Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp, seniors can stay in touch
with loved ones no matter where they are located. This makes it easier than
ever before for seniors to stay connected even when they cannot physically meet
up in person due to distance or other factors such as health concerns.
Building Connections Online
In addition to connecting with those who are already part of
their lives, social media also provides an opportunity for seniors to make new
connections. For example, on Facebook, there are numerous groups available for
people in similar life stages or situations who want to share experiences or
ask questions from other members of the group. This type of networking not only
provides valuable knowledge but offers a great way for seniors to build
relationships with others outside of their immediate circle of friends and
family members.
Social media is an invaluable tool that allows seniors to stay
connected and make meaningful connections online—no matter where they live!
From staying in touch with loved ones through instant messaging apps to joining
interest groups on Facebook and YouTube dedicated specifically towards baby
boomers or adults aged 50+, social media offers a plethora of opportunities for
anyone looking to strengthen their online presence while enjoying the
convenience of connecting virtually from anywhere in the world!
While staying active on social media is fun and rewarding, there
are certain risks that all users should take into account—especially when it
comes to seniors. Read on to learn more about the potential pitfalls of social
media for seniors and how best to protect yourself online.
Keep Information Private
When creating a profile, it’s important to make sure your
personal information is kept private and that your passwords are secure.
Sharing too much information or using weak passwords could leave you vulnerable
to hackers or scammers.
Be Careful Who You Interact With
Another important safety measure is being careful who you
interact with online. In today’s digital world, it can be difficult to know if
someone is who they say they are--which means you should always exercise
caution before engaging with strangers online or accepting friend requests from
people you don’t know in real life. A
Keep Your Software Up-to-Date
Finally, one of the most effective ways for seniors to stay safe
online is by making sure their software is up-to-date at all times. This
includes things like anti-virus software, firewalls, browsers, etc., which help
protect against malicious attacks and hackers trying to gain access to
sensitive data or personal information stored on your devices. Make sure all
your devices have the latest version of any necessary software installed so you
can rest easy knowing your data is safe and secure at all times.
Social media has many benefits for seniors—from staying connected with loved ones near and far away to exploring new interests— allowing everyone to stay safe when using these networks. By understanding the risks associated with using social media platforms, carefully monitoring who interacts with you online, and keeping all software up-to-date, seniors can better protect themselves while still enjoying all the perks that come along with being active on social media!
Fear and greed are hard to overcome. Why do we let these emotions control our decision-making process when it comes to our financial well-being? Do we fear that when there is a market correction it is a sign of impending global doom? As a part of our emotional make-up, we have a tendency to linearly extrapolate. When things are going bad, they will only get worse, and when things are going well, they will only get better. We know that our past experiences tell us neither scenario is true, but we continue to fall into the same trap time and time again.At some point we have to come to the realization that market movements are part of the investment process, and the only way to prosper long-term is to eliminate the emotions that will make us buy high and sell low. The way to control emotions is to have a disciplined approach. Discipline puts us in control, not our emotions.Controlling our emotions helps us in all facets of life, and is a key element in understanding the Psychology of Investing. Investment decisions are similar to decisions regarding friends and family. Dont try to resolve an issue when emotional, BE DISCIPLINED. The Psychology of Investing is nothing more than an understanding of the emotions that influence our decisions. Buying high and selling low is not the inverse of buying low and selling high, but is an actualization of our emotions. Be disciplined in your decision making. Use fact and reason to the best of your ability and endeavor to understand, and by understanding, control your emotions. The Psychology of Investing is the first chapter in a book titled The Ten Commandments of Investing, a book that offers a unique perspective on investing by Al Weber, Senior Vice President at Raymond James. It is available in electronic format, at no charge, by requesting it at Katie.Burr@RaymondJames.com. Editors Note: This article was submitted by Erin Weber, CFP. Erin is a Financial Advisor with the Weber Group of Raymond James. She may be reached at 878.208.1285 or Erin.Weber@RaymondJames.com.Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC800 Cranberry Woods Drive, Suite 200, Cranberry Township, PA 16066Any opinions are those of Erin Weber and not necessarily those of Raymond James. This material is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. See ad on page 112.
The search for the right primary care doctor can feel overwhelming. Many patients express frustration with long wait times, short visits, and difficulty accessing their physician when they need them most. In todays fast-paced healthcare environment, finding a doctor who prioritizes patient care is more important than ever. One emerging alternative is Direct Primary Care (DPC), a model that shifts the focus back to the patient by eliminating insurance hassles. Instead of dealing with copays and billing, patients pay a flat monthly fee for direct access to their doctor, longer appointment times, and a more personalized healthcare experience. Availability and Access How long will it take to get your first appointment? Some traditional practices have months-long waits. In contrast, DPC providers typically offer initial visits within a week, ensuring you receive care when you need it. Office Experience Time spent in the waiting room can be a major frustration. In conventional practices, patients may wait an hour or more before seeing the doctor. DPC practices prioritize efficiency, often reducing wait times to just minutes. Time With Your Doctor Short, rushed appointments can leave patients feeling unheard. In many traditional offices, physicians are booked in 15- to 20-minute intervals, limiting discussion time. DPC physicians often schedule longer visits sometimes up to an hourallowing for in-depth conversations, thorough exams, and more thoughtful treatment plans. Communication and Follow-Up Reaching your doctor can be a challenge. Many patients endure long hold times or leave messages that go unanswered. In the DPC model, direct communication is key. Patients often have access via phone, email, or text for prompt, personalized care. Urgent Needs Medical concerns dont always arise during business hours. Traditional practices may not offer same-day visits, pushing patients toward urgent care or ERs. DPC providers aim to accommodate same- or next-day appointments, reducing unnecessary trips and ensuring continuity of care. Choosing a primary care doctor is personal. Look for a physician who is experienced, accessible, compassionate, and committed to your well-being. Asking the right questionsand exploring models like DPCcan lead to a more satisfying healthcare experience. Editors Note: This article was written by Dr. Rebecca L. Byard, Family Medicine Doctor with Direct Care Physicians of Pittsburgh. She can be reached at 412-892-9170 or visit their website at wwwdirectcarepgh.com. See ad on pages 2-3.
What if picking up prescriptions felt less like an errand and more like catching up with a trusted friend? Thats exactly the experience Blueberry Pharmacy is creating for patients in the Pittsburgh area and its changing the way people think about pharmacy care. In a world where healthcare feels rushed and impersonal, Blueberry Pharmacy stands out by bringing warmth, transparency, and genuine connection back into the equation. This isnt your average corner drugstore. From the moment you call and speak to a real person, youll notice the difference. The pharmacists take time to answer questions, flag concerns, and ensure prescriptions are both affordable and safe. Their cost-plus pricing model offers fair, transparent medication costs without confusing markups found at chain pharmacies. But the real value goes beyond price. Blueberrys pharmacists act as advocates, monitoring for drug interactions, duplications, and dosing issues especially important for seniors managing multiple prescriptions.When problems arise, Blueberry steps in. Instead of passing the problem along, the pharmacy team contacts physicians directly to resolve questions and ensure patients receive the right treatment without delay. Whether youre a caregiver or managing your own medications, Blueberry Pharmacy offers an experience rooted in compassion, trust, and genuine care. They believe pharmacy care should be personal, affordable, and stress-free and have built their practice on that mission. Stop by, give them a call, or explore their services online to discover how pharmacy care can be refreshingly different when people come first. Editors Note: This article was submitted by Kyle McCormick, the owner and pharmacist at Blueberry Pharmacy. Contact them at 412-612-2279, by email at info@blueberrypharmacy.com, or online at www.blueberrypharmacy.com.See ad on this page.
Senior Care Authority is a senior care consulting firm that helps families find the right care for their loved ones in the North Pittsburgh area. Their team of Certified Senior Advisors (CSAs) are experts in senior care and can help you navigate the complex healthcare system, understand your options, and make informed decisions. Senior Care Authority is committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to their clients. FINDING SENIOR LIVING OPTIONSMaking the right care decision for your loved one can be a daunting task. There are so many options; the terminology is often unfamiliar and the terrain unknown. Senior Care Authority of North Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania will streamline the process to make it easier for you to make informed choices and reduce the stress and pressure associated with such important decisions.Our team of Certified Senior Advisors carefully inspects locations from mid-to-larger size communities as well as smaller, residential care homes. We meet the staff, residents, family members when possible. State reports are reviewed to advise you of any citations or complaints issued against a particular provider. We have comprehensive knowledge and experience with all facets of senior living, from Independent Living to Personal Care and Assisted Living, to Memory Care and Skilled Nursing.Your Advisor will meet with you in person to discuss your options and then accompany you on visits to places that meet your criteria. We ensure that all your questions are answered and assist with paperwork and negotiations. The hallmark of our service commitment is that we are by your side every step of the way.We are paid a referral fee by the communities and care homes so there is no cost to you for our placement services. In the rare case where we are not contracted with a community, your Advisor will let you know at the outset and explain any fees that might be incurred, should you choose that location. You can expect total transparency from us and we respect your right to choice.ELDERCARE CONSULTINGSometimes our families need help with challenging transitions, endless decision-making and navigating a complex healthcare system. This can include facilitating essential conversations between family members, locating a skilled nursing facility, home care agency or caregiver selection, long distance caregiving, finding the right resources and learning how to access them, or regular visits to your loved one, providing you with "peace of mind" when you are unable to visit. It can be comforting to have someone partner with you who is outside the emotional landscape of the family: doing research, talking to providers, organizing paperwork, or finding those "needle in a haystack" resources a go-to person you can turn to when things get overwhelming. No care plan is cookie cutter. We customize our services for your family. We are your advocates on this often difficult journey and help you track the endless details.There is no cost for an initial consultation. You and your Advisor can get to know each other and decide if working together is a good fit to meet your needs.ADVOCACYAn advocate can be a good friend to have on your side, especially when things get complicated. When navigating the healthcare system, sometimes there is so much information being offered that it is nearly impossible to hold it alone and sort out what you have been told. As your advocate and coach, we do our best to ensure that everyone understands the information being dispensed and that your questions are answered appropriately.FAMILY COACHINGA third party who is outside of the emotional landscape of the family during tough decision-making can be a great benefit. Each family has its own dynamic and a coach can help make sure everyone is heard and seen, and that everyone is treated fairly, even if you dont all agree. Your coach can help your family find consensus or at least encourage everyones point of view to be voiced and listened to calmly. We are not therapists. We are trained to empower families to move forward with whatever process is most beneficial. Initial consultations are always offered at no charge.Cara Lapic loves helping seniors and their families! Let her and her team help you.She wants to get to know your family and your unique situation and connect you with solutions that enable your family to thrive.Senior Care Authority North Pittsburgh is in its third year of business helping families. Over the years, we have helped many families along their journey, connecting them with elder law attorneys, realtors, financial and medical professionals, home care and home health professionals and a myriad of others resources too numerous to list. Many of our clients are seeking assistance with finding residential living options (e.g., Independent Living, Assisted Living / Personal Care and Memory Care). We make it our business to know the communities well and to understand their unique cultures and areas of expertise. We work hard to align individual preferences and needs to help ensure success for the family.Cara has been called "a nerd"! She is constantly studying and learning new things to support the families that she partners with. She spent almost thirty years in the financial services industry doing analytical and consultative work. She has her doctorate in Information Systems and Communications and several certifications in the senior space - Certified Senior Advisor (CSA), Certified Dementia Practitioner and is a Beyond Driving with Dignity Professional. She tells the families that the more that they share, the more she can help - and she means that. We each have a journey unique to our family Cara understands that solutions are not a one size fits all.She appreciates being part of the national Senior Care Authority Network with similarly driven and trained professionals who serve throughout the United States. She is happy to connect you with resources in your area.Cara lives in the North Pittsburgh area of Pennsylvania with her husband, Dan, two girls, Maizie Elle and Evelina Shae, two Bengal cats, Remy and Luna and a Dachshund, Ms. Molly. In her free time, Cara spends time with family and friends, and is always studying and learning new things!
Senior Care Authority is a senior care consulting firm that helps families find the right care for their loved ones in the North Pittsburgh area. Their team of Certified Senior Advisors (CSAs) are experts in senior care and can help you navigate the complex healthcare system, understand your options, and make informed decisions. Senior Care Authority is committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to their clients. FINDING SENIOR LIVING OPTIONSMaking the right care decision for your loved one can be a daunting task. There are so many options; the terminology is often unfamiliar and the terrain unknown. Senior Care Authority of North Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania will streamline the process to make it easier for you to make informed choices and reduce the stress and pressure associated with such important decisions.Our team of Certified Senior Advisors carefully inspects locations from mid-to-larger size communities as well as smaller, residential care homes. We meet the staff, residents, family members when possible. State reports are reviewed to advise you of any citations or complaints issued against a particular provider. We have comprehensive knowledge and experience with all facets of senior living, from Independent Living to Personal Care and Assisted Living, to Memory Care and Skilled Nursing.Your Advisor will meet with you in person to discuss your options and then accompany you on visits to places that meet your criteria. We ensure that all your questions are answered and assist with paperwork and negotiations. The hallmark of our service commitment is that we are by your side every step of the way.We are paid a referral fee by the communities and care homes so there is no cost to you for our placement services. In the rare case where we are not contracted with a community, your Advisor will let you know at the outset and explain any fees that might be incurred, should you choose that location. You can expect total transparency from us and we respect your right to choice.ELDERCARE CONSULTINGSometimes our families need help with challenging transitions, endless decision-making and navigating a complex healthcare system. This can include facilitating essential conversations between family members, locating a skilled nursing facility, home care agency or caregiver selection, long distance caregiving, finding the right resources and learning how to access them, or regular visits to your loved one, providing you with "peace of mind" when you are unable to visit. It can be comforting to have someone partner with you who is outside the emotional landscape of the family: doing research, talking to providers, organizing paperwork, or finding those "needle in a haystack" resources a go-to person you can turn to when things get overwhelming. No care plan is cookie cutter. We customize our services for your family. We are your advocates on this often difficult journey and help you track the endless details.There is no cost for an initial consultation. You and your Advisor can get to know each other and decide if working together is a good fit to meet your needs.ADVOCACYAn advocate can be a good friend to have on your side, especially when things get complicated. When navigating the healthcare system, sometimes there is so much information being offered that it is nearly impossible to hold it alone and sort out what you have been told. As your advocate and coach, we do our best to ensure that everyone understands the information being dispensed and that your questions are answered appropriately.FAMILY COACHINGA third party who is outside of the emotional landscape of the family during tough decision-making can be a great benefit. Each family has its own dynamic and a coach can help make sure everyone is heard and seen, and that everyone is treated fairly, even if you dont all agree. Your coach can help your family find consensus or at least encourage everyones point of view to be voiced and listened to calmly. We are not therapists. We are trained to empower families to move forward with whatever process is most beneficial. Initial consultations are always offered at no charge.Cara Lapic loves helping seniors and their families! Let her and her team help you.She wants to get to know your family and your unique situation and connect you with solutions that enable your family to thrive.Senior Care Authority North Pittsburgh is in its third year of business helping families. Over the years, we have helped many families along their journey, connecting them with elder law attorneys, realtors, financial and medical professionals, home care and home health professionals and a myriad of others resources too numerous to list. Many of our clients are seeking assistance with finding residential living options (e.g., Independent Living, Assisted Living / Personal Care and Memory Care). We make it our business to know the communities well and to understand their unique cultures and areas of expertise. We work hard to align individual preferences and needs to help ensure success for the family.Cara has been called "a nerd"! She is constantly studying and learning new things to support the families that she partners with. She spent almost thirty years in the financial services industry doing analytical and consultative work. She has her doctorate in Information Systems and Communications and several certifications in the senior space - Certified Senior Advisor (CSA), Certified Dementia Practitioner and is a Beyond Driving with Dignity Professional. She tells the families that the more that they share, the more she can help - and she means that. We each have a journey unique to our family Cara understands that solutions are not a one size fits all.She appreciates being part of the national Senior Care Authority Network with similarly driven and trained professionals who serve throughout the United States. She is happy to connect you with resources in your area.Cara lives in the North Pittsburgh area of Pennsylvania with her husband, Dan, two girls, Maizie Elle and Evelina Shae, two Bengal cats, Remy and Luna and a Dachshund, Ms. Molly. In her free time, Cara spends time with family and friends, and is always studying and learning new things!
Senior Care Authority is a senior care consulting firm that helps families find the right care for their loved ones in the Pittsburgh area. Their team of Certified Senior Advisors (CSAs) are experts in senior care and can help you navigate the complex healthcare system, understand your options, and make informed decisions. Senior Care Authority is committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to their clients. FINDING SENIOR LIVING OPTIONSMaking the right care decision for your loved one can be a daunting task. There are so many options; the terminology is often unfamiliar and the terrain unknown. Senior Care Authority of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania will streamline the process to make it easier for you to make informed choices and reduce the stress and pressure associated with such important decisions.Our team of Certified Senior Advisors carefully inspects locations from mid-to-larger size communities as well as smaller, residential care homes. We meet the staff, residents, family members when possible. State reports are reviewed to advise you of any citations or complaints issued against a particular provider. We have comprehensive knowledge and experience with all facets of senior living, from Independent Living to Assisted Living, to Memory Care and Skilled Nursing.Your Advisor will meet with you in person to discuss your options and then accompany you on visits to places that meet your criteria. We ensure that all your questions are answered, and assist with paperwork and negotiations. The hallmark of our service commitment is that we are by your side every step of the way.We are paid a referral fee by the communities and care homes so there is no cost to you for our placement services. In the rare case where we are not contracted with a community, your Advisor will let you know at the outset and explain any fees that might be incurred, should you choose that location. You can expect total transparency from us and we respect your right to choice.ELDERCARE CONSULTINGSometimes our families need help with challenging transitions, endless decision-making and navigating a complex healthcare system. This can include facilitating essential conversations between family members, locating a skilled nursing facility, home care agency or caregiver selection, long distance caregiving, finding the right resources and learning how to access them, or regular visits to your loved one, providing you with "peace of mind" when you are unable to visit. It can be comforting to have someone partner with you who is outside the emotional landscape of the family: doing research, talking to providers, organizing paperwork, or finding those "needle in a haystack" resources a go-to person you can turn to when things get overwhelming. No care plan is cookie cutter. We customize our services for your family. We are your advocates on this often difficult journey and help you track the endless details.There is no cost for an initial consultation. You and your Advisor can get to know each other and decide if working together is a good fit to meet your needs.ADVOCACYAn advocate can be a good friend to have on your side, especially when things get complicated. When navigating the healthcare system, sometimes there is so much information being offered that it is nearly impossible to hold it alone and sort out what you have been told. As your advocate and coach, we do our best to ensure that everyone understands the information being dispensed and that your questions are answered appropriately.FAMILY COACHINGA third party who is outside of the emotional landscape of the family during tough decision-making can be a great benefit. Each family has its own dynamic and a coach can help make sure everyone is heard and seen, and that everyone is treated fairly, even if you dont all agree. Your coach can help your family find consensus or at least encourage everyones point of view to be voiced and listened to calmly. We are not therapists. We are trained to empower families to move forward with whatever process is most beneficial. Initial consultations are always offered at no charge.Kathy Thompson is the owner of Senior Care Authority for the Pittsburgh area of Allegheny and Westmoreland counties. She became a Certified Senior Advisor to help families and seniors navigate the broad, confusing, and stressful decisions regarding senior living options. From her mothers fight with cancer, she has learned that life can change instantly. Her mission is to help families get the necessary resources and information they need in a timely fashion to be able to make the best educated decision for their elder parent or loved ones.Kathy understands that choosing the right senior care is a difficult decision, and she is here to help you every step of the way. Contact her for an initial consultation and see how she can make a difference for the senior in your life.