Search found 2991 matches

by nonnie
Fri Mar 15, 2024 2:56 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Safe deposit box-have one? What's in there?
Replies: 115
Views: 10528

Re: Safe deposit box-have one? What's in there?

I decided to close our box. I made an appointment, fired up the Gps and it kept taking me the wrong way. It would say in rapid succession "turn right, turn left." Although I didn't know exactly how to get to the branch, I knew I was going the wrong way. I finally figured out how to get there, walked in and they did not have my appointment on the books. My bank is at 4th and B streets (turns out the address is on B Street) and I had made an appointment with the 4th Street branch and my loyal GPS was taking me there. Since I didn't have an appointment, they wouldn't close the box! My original intent was to grab everything from the box including some I bonds I wanted to cash. They did let me into the box but initially said I had to m...
by nonnie
Tue Mar 12, 2024 11:18 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: I Bonds Mega Thread (I Bond Heads Rejoice!)
Replies: 6651
Views: 1203028

Re: I Bonds Mega Thread (I Bond Heads Rejoice!)

DH died last month. His son is the beneficiary on two bonds (I have advised him to establish a TD account) and I am the beneficiary on some others. The TD website says "Electronic savings bonds. If the person who died has an online TreasuryDirect account, contact us. We will put a hold on the account and tell you what to do." I recall there is something an account holder can do to give a beneficiary access to the I bonds and this is the procedure I am looking for. Follow this blog by the financebuff. How To Grant Transact or View Right on Your I Bonds https://thefinancebuff.com/grant-transact-right-second-owner-treasurydirect.html#:~:text=Grant%20View%20or%20Transact%20Rights,-Select%20one%20of&text=You%20need%20to%20enter%20...
by nonnie
Tue Mar 12, 2024 11:12 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: I Bonds Mega Thread (I Bond Heads Rejoice!)
Replies: 6651
Views: 1203028

Re: I Bonds Mega Thread (I Bond Heads Rejoice!)

AlwaysLearningMore wrote: Sun Mar 10, 2024 9:51 pm
nonnie wrote: Sun Mar 10, 2024 9:29 pm DH died last month. His son is the beneficiary on two bonds (I have advised him to establish a TD account) and I am the beneficiary on some others.

The TD website says "Electronic savings bonds. If the person who died has an online TreasuryDirect account, contact us.
We will put a hold on the account and tell you what to do."

I recall there is something an account holder can do to give a beneficiary access to the I bonds and this is the procedure I am looking for.
nonnie,
Condolences on your loss.
Thank you, That's kind of you.
by nonnie
Sun Mar 10, 2024 9:29 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: I Bonds Mega Thread (I Bond Heads Rejoice!)
Replies: 6651
Views: 1203028

Re: I Bonds Mega Thread (I Bond Heads Rejoice!)

DH died last month. His son is the beneficiary on two bonds (I have advised him to establish a TD account) and I am the beneficiary on some others.

The TD website says "Electronic savings bonds. If the person who died has an online TreasuryDirect account, contact us.
We will put a hold on the account and tell you what to do."

I recall there is something an account holder can do to give a beneficiary access to the I bonds and this is the procedure I am looking for.
by nonnie
Sun Mar 10, 2024 2:38 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: I Bonds Mega Thread (I Bond Heads Rejoice!)
Replies: 6651
Views: 1203028

Re: I Bonds Mega Thread (I Bond Heads Rejoice!)

There have been one or two posts in the past with all the details of dealing with the Treasury direct after the death of an I bond holder. I've been unable to find these posts and I would really appreciate it if someone could provide a link so I don't have to start all over and reinvent the wheel with a new post.

Thanks much.
by nonnie
Sat Mar 09, 2024 12:32 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: When to move to a continuing care retirement community (CCRC)
Replies: 101
Views: 16529

Re: When to move to a continuing care retirement community (CCRC)

I am reaching the point. Mobility is becoming an issue, I am too tired for the yard and house cleaning and the house needs work, some aesthetic but other is needed such as bathroom remodeling for an aging person and I would like a whole house generator. Another consideration is a health scare. The issue isn't urgent now, but it's on the horizon, the planning for post operative in-home care was a challenge. While I have a nephew and niece who will look out for me (and have medical POA), I don't want to be a burden and want them to enjoy being with me, not dreading coming over. I have three communities to look at with Type A coverage. The entrance fees are daunting, yet manageable. My concern is what happens if they go "belly up" o...
by nonnie
Thu Mar 07, 2024 12:19 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Credit Card Debt at the Time of Death
Replies: 75
Views: 10638

Re: Credit Card Debt at the Time of Death

… At the very least, you might want to look at all the interest charges and late fees that have been accumulating over the past months and ask to have those waived. … … I will let him know about negotiating with the agency but he's not very good at this kind of thing and lol, gets embarrassed when I do it! :wink: … Per the Credit Card Act … of 2009, once notified of a card holders death a credit card company cannot charge penalties and interest (if the balance is paid within a certain period of time after notification). So DH should be aware of this (no negotiating required!) as I found while settling my parents’ estates recently that not all credit card companies are good about automatically reversing such charges. When I posted to this t...
by nonnie
Sun Feb 25, 2024 5:50 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Death of California resident, MY partner, with property in Massachusetts
Replies: 12
Views: 1468

Re: Death of California resident, MY partner, with property in Massachusetts

What does his will say? If you’re not a beneficiary of that property, just resign and let the son deal with it. Or disclaim and let the son have it and deal with it. Regardless of all the DIY focus here, his son will get valuable advice and information by retaining an attorney. A small estate may be available, the property may pass via operation of law, or a probate may need to be opened. I don’t know. Thanks. I am not a beneficiary. I'm not sure what you mean by "just resign." I'm glad to have his son take care of everything. My only concern was would I have a responsibility as executor to open an estate in MA . I'm just not clear on how that works--that was my main initial concern. Someone dies in one state and has property in ...
by nonnie
Sun Feb 25, 2024 3:09 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Death of California resident, MY partner, with property in Massachusetts
Replies: 12
Views: 1468

Re: Death of California resident with property in Massachusetts

TOM1964 wrote: Sat Feb 24, 2024 10:40 am Very sorry for your recent loss.

If the property in question is on Cape Cod, you want to search the property records for Barnstable County to establish title. You can do that online, but details of the tax status and zoning-level information would be held at the municipality in question.

Good Luck, Tom

https://www.barnstabledeeds.org/
Thank you. I could spend two years reading all the property records on this that I found. The family goes back to 1635. I've never been that interested in genealogy but theirs is quite interesting.

Still can't find any info on the con
by nonnie
Sun Feb 25, 2024 12:43 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Death of California resident, MY partner, with property in Massachusetts
Replies: 12
Views: 1468

Re: Death of California resident, MY partner, with property in Massachusetts

Thanks to everyone for their condolences. I'm really amazed at all the wonderful responses. To answer some of the questions, the property is beach property in North Falmouth, MA. It's been in the family for generations and there have been lawsuits --I even found one oneline- over public right of access to the property and changing shares of ownership, etc. I have since found nearly half a bankers box with documents which I may or may not comb through. I have an email from the family member--2nd cousin, I think--who handles the property taxes and does have all the details. There are something like 6 owners and 4 lots-none of them buildable as I recall, one called "Beach." I have also put the son in touch with the cousin and they wi...
by nonnie
Fri Feb 23, 2024 12:57 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Death of California resident, MY partner, with property in Massachusetts
Replies: 12
Views: 1468

Death of California resident, MY partner, with property in Massachusetts

You would think with all my participation in threads recently about wills and revocable trusts and property something would have clicked but it did not. My long-term partner, 18 years, died suddenly last week. Recently I had been concerned about my death and structuring a trust after I passed. I hadn't been able to figure out a solution and so I hadn't yet updated anything. I am the executor of his estate. It consists of a small IRA, and a Roth at Fidelity left directly to me via TOD. His other asset is a personal Fidelity account where 65% was left to me in 35% to his son and some Ibonds some with me as joint owner, the other with his son. I'm not looking forward to the redemption process for the paper ones and the wonderful TD website but...
by nonnie
Tue Feb 20, 2024 8:54 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Wine - what are we paying more for … ?
Replies: 185
Views: 32760

Re: Wine - what are we paying more for … ?

MMiroir wrote: Mon Feb 19, 2024 10:15 am The following blind tasting might be of interest.

https://youtu.be/OBHlCoRhhxU?si=avnXo6Gl_NBTclQ0
Thanks, that was fun.
by nonnie
Wed Feb 14, 2024 12:36 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Help! 25 Maxed out credit cards.....
Replies: 268
Views: 34200

Re: Help! 25 Maxed out credit cards.....

UPDATE: Met with my stepson and daughter-in-law and went over their budget and both credit reports. They've agreed, he holds no credit cards from here on out. They see the value of following a budget and can see they were likely spending $700 a month more than they make. After showing them a loan calculator app on the net with a whopping 28% interest, it clicked as to why credit card debt is a dead end street. Long story short, they are going to move in with his dad for the short term til all the CC debt is paid off. Stepson is seeeing Dr this week to talk about his frame of mind. He really is on a short runway as daughter-in-law is very upset with him that he wasn't honest with his situation and put them all in a very bad situation. Hopef...
by nonnie
Tue Feb 13, 2024 8:13 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Managing your affairs when you live alone and have no family or true friends
Replies: 133
Views: 21637

Re: Managing your affairs when you live alone and have no family or true friends

I'm sorry for your loss and so glad you have some resources. Keep in touch, this Forum is amazing, we care about each other.
by nonnie
Sat Feb 10, 2024 5:37 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How old were you when you hit the "No-Go Years?"
Replies: 77
Views: 13601

Re: How old were you when you hit the "No-Go Years?"

The retirement lifecycle often is described as consisting of the "Go-Go," "Slow-Go," and No-Go" periods. Now in our early 70s and still Go-Going, we wonder when and how fellow BHers reach their No-Go years? Is there a health event that suddenly triggers that period? Or, does it come about gradually on a constant slope? I realize that every situation is different, but it would be helpful to better understand the common trajectories. Certainly, that could be a factor in retirement budget planning. Thank you. For us, 80 & 81, it was a combination of COVID restrictions and injuries. We basically stayed home for 4 years and have now had to cancel two vacations because of injuries. A broken shoulder for me because of...
by nonnie
Sat Feb 10, 2024 5:08 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Hawaii Trip: advice
Replies: 35
Views: 3656

Re: Hawaii Trip: advice

I dunno what prices run here - assume something like $250/night hotel? We like to stay here in Maui - https://www.hotelwailea.com/exclusive-offers/?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAlJKuBhAdEiwAnZb7lTAVPkyajd3hhHs_Caf-aPT-0Jw6LiE5DB2IEikbs1wOEt6Zxj9oJhoCkPwQAvD_BwE but it runs a bit over $250/night. For snorkeling, Makena Rd. or Maluaka Beach you can park and hop in the ocean. Lots of swimming with sea turtle opportunities. We have also done https://aliinuimaui.com/?comet_source=google&comet_network=g&comet_campaign=20875912724&comet_ad_group=152159841490&comet_ad_id=685091554078&comet_keyword=alii%20nui%20maui&gclid=CjwKCAiAlJKuBhAdEiwAnZb7lb596eUQG5OqpO_rjo9EBa3B44X4vRBvvrW4VSqgnCjFYspHlHJjMBoCYuUQAvD_BwE Molokini sn...
by nonnie
Sat Feb 10, 2024 4:36 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: half high income physician, half financial illiterate
Replies: 95
Views: 12011

Re: half high income physician, half financial illiterate

folkher0 wrote: Sat Feb 10, 2024 4:11 pm
Bones_Jones wrote: Wed Feb 07, 2024 6:00 am I do not have an HSA, nor do I have personal health insurance; only my wife and son are covered. However, I receive routine check-ups at no cost. I will open up HSA and will get an insurance starting next year. I missed the enrollment period.
This is insane. What kind of 45 year old doctor doesn’t have health insurance?

Get insurance. Then get therapy.
And disability insurance and umbrella insurance!
by nonnie
Fri Feb 09, 2024 8:13 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Help! 25 Maxed out credit cards.....
Replies: 268
Views: 34200

Re: Help! 25 Maxed out credit cards.....

My suggestions relate to food security: Can you encourage them to obtain food from a food bank rather than primarily at the grocery store? I have volunteered at a food bank for years and some are very generous (and others are facing rough times right now) and allow weekly pickups. Research county, religious and other charitable options. You don't have to be religious to participate in a faith based food bank. They are intended for people on the brink and while I understand the complexity and perceived stigma around food banks, this family HAS to reduce expenses. Proof of low income is required at some food banks, but not all. Hopefully the school aged child is getting free or reduced food prices at school. I've heard of programs where kids...
by nonnie
Thu Feb 08, 2024 6:28 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Any tips as I enter agreement with senior facility for mom's care?
Replies: 21
Views: 2389

Re: Any tips as I enter agreement with senior facility for mom's care?

You've gotten some excellent advice-- --figure out if she medically qualifies for Independent Living or does she need Assisted--that's probably the best place to start. I see that in January you posted about a reverse mortgage your mother has. Have you been able to sort that out? You have also mentioned that you might have to pay the rent for a facility for your Mom. Sounds like it might be a good idea for you to speak with an eldercare attorney who is familiar with Medicaid and all the rules. In many cases things are easier if a resident is self -pay before they go on Medicaid which is designed for folks that run out of money and the rules are specific to every state. Medicaid does not pay for Independent Living. https://www.bogleheads.org...
by nonnie
Thu Feb 08, 2024 2:08 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Chase Locking Account Access [Resolved]
Replies: 6
Views: 933

Re: Chase Locking Account Access

It's their algorithm. When this happened to me with Chase I was finally able to determine it was because of my password manager and the way passwords were being entered. (Chase would not give me that information citing " security " and I had to figure it out myself.) After manually entering passwords for a couple weeks, my account became less sensitive. As they say.. Life is an algorithm, your brain is the OS. And Chase...? That might be the case since I use OnePassword. And yeah, I have multiple ccs, bank accounts and brokerages. It definitely isn't too many incorrect logins. I can't remember if it was when I still had LastPass or if it happened after I changed to OnePass. Sounds like that definitely is the issue. OnePass enters...
by nonnie
Thu Feb 08, 2024 1:48 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Chase Locking Account Access [Resolved]
Replies: 6
Views: 933

Re: Chase Locking Account Access

It's their algorithm. When this happened to me with Chase I was finally able to determine it was because of my password manager and the way passwords were being entered. (Chase would not give me that information citing " security " and I had to figure it out myself.) After manually entering passwords for a couple weeks, my account became less sensitive.


As they say.. Life is an algorithm, your brain is the OS. And Chase...?
by nonnie
Thu Feb 08, 2024 1:44 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Any tips as I enter agreement with senior facility for mom's care?
Replies: 21
Views: 2389

Re: Any tips as I enter agreement with senior facility for mom's care?

If there is a large entrance fee or buy-in there are lots of other things to consider such as the financial health of the facility or parent company. If you are considering that, post back with more questions. If not, generally the community fee is a one time fee. Also if you can find a non-profit, they tend to have smaller annual fee increases. Ask about the history of those. Another very important thing to ask and has been mentioned before what are the "add - on" charges because generally even in independent living, additional services can be provided. Ask to see a menu of services--how much does it cost for transportation to appointments (many facilities provide this within a 5-mile or 10 mi radius), how much does it cost to be...
by nonnie
Wed Feb 07, 2024 8:06 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Wine - what are we paying more for … ?
Replies: 185
Views: 32760

Re: Wine - what are we paying more for … ?

This is a fascinating thread. Folks proclaiming, I can't tell the difference between $10 and $30 wine and neither can you and here's some research to back me up!
by nonnie
Tue Feb 06, 2024 8:40 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Travel Insurance
Replies: 13
Views: 1849

Re: Travel Insurance

I recently had to file a claim for trip cancellation with Allianz. It was a pretty straightforward medical claim with all the proper documentation. I filed the claim using their online process and they kept requesting documents they already had and in the end it took 6 weeks. It was a $12,000 claim, approximately 25% reimbursed by the cruise line with the balance to be reimbursed by Allianz. The final reimbursement was $131 short --all my documentation was in order showing the amount due but instead of that they paid straight 75% of the total charge instead of paying The balance not reimbursed by the cruise line. I have been chasing them on this for over a month. Emails with all the details suggest phone calls, phone calls are either disco...
by nonnie
Tue Feb 06, 2024 1:05 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: GoodRX price just quadrupled. Is it normal?
Replies: 15
Views: 2649

Re: GoodRX price just quadrupled. Is it normal?

The best pricing for prescriptions I have ever found are at Mark Cuban's Cost Plus drugs. I've been using them for several years and they are totally reliable and legitimate. … Have you found the delivery dates to be reliable? I stopped using mail order from Walmart as cash prices were good but delivery dates were unreliable. I am not sure what you mean by reliable. I have a few maintenance meds that I keep well stocked so I don't pay that much attention and I don't recall them giving a delivery date. The first couple RXs took several days to process and then 3 days after that. My last RX was shipped about 20 minutes after my doctor sent the prescription in. Wish I could be more specific, but I would call them reliable. Edit--I would not m...
by nonnie
Tue Feb 06, 2024 12:48 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: GoodRX price just quadrupled. Is it normal?
Replies: 15
Views: 2649

Re: GoodRX price just quadrupled. Is it normal?

The best pricing for prescriptions I have ever found are at Mark Cuban's Cost Plus drugs. I've been using them for several years and they are totally reliable and legitimate.

https://costplusdrugs.com/medications/t ... g-capsule/
#90 $9.50 and they generally add $5.00 for shipping

Price some of your more expensive medications there, you will be surprised at how reasonable they can be.
by nonnie
Tue Feb 06, 2024 12:30 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Travel Insurance
Replies: 13
Views: 1849

Re: Travel Insurance

I recently had to file a claim for trip cancellation with Allianz. It was a pretty straightforward medical claim with all the proper documentation. I filed the claim using their online process and they kept requesting documents they already had and in the end it took 6 weeks. It was a $12,000 claim, approximately 25% reimbursed by the cruise line with the balance to be reimbursed by Allianz. The final reimbursement was $131 short --all my documentation was in order showing the amount due but instead of that they paid straight 75% of the total charge instead of paying The balance not reimbursed by the cruise line. I have been chasing them on this for over a month. Emails with all the details suggest phone calls, phone calls are either discon...
by nonnie
Tue Feb 06, 2024 12:16 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Help! 25 Maxed out credit cards.....
Replies: 268
Views: 34200

Re: Help! 25 Maxed out credit cards.....

OP, I saw your post today and went back and read the entire story. You are doing a great thing for your stepson and wife. I have a few suggestions for you that may not be useful now but one can't hurt. I believe you said you had an 830 FICO score. Add your stepson to one or more of your credit cards as an authorized user. You needn't ever tell him about it. Lock up the AU credit card or even cut it up. This will not affect your credit score in any way and it will help raise his score. It won't help as much as it did in the past but it still does help. It's probably too late now since his credit score has dropped but the more credit one has, the easier it is to raise a credit score because utilization rate is a big component of credit score....
by nonnie
Mon Feb 05, 2024 1:08 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Wine - what are we paying more for … ?
Replies: 185
Views: 32760

Re: Wine - what are we paying more for … ?

I love the study where they gave a bunch of wine "experts" a flight of white wines, dyed red with food coloring. They went on and on about the "cherry, cedar, chicory" of these 'red' wines. The study included a taste test of two glasses of wine (one dyed red, one white) which were the same wine (the only difference was a few drops of food coloring). Experts described them as different wines :D https://www.realclearscience.com/blog/2014/08/the_most_infamous_study_on_wine_tasting.html Apparently reports of this study online and in popular magazines are inaccurate. The link below breaks it down. "-The most important is that the subjects in this experiment were not, in fact ‘wine experts’. They were undergraduate enolo...
by nonnie
Sun Feb 04, 2024 5:34 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Pros and Cons of "Do Not Resuscitate"
Replies: 209
Views: 49695

Re: Pros and Cons of "Do Not Resuscitate"

I'm filling out my paperwork now, and just today, came across this in the NYT, in a letters dropdown. I would like your thoughts on this letter, I'm considering adding it to my own advance care directive. Successive writers did add a bit more info, more regarding the need for the person to be competent, but as she said, "I was competent when I wrote it." https://www.nytimes.com/2024/02/03/health/dementia-spouses-nursing-homes.html#commentsContainer posted by Former repub Pa Feb. 3 After seeing my mom fade away with dementia, where she didn't know who she was (or anyone else) & was mostly scared or asleep, I now have an advanced directive that I hope can & will be followed: "If I should suffer from severe progressive ...
by nonnie
Sat Feb 03, 2024 10:31 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Wine - what are we paying more for … ?
Replies: 185
Views: 32760

Re: Wine - what are we paying more for … ?

In a couple of weeks we will be having a wine tasting from Lail Vineyards in Rutherford, California, Napa Valley. This will be my chance to see if price makes a difference to me. We will be tasting a $60 & $80 Sauvignon Blanc and a $95, $195 & $310 Cabernet Sauvignon. I'm not even sure what to expect since I've never tasted wines that expensive.

https://www.lailvineyards.com/
by nonnie
Sat Feb 03, 2024 10:14 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: [What TV Show Have You Recently Watched?]
Replies: 5973
Views: 689962

Re: [What TV Show Have You Recently Watched?]

I watched the first episode of Mr. & Mrs. Smith. This is a tv series based on the Brat Pitt and Angelina Jolie movie of the same name. I didn't have high hopes after watching a couple episodes of the True Lies TV series. It was better than I thought it would be and I'll continue watching it. All the first season was released yesterday on Amazon. I’m on the fence for watching that show. There is a trend of remaking shows with a diverse cast without actually improving on the original material. I’d say Interview with the Vampire was a good exception, where the diversity change actually built out a richer plot. Is that the case with this show? I don't think I ever saw the original. In any case I am really enjoying the series and I'm on epi...
by nonnie
Fri Feb 02, 2024 1:43 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How has your Health Changed after Retirement; What are you doing to Stay Healthy?
Replies: 100
Views: 10094

Re: How has your Health Changed after Retirement; What are you doing to Stay Healthy?

Retirement has given me a grand opportunity to improve my health in several ways. I’ve had a bit of a rough and tumble past and now there’s time to heal all those old injuries as they resurface layer by layer. Also I’m learning to stretch, especially around the joints to keep the spaces open and the juices flowing in them. I don’t have any pain in my joints anymore and I’ve actually grown a little taller and improved my posture. I’ve also been learning how to breathe easier, increasing lung capacity, and making my music sound a lot better. My cholesterol levels are steadily dropping to normal; but I don’t know why. I’ve tried a few different statins over the years; but they all made me sick as if they were poison. Who knows maybe subconsci...
by nonnie
Wed Jan 31, 2024 1:59 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How has your Health Changed after Retirement; What are you doing to Stay Healthy?
Replies: 100
Views: 10094

Re: How has your Health Changed after Retirement; What are you doing to Stay Healthy?

Thanks for letting me know, sorry I linked the same video twice. The body isn't the only thing that needs exercise as you age :happy Let me try that again--"How to get stronger and stand from the floor with no hands." I'm only halfway there despite the recommended amount of cardio and weight training. Getting up from the floor requires coordination from a lot of different muscles, one needs more than strong legs. Also as you age, actually at any age, it becomes more difficult to help someone up and it is recommended two people always assist because it is hard on the back and risks injury. In my community, at least once or twice a month they have to call firefighters to help someone up from the floor although I have heard a few res...
by nonnie
Wed Jan 31, 2024 1:19 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How has your Health Changed after Retirement; What are you doing to Stay Healthy?
Replies: 100
Views: 10094

Re: How has your Health Changed after Retirement; What are you doing to Stay Healthy?

I have been thinking about the same type of post for a while now, so timing and topic is spot on. Interesting list of different healthy options provided by the BH forum. The winter months have put a hamper on my step counts so looking forward to better weather. While I will get my steps and miles on my e-bike, I am curious what are others are doing to improve their flexibility and balance. DW & I have been thinking that some Yoga introduction will help with this aspect. Are there any free on-line classes for beginners that we can explore? Keep up with the great healthy lifestyle recommendations. :beer I use this balance exercise on youtube - designed by a physiotherapist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3j7nJyqLys It is 30 minutes but...
by nonnie
Tue Jan 30, 2024 6:30 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Managing your affairs when you live alone and have no family or true friends
Replies: 133
Views: 21637

Re: Managing your affairs when you live alone and have no family or true friends

There is lots and lots of research differentiating extroverts and introverts. This is way more than "personality traits" with studies to back this up and explanations and theories about genetic traits and dopamine activity. As a natural introvert, the following statement really explains my difference. " Extroversion and introversion refer to where someone gets their energy from. The difference between an extrovert and an introvert is extroverts are energized through socialization and collaboration, whereas introverts receive energy from alone time or in social settings with much smaller groups. ” During my working career, I learned how to present and act as an extrovert but at times when I could not recharge, it was quite pai...
by nonnie
Tue Jan 30, 2024 2:45 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Managing your affairs when you live alone and have no family or true friends
Replies: 133
Views: 21637

Re: Managing your affairs when you live alone and have no family or true friends

calwatch wrote: Tue Jan 30, 2024 2:27 pm It also may make for a great career or side job for someone retiring early. Definitely something which could be added onto an Enrolled Agent license or something similar to add value.
There are existing services that do this. Most people are not aware of the various agencies out there to help. Below is a link I found, I have no knowledge on these folks and I'm not making a recommendation, it's just information for further research.

https://www.aginglifecare.org/ALCAWEB/A ... fault.aspx
by nonnie
Tue Jan 30, 2024 1:54 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How has your Health Changed after Retirement; What are you doing to Stay Healthy?
Replies: 100
Views: 10094

Re: How has your Health Changed after Retirement; What are you doing to Stay Healthy?

Not retired yet but walking, planks, swimming, yoga and light weights. The Washington Post today had an article on the value of isometrics and how to integrate them into the recommended 150 minutes of cardio per week. I had forgotten about isometrics and I am going do my research and change up my routine. WaPo recommended "wall sits" --2 minutes 4x with a rest of 2 minutes between for a total of 14 minutes. Way back in the day, Diana Nyad wrote a book "Basic training for Women" featuring this exercise but she called them 90/90s. I could barely do them in 40 years ago, don't even want to try and stress my knees now. Planks I can do. I can do 2 minutes but generally stick to 90 seconds. I recently read that 10-10 second p...
by nonnie
Tue Jan 30, 2024 12:24 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Managing your affairs when you live alone and have no family or true friends
Replies: 133
Views: 21637

Re: Managing your affairs when you live alone and have no family or true friends

StrangePenguin wrote: Mon Jan 29, 2024 11:03 pm
livesoft wrote: Mon Jan 29, 2024 7:00 pm
This article was posted on bogleheads.org in 2020: https://www.nytimes.com/2015/10/18/nyre ... -city.html
This is one of the best pieces I've read in a long time. Thanks for posting the link.
I agree! Wow, just wow.
by nonnie
Mon Jan 29, 2024 11:37 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How has your Health Changed after Retirement; What are you doing to Stay Healthy?
Replies: 100
Views: 10094

Re: How has your Health Changed after Retirement; What are you doing to Stay Healthy?

Current Physical Activity Guidelines: 1. 150 to 300 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity OR 75 to 150 minutes per week of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity (or any combination) AND 2. Resistance training of moderate or greater intensity involving all major muscle groups on two or more days per week. I have been pushing myself the last month or so to increase my physical fitness and exercise. I have been doing 30 minutes of cardio 5 to 6 times a week and weight training/Pilates reformer/TRX three to four times a week. I am tired, a bit fatigued, a recent check up didn't so any problems. I talked to my PT today about cutting back a bit since I was pushing myself so hard. I was amazed to find out that th...
by nonnie
Mon Jan 29, 2024 10:20 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Managing your affairs when you live alone and have no family or true friends
Replies: 133
Views: 21637

Re: Managing your affairs when you live alone and have no family or true friends

Here is another resource that might be helpful to you. The Aging Life Care website. They have a directory of members with referrals all over the country. https://www.aginglifecare.org/ALCAWEB/ALCAWEB/Default.aspx "What is Aging Life Care™? Aging Life Care management is a holistic, client-centered approach to caring for older adults or others facing ongoing health challenges. Working with families, the expertise of Aging Life Care Professionals provides the answers at a time of uncertainty. Their guidance leads families to the actions and decisions that ensure quality care and an optimal life for those they love, thus reducing worry, stress and time off of work for family caregivers through: Assessment and monitoring Planning and proble...
by nonnie
Mon Jan 29, 2024 10:12 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Managing your affairs when you live alone and have no family or true friends
Replies: 133
Views: 21637

Re: Managing your affairs when you live alone and have no family or true friends

DH and I, not particularly outgoing, have moved to a CCRC. It doesn't really address many of the issues you are speaking of although pets are allowed and pet care would be guaranteed. My health conditions are difficult and although my DH and a sibling are willing to be my DPOA for health care, I have decided to hire a professional advocate with whom I have worked before and who I know will 100% follow my wishes. Last year I was the DPOA-HC for a friend and it was the one of the most difficult situations I've ever encountered. Subjecting a family member to this process may not always be the best course and in your case, finding someone should not be that difficult if you know where to look. The website linked below is from a specific agency ...
by nonnie
Mon Jan 29, 2024 8:17 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Delay Filing an LTCI Claim?
Replies: 94
Views: 5958

Re: Delay Filing an LTCI Claim?

Today I called a higher end service provider of home health and learned that nurses can live in at a rate of $108,000 per month!!! Apparently $15k per month is a steal (that’s 2023 rates). Given everything I am learning here and from the agencies I have contacted, it is apparent that remaining in a facility that is equipped to handle dementia patients long term is preferable to the patient being at home. Fortunately she has not been discharged yet and we have not hired an aide yet. I will continue to try to get her placed in a better nursing home situation. Thank you all! I'm glad to see you're moving toward a facility. They are not perfect but at least you get group rates! Is that $108k a month for an RN or just an LVN? Unless she has a s...
by nonnie
Sun Jan 28, 2024 8:16 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Delay Filing an LTCI Claim?
Replies: 94
Views: 5958

Re: Delay Filing an LTCI Claim?

She could just stay where she is, in a care center, but it’s obvious it is traumatizing her. We could keep trying for admission to the more pleasant nursing home. As a backup plan, I continue to suggest talking to a geriatric care manager if only for information or to have on standby. They have knowledge of the quality of facilities in the area and would know the chances of admission and the best places to try. Or you could investigate an agency that specializes in helping with placement in the area, there are a number of good ones. They also have knowledge of facilities and can help with applications and waiting lists. They are paid on commission (of course you'd do your own due diligence) from the facilities. Badly run care centers can i...
by nonnie
Sun Jan 28, 2024 4:10 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Delay Filing an LTCI Claim?
Replies: 94
Views: 5958

Re: Delay Filing an LTCI Claim?

I am sorry you are having to deal with this difficult situation especially with the stress of decision deadlines. You have been getting some excellent feedback from folks with experience and information on how much time and energy managing a situation like this takes. I hope you will consider this advice. With a dementia diagnosis, the situation will only continue to need a higher level of care and management. I would strongly suggest you move your loved one closer to you to help manage and ensure proper care. It is nice to be in familiar surroundings with old friends, but in many cases friends soon stop visiting or the LO no longer recognizes them. It will become more and more difficult for you to manage care from afar. Have you thought ab...
by nonnie
Sat Jan 27, 2024 11:06 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: IRS Form 3115 -Accrual to cash basis for I bond interest
Replies: 0
Views: 333

IRS Form 3115 -Accrual to cash basis for I bond interest

For the last dozen years or so ever since I started purchasing I Bonds, I've used the accrual method and reported all the accrued interest through the end of 2022. Because of my income was low, very little of my social security was taxed and my total taxes were minimal. In 2023, high interest income has resulted in almost $12K of Social Security being taxed resulting in $2K due in taxes which I would prefer to avoid. The accrued income for 2023 on my I bonds is nearly $12k and switching to cash basis and eliminating that income lowers taxes to only a couple hundred dollars. As I understand it, I need to file Form 3115 with my tax return to change from accrual to cash method ( a change from method two to method one.) Any pointers on Form 311...
by nonnie
Fri Jan 26, 2024 10:50 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What frugal thing did you do today?
Replies: 4524
Views: 617299

Re: What frugal thing did you do today?

Unearthed a 2-year-old Costco porterhouse in my freezer. Not bad but a bit too marbled for me.
by nonnie
Fri Jan 26, 2024 8:36 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What are some of the things that improved YOUR quality of life?
Replies: 254
Views: 41954

Re: What are some of the things that improved YOUR quality of life?

Moving to Independent Living at age 67 while I was healthy enough to enjoy it. Don't wait, there is no downside. I'm not quite as healthy as I was 4 years ago but all the great benefits are still available--onsite gym, weekly housekeeping, daily meals, free utilities, local valet, concierge and great classes and activities. Other than cost, which is a major consideration, no downside.
by nonnie
Thu Jan 25, 2024 7:18 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Washington Post: "That 'free' annual checkup might cost you"
Replies: 112
Views: 11774

Re: Washington Post: "That 'free' annual checkup might cost you"

If I were a primary doctor, I wouldn't take insurance at all. I'd put a menu in the waiting room and on my website and probably charge a subscription/membership fee. Eliminate all of this nonsense. Too hard to do it in EM though. It's actually pretty amazing what things actually cost in a cash system. For example, I went to an MRI in a box (and got a high quality MRI and a high quality read by a radiologist) and got an MR for $300 that would have cost at least $3000 at my hospital. Thanks for responding back with your insights and info. No idea there were doc in a box MRI facilities. My DH just had a lumbar MRI with cash price billed at $4000 (Bay Area CA). Medicare paid $273! Medigap paid $69.72 for a total of $342.96. I think what you su...
by nonnie
Thu Jan 25, 2024 2:25 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Washington Post: "That 'free' annual checkup might cost you"
Replies: 112
Views: 11774

Re: Washington Post: "That 'free' annual checkup might cost you"

The American medicine is not free. We pay more for the healthcare than citizens of other countries in the "Global North" and receive less care. Victoria Spot on Victoria. Not only do we have the most expensive health care by an order of magnitude, we also receive some of the worst outcomes in the developed world - from overall life expectancy to infant and child mortality. The US has the best healthcare system in the world -- except for every other one. You should go try them all and let us know which one you like best. The truth is more complex than this. Some systems are better at some problems than others. For example, we're awesome at preventing colon cancer and at treating coronary artery disease. Not so awesome at preventin...