"Following the doctor's orders" -- can greatly reduce total healthcare use and costs. But I know my parents are not good about this. When in consultation with their primary care physician, they acknowledge understanding the conversation. They...

The U.S. Census Bureau projects that by 2030, nearly 20% of the U.S. population will be age 65 or older -- based on 10,000-plus baby boomers now turning 65 every day. The Institute of Medicine reports that more than...

In today's news, I came across an article discussing a recent study of the nation's nursing homes. This was a state-by-state study. Although we must allow for differences in survey protocol and data collection, there were some...

Should a functioning hospital provide a "continuum of care", in which they are attempting to care for patients as they recover, age, and deteriorate? Or is it best to bring a certain medical expertise to patients, who then...

In today's news...the announcement that total enrollments for the Affordable Care Act have hit 7.1 million - which was roughly the original expectation. This represents a significant milestone on the healthcare landscape. Indeed, healthcare in our country is changing....

For the many people who don’t feel refreshed after sleeping, exercise could be the solution. A recent study by the National Sleep Foundation found that exercisers report better sleep than non-exercisers even though they say they sleep the same...

You qualify for Social Security benefits by earning credits when you work in a job, or are self-employed, and pay Social Security payroll taxes. In 2014, you receive one credit for each $1,200 of earnings, up to the maximum...

Financial planners are telling the truth...the sooner you begin your financial planning, the better off you will be. It's best to stay informed and have a baseline of your current and future financial needs. Keep in mind, Social Security replaces...

I have a friend who contracted the Hepatitis C virus years ago, and who is now suffering with liver cancer. He is unable to work, unable to function on a daily basis. Hepatitis C is the number one...

The following provides an important reminder for many seniors reaching and/or exceeding retirement age. Acknowledgements to the Social Security Administration for much of the detail below... Social Security can be an important financial asset for married couples...