Last Call for Good Health

Hello there fellow Ageless!

As April winds down and we hopefully bid farewell to all the showers we have been having, this week’s edition is packed with stories and thoughts designed just for you, to inform, inspire and invigorate. Join us as we promote a healthy, fulfilling future for every woman in our community.

🏋️‍♂️ Vibrant Living: Empowering Your Health and Wellness

Raising a Glass to Responsibility: In the twilight years, where one might expect serene retirement and the pursuit of long-neglected hobbies, a surprising trend has emerged: a rise in alcoholism among older adults. It appears that the golden years are not just about gardening and grand-parenting; for some, they include grappling with the bottle. This shift may be attributed to a myriad of reasons, including loneliness, the loss of a sense of purpose post-retirement, or simply the abundance of free time. And let’s not forget the societal stereotype that wine o'clock is the go-to solution for all of life's troubles, including the existential crisis of aging. Who knew that retirement could be so... spirited? Humor aside, this increase in alcohol use is particularly concerning within an older demographic. As we age, our bodies have a harder time metabolizing alcohol, making us more sensitive to its effects. Moreover, women are more susceptible to these ill effects than men. Alcohol consumption among older adults can lead to quicker intoxication, a higher risk of falls, accidents, and even exacerbations of existing health conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, heart and liver diseases, and cancer. It also leads to less cognitive capacity as we age. Additionally, the interaction between alcohol and medications, which many of us take for various health issues, can be dangerous or even deadly.

What does this rise in alcoholism among our demographic signify? On one hand, it underscores the need for us to rethink how we view aging and retirement. The narrative that these years are solely for relaxation and enjoyment misses the complex reality many face. On the other hand, it signals a cry for help and connection in a phase of life often marked by significant changes and challenges. Aging, contrary to popular belief, is not a one-way ticket to the end; it's a period teeming with transitions that require support, understanding, and, most importantly, a community that cheers for wine tasting but also waves the flag for moderation and health.

What can you do if you find yourself or someone you love drinking a bit too often? First, throw out the notion that discussing these issues is taboo. We're all navigating this aging journey together, and it's high time we talk about not just the perks but also the hurdles of getting older. The CDC recommends that women should not consume more than one drink per day. If you are beyond that, consider ways to reduce your consumption, such as setting hard limits, adding dry days, drinking more slowly and opting for alcohol-free alternatives. Learn your triggers for drinking and try to find other ways to deal with the stress and anxiety you may be facing. Social support is very important. Engage in or create community programs focused on healthy living, mental health awareness, and, yes, the responsible enjoyment of life's finer sips. Reach out to professionals if drinking becomes more than just a social pleasure, because there's no shame in seeking help. These recommendations come from medical experts; however, you know your body and how it reacts. They are intended to encourage you to be responsible and attentive to your limitations. Remember, rewriting the aging narrative is about facing challenges with humor and support. Cheers to gracefully navigating the complexities of aging and to a community that raises a toast to health, happiness, and hearty conversations about all aspects of growing older.

​​💰 Wealth Wisdom: Securing Your Financial Future

The Great Social Security Debacle: Millions of seniors have recently discovered that navigating the waters of Social Security can sometimes feel like steering through a perfect storm, especially with the latest wave of overpayment notices. Imagine planning your finances with care; then, you receive a notice claiming you owe thousands of dollars due to SSA miscalculations, with bills unexpectedly ranging from $37,000 to $100,000. While this is quite an unsettling surprise, help is surfacing to address these errors and advocate for those impacted.

If you are faced with an overpayment notice, do not panic. First, understand why the SSA believes you have been overpaid by reviewing the notice carefully. You can appeal the decision or request a waiver if repaying would cause hardship. If those are not viable, consider setting up a manageable payment plan. These steps can help protect your financial stability.

There is a silver lining; due to public and political pressure, the SSA is improving its policies. They now withhold only 10% of your benefits by default during disputes, significantly lessening the immediate financial strain. Staying informed and proactive about your Social Security benefits is crucial. Keep your account details updated, and always question notices that don’t seem right. Your vigilance will safeguard your stability and ensure you are not unjustly burdened by bureaucratic errors.

🧠 Lifelong Learning And Brain Boosts

The Art of Misplacing Things: Why is it that the minute life gets comfortably seasoned, finding your glasses becomes a daily scavenger hunt? If you’ve ever panicked about losing your keys, only to find them in the fridge next to the milk, you're not alone. Many of us worry that misplacing items could be a sign of aging brains, Alzheimer's, or even something more sinister. But rest assured, it’s usually none of these. Recent studies suggest that the occasional memory lapses are a normal part of life, often more related to where our attention is focused than to any decline in cognitive ability.

Misplacing items doesn't mean your memory is fading. Instead, these moments are often due to the mind's allocation of resources—essentially, our brains are telling us that remembering where we put our sunglasses isn't as crucial as, say, remembering to attend our granddaughter's piano recital. Furthermore, multitasking, a common practice in our hustle culture, can lead to absent-mindedness. When we're doing or thinking about several things at once, it’s easy for our brains to misplace the details. For example, we might forget where we left our phone or whether we already added sugar to our recipe.

So, what can we do to keep our belongings in check and our anxiety in line? First and foremost, calm down and don’t panic. Things are much harder to find when you are stressed out. Next, before embarking on a crazy scavenger hunt, check your immediate environment first. In many cases, the item you are searching for is nearby. Once you have done that, start simplifying the chaos. Keep a designated spot for commonly used items like keys and wallets. Perhaps a bowl by the door or a hook for your purse. Minimize distractions when placing something important by saying it out loud, e.g., “I’m putting the birthday cards in the top desk drawer.” This verbal note can help encode the location into your memory. If you are tech savvy, consider investing in some of the gadgets that have been specifically designed to keep track of items like an Apple AirTag. If your schedule allows, try to prepare everything beforehand. Mornings, for example, can be chaotic; organizing everything the night before can alleviate a lot of the morning distress. Let’s not overlook the magic of routine. Having a place for everything, and keeping everything in its place not only clears the space but also helps calm the mind. Remember, misplacing your glasses isn’t a prelude to doom; it’s just your brain’s way of saying, "I have more important things to focus on." So next time your keys go missing, take a deep breath and remember: it’s not a senior moment, just a signal to slow down and maybe even laugh at the quirks of a busy life. After all, a little laughter might just be the best memory aid around. Check out this list for other products that may help you stop losing certain things.

🔥 Lifestyle Trends: Beauty, Fashion, and Travel

Time To Chill Out: As we enthusiastically embrace pro-aging, and leave behind the era of sunbathing which not only heightens risks of skin cancer but also accelerates aging, "Coolcations" emerge as the chic, smart travel trend. A Coolcation, by definition, involves traveling to cooler climates or engaging in winter-themed activities, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional, warmer destinations. Perfect for those navigating menopause or seeking refuge from the heat, Coolcations promise both a change of scenery and a challenge to the notion that adventure is only for the young.

When planning your Coolcation, prioritize destinations that spark your interest and support sustainable tourism, which helps preserve natural wonders while minimizing the carbon footprint—increasingly crucial as global warming reshapes our planet. Destinations like the ice caves of Alaska, the fjords of Norway, or the thermal springs of Iceland not only provide stunning landscapes but also activities like husky sledding and northern lights viewing. These locations offer tranquil yet invigorating escapes, with sustainable and eco-friendly practices at their heart.

Preparing for a Coolcation involves selecting appropriate attire—stylish yet warm layers—and getting ready physically and mentally for the activities ahead. It is essential to choose destinations and activities that align with your physical capabilities. Not all Coolcations require vigorous activity, and many are perfect for those seeking mild adventures with equal enjoyment. Engage in light cardio and strength training to enjoy physically demanding activities comfortably. This new travel trend not only refreshes the body but also reinvigorates the soul, challenging travelers in ways lounging by a pool never could.

Coolcations offer profound benefits: they improve physical health, promote mental well-being, and provide emotional rejuvenation. They encourage stepping outside of comfort zones, forging new friendships, and experiencing cultures in environmentally conscious ways. Embrace this trend, prepare thoroughly, and dive into adventures that enhance life’s fabric with new stories and experiences. Enjoy the journey and let each Coolcation remind you of the endless adventures that await. Here are a few suggestions for popular cold weather destinations and activities.

🔗 The Extras - Fun Stuff We Had to Share

• Are you suffering from NDD? Find out here what it is and how you can prevent it.

• Try salt-scrubbing to avoid a slip and fall.

• 31 gifts for the frequent traveler.

• Want to strengthen your calves and ankles, wear these.

• Second opinions save money and give patients peace of mind.

• 40% of the people in the US are living with unhealthy air. Find out why.

• Soothe and tighten your skin with this chilling and affordable treatment.

• Next time you take an Uber, don’t forget this.

• You can boost your brain function in 15 minutes by chewing gum.

🌿 Sage Reflections

“Jeans represent the democracy of fashion.”

-Giorgio Armani

This quote perfectly captures the essence of jeans, a beloved garment cherished across ages, genders, and borders for its timeless appeal, versatility, and unpretentious nature. Originating as durable attire for 19th-century American miners, jeans have evolved into icons of both comfort and style. For women, particularly, jeans symbolized a shift from restrictive tailored skirts to a declaration of freedom and change during the 1960s, mirroring women's evolving roles in society and their increasing demands for equality. Today, jeans remain at the forefront of the fashion sustainability movement, reimagined in eco-friendly fabrics that maintain durability and style with a reduced environmental footprint.

Finding the perfect pair of jeans after 50 can feel like navigating a maze—it’s confusing, frustrating, and overwhelming. Yet, discovering that ideal pair is like finding a new best friend: comfortable, flattering, and dependable. Begin this journey by assessing your current denim collection; eliminate any jeans that don't fit well, are damaged, or have fallen out of style. This clean-out sets the stage for upgrading your wardrobe with pieces that truly complement your shape and lifestyle.

Consider your body type when choosing jeans to enhance and flatter your figure:

• High-rise jeans smooth the waistline and elongate the figure, suitable for almost any body shape.

• Apple shapes benefit from jeans with more room around the waist and tapered or skinny legs to create a balanced silhouette.

• Pear shapes should look for jeans with a slight flare or bootcut to balance fuller hips and thighs.

• Hourglass figures excel in jeans with a contoured waistband and slim legs.

• Rectangle shapes can add the illusion of curves with straight-leg jeans or styles with embellished pockets.

Invest wisely in quality jeans that offer a superior fit, durability, and style. If the budget allows, opt for higher-priced, timeless styles that will outlast trends and provide better cost-per-wear value. Consider acquiring a few pairs in different styles—perhaps a versatile dark wash for formal occasions, a light casual wash for everyday use, and a trendy cut for special events. The right length and rise are crucial; make sure they pair well with your shoes, whether they are heels or flats. Always check their comfort and flexibility by moving around in the fitting room.

Embarking on this quest for the perfect pair of jeans should be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Take your time to explore different styles and find ones that make you feel confident and stylish. Patience, effort, and time will lead you to a pair that fits like they were made just for you. Below are some styles that generally flatter women over 50, along with additional suggestions for those who seek further guidance. This journey isn't just about finding jeans that fit well. It's about renewing your connection with a versatile and enduring piece of fashion that celebrates your individual style at any stage of life.

This jean has a vintage feel to it with added spandex for comfort and is available in all lengths. It is an excellent choice for hourglass figures, suitable for casual wear or evening events depending on the wash selected. The price point is attractive, with Gap often running sales to further reduce costs. For more details, click here.

This jean is ideal for those with a pear-shaped figure. The bootcut design balances the body’s proportions, and its higher stretch content provides comfort while holding you in nicely. Like most Gap jeans, this model is available in various lengths. However, if you are 5’1” or taller, you may want to stick with the regular length unless you plan to wear the jeans only with flats. For more information, click here.

The J.Crew Skinny Flare is a jean that will flatter many shapes. It is particularly popular among our rectangle-shaped ladies. With a high stretch content, it maintains its shape, holds you in, and is very comfortable and flattering on the leg. Inspired by the ‘70s look, it is a bit more stylish yet is a great choice for a night out as it dresses up well with the right accessories. More information on these jeans can be found here.

Mother Denim is the most popular high-end jean brand among women polled. This style, which constantly sells out, has a high rise and a little elastane for comfort and a flexible fit. It suits most body shapes, and the length will accommodate those of us who are tall. Mother Jeans are consistent in their fit and offer a myriad of styles that flatter our demographic. For more information on this style, click here. For a similar fit with a mid rise, consider Mother’s Mid Rise Dazzler, available in a wide variety of washes and hem finishes.

These jeans are a popular choice, especially for apple-shaped women. They are high-waisted but have hidden core shaping that helps to define your figure. They look like traditional denim but fit more like leggings, with plenty of stretch for all-day comfort. They do run on the longer side, so when you pick your length, consider what shoes you will be wearing. Learn more about these flare jeans here.

Remember, Ageless Ascent is more than a newsletter; it's a community, a movement, a way of life. We're here to explore, learn, and grow together. So, what are you looking forward to the most? Let us know by replying to this email. Your feedback is the compass that guides our adventure.

Till next time,

The Ageless Team

P.S. Stay curious, stay engaged, and most importantly, stay you. The best is yet to come. 🌟