Understanding Diabetes in Seniors: Symptoms, Signs, and Care

Youve probably seen the headlines everywhere: A sweeping new tax law has just been signed into effect. Its called the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and it represents one of the most significant overhauls to household finances in years. Think of it like a home renovation: The 2017 tax cuts laid the foundation, and this new law keeps that structure while adding new featuresand tearing out a few that no longer fit. Theres no denying this bill is controversial. Some people love it. Others dont. But politics aside, what really matters is this: how will it impact youyour taxes, your savings, and your financial future? Heres a quick breakdown of some key changes: Tax brackets stay the same for now, but lower income tax rates and higher standard deductions are now permanent. In 2025, the deduction increases to $15,750 for single filers and $31,500 for married couples filing jointly. State and local tax (SALT) deduction cap quadruplesjumping from $10,000 to $40,000 in 2025, with annual increases through 2029. Bigger breaks for seniors: If youre 65 or older, you may qualify for an additional $6,000 deduction, depending on income. New help for families: The Child Tax Credit increases to $2,200, and every baby born between 20252028 will receive a $1,000 Trump Account to help jumpstart their savings. Major changes to student loans: Repayment plans like SAVE and PAYE are being phased out, PLUS loan caps are coming, and the Grad PLUS program ends July 1, 2026. 529 plans are more flexible: They can now be used for K12 tuition (up to $20,000), educational therapies, and more. Temporary perks & disappearing credits: New deductions apply to tipped income, overtime, and U.S.-made car loans, while credits for EVs and clean energy are being phased out. This is a massive piece of legislationover 900 pageswith some changes taking effect immediately and others rolling out in 2026. While the political debates dominate the headlines, the impact is deeply personal. The good news? You dont have to navigate these changes alone. With a law this complex, reviewing how it affects your individual financial situation is critical. Whether its adjusting your savings strategy, exploring new deductions, or planning for future tax breaks, we can help you create a plan that keeps you ahead of these changes. If youd like to talk through what this means for you, lets connect. Warmly, Dianne Odom, CPA, CFS Karen Roberts, ChFC DPO Wealth Management 12500 Brantley Commons Court, Suite ST Fort Myers, FL 33907 239-970-1711

Exercise offers numerous health benefits, including lowering blood pressure, managing weight, and reducing stress. Another key benefit is its role in preventing type 2 diabetes. Fortunately, exercise doesnt need to be intense or strenuous to be effective. Activities like walking, gardening, or other enjoyable forms of light exercise can be just as beneficial. However, people with diabetes should keep certain considerations in mind while exercising.Important Considerations for Exercising with Diabetes:Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is especially important for people with diabetes, as they are more prone to dehydration. Be sure to drink water before and after exercise, and take a water break every 20 minutes during physical activity.Foot Care: Pay attention to your feet. Physical activity can sometimes lead to redness, blisters, or sores. If you notice any sores that arent healing, contact your doctor for guidance.Monitor Blood Glucose Levels: Its crucial to test your blood sugar levels before and after exercise to ensure they are within a safe range. Monitoring your glucose levels helps you understand how exercise affects your body.Consult a Healthcare Professional: Before starting any exercise program, consult a doctor or physical therapist. They can advise you on which exercises are most suitable based on your individual health status.Exercise can greatly benefit people with diabetes, but staying mindful of these key considerations will help make it both safe and effective.

Parkinsons Disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and coordination. Early signs may include tremors, slowed movement, stiffness, and changes in speech or facial expression. While there is no cure, therapy can significantly improve quality of life. Physical, occupational, and speech therapy can help patients maintain independence, manage symptoms, and slow disease progression. Mind & Mobility is a leading provider of Parkinsons therapy in Florida, offering both in-home and outpatient services.Physical therapy for Parkinsons focuses on improving gait, strength, posture, and flexibility. Therapists may use exercises such as large-amplitude movement training, resistance training, and gait re-education. These interventions help reduce rigidity and improve stride length and balance.Occupational therapy supports patients in performing everyday activities like dressing, writing, and meal preparation. Therapists may recommend adaptive tools and suggest ways to modify the environment to enhance safety and ease.Speech therapy addresses soft speech (hypophonia), swallowing issues, and communication challenges. Techniques such as LSVT LOUD can improve vocal projection and clarity. Swallowing therapy helps avoid complications like aspiration. An early multidisciplinary approach is critical. The sooner therapy begins, the more effective it can be in maintaining function and independence. Regular reassessments ensure the therapy plan evolves with the patients needs. Ultimately, personalized therapy can make a powerful difference in slowing Parkinsons impact and preserving quality of life.In addition to therapy, understanding the stages of Parkinsons Disease can help patients and caregivers anticipate changes and plan accordingly. The Hoehn and Yahr scale, commonly used to classify disease progression, ranges from Stage 1 (mild symptoms affecting one side of the body) to Stage 5 (severe disability requiring full-time care). Each stage brings unique challenges, and therapy plans must evolve to meet the changing needs of the individual.Non-motor symptomssuch as sleep disturbances, constipation, depression, anxiety, and cognitive changesare also common in Parkinsons and often under-recognized. These symptoms can significantly affect quality of life, even when motor symptoms are well managed. Occupational therapists often help address fatigue, energy conservation, and task sequencing, while speech therapists may work on strategies for cognitive-communication deficits. Mental health support and regular medical follow-up are critical.Medications like levodopa remain the cornerstone of Parkinsons treatment, but they are most effective when paired with an active therapy regimen. Exercise, especially high-intensity aerobic activity, has been shown to promote neuroplasticity and may help slow the diseases progression. Programs like Rock Steady Boxing, dance therapy, and aquatic exercise have grown in popularity for their ability to combine movement with enjoyment and social interaction.Caregiver education is another essential component of treatment. Therapists can train family members and aides in safe transfer techniques, cueing strategies, and environmental modifications to prevent falls and reduce caregiver strain. Support groups also provide valuable emotional reinforcement and shared resources for both patients and caregivers.Finally, technology is playing a growing role in Parkinsons management. From smartwatches that track movement patterns to apps that guide home exercise routines, digital tools can enhance therapy compliance and symptom monitoring. Telehealth therapy services are also expanding access to care for those with limited mobility or transportation challenges.The journey with Parkinsons is different for everyone, but early intervention, personalized therapy, and a proactive care plan can dramatically improve outcomes. By integrating physical, occupational, and speech therapy from the onset, individuals with Parkinsons can extend their independence, maintain dignity, and preserve their sense of identity far longer than previously thought possible.Mind & Mobility is a leading provider of Parkinsons therapy in Florida, offering both in-home and outpatient services. With a team of expert physical, occupational, and speech therapistsincluding those certified in LSVT BIG and LOUDMind & Mobility is committed to helping individuals with Parkinsons Disease maintain independence, improve quality of life, and age with dignity. Whether you need intensive one-on-one treatment or ongoing support, Parkinsons therapy in Florida from Mind & Mobility ensures care thats compassionate, evidence-based, and tailored to your journey.