Tax season is upon us. According to the IRS, about 90 percent of taxpayers now file their taxes electronically. The agency touts the service as more accurate, convenient and secure than paper claims, and people usually receive their tax refunds faster. The IRS offers free tax filing assistance to filers who earn $54,000 a year…

Think about how much time we put into planning things like college, a wedding, moving to a new home, having a baby and retirement. Now think about how much time we put into planning for our death. For many people, it’s no time at all. Perhaps you’ve got your estate plan documents in order, but…

Oh, the places you’ll go! Renowned author Dr. Seuss wrote a children’s book in 1990 that has become a popular graduation gift for young adults. Part of its message:1 “You’re off to Great Places!Today is your day!Your mountain is waiting.So … get on your way!” Perhaps for some people, the time to travel is when…

In the United States, someone has a stroke every 40 seconds. Often referred to as a “brain attack,” a stroke is caused by injury to a blood vessel that limits the flow of blood to the brain.1 The causes include some of the same ones that cause a heart attack, including high blood pressure, smoking,…

In 2017, women organized and made headway toward real change, making it a hallmark year for women’s issues. The year started with the Women’s March in January and ended with the #MeToo movement spreading across the globe.1 In addition, record numbers of women considered running for public office.2 The thing is, many of the factors…

It can be confusing when government bureaucrats and the media offer wildly different perspectives on the intent and ramifications of a new controversial policy. This was plainly evident in December regarding the issue of net neutrality. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the new “Restoring Internet Freedom Order”1 is meant to: Reverse the previous…

Americans spend a lot on health care. In 2016, national health expenditures grew 4.3 percent to $3.3 trillion, which amounts to $10,348 per person.1 It’s interesting that you’ll find few people who say our health care system is fine as is, and medical services, facilities, drugs and equipment are all reasonably priced. However, there is…

Of all the questions we ask a potential spouse before tying the knot, they seldom include:   “Who are the beneficiaries of your investment plans and insurance policies?” “Do you wish to be resuscitated if your heart stops or if you stop breathing?” “Do you want your ex or me to be guardian for your…

Some teenagers seem to sleep a lot. As parents and grandparents, we can find this rather aggravating. But the fact is, as we get older, our sleep patterns may change, and our sleep can be less restful.1 Perhaps it’s a good idea to let young people sleep in peace while they still can.   Scientists…

If you picture yourself receiving long-term care at some point, you likely envision a medical professional sitting bedside, tending to your needs. However, the bulk of long-term care in the U.S. is actually provided by family caregivers.1   According to a recent Merrill Lynch study, 20 million Americans become caregivers each year. Moreover, family caregivers…