For 2026, the standard Medicare Part B premium is $202.90 per month, up from $185 in 2025. The annual Part B deductible is $283, up from $257 in 2025. Some higher-income beneficiaries pay an additional surcharge on top of...

VA Pension Provides Financial Assistance The Veteran Administration provides financial assistance for qualifying veterans (or surviving spouses) through the Aid and Attendance pension benefit. It is intended for those requiring help with routine tasks, or two or more “activities...

The financial formula utilized by the VA can be somewhat confusing.  In simplest terms, we need to define household income.  (What is coming into the bank account on a monthly basis?) Next, we tally privately paid health/medical expenses,...

AARP projects a 3.6 percent Social Security cost-of-living adjustment for 2027, based on current inflation data. That would increase the average retired worker’s benefit by $75 a month. The COLA is based on changes in consumer prices in the third...

How to Determine Eligibility The application process and paperwork required to submit an application for Aid & Attendance eligibility is relatively simple.  However, there is no real instruction manual.  I have helped numerous parties complete and submit documents to the...

What should families remember about Sundowning? Simply understanding what you are witnessing with your elderly parents is a first, important step. Here are summary tips to remember: -- Sundowning is a group of symptoms that may occur later in the...

Sundowning can be stressful for both seniors and family caregivers. Here are a couple of tips on engaging with affected elderly parents or seniors. -- Limit daytime napping: Long naps during the day may make nighttime sleep more difficult....

Sundowning is a group of symptoms that may occur later in the day in seniors with dementia. Some of the many contributing factors may include: -- Hunger or dehydration -- Overstimulation from noise or busy environments -- Boredom or lack of...

Elders with dementia frequently exhibit signs of Sundowning. But, what are the signs and symptoms to look for? Here are some of the most common signs of Sundowning. Be on the look-out for: -- Increased confusion or disorientation -- Anxiety...

You may notice that your elderly parents, or aging loved ones, seem to become agitated in the late afternoon or early evening hours. These seniors are most likely exhibiting "sundowning". Symptoms can range from mild restlessness to...