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Lifestyle

Aging Independently By Design

With the rapid graying of the United States, due to extended lifespans and declining birth rates, concerns among older adults are also on the rise. Their worries range from financial concerns to physical and mental health issues to healthcare and housing.  Most older adults would prefer to stay in their own homes throughout their golden years, according to a recent Pew Research Center poll. But aging in place is not that simple.

For those interested in living their lives at home as they age, we have posted this recent article from The Harvard Gazette that may be helpful: Click HERE for the article.

Mattering

The Retirement Crisis No One Warns You About: Mattering. Many of us plan for our future wealth and health. Few prepare for an equally essential aspect of retirement: how to continue to feel seen and valued.

We plan for our wealthspan and healthspan, mapping out financial security and physical well-being. Yet very few of us prepare for an equally essential dimension of retirement: our mattering span, or how we will continue to feel seen, useful and capable of making a difference.

Click HERE to read the 17 Jan 2026 article in the Wall Street Journal.

Downsizing

Since we all will face issues of downsizing either while alive or after we depart this world and pass the problem on to our children, the Class hosted a Zoom session to discuss downsizing profitably or more accurately more profitably. The Zoom addressed:

  • Clear-outs
  • Donations
  • Estate sales
  • Online auctions
  • Other potential venues for collections or high-dollar items
  • Timing/stress/family wants & needs
  • Classmate Al Swinger with wife Sandra, operated an antique business and also contributed their tips

Click HERE for the Zoom recording, a summary, Q&A and helpful resources.

Life Plan Communities

Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) or Life Plan Communities (same concept) are emerging as a desirable option for seniors looking for both the independence they want and the care they may need. There are approximately 2,000 CCRCs in the U.S., and that number is expected to continue to increase as the population ages. These communities provide a continuum of care that adapts to the evolving needs of aging people.

Click HERE for information from Classmate, Andrea Simonpietri, who spent several years visiting numerous Life Plan Communities/CCRCs in anticipation of downsizing and simplifying life. This page includes (1) a brief summarizing his experiences; (2) Zoom recording of ’66 Classmates who met to discuss their questions about Life Plan Communities; (3) other resources.