﻿<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?><!--RSS Genrated: Sat, 11 Apr 2026 23:27:08 GMT--><rss version="2.0" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:ev="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/event/"><channel><title>Andrea Gallagher</title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com:443/Home/rss/author/4135/andrea-gallagher</link><atom:link href="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com:443/Home/rss/author/4135/andrea-gallagher" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /><description>RSS document</description><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[When memory changes, knowledge can become power]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/when-memory-changes-knowledge-can-become-power</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1972/worried-older-woman-1253x683.jpeg" length="15342"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ It started with a missed appointment—something small enough to brush off, yet just unusual enough to stay with her. 

 My friend Mary has always been organized, the one who keeps track of ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 16:40:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/when-memory-changes-knowledge-can-become-power</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1972]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Understanding the changes that come with age]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/understanding-the-changes-that-come-with-age</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1971/neck-xray.jpg" length="13526"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ At some point, many of us hear the same phrase after an X-ray or MRI: “You have degenerative changes.” It sounds ominous, and when you hear it - especially in connection with your spine - it can ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2026 16:42:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/understanding-the-changes-that-come-with-age</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1971]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Before saying yes to being a power of attorney or trustee]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/before-saying-yes-to-being-a-power-of-attorney-or-trustee</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1970/trust-doc2.jpg" length="7770"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Every so often someone will say to me, “My friend asked me to be their power of attorney,” or “I’ve been asked to serve as a trustee.” 

 Usually, the question that follows is simple: Should I do ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 16:31:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/before-saying-yes-to-being-a-power-of-attorney-or-trustee</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1970]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[The quiet weight of caregiving]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/the-quiet-weight-of-caregiving</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1969/mom-on-phone21.jpg" length="21805"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ My mom is 92 and, remarkably, still pretty independent. 

 She lives in her own home. She reads. She cooks. She putters. She watches her shows. She still insists she’s “fine.” And in many ways, ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 19:39:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/the-quiet-weight-of-caregiving</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1969]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[When love changes shape: dating after mate's dementia]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/when-love-changes-shape-dating-after-mates-dementia</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1968/older-man.jpg" length="7487"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Recently, a friend shared something with me that quietly broke my heart for him. 

 His wife has advanced Alzheimer’s. She lives in a care community now. She no longer recognizes him. Their ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 20:23:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/when-love-changes-shape-dating-after-mates-dementia</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1968]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[The dental gap too many seniors face]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/the-dental-gap-too-many-seniors-face</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1967/senior-woman-dental-treatment.jpg" length="13539"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ I recently had a routine dental visit turn into something much bigger. 

 What began as a simple replacement of an old filling quickly escalated into a crown - $450 out of pocket - followed by ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2026 17:46:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/the-dental-gap-too-many-seniors-face</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1967]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[How experience can strengthen our nonprofits and our communities]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/how-experience-can-strengthen-our-nonprofits-and-our-communities</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1966/volunteer_csl_photo.jpg" length="24039"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ I recently attended a gathering of local nonprofit CEOs to talk openly about the unprecedented challenges our organizations are facing today — from tightening budgets and workforce capacity concerns ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2026 19:08:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/how-experience-can-strengthen-our-nonprofits-and-our-communities</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1966]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Seeing what's ahead: Getting around as we age]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/seeing-whats-ahead-getting-around-as-we-age</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1965/shadows2.jpg" length="27271"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ I’m going to begin this column with two simple, everyday observations, both shaped by my experience as an older adult navigating our community. One happens behind the wheel. The other happens on ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 02 Jan 2026 17:35:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/seeing-whats-ahead-getting-around-as-we-age</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1965]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Social safety nets aren't always as strong as they sometimes appear]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/social-safety-nets-arent-always-as-strong-as-they-sometimes-appear</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1964/woman-with-walker.jpg" length="23900"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Many people assume that cities fund most older adult services. In reality, they do not. 

 Programs like Meals on Wheels, caregiver support, transportation assistance, home safety modifications, ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Dec 2025 18:09:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/social-safety-nets-arent-always-as-strong-as-they-sometimes-appear</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1964]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Redefining what 80 looks like]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/redefining-what-80-looks-like</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1963/older-man-volunteer2.jpeg" length="20231"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ This weekend, while doing some early holiday shopping at Macy’s, I found myself in line behind a white-haired woman using a walker, chatting cheerfully about the bargains she’d found and the gift ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 05 Dec 2025 17:23:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/redefining-what-80-looks-like</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1963]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[The heartbeat of our community: A thank you to volunteers]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/the-heartbeat-of-our-community-a-thank-you-to-volunteers</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1961/MaryDonna5.jpg" length="21868"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Every community has a heartbeat. Here in the Conejo Valley, that heartbeat is made stronger, steadier, and kinder because of the volunteers who show up—day after day, year after year—to make life ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 21 Nov 2025 17:35:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/the-heartbeat-of-our-community-a-thank-you-to-volunteers</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1961]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Everyone ages, but senior focused organizations receive little in charity]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/everyone-ages-but-senior-focused-organizations-receive-little-in-charity</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1962/older-man4.jpg" length="16826"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Every so often, I read something that makes me stop and catch my breath. 

 Recently, it was an article in  The Chronicle of Philanthropy  listing America’s 100 favorite charities. On the surface, ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 07 Nov 2025 17:42:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/everyone-ages-but-senior-focused-organizations-receive-little-in-charity</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1962]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[When "fine" isn't the whole picture]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/when-fine-isnt-the-whole-picture</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1960/dinner-party-2.jpg" length="24128"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ My friend recently had dinner with a long-time neighbor who has been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment. 

 She told me, “He carried on a good conversation all through dinner. He seemed fine ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 24 Oct 2025 19:56:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/when-fine-isnt-the-whole-picture</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1960]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Medicare open enrollment doesn’t have to be overwhelming]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/medicare-open-enrollment-doesnt-have-to-be-overwhelming</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1959/Medicare-and-You.jpg" length="15707"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ A few weeks ago, I received the thick  Medicare & You  government handbook that is mailed to every Medicare household each fall before open enrollment (Oct. 15–Dec. 7). 

 Seeing it immediately ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 10 Oct 2025 17:55:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/medicare-open-enrollment-doesnt-have-to-be-overwhelming</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1959]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Seeing clearly: How a simple magnifying glass can make a big difference]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/seeing-clearly-how-a-simple-magnifying-glass-can-make-a-big-difference</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1958/magnifying-glass2.jpg" length="20878"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ As I was struggling at work this week to read some fine print, I realized I needed the help of my twenty-something workmate, Max. It took him seconds to read what I could not. 

 I know my ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 26 Sep 2025 20:16:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/seeing-clearly-how-a-simple-magnifying-glass-can-make-a-big-difference</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1958]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Being seen helps caregivers seek support]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/being-seen-helps-caregivers-seek-support</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1957/caregiver-support-group.jpg" length="20658"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Over lunch the other day, a dear friend was talking about the fact that she has been caring for her mother since her dementia diagnosis 14 years ago. She shared key points in her journey, like when ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 12 Sep 2025 17:21:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/being-seen-helps-caregivers-seek-support</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1957]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[The quiet intimacy of caregiving]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/the-quiet-intimacy-of-caregiving</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1956/elderly-bathing.jpg" length="17436"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ I have just returned from time in New Hampshire caring for my mom. 

 In overwhelming pain, my mother became violently ill. My sister called 911, and Mom was transported to the hospital.  

 The ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 29 Aug 2025 21:31:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/the-quiet-intimacy-of-caregiving</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1956]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[When seconds count - be sure to have an emergency contact]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/when-seconds-count-be-sure-to-have-an-emergency-contact</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1955/file-of-life.jpg" length="8233"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ The Senior Concerns Director of Nutrition, who leads the Meals On Wheels program, recently asked if I would write a column about why older adults should designate an emergency contact. 

 She ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 15 Aug 2025 16:54:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/when-seconds-count-be-sure-to-have-an-emergency-contact</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1955]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Age and reliance go hand in hand]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/age-and-reliance-go-hand-in-hand</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1954/arthritic-hand.jpg" length="14024"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Just when I begin to wonder what to write about next, life offers up a moment -a lesson- and I am reminded that these everyday experiences often hold meaning worth sharing. 

 Last week, my mom, ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 01 Aug 2025 17:31:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/age-and-reliance-go-hand-in-hand</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1954]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[When making Medicare choices, don’t go it alone]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/when-making-medicare-choices-dont-go-it-alone</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1953/cobra-and-medicare-2.jpeg" length="10303"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ I have been on the phone with my sister for the last few days. She has some big decisions to make about her Medicare coverage, and it can be a confusing process. 

 My sister turns 65 in October.  ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 18 Jul 2025 17:37:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/when-making-medicare-choices-dont-go-it-alone</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1953]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Beyond books:  E-readers open a new chapter for older adults]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/beyond-books-e-readers-open-a-new-chapter-for-older-adults</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1952/kindle.jpg" length="23214"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ As I sit down to write this column, I’m looking forward to my book club meeting tonight. 

 I love books. While as a group, we may only read four to five books a year, I read about 40. This year, ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 04 Jul 2025 17:49:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/beyond-books-e-readers-open-a-new-chapter-for-older-adults</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1952]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[You’re not too old for hearing aids—only too young to miss out on life]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/youre-not-too-old-for-hearing-aidsonly-too-young-to-miss-out-on-life</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1951/mom-hearing-aid.jpg" length="20095"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ At age 91, my mother finally got hearing aids. 

 It wasn’t the well-reasoned arguments that my sisters and I espoused, such as: 

  Hearing loss is strongly linked to dementia and cognitive ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 20 Jun 2025 16:44:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/youre-not-too-old-for-hearing-aidsonly-too-young-to-miss-out-on-life</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1951]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Discharged from the hospital: what happens after that?]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/discharged-from-the-hospital-what-happens-after-that</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1950/hospitalized.jpg" length="22023"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ I recently received a letter from a reader concerned about a problem some of her friends are facing. Either they—or their spouse—have been released from the hospital but remain weak and in need of ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 06 Jun 2025 22:47:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/discharged-from-the-hospital-what-happens-after-that</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1950]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Enjoying the journey, including age mix-ups and misjudgements]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/enjoying-the-journey-including-age-mix-ups-and-misjudgements</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1949/embarassed-woman.png" length="97062"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Have you ever encountered a circumstance that totally alters your view of yourself, challenges your existing beliefs, and causes you to reevaluate your understanding of yourself and your place in ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 23 May 2025 17:26:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/enjoying-the-journey-including-age-mix-ups-and-misjudgements</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1949]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Building resilience in uncertain times]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/building-resilience-in-uncertain-times</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1948/cronkite_wide.jpg" length="13314"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ For many of us, uncertainty is at an all-time high. Well, at least for me. 

 Whether one is feeling the unpredictability of politics, economic instability, global tensions, or situations ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 09 May 2025 17:35:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/building-resilience-in-uncertain-times</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1948]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Finding hope at Supervisor’s meeting]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/finding-hope-at-supervisors-meeting</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1947/hope.png" length="255889"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Recently, I attended the Ventura County Board of Supervisors meeting. My coworker Julie and I were honored to accept a proclamation celebrating Senior Concerns’ 50 years of service to seniors and ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 18 Apr 2025 19:52:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/finding-hope-at-supervisors-meeting</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1947]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Empowering caregivers: A vital necessity for our future]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/empowering-caregivers-a-vital-necessity-for-our-future</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1946/emma-heming.jpg" length="22381"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ That role may include physical assistance, emotional support, advocacy and care coordination, health monitoring, and long-term care planning. 

 For many of us who have assumed the role of family ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 04 Apr 2025 16:33:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/empowering-caregivers-a-vital-necessity-for-our-future</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1946]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Patients struggle to retain medical information]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/patients-struggle-to-retain-medical-information</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1945/medical-information.jpg" length="22196"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Whose responsibility is it to remind older adult patients of their next programmed appointment? 

 Let’s say a patient is supposed to have an in-office procedure every six months. For whatever ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 21 Mar 2025 17:51:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/patients-struggle-to-retain-medical-information</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1945]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Tidbits]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/tidbits</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1944/tidbit.jpg" length="6110"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Every so often, I think of topics that are not deep enough to be the subject of an entire column but may be noteworthy. 

 I call these tidbits because they are small and interesting items of ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 07 Mar 2025 16:53:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/tidbits</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1944]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Personal control is important for older adults]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/personal-control-is-important-for-older-adults</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1943/National-Senior-Independence-Month-21924.jpg" length="29741"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ The other day I was talking to my mom about a challenging interaction I was having with a gentleman. My mom was amused at this person’s bad behavior. 

 I jokingly told my mother, “If you think he ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 21 Feb 2025 18:21:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/personal-control-is-important-for-older-adults</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1943]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Federal funding pause could affect local seniors' food source]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/federal-funding-pause-could-affect-local-seniors-food-source</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1942/MealaOnWheelsWEBSITE.jpg" length="15381"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Last week, the administration sent a memo seeking to pause potentially trillions of dollars in government loans, grants, and financial assistance. That memo was later rescinded, but it did create ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 07 Feb 2025 17:26:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/federal-funding-pause-could-affect-local-seniors-food-source</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1942]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[When is a house not a home?]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/when-is-a-house-not-a-home</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1941/wheelchair.jpg" length="14308"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ When I consider the word “home” it conjures up a safe haven. A place where one can live alone or with loved ones and a place to enjoy with friends. It’s a place to build memories and a place where ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 24 Jan 2025 21:04:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/when-is-a-house-not-a-home</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1941]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Well meaning retirement questions can be jarring]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/well-meaning-retirement-questions-can-be-jarring</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1940/retirement.jpg" length="29737"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ A friend stopped by over the holidays to say hello. 

 I knew her from work activities, and we became friends, grabbing lunch occasionally and sharing anecdotes about our lives. She was a highly ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 10 Jan 2025 17:00:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/well-meaning-retirement-questions-can-be-jarring</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1940]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Holidays can stir up a range of emotions in all of us]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/holidays-can-stir-up-a-range-of-emotions-in-all-of-us</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1939/woman-with-cane.jpg" length="11170"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ My friend recently shared with me that after making plans for her mother and father to come to her house for Christmas, they unexpectedly changed their mind and told her they weren’t coming. 

 ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 27 Dec 2024 17:37:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/holidays-can-stir-up-a-range-of-emotions-in-all-of-us</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1939]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Don't jump to conclusions about a loved one's symptoms]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/dont-jump-to-conclusions-about-a-loved-ones-symptoms</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1938/swollen-feet.jpg" length="6275"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Right after the Thanksgiving holiday, while we were chatting on the phone, I asked my 90-year-old mother what she was doing. 

 She told me she was in the den in her recliner with her feet ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 13 Dec 2024 21:37:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/dont-jump-to-conclusions-about-a-loved-ones-symptoms</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1938]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Hospital discharge planning:  successful transitions are key]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/hospital-discharge-planning-successful-transitions-are-key</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1937/Hospital-Discharge-Planning.jpg" length="18986"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Recently, my mother’s 88-year-old sister fell. 

 As she went down, her husband said, “You just broke your hip.” 

 I am not sure if being a medic in the army sixty years ago qualified him to ...]]></description><pubDate>Sat, 30 Nov 2024 00:49:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/hospital-discharge-planning-successful-transitions-are-key</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1937]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Tact is key when having tough conversations]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/tact-is-key-when-having-tough-conversations</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1936/mother-and-daughter.jpg" length="15041"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[  Conversations with aging parents require compassion  

  I recently witnessed a conversation at a restaurant between a woman and her mother. The woman appeared to be in her fifties or sixties and ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 15 Nov 2024 19:10:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/tact-is-key-when-having-tough-conversations</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1936]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Carving out "me time" has many mental health benefits]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/carving-out-me-time-has-many-mental-health-benefits</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1935/alone-time.png" length="200106"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ While a lot is being said these days about the effects of loneliness and social isolation on older adults’ mental and physical health, I am going to turn to the other side of the coin for a moment. ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 25 Oct 2024 19:22:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/carving-out-me-time-has-many-mental-health-benefits</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1935]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[DMV drops written test for most senior drivers]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/dmv-drops-written-test-for-most-senior-drivers</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1934/permit-test-rv-5ace2e4c36ad8.jpeg" length="13480"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ It is my family’s belief that my mother is the best driver among us. 

 In addition to a spotless driving record, when she parks her car at her house, she must back into a tiny one car garage that ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 11 Oct 2024 18:07:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/dmv-drops-written-test-for-most-senior-drivers</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1934]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Getting a grey divorce requires financial planning]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/getting-a-grey-divorce-requires-financial-planning</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1933/grey-divorce.jpg" length="16566"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ A few weeks ago, I attended the national conference of the Society for Certified Senior Advisors. 

 The Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)® credential can be earned by professionals by demonstrating ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 27 Sep 2024 20:10:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/getting-a-grey-divorce-requires-financial-planning</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1933]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Get educated about sepsis and you might just save a life]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/get-educated-about-sepsis-and-you-might-just-save-a-life</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1932/Sepsis2.jpg" length="5490"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Many years ago, I volunteered at a hospital.  

 One of my duties was filling in for the floor secretary (remember, it was years ago) when she went to lunch or was on break. 

 As part of the ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 13 Sep 2024 20:09:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/get-educated-about-sepsis-and-you-might-just-save-a-life</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1932]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Age is just a number that can be added up different ways]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/age-is-just-a-number-that-can-be-added-up-different-ways</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1931/age.jpg" length="6404"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ How old are you?  

 Well, that depends on what’s being measured. 

 Aging is the process of getting older. Old age is less defined. People do not become "older" or "elderly" at any specific ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 30 Aug 2024 17:52:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/age-is-just-a-number-that-can-be-added-up-different-ways</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1931]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[The healing power of memories]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/the-healing-power-of-memories</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1930/Mom-birthday-2.jpg" length="24799"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ I just returned from possibly the best vacation of my life. 

 The memories I brought back will stay with me forever. 

 The trip began with the culmination of six months of planning for a big ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 16 Aug 2024 17:42:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/the-healing-power-of-memories</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1930]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Mini horses, big hearts]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/mini-horses-big-hearts</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1929/Horse.jpg" length="24748"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ For the last couple of weeks, Senior Concerns’ Adult Day participants have had been treated to two special guests. Their names are Romeo and Ziggy, and both are wonderful visitors – kind, friendly, ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 02 Aug 2024 18:23:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/mini-horses-big-hearts</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1929]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Do memory problems come with age?]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/do-memory-problems-come-with-age</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1928/memory-loss.jpg" length="13707"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ With the issue front and center in President Joe Biden's bid for reelection, discussiions about age-related memory challenges are receiving much attention these days. 

 Here at Senior Concerns, ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jul 2024 22:08:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/do-memory-problems-come-with-age</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1928]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Love knows no age]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/love-knows-no-age</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1927/IMG_3853-1.jpeg" length="35381"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ The other day my husband and I were having a very early dinner at one of the restaurants on Westlake Lake. Because it was so early, we were the only customers in the restaurant. 

 In walked a ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 05 Jul 2024 18:55:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/love-knows-no-age</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1927]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Be open to the insights that come with aging]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/be-open-to-the-insights-that-come-with-aging</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1926/grad.png" length="3414"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ My grand-nephew Wyatt celebrated his graduation from pre-kindergarten (pre-K) last week. 

 According to my niece, it was an adorable commemoration. Children were seated in front of the parents ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 21 Jun 2024 18:15:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/be-open-to-the-insights-that-come-with-aging</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1926]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[“Dem bones” can cause pain as we age]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/dem-bones-can-cause-pain-as-we-age</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1925/dem-bones.jpg" length="18874"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Our body is a wonderous interconnected organism. 

 We learned that fact as kids. Remember that old song, “Dem Bones.” The leg bone's connected to the knee bone. The knee bone's connected to the ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 07 Jun 2024 17:56:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/dem-bones-can-cause-pain-as-we-age</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1925]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Older Americans Month is a time for connection]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/older-americans-month-is-a-time-for-connection</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1924/Finished-ramp.jpg" length="28378"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ May is Older Americans Month, a time to recognize older Americans' contributions and reaffirm commitments to serving the older adults in our communities. 

 My heart is always uplifted when I hear ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 24 May 2024 17:40:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/older-americans-month-is-a-time-for-connection</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1924]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Lessons learned for keeping loved ones safe]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/lessons-learned-for-keeping-loved-ones-safe</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1923/emergency-alert-button.jpg" length="9012"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ My friend Ronnie and her sister just signed their mom up for a personal emergency alert system. It’s the kind that hangs around your neck and will signal the company if you press the button. 

 An ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 03 May 2024 16:53:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/lessons-learned-for-keeping-loved-ones-safe</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1923]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Local support for caregivers awaits]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/local-support-for-caregivers-awaits</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1922/male-caregiver.jpg" length="16384"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ My husband and I have established roles in our daily lives. I am the shopper, the cook, and the social secretary. My husband is the accountant, the contract reader, and the sprinkler repair man. Our ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Apr 2024 16:34:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/local-support-for-caregivers-awaits</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1922]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[End of life talks are difficult but important]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/end-of-life-talks-are-difficult-but-important</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1921/end-of-life-conversation.png" length="242164"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ I am unsure how it came to be, but over the last number of years I have become rather involved in the topic of end-of-life choices. 

 For one, I sit on the Steering Committee for the Ventura ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 05 Apr 2024 17:32:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/end-of-life-talks-are-difficult-but-important</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1921]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Beware of the unknown about COBRA and Medicare]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/beware-of-the-unknown-about-cobra-and-medicare</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1920/cobra-and-medicare.jpeg" length="10303"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ As a recently unemployed older worker, you have options for health insurance, but read the fine print. It will be crucial. 

 If you were part of a group health insurance plan sponsored by your ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 22 Mar 2024 19:37:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/beware-of-the-unknown-about-cobra-and-medicare</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1920]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[As an older worker the choice to leave your job may not be your own]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/as-an-older-worker-the-choice-to-leave-your-job-may-not-be-your-own</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1919/unemployment.jpg" length="7847"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ In 1988, at the age of 58, my father was laid off from his job as a lighting engineer at GTE Sylvania. Thus began his forced retirement. 

 My mother worked two more years and left her job in the ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 01 Mar 2024 18:10:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/as-an-older-worker-the-choice-to-leave-your-job-may-not-be-your-own</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1919]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Men are reluctant to share health concerns]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/men-are-reluctant-to-share-health-concerns</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1918/fear-going-to-doctor.jpg" length="18103"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ I’d like to start a campaign to encourage older men to address their health issues with their doctor. 

 I have a dear sixty-something friend who recently expressed frustration because her husband ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 16 Feb 2024 18:56:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/men-are-reluctant-to-share-health-concerns</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1918]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Be diligent when taking generic medications]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/be-diligent-when-taking-generic-medications</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1917/generic-medication.jpg" length="18071"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ When it comes to taking prescription medications, I am fortunate that I take only one medication and it’s a generic one. 

 I have taken this medication for years now. Each time I get a refill, I ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 02 Feb 2024 18:15:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/be-diligent-when-taking-generic-medications</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1917]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Financial planning for solo agers]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/financial-planning-for-solo-agers</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1916/solo-ager-finances.jpg" length="15308"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Last week my husband and I joined a Zoom call with my mother and her financial advisor. It was an annual call to go over my mom’s needs and goals in the coming year. My husband and I are my mother’s ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 19 Jan 2024 20:44:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/financial-planning-for-solo-agers</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1916]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[For older adults, preparing for doctor’s appointments is essential]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/for-older-adults-preparing-for-doctors-appointments-is-essential</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1915/dr-appt-2.png" length="254125"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ I call January my health month because it is when I schedule my annual doctor appointments, with my primary care physician as well as the specialists I see. 

 One certainty is that almost all of ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 05 Jan 2024 21:15:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/for-older-adults-preparing-for-doctors-appointments-is-essential</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1915]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[What’s in your purse or wallet?]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/whats-in-your-purse-or-wallet</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1914/purse.jpg" length="22194"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Years ago, I remember getting permission to go into my mother’s purse to get a piece of gum or hard candy.  

 Inside was a veritable treasure trove of items for a young girl to examine. Lipstick, ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 22 Dec 2023 17:42:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/whats-in-your-purse-or-wallet</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1914]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Getting organized can boost wellbeing]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/getting-organized-can-boost-wellbeing</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1913/getting-organized.jpg" length="25307"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ If you are not traveling to see family or have relatives staying with you over this holiday, you may have some downtime on your hands. 

 When many of us are juggling schedules and working on a ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 01 Dec 2023 20:24:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/getting-organized-can-boost-wellbeing</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1913]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[The benefits of lipreading for older adults]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/the-benefits-of-lipreading-for-older-adults</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1912/lipreading.jpg" length="18460"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Many older adults are relieved that most people no longer feel the need to wear face masks. 

 The reason is one you may not suspect; Unmasking gives us the ability to lipread. 

 Lipreading is ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 09 Nov 2023 21:53:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/the-benefits-of-lipreading-for-older-adults</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1912]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Successful aging role models can inspire]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/successful-aging-role-models-can-inspire</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1911/tina-turner.jpg" length="22120"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Ageist thinking has been a staple of American culture for hundreds of years. 

 How many times have we heard these sentiments being touted as facts? Being old is a bad thing; older adults aren’t ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 26 Oct 2023 21:27:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/successful-aging-role-models-can-inspire</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1911]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[A train trip may create lasting memories]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/a-train-trip-may-create-lasting-memories</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1910/surfliner.jpeg" length="20142"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Many years ago, when my husband Peter and I lived in New Jersey, he took the train to Manhattan for work. 

 It was far from a glamorous experience. 

 Cutting it close each day, (because he ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 13 Oct 2023 17:24:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/a-train-trip-may-create-lasting-memories</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1910]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Beware, mail fraud is on the rise]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/beware-mail-fraud-is-on-the-rise</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1909/usps-collection-box.jpg" length="27873"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ My husband and I became recent victims of check fraud. 

 Our story begins a month ago when I wrote a check out to a company who will be doing some work for us later this year. The contract ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 28 Sep 2023 21:19:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/beware-mail-fraud-is-on-the-rise</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1909]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Addressing women’s concerns about planning for their future]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/addressing-womens-concerns-about-planning-for-their-future</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1908/solo-aging.jpg" length="14551"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Recently, a female friend asked me if there is a book she can read to learn about the things she should be doing to plan now that she is getting older. She mentioned that she has other single female ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 14 Sep 2023 18:12:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/addressing-womens-concerns-about-planning-for-their-future</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1908]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Does our world shrink as we get older]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/does-our-world-shrink-as-we-get-older</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1907/older-drivers.jpg" length="71991"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ A few weeks ago, my husband and I went to visit my sister in Del Mar. 

 Though I love my sister and we are very close. I knew we hadn’t been to see them in quite a while, but I was shocked to ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 24 Aug 2023 20:31:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/does-our-world-shrink-as-we-get-older</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1907]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Problem solving means honoring others’ choices]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/problem-solving-means-honoring-others-choices</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1906/heavy-purse-lg.jpg" length="19477"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Early in my career working with older adults, it was my strong belief that if a person needed help, and we were able to offer it, it should be provided. 

 However, several times our efforts were ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 10 Aug 2023 20:54:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/problem-solving-means-honoring-others-choices</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1906]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Information overload may come at a cost]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/information-overload-may-come-at-a-cost</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1905/info-overload.png" length="146492"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ If you are anything like me, your mailbox and email in box are filled with statements every month. 

 They arrive for credit cards, banks, investments, utilities, service providers, and more. 

 ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 27 Jul 2023 22:46:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/information-overload-may-come-at-a-cost</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1905]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Funerals can be a time for reflection]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/funerals-can-be-a-time-for-reflection</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1904/funeral-gathering.jpeg.jpg" length="21330"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ I recently attended a celebration of life for an acquaintance. She was a lovely woman who lived a full life filled with family, close friends, travel, and lots of fun and adventure.  

 She was ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 13 Jul 2023 21:38:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/funerals-can-be-a-time-for-reflection</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1904]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Working from home uncovers cost saving opportunities]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/working-from-home-uncovers-cost-saving-opportunities</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1903/water-heater.jpg" length="17961"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ My husband Peter has been working from home for quite some time now. Mid pandemic he joined a new firm in a remote job. His company is headquartered in New York City. 

 Unlike me, he’s the kind ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 22 Jun 2023 19:45:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/working-from-home-uncovers-cost-saving-opportunities</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1903]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[The gift of friendship - asking tough questions]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/the-gift-of-friendship-asking-tough-questions</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/1902/woman-thinking-3.jpg" length="11194"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ My friend, a fellow solo-ager (older adult without children), recently asked me some provocative questions. 

 They were, I think, a sign of the times that people are broadening their thinking ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 25 May 2023 17:32:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/the-gift-of-friendship-asking-tough-questions</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-1902]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Reaching 65 comes with perks as well as reality checks]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/reaching-65-comes-with-perks-as-well-as-reality-checks</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/902/65th.jpg" length="22260"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Here’s a question for you, what do I have in common with Madonna, Ellen DeGeneres, and Jamie Lee Curtis? 

 How about Kevin Bacon, Alec Baldwin, and Drew Carey? 

 If you guessed that we are all ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 21 Apr 2023 16:36:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/reaching-65-comes-with-perks-as-well-as-reality-checks</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-902]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Contemplating the yin and yang of rain]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/contemplating-the-yin-and-yang-of-rain</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/901/rainfall.jpg" length="13354"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ If you are feeling very good or very bad these days, it may be due to the recent rains. 

 Take it from two musical camps. In his hit “Laughter in the Rain,” Neil Sedaka croons  “Ooh, how I love ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 06 Apr 2023 20:56:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/contemplating-the-yin-and-yang-of-rain</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-901]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Dealing with guilt, a common emotion for caregivers]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/dealing-with-guilt-a-common-emotion-for-caregivers</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/900/caregiver-guilt.jpg" length="11958"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ My mother’s recent visit from New Hampshire was one of the highlights of my year thus far, but I can’t help but feel some guilt as I look back upon her stay. 

 Before she came, I was committed to ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 16 Mar 2023 20:04:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/dealing-with-guilt-a-common-emotion-for-caregivers</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-900]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Nutrition requirements change as we age]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/nutrition-requirements-change-as-we-age</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/899/chicken-noodle-soup-meta.jpg" length="149479"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Restaurant dining has always been a joyful experience for me. 

 In terms of aesthetics – at lunch, I enjoy the respite from my workday and at dinner, conversations with my husband or friends. ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 23 Feb 2023 23:12:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/nutrition-requirements-change-as-we-age</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-899]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Primary care providers are hard to come by]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/primary-care-providers-are-hard-to-come-by</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/898/woman-doctor-discussion-584x285.jpg" length="10005"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ In the past five years I have had four primary care physicians. No, I am not a difficult patient, I am the product of changing dynamics in the practice of primary care. 

 Five years ago, I had a ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 09 Feb 2023 20:59:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/primary-care-providers-are-hard-to-come-by</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-898]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Families hidden treasures many come in many forms]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/families-hidden-treasures-many-come-in-many-forms</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/897/hidden-items.jpg" length="27210"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Many years ago, my father-in-law Danny, who was in his late 70s, was hanging new kitchen cabinets.  Part of the job meant moving some of the ceiling tiles. 

 When he moved the tile directly above ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 26 Jan 2023 22:12:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/families-hidden-treasures-many-come-in-many-forms</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-897]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Acknowledging feelings of grief is the first step toward healing]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/acknowledging-feelings-of-grief-is-the-first-step-toward-healing</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/896/Rolo3-2.jpg" length="25106"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ I will be attending two celebrations of life this month. 

 The first is for my friend Margaret. 

 I wrote about her in one of my recent columns, about her surprise 90 th  birthday party with ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 12 Jan 2023 21:15:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/acknowledging-feelings-of-grief-is-the-first-step-toward-healing</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-896]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Monthly planners are an easy way to visualize what's ahead]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/monthly-planners-are-an-easy-way-to-visualize-whats-ahead</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/895/January-2023-calendar-b18.jpg" length="15617"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ As one year comes to an end, a new one begins. 

 I recently received my 2023 monthly planner. Full of expectations for the coming year, I can’t wait to begin to fill it up with appointments, ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 29 Dec 2022 22:44:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/monthly-planners-are-an-easy-way-to-visualize-whats-ahead</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-895]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Change of pace: Consider walking for your next get together]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/change-of-pace-consider-walking-for-your-next-get-together</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/894/walking-benefits-seniors-6.jpg" length="16893"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ It might sound like a random invitation, but at a recent holiday gathering of women friends, a community acquaintance, Terry, invited me to go for a walk. 

 We had been talking about feeling a ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 16 Dec 2022 18:31:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/change-of-pace-consider-walking-for-your-next-get-together</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-894]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Don't put off estate planning another year]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/dont-put-off-estate-planning-another-year</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/888/estate-planning.jpg" length="16955"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ It was my recent fall - documented extensively in previous columns - that compelled me to suggest to my husband that we review our estate plan. I guess I needed to remind myself that I am not ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 01 Dec 2022 22:43:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/dont-put-off-estate-planning-another-year</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-888]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Make wishes known for organ donation]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/make-wishes-known-for-organ-donation</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/887/organ-donation-illustration-750.jpg" length="19713"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ The organ and tissue donation process is unfamiliar to a lot of us. Some people may not even know they are registered donors. 

 Understanding the law and how it is implemented is important. 

 ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 17 Nov 2022 22:43:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/make-wishes-known-for-organ-donation</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-887]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Be mindful: Most bad falls have a cause]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/be-mindful-most-bad-falls-have-a-cause</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/886/fall-sign.png" length="29692"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ For weeks, friends and neighbors worked on planning a surprise block party for my friend Margaret’s 90th birthday. On the big day, over 50 people showed up with food, drink and gifts to celebrate ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 03 Nov 2022 22:16:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/be-mindful-most-bad-falls-have-a-cause</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-886]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Social Security COLA increase a good chance to talk to finances with parents]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/social-security-cola-increase-a-good-chance-to-talk-to-finances-with-parents</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/885/rising-costs.jpg" length="16783"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Due to this year’s meteoric rise in the consumer price index, a measure of inflation in the cost of goods and services, Social Security beneficiaries will receive an 8.7% cost-of-living adjustment ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 20 Oct 2022 18:12:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/social-security-cola-increase-a-good-chance-to-talk-to-finances-with-parents</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-885]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Getting a painful lesson in fall prevention]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/getting-a-painful-lesson-in-fall-prevention</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/879/Falls-prevention-1500x699.jpg" length="9180"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Morning walks in my neighborhood are one of the most enjoyable parts of my day. 

 I love the coolness of daybreak and the special sightings of the stag and two does that frequent our open space. ...]]></description><pubDate>Fri, 07 Oct 2022 17:02:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/getting-a-painful-lesson-in-fall-prevention</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-879]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Forced retirement may be a waste]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/forced-retirement-may-be-a-waste</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/878/Forced-Retirement-Age-2.jpg" length="15601"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ How old is too old for working at a job? Last week a news story hit my inbox and it really got me to thinking about age and retirement. 

 The article noted that Target Corp. abandoned its ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 15 Sep 2022 17:31:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/forced-retirement-may-be-a-waste</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-878]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[What are the signs you’re ready to retire?]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/what-are-the-signs-youre-ready-to-retire</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/873/retire-21.jpg" length="16969"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ I’ve been thinking a lot about retirement lately. 

 One of our amazing staff members, who has been with Senior Concerns for the last 13 years, retired last month. It just doesn’t seem real. 

 ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 01 Sep 2022 16:45:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/what-are-the-signs-youre-ready-to-retire</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-873]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Showing compassion is always a winning strategy]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/showing-compassion-is-always-a-winning-strategy</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/871/compassion.jpg" length="7781"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ If you need to be reminded of the beauty of humanity, you only need to look at acts of compassion. 

 Recently I was eating lunch at a restaurant that plays sports on its TVs. I normally pay ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 18 Aug 2022 21:42:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/showing-compassion-is-always-a-winning-strategy</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-871]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Be mindful: Brain injuries can cause change in personality]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/be-mindful-brain-injuries-can-cause-change-in-personality</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/869/brain-injury2.jpg" length="7500"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ I have a 79-year-old friend who I have lunch with about once a month. We met many years ago by happenstance, as she had a weekly appointment that ended when mine began. 

 We started to chat in ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 04 Aug 2022 20:33:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/be-mindful-brain-injuries-can-cause-change-in-personality</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-869]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Eating with others can provide an emotional boost]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/eating-with-others-can-provide-an-emotional-boost</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/868/SeniorsEating.jpg" length="32211"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ One thing the past few years has taught us is the value of breaking bread with family and friends. Holiday meals, casual barbecues, Sunday suppers and milestone dinner celebrations were sorely ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 21 Jul 2022 18:16:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/eating-with-others-can-provide-an-emotional-boost</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-868]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Got a feeling? Trusting your gut can aid in decision-making]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/got-a-feeling-trusting-your-gut-can-aid-in-decision-making</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/867/Gut-Feeling-2-2.jpg" length="6655"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ “Go with your gut” is a piece of advice given to me many years ago, somewhere in the middle of my business career. What my boss was trying to convey to me was to trust or follow my intuition, or ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 07 Jul 2022 19:44:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/got-a-feeling-trusting-your-gut-can-aid-in-decision-making</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-867]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Making childhood memories last well into adulthood]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/making-childhood-memories-last-well-into-adulthood</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/866/wyatt.jpg" length="28921"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ This month my 3-year-old grandnephew, Wyatt, took his first airplane ride. What’s more, he was chosen to visit with the pilot and co-pilot, and he even got to sit in the cockpit in the pilot’s seat. ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 23 Jun 2022 20:14:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/making-childhood-memories-last-well-into-adulthood</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-866]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Clearing the way for reading enjoyment]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/clearing-the-way-for-reading-enjoyment</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/865/eyes.jpg" length="5924"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ If your friends are anything like mine, casual conversations these days often turn to a discussion of the amazing television series they’ve been watching on streaming services like Netflix, Hulu and ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 09 Jun 2022 15:48:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/clearing-the-way-for-reading-enjoyment</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-865]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[That cold might be COVID, so it’s best to play it safe]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/that-cold-might-be-covid-so-its-best-to-play-it-safe</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/864/flu-senior-adult-meta.jpg" length="29670"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Last week my sister’s father-in-law, who lives on the East Coast, was mowing his lawn. After he finished, he started feeling respiratory discomfort, chalking it up to the grass and weeds he’d ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 26 May 2022 20:54:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/that-cold-might-be-covid-so-its-best-to-play-it-safe</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-864]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[The modern world challenges old-school ways]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/the-modern-world-challenges-old-school-ways</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/863/lady-and-laptop1.jpg" length="14809"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ When it comes to everyday tasks, I’m caught between the modern world and my old-school ways. 

 The term “old-school” refers to a style, method or device that’s no longer used or done because it ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 12 May 2022 19:58:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/the-modern-world-challenges-old-school-ways</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-863]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Community presentations can spark important conversations]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/community-presentations-can-spark-important-conversations</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/862/audience3.jpg" length="23281"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ One of my favorite parts of my job is public speaking. I know that stirs up anxiety and fear in some people, but for me it’s invigorating. 

 Groups are beginning to meet in person again, and I’m ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 21 Apr 2022 21:57:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/community-presentations-can-spark-important-conversations</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-862]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[As prices rise, concern grows for senior renters]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/as-prices-rise-concern-grows-for-senior-renters</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/861/housing-crisis.jpg" length="20043"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Marta (not her real name) called Senior Concerns as a last resort. 

 The mobile home she and her husband had been renting for the past 30 years was being sold. The owner had died, and the owner’s ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 07 Apr 2022 15:49:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/as-prices-rise-concern-grows-for-senior-renters</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-861]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Nature’s gift can bring serenity if we just take time to look]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/natures-gift-can-bring-serenity-if-we-just-take-time-to-look</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/860/reflection.jpg" length="23626"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ A few weeks ago, I attended a work conference with my husband. I was the trailing spouse, which meant I could relax and enjoy myself while he attended CPA classes. 

 A free vacation sounded good ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 24 Mar 2022 18:00:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/natures-gift-can-bring-serenity-if-we-just-take-time-to-look</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-860]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Communication helps ensure end-of-life wishes are followed]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/communication-helps-ensure-end-of-life-wishes-are-followed</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/859/health-communication-older-adults-inline_0.jpg" length="16492"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ If we lived and died in a perfect world, all our end-of-life wishes would be followed. 

 If we wanted extraordinary measures, where our doctors do everything possible to prevent our death, that ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 10 Mar 2022 18:10:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/communication-helps-ensure-end-of-life-wishes-are-followed</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-859]]></dc:identifier></item><item><dc:creator><![CDATA[Andrea Gallagher]]></dc:creator><title><![CDATA[Support for family caregivers is on the way]]></title><link>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/support-for-family-caregivers-is-on-the-way</link><enclosure type="image/jpg" url="https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/Portals/9/EasyDNNNews/858/CR-Day-Quote.jpg" length="18389"></enclosure><description><![CDATA[ Today I can count more than 20 friends or relatives who are acting as family caregivers for their loved ones. It’s probably the highest number I can remember in my adulthood. 

 My cousin’s wife ...]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 24 Feb 2022 18:41:00 GMT</pubDate><guid>https://rethinkingyourfuture.com/support-for-family-caregivers-is-on-the-way</guid><dc:identifier><![CDATA[c0cd3f4b-6978-4727-9062-4e50ece0c2a4-858]]></dc:identifier></item></channel></rss>