AARP Bulletin: Retail Loyalty Programs, Clean Energy Scams, and Where We Are Now with COVID-19

AARP Bulletin: Retail Loyalty Programs, Clean Energy Scams, and Where We Are Now with COVID-19

WASHINGTON—The September issue of AARP Bulletin guides readers through the latest science when it comes to long COVID, the best tips to spot and avoid home energy scams, and a bevy of ways to help save money.

Highlights from the September issue of the Bulletin

Should You Pay to Save? Retailer loyalty programs are becoming increasingly popular, promising instant savings and exclusive perks. But are they truly worth the investment? AARP Bulletin contributor Lisa Lee Freeman offers a comprehensive analysis of the most popular retailer management programs, helping readers weigh the benefits against the costs.

Clean Energy Scams: As the demand for clean and renewable energy solutions grows, so does the risk of falling victim to scams. AARP Bulletin uncovers the latest tactics used by fraudsters to exploit consumers seeking green energy options. From deceptive solar panel offers to fraudulent renewable energy schemes, this report provides readers with the tools they need to identify and avoid scams that could cost them thousands of dollars.

Cover Story: The Untold Impact of Long COVID The lingering effects of long COVID are becoming increasingly evident, yet much remains unknown about the disease’s aftermath. In this eye-opening cover story, AARP Bulletin delves into the untold impact of long COVID, exploring the physical, emotional, and financial challenges it presents.

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About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

Exclusives From AARP The Magazine: Kevin Costner Enters His Fifth Decade of Making Movies, Jewel on Exploring Her Family’s Artistic Legacy, and Easy Tech Tips for Everybody

Exclusives From AARP The Magazine: Kevin Costner Enters His Fifth Decade of Making Movies, Jewel on Exploring Her Family’s Artistic Legacy, and Easy Tech Tips for Everybody

Plus: Philippe Petit on Balancing Life On and Off The Tightrope; Planning For Retirement at 62 Years Old; and a Sneak Peek at Latest High-Tech Products and Services For Couponing, Social Media Connections, and Staying Informed

WASHINGTON—The August/September 2024 issue of AARP The Magazine (ATM) gives readers a closer look into the lives of their favorite celebrities and reveals some of the biggest trends of 2024.

Hollywood’s iconic actor-director Kevin Costner is on the cover and delves into some of the unique experiences he’s had as he enters his fifth decade in filmmaking. The issue’s Upfront series showcases eleven remarkable things about multifaceted artist Jewel, by exploring how her musical journey is intertwined with her family’s artistic legacy, while also candidly discussing her hardest lived times like being homeless and having a near-death experience.

Tightrope performer Philippe Petit, at 74, reflects on the 50th anniversary of his famed World Trade Center high-wire walk while revealing how he maintains balance in his profession and way of life.

Plus, this issue addresses the critical factors for older Americans contemplating retirement at age 62; recounts financial professionals’ toughest client challenges and their solutions, including advice on preparing for the business aspects of divorce; and how to utilize high-tech products and services for easier living and staying informed on current events. 

In this issue of AARP The Magazine:

Kevin Costner Goes His Own Way

As he enters his fifth decade in filmmaking, Kevin Costner reflects on a remarkable period in his career when he starred in six major films over a course of six years. He dives into his enduring passion for the craft, while reminiscing about the special moments with his children and the projects they’ve worked together on. 

Tech Made Easy: Your Life Simplified

For this year’s AARP The Magazine annual tech guide, our top tech experts  delve into useful high-tech products and services that will make life easier for everybody and offer some knowledge when it comes to couponing and transportation, while using secure payment apps. Including social media do’s and don’ts of safely connecting with friends and family and tips on how to stay informed on current events.

The A-List: 6 Surprising Things About Jewel

Multiplatinum singer-songwriter, actress and poet Jewel dives into her musical journey, sharing how art is in her family’s DNA and the significant impact yodeling played in shaping her singing technique. She additionally reveals to ATM the hardships she faced with her finances and family at times, and how her definition of beauty is rooted in authenticity.

Real/People: Up in the Air with Philippe Petit
Tightrope artist and performer Philippe Petit, looks back on his famed illegal high-wire walk between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City 50 years ago. Now at 74, Philippe discusses his next bold pursuit and the role of balancing, not only his profession, but also his way of life. He explains with ATM how he is keeping his mind and body energized.

Big Money Woes? When to Call in the Pros

ATM shares some of the most challenging situations financial professionals have encountered with their clients and the solutions they devised. AARP’s financial experts provide advice on preparing for the business side of divorce by maintaining detailed expense records and a clear financial overview.

Could You Retire at 62?

In a recent study, only 46% of American workers under age 62 said they plan to work full-time once they have reached that age. ATM provides a checklist of factors to consider before making the retirement leap, including cost of health insurance, timing Social Security claims, and adjusting retirement plans to account for inflation.

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About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

Inside AARP Bulletin’s June Issue: Mitigating Chronic Pain, Avoiding Election Scammers and Buying a Newly Built Home

Inside AARP Bulletin’s June Issue: Mitigating Chronic Pain, Avoiding Election Scammers and Buying a Newly Built Home

WASHINGTONAARP Bulletin’s June cover story offers insight that could be a relief to those experiencing chronic pain — which afflicts over a quarter of the population age 45 and older. Instead of a single cure, researchers are now looking for a multipronged approach to managing everyday aches. The story details the latest news on the science of pain.

PLUS: a layperson’s guide to common painkillers and how the pros build a pain management plan.

Also in the June issue of the Bulletin:

What you need to know before purchasing a recently built home: Newly built homes may have safer, stronger construction standards and the latest safety features for older home buyers. But buying new or not-yet-built can pose specific challenges. Read how to help protect yourself in the process — and how to read the fine print while getting the best price — in this month’s issue.

Protect your home against rising waters: With June marking the start of the Atlantic hurricane season, the Bulletin has rounded up the best professional insight into how to flood-proof your home. Not doing so could be costly; a single inch of water flooding your home could cause $25,000 worth of damage. In this month’s issue, we offer nine critical tips to minimize the threat of water.

This story is part of a larger AARP series. For an in-depth look at the toll of rising sea levels and more severe weather events, visit https://www.aarp.org/home-family/your-home/info-2024/washed-away/?cmp=RDRCT-CON-WASHEDAWAY-05232024.

2024 election scams: Crooks often target older adults during voting cycles — simply because they’re so politically engaged. The latest issue of the Bulletin details the three most popular election-related schemes: bogus political action committees (PACs), voter registration scams and fraudulent surveys. Learn how these election scams work — and how to outsmart them — in this month’s Fraud Watch.

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About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest-circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

Many Family Caregivers Avoid Personal Travel, New AARP Report Shows

WASHINGTON—A new report from AARP reveals that half (50%) of adult caregivers have avoided personal trips with their care recipient. The primary reason preventing caregiver travel is the physical health of their care recipients (37%). Among caregivers who traveled, their biggest concern was the fear of being unable to access medical assistance when needed (33%).

Conversely, about half of traveling caregivers reported improved emotional well-being and social connectedness on account of taking a personal trip; nearly half also reported improved emotional or mental health for their care recipient.

“Caregiving can be difficult even in familiar surroundings,” says Amy Goyer, AARP Family and Caregiving Expert. “So it can feel daunting to take loved ones on the road. However, taking a trip with them can create wonderful, lifelong memories. By planning ahead, it is possible for many family caregivers to get away with those they care for and enjoy the positive aspects of travel.”

More major findings from the survey:

  • Over half of caregivers 50 or older express a desire to travel to visit family or friends (51%) or simply for a change of scenery (49%).
  • Nine in 10 (90%) of travel destinations for caregivers and their care recipients were domestic.
  • Modes of transportation used in trips with care recipients range from personal vehicles (53%), airplanes (30%), to rental vehicles (14%).
  • For more than one-third (38%) of caregivers, part of their last trip’s cost included paying additional fees for accessibility.

To read the full report, visit AARP.org/travelwithcare. Find more caregiving resources here and at AARP.org/caregiving.

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About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

Exclusives From AARP The Magazine: Diane Lane on Acting at Her Own Pace, Guidance for Couples on How to Understand Personal Finances Together, and Navigating Conversations About Menopause in the Workplace, and Jon Bon Jovi on Writing Songs About Aging

Exclusives From AARP The Magazine: Diane Lane on Acting at Her Own Pace, Guidance for Couples on How to Understand Personal Finances Together, and Navigating Conversations About Menopause in the Workplace, and Jon Bon Jovi on Writing Songs About Aging

Plus: Bobby Cannavale on the Power of Hypnotism; How Your Hands Can Reveal Surprising Health Problems; and a Special Report on Severe Weather Conditions Affecting Elderly Residents in Coastal Regions

WASHINGTON—The June/July 2024 issue of AARP The Magazine (ATM) gives readers a closer look into the lives of favorite celebrities and reveals some of 2024’s biggest trends.

Legendary rock star Jon Bon Jovi, on the cover of ATM’s June/July 2024 issue, shares details about his upcoming album and how aging is influencing the next stage in his musical career. This issue’s Upfront series showcases six surprising insights about actress Diane Lane, including her acclaimed resurgence in the entertainment industry.

Emmy Award–winning actor Bobby Cannavale reveals how fatherhood with his younger sons sparked a change of his workaholic tendencies. Additionally, ATM delves into the distressing living conditions faced by older Americans along the coasts of New Jersey and Florida, while AARP offers practical tips on fortifying homes against floods.

Plus, the issue includes eight health signals found on our nails and knuckles that could indicate underlying ailments and accompanying expert insights and prevention tips; how to discuss menopause in the workplace; and how to bridge the money-knowledge gaps in marriages so couples can better manage finances together.

In this issue of AARP The Magazine:

Cover Story: Jon Bon Jovi

After living the classic rock star lifestyle for decades, Jon Bon Jovi unveils a new chapter in his musical journey and candidly shares the profound inspiration aging brings to songwriting. Bon Jovi opens up to ATM on refining his image and how he takes care of his voice post vocal surgery.

The A List: Diane Lane

Renowned actress Diane Lane chats about her career in the entertainment business, reflecting on knowing when it is time to take breaks, and staging a triumphant return. Revealing six surprises from her journey along the way, Lane ponders an alternate career shift as a therapist.

What I Know Now With Bobby Cannavale

Emmy-winning actor Bobby Cannavale, a father of three at 54, discusses how being a parent influences his work. The Ezra star also shares his recent experiences with a hypnotist and dedication to “flex every muscle” and try new activities like singing and dancing for the off-Broadway musical Here We Are.

Open Up Your Marriage (the Money Part, That Is)

ATM delves into familiar challenges many couples face: determining who manages finances and how to transition from control to collaboration. AARP offers practical tips and motivations, such as compiling a notebook of finances or patiently educating the less-knowledgeable partner well in advance so both spouses are equipped to manage money independently when necessary.

Surprising Health Clues Hidden in Your Hand

Our fingertips and knuckles serve as revealing indicators of our overall well-being. ATM offers insights on how to be proactive when you begin recognizing any of these eight subtle warning signs that may manifest on our hands and signal the need for medical attention.

How to Talk to Your Boss About Menopause
ATM shares important research regarding menopause and the workplace, such as the fact that only 22 percent of employers provide menopause-specific benefits while 1 in 3 workers currently experiencing menopause had to miss work in the past 12 months due to their symptoms. With menopause frequently overlooked in the workplace, experts provide six tips to initiate conversations with managers and companies to discuss solutions and health benefits to ensure all employees’ comfort and efficiency.

Washed Away

AARP teamed up with veteran environmental journalist Craig Welch for a special report on how extreme weather patterns are currently impacting older Americans in the Coastal Regions of New Jersey and Florida. The report delves into how displaced residents are coping with financial loss as well as feelings of loneliness and uncertainty, and it also provides tips and resources on how individuals can advocate to assist these communities in preparing for floods. With hurricane season underway, the timing of this story is especially critical.

This report is part of a larger AARP series. For an in-depth look at the toll of rising sea levels and more severe weather events, visit aarp.org/washedaway.

# # #

About AARP

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health and financial security, and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest-circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit aarp.org/about or aarp.org/espanol, or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

women and strokes

Women & Strokes

Women & Strokes



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We explore more below of what the CDC says in regards to women and stroke.

What puts women at risk for stroke?

High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is a main risk factor for stroke. More than 2 in 5 women have blood pressure greater than or equal to 130/80 mmHg or are taking medicine to control their blood pressure. Only about 1 in 4 of those women have their blood pressure controlled to below 130/80 mmHg.

Stroke risk increases with age, and women live longer than men.

Women also have unique risk factors for stroke, including:

  • Having high blood pressure during
  • Using certain types of birth control medicines, especially if they also smoke. About 1 in 8 women smoke.
  • Having higher rates of depression.


Why are African American women at higher risk for stroke?


Alyson McCord

Stroke is the third leading cause of death among African American women, and they are more likely to die from a stroke than non-Hispanic white women or Hispanics in the United States.2 African Americans have the highest rate of death due to stroke.

Almost half of African Americans have a risk factor that can lead to a stroke.

  • More than 2 in 5 African American women are diagnosed high blood pressure (greater than or equal to 140/90 mm Hg), which is a much higher rate than white women have.
  • African American women are diagnosed with higher rates of obesity (nearly 3 in 5) and diabetes (more than 1 in 8), conditions that increase the risk for stroke.
  • Eating too much salt or sodium can raise your blood pressure, putting you at higher risk of stroke. Researchers think there may be a gene that makes African Americans more sensitive to the effects of salt, which in turn increases the risk of developing high blood pressure.
  • Sickle cell disease, a common genetic disorder in African Americans, can lead to a stroke. About 1 in 365 black or African American babies are born with sickle cell disease.
  • Smoking greatly increases stroke risk. About 1 in 7 black or African American women smoke.


Why are Hispanic women at risk for stroke?

Stroke is the third leading cause of death for Hispanic women.

  • High blood pressure is one of the main risk factors for a stroke. About 1 in 4 Hispanic women have blood pressure above 140/90 mmHg, and nearly half of them do not have it under control.
  • People with diabetes are at higher risk of stroke. More than 1 in 9 Hispanic women have diabetes—including many who don’t know they have the disease.11 Among adults of Hispanic origin, diabetes is most common in people of Mexican and Puerto Rican ancestry.
  • Obesity increases the risk of stroke. About half of Hispanic women have obesity.


How can I prevent stroke?


A woman getting her blood pressure checked.

High blood pressure is one of the main risk factors for a stroke. Measure your blood pressure regularly to help your health care team diagnose any health problems early.

Most strokes can be prevented by keeping medical conditions under control and making healthy lifestyle changes:

Know your ABCS of heart and brain health:

  • Aspirin: Aspirin may help reduce your risk for stroke, but you should check with your doctor before taking aspirin, because it can make some types of stroke worse. Before taking aspirin, talk with your doctor about whether it is right for you.
  • Blood pressure: Control your blood pressure with healthy lifestyle changes (see below) and take your blood pressure medicines as directed.
  • Cholesterol: Manage your cholesterol with healthy lifestyle changes and take your medicine as directed.
  • Smoking: Don’t start smoking.


ChooseMyPlate.gov

Get tips and ideas for healthy eating and make a personalized meal plan at from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Make lifestyle changes:

  • Eat healthy: Choose healthy foods most of the time, including foods with less salt, or sodium, to lower your blood pressure, and that are rich in fiber and whole grains to manage your cholesterol.
  • Get regular physical activity: Regular activity helps you reach and maintain a healthy weight and keeps your heart and blood vessels healthier.



Work with your health care team:

  • Talk to your doctor about your chances of having a stroke, including your age and whether anyone in your family has had a stroke.
  • Get other health conditions under control, such as diabetes or heart disease.




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Taking Your Medicine for High Blood Pressure

Taking your medicines as directed can be confusing, but it’s an important way to help manage your blood pressure. This Million Hearts [tag] video has tips to help you stick to the ’script.

If you have high blood pressure, talk to a Licensed Insurance Agent about what plans cover for high blood pressure.

Diabetic & Dental Benefits – CDC Advice

Medicare Dental

If you’re diabetic, the CDC recommends that you get a dental exam once a year or more often if your dentist says you need it. At your exam, your dentist or dental hygienist can:

  • Explain how diabetes affects your teeth and gums and check for problems, like cavities or gum disease.
  • Treat any problems you have with your teeth or gums.
  • Teach you how to check for signs of gum disease at home.
  • Provide care, like a fluoride treatment, to keep your mouth healthy.
  • Tell you how to treat problems, such as dry mouth.
  • Work with your dentist to create a health plan for your teeth.

    • Ask your dentist how to take care of your teeth at home and how often to come in for a dental visit.
    • Ask what to do if you start having problems with your teeth or gums.
    • Ask your dentist to send your exam results to your other doctors after every visit.
    • Be sure to keep your next dentist  appointment!


    Take care of your teeth at home.

    • Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush two times a day or more.
    • Use toothpaste with fluoride and floss once a day.
    • Check your mouth for red or swollen gums, bleeding gums, loose teeth, a change in how your bite feels, or bad breath.
    • Visit a dentist if you think you have gum disease.
    • Limit food and drinks that are high in sugar.

If you need more Medicare Advantage dental benefits click the link to Chat Now about your Medicare Plan 👤 https://m.me/Medigaplife?ref=url-btn or call 1-855-800-5265. We may be able to help.

#medigaplife #medicare #medicareadvantage #disability #partd #vision #dental #diabetic #dentist #benefits

Coronavirus & Medicare

CMS Will Pay for COVID-19 Booster Shots, Eligible Consumers Can Receive at No Cost

Following the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) recent action that authorized a booster dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine for certain high-risk populations and a recommendation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will continue to provide coverage for this critical protection from the virus, including booster doses, without cost sharing.