SRES® Blog

Google has rolled out a new maps feature ( https://bit.ly/37RAtS5 ) to help people more easily locate wheelchair-accessible buildings. By turning on “Accessible Places,” people can find accessibility information prominently displayed on a Google Map. The feature is touted as “know before you go,” eliminating the frustrating experience of arriving at a place and being stranded outside because the facility lacks accessible features. In addition to indicating whether a facility’s entrance is accessible, Google map users also can determine whether there’s accessible parking, restrooms, and seating

Co-living is an increasingly popular lifestyle that offers many seniors a satisfying and financially viable way to remain independent longer. It also depends heavily on finding a suitable roommate. The search begins with thoughtful upfront planning. Follow these tips for identifying the best match! 1. Don’t limit yourself Consider looking outside your age range. Depending on the individual, a college student with a job and a studious nature may be a good fit. You might want to offer regular home-cooked meals in exchange for their efforts on cleaning, yard chores, or running errands

We are living during an uncertain time. What can we do to ensure our elderly relatives are healthy and feeling loved? First and foremost, all relatives need a wellness check regardless of age or underlying health conditions. Consistent contact can ensure they are being diligent about remaining healthy. Living alone in a senior care facility or being home alone can take a toll on someone’s mental state. Calling to check in on your relative and finding ways to boost their morale is crucial. There are several ways to guarantee that your loved one can still feel connected throughout this pandemic

Stay-at-home orders during the pandemic have given people a chance to take a close look at their homes. Some are seeing flaws. Lots of them. For clients who have decided that they want to make their homes more functional and aesthetically pleasing, give them some insight on remodeling trends by sharing Fixr’s “ 2020 Single-Family Home Construction and Remodeling Trends” https://bit.ly/2LIyeq6 . Fixr surveyed construction industry professionals, including architects, builders, and sustainability professionals, to get their take on the top single-family home trends. Here are some highlights

If you provide care for a parent on an occasional, part-time, or full-time basis, you may need a little support yourself. Many children of older parents underestimate the number of extra chores they are taking on to “help Mom out” or to “take care of Dad.” Miscalculating the investment can also mean misjudging the toll on their own lives. Protect Your Emotional Health Take “me” time – If this means asking someone else to watch your loved one for a few hours, then ask. You may need to look into adult day care programs or respite care programs through your local hospice or other organization

Specialists in senior moves can provide valuable services during challenging transitions. It’s imperative, however, that you like, trust, and “click” with this individual. They will be helping you work through some pretty tough tasks, so make sure you are comfortable with them from the beginning. Ideally, interview more than one candidate, in person, and discuss these topics: Credentials Have they received special training or passed a qualifying exam? Senior move specialists may hold a several certifications, including (but not limited to) these organizations: NASMM – National Association of

Elder law attorneys cover a wide variety of legal areas, potentially including guardianship, long-term care planning, knowledge of government benefit programs, powers of attorney, estate planning, advance medical directives, elder abuse issues, tax law, retirement and pensions, asset protection, trust planning, and contract law. The American Bar Association has approved the National Elder Law Foundation as the only certifying organization for Elder Law Attorneys in the U.S. At this time, there are just over 500 Certified Elder Law Attorneys (CELAs) nationwide. Other attorneys also cover

Life planning, like so many other things, is often harder to begin than to finish. Society shies away from discussing death and its impact on others. As a result, many things are often left undone until it's too late. In some cases, this just makes it harder for the person tasked with finding and pulling together all the necessary information. In today’s digital age, this can mean assets are lost forever. Step 1. Start the Conversation You can't finish what you never start. To get organized and select an approach that feels comfortable, review the downloadable guides and workbooks offered by

You’re thinking about selling your home. Maybe you’re retiring, downsizing, or a major life event has made you consider a move. A Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) has unique training and experience in helping home buyers and sellers in your situation. Why ask a Seniors Real Estate Specialist® to assist you? An SRES® understands that the decision to sell can be difficult. Selling a home can be an emotional time, potentially involving other life decisions. An SRES® understands the issues facing older adults. By taking a no-pressure approach, they can help you navigate your choices and may

The SECURE Act (The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act of 2019,) a law aimed at improving people’s retirement security, was signed into law at the end of 2019 and has tax implications for those inheriting money from IRAs and 401k accounts. Before, those inheriting such funds could take distributions over their lifetime. But that timeframe has now been reduced to 10 years, meaning that if you’re inheriting an IRA or a 401(k) from someone who passed away on or after January 1, 2020, you’ll need to withdraw those assets within 10 years. They’re taxed as ordinary income and