Alabama - Gulf Coast

For nearly a decade, people with disabilities have had the option to accumulate savings in a special tax-free account without risking their means-tested public benefits. In 2024, the annual limit on how much money one can deposit into these savings vehicles, known as ABLE accounts, will rise, allowing individuals to add up to $18,000 per year.What Is an ABLE Account?Many people across the disability community rely on such government assistance as Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Yet having too many assets to their name can disqualify them from receiving these often critical benefits. For example, in most states, the resource limit to qualify for Medicaid is just $2,000. In 2014, Congress signed the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act into law to help address this issue.Individuals with an ABLE account can save up to a total of $100,000, tax-free, while remaining eligible for public assistance programs. Family members, friends, and others can make contributions to the account, too. The disabled person can then use these funds to help maintain their independence by spending them on disability-related expenses, including assistive technologies, education, transportation needs, vacations, legal fees, and health care.Unlike a special needs trust (SNT), an ABLE account can be opened by the individual with the disability. This offers them considerably more control over the account funds compared with an SNT. Starting in 2024, the annual limit on contributions to ABLE accounts will be $18,000, up from $17,000 in 2023. Through the end of 2025, ABLE account owners who work can contribute their employment income to these savings vehicles even beyond the per-year deposit limit. (Learn more about these rules under the ABLE to Work Act.)The idea for these accounts derived from the concept of a 529 college savings plan. Similar to a 529 plan, funds in an ABLE account grow tax-deferred over time. In addition, each state administers its own ABLE account program.To qualify, you must meet the Social Security Administrations strict definition of disabled. You also must have incurred your disability before age 26. (Note that the age cutoff will shift to age 46 come 2026. According to estimates, this age adjustment will result in roughly 6 million more individuals becoming eligible to open these types of savings accounts.)Why Open an ABLE Account?People with disabilities are among those most at risk for financial disaster. According to research, just 10 percent of people of working age who are living with a disability are financially healthy.ABLE Accounts, or 529A accounts, can serve as a form of future financial support for these individuals. Yet the vast majority of those who could benefit from these accounts remain unaware of them. As of 2022, 8 million people were eligible for this type of account, yet a mere 120,000 had one in place.Get Support With ABLE Accounts To learn more about setting up this type of savings account, consult with Ashley Day Special Needs & Elderly Law at 251-277-3377.

Assisted Living: The MeadowsAt each of our four assisted living facilities, we are committed to bringing the best life has to offer for your latter years. Senior care is not synonymous with a nursing home. There are other options for you or your loved one when the time comes to consider transitioning from the home to a higher level of care. Perhaps you or your loved one is not at a stage in his or her life where a skilled nursing facility is needed but remaining in the home is not the best option. Assisted living options are available to help those who find themselves in between being at home and needing the services of a nursing home. It's important to understand what assisted living is and how it differs from round the clock care in a nursing home. At The Meadows, our assisted living locations across the southern portion of Alabama, we provide a variety of services to those we serve, such as: -Assistance with daily needs, such as bathing, dressing and personal care. In addition, we provide help with housekeeping and laundry, as well as transportation services. We are able to assist you or your loved one at whatever level he or she needs when it comes to these services. -Managing medication needs. Our trained staff is available to help make sure medications are taken as directed by your healthcare provider. -Activities to keep life interesting and fun - such as games, arts and crafts, day trips and exercise. The activities we offer our residents help them to easily become a part of our assisted living community, while quickly making new friends.  -A safe living environment with the senior adult is top of mind at The Meadows. Our facilities utilize safeguards such as grab bars, call systems and other features to keep you safe at all times and our living spaces take into account those who may need accommodations for wheelchairs and/or walkers. -Meals that are nutritious and delicious. Our staff provides delectable menus and scrumptious snacks for our residents. We also adhere to dietary needs for those who need special meals for management of diabetes, heart disease and more. At The Meadows, we want you or your loved one to enjoy life with assistance as needed and on your own terms. We can provide the needed level of quality care and assistance for the duration of your time in assisted living. This article was submitted by The Meadows with four locations in Alabama - Atmore, Brewton, Jackson & Monroeville.

Safe Weight Loss Strategies for Older AdultsMaintaining a healthy weight is an important goal at any age. However, as we age, it can get trickier and more challenging to drop any excess weight we may be carrying. Especially those pesky holiday pounds. When it comes to losing weight, weight loss strategies for older adults should prioritize safety and long-term health rather than quick fixes.Although they are becoming increasingly popular, weight loss drugs arent always the most effective or safest method for weight loss. The same goes for the trendy fad diets you read about online. When it comes to losing weight, you need to look at it as a marathon, not a sprint.Adopting sustainable lifestyle changes is crucial for shedding excess pounds while safeguarding against potential health risks. Whether youre looking to slim down or just maintain a healthy weight, here are some healthy and safe weight loss strategies for older adults that will help you along your journey to Better HealthPlace Focus on Balanced NutritionA well-balanced diet is the foundation for healthy weight loss. Focus on nutrient-dense foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limiting processed foods, sugary snacks, and excessive salt intake is crucial for maintaining optimal health. Set a goal to eat a piece of fruit or a vegetable at every meal and for every snack. Incorporate avocados into your diet to increase your healthy fats. Instead of white pasta or rice, swap it out for brown or whole wheat. Making little adjustments to your diet can produce big rewards for weight loss.Practice Portion ControlControlling portion sizes is vital for managing caloric intake. Losing weight is all about burning more calories than you eat or drink. And if you focus on consuming fewer calories through portion control, that will make it easier to do so. Older adults may find it helpful to use smaller plates, which can create the illusion of a fuller plate and contribute to reduced portion sizes. Additionally, paying attention to hunger and fullness cues can prevent overeating. Youve heard the saying, Eating with your eyes. Well, you want to do the exact opposite and eat with your stomach. Dont rely on visual cues like a clean plate to stop eating. Listen to your stomach and stop when you feel full.Drink Up to Stay HydratedDrinking an adequate amount of water is crucial for overall health and can support weight loss. Sometimes, the body can confuse thirst with hunger, leading to unnecessary calorie consumption. Drinking water before meals can also contribute to a feeling of fullness, reducing the likelihood of overeating. Make it a goal to increase your water intake throughout the day. If you get bored with water, try swapping still water for sparkling. If you still crave something different, drink liquids that have some sort of nutritional value, such as broth and 100% fruit juice with no added sugar. You can also hydrate through your food. Oranges and cucumbers are great foods that offer a hydration boost. Participate In Regular ExerciseEngaging in regular physical activity is essential for weight loss and maintaining muscle mass. Again you want to burn more calories than you consume. Older adults should incorporate a mix of aerobic exercises, strength training, and flexibility exercises into their routine. Its advisable to start slowly and gradually increase intensity, focusing on activities that are enjoyable and sustainable. Make realistic and attainable goals. Instead of saying youre going to work out every single day, set a goal to walk for 15 minutes three days a week. Then, gradually work up to every single day. Get Adequate SleepAdequate sleep is a crucial yet often underestimated factor in successful weight loss. Research consistently shows that insufficient sleep can disrupt hormonal balance, affecting key regulators of hunger and satiety. Furthermore, inadequate sleep can impair glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity, promoting the storage of excess calories as fat. Prioritize quality sleep by aiming for seven to nine hours of quality sleep per night. Monitor Your Progress GraduallyWeight loss strategies require monitoring your progress. However, rather than focusing solely on the scale, you should monitor progress through various measures, including changes in energy levels, improved mobility, and better overall well-being. Celebrating small victories can help maintain motivation and reinforce positive lifestyle changes. Again, losing and maintaining a healthy weight is a marathon. Consult with a Healthcare ProfessionalReady to take charge of your health and achieve your weight loss goals? Look no further! Contact a VIPcare primary care provider today at 251-257-2886 and embark on a personalized journey towards a healthier, happier you. With our expert guidance and support, together, we can make your wellness aspirations a reality. Don't wait any longeryour best self awaits!   

BOOSTING SENIOR BUDGETS  The U.S. Census revealed a troubling fact: Seniors 65+ were the only group with an increased poverty level.  Many Seniors living on fixed incomes face difficult budgeting choices as inflation continues to create hardships. Everyday, the cost of groceries, gasoline, prescription drugs, medical care and cable continues to rise. Research shows that eligible Seniors who access inflation fighting programs have overall improved health and financial stability. Eating Right When Moneys TightRising food costs are impacting Seniors more than other age groups. No program has more public misconceptions than the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). SNAP provides much needed support to thousands of Seniors 60+, however, only 30% of those eligible for the program are receiving benefits. The program has been improved for convenience and privacy and benefits can average more than $100 per month.  Certain medical eductions can actually increase benefits.  Seniors receive a debit card for tax free groceries and other eligible items, and the simplified application is renewable every 3 years. Connecting to Combat Senior IsolationThe Covid Pandemic created a need for Seniors to connect in the other ways to avoid being isolated from friends and family.  The internet is now a must have for Seniors who want to engage with loved ones and access information and entertainment. The Affordable Connectivity Program provides cost-offsets for internet services, smart phones or internet connected tablets.  Savings can be as much as $2,600 per year. Reducing Healthcare and Prescription Drug CostsSeniors need to maximize their healthcare dollars, and Alabama has programs that can save money on Medicare costs and prescription drugs. The Medicare Savings Programs saves the average Senior $2,040 in Medicare Part B premiums and/or copays and deductibles. SenioRx clients may receive a three-month supply of medication from pharmaceutical companies free or at a low cost. If you want information on any of these Inflation Fighting Programs, please contact the Area Agency on Aging at 251-706-4680/1-800-243-5463 or email aginginfo@sarpc.org.   Visit our website at www.agingsouthalabama.org and like & follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/agingsouthalabama.