Portrait of senior friends outdoors
February 14, 2024
 | 
Written By:
Brian Goldman
 - 
Retirement Specialist, Financial Adviser

February 2024 Newsletter

WELCOME FEBRUARY! I hope you’re enjoying this short, but busy month that features Presidents Day, Valentine’s Day, and lots more. Please read the articles below for more information on getting ready for outdoor spring activities, senior safety tips, the benefits of Medicare supplement coverage and more.


How You Can Prevent Falls

Many seniors face a common risk — falls. In fact, it’s estimated (CDC) that one out of four older adults will fall each year in the United States.

Reports suggest that by staying alert and implementing some simple modifications at home, you may avoid falls. Here are some ideas to make your life free from falls:

  • Eliminate rugs, if possible.
  • Install handrails on both sides of any stairs.
  • Try balance and strength training exercises.
  • Have your eyes and hearing tested.
  • Find out about the side effects of any medicines you take.
  • Get enough sleep.

To avoid falls, be prepared! It’s important to always be cognizant of your surroundings and aware of possible safety risks.

February: Important for Heart Awareness

February is American Heart Month. The month is dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular diseases and stresses the benefits of heart-healthy lifestyles. It spotlights learning about heart disease prevention and works to inspire support for those affected by cardiovascular conditions.

Plus, February is National Cancer Prevention Month. It’s a time to spread the word about cancer and act to help us all live healthier, and happier lives.

Get Ready for Spring

While winter winds may still be blowing outside, spring will be here soon. How can you prepare for increased outdoor activities?

Perhaps start with short amounts of outdoor activity before going all out. Walking may be a great choice. Maybe start to prepare your garden (Visiting Angels).

Further, as the seasons change, use the new season to change up your menu. Take advantage of seasonal foods that are available in your grocery store or farmer's market.

Seasonal foods are often more affordable and flavorful when they're a in season.

What Medicare does not cover

Original Medicare provides essential coverage for millions of Americans. But it does not cover everything. For example, it likely will not cover the cost of a nursing home or assisted living.

Medicare generally doesn’t cover costs for most dental, hearing, or vision care.

Coinsurance and deductibles probably won’t be covered by Medicare. You can get help with those from Medicare Supplement Insurance. Contact me for details.

Good Taste, Good Health

Baked Spinach and Feta Pasta
Baked Spinach and Feta Pasta

Baked Spinach and Feta Pasta

Here’s a meatless, yet hearty dish that’s easy to make. Enjoy this palate-pleasing casserole.

INGREDIENTS:

  • 15 oz block feta cheese
  • 8 cups lightly packed baby spinach
  • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 large cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried dill
  • ¼ tsp kosher salt
  • ¼ tsp ground pepper
  • 8 oz penne or rotini pasta
  • 2 cups of boiling water

DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 400°. Place feta in center of a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Bake until softened and starting to brown — about 15 min. Combine spinach, oil, garlic, dill, salt, and pepper in large bowl. Use your hands to massage the spinach until it’s reduced in volume by half. Stir in pasta. When the feta is finished, add spinach and pasta mixture to the baking dish. Pour boiling water over the mixture and gently stir. Cover with foil and bake until the pasta is tender — about 18 min. Remove from oven and stir. Cover and let stand for at least 3 min before serving.

SOURCE: Eating Well

Crossing the Border

We know seniors love travel. And it can be especially satisfying to spend your vacation “overseas.”

There are many great places to go. Experts have found some are particularly good for seniors. Here are some that have been found to be great overseas adventures…

  • Italy
  • Greece
  • Australia
  • Spain
  • New Zealand
  • France
  • Croatia
  • Ireland

DID YOU KNOW THIS ABOUT FEBRUARY?

On February 2, 1848 - the war between the U.S. and Mexico ended with the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo.

On February 20, 1962 - Astronaut John Glenn became the first American launched into orbit.

President Richard Nixon arrived in China for historic meetings with Chairman Mao Tso-tung and Premier Chou En-lai on February 21, 1972.

On February 27, 1950 - The 22nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, limiting the president to two terms or a maximum of ten years in office.

SOURCE: The History Place

February Birthdays: Langston Hughes (February 1), Norman Rockwell (3), George Stephanopoulos (10), Cindy Crawford (20)

SOURCE: Famous Birthdays


Senior Financial Glossary

A virtual currency is a digital representation of value only available electronically. It’s stored and transacted through designated software, mobile, or computer applications.

"Visibility" is used to show the extent to which a company's management or analysts can estimate future performance. Visibility can range from low to high or from the near term to the long-term.

Vertical analysis is a method of financial statement analysis in which each line item is listed as a percentage of a base figure within the statement.

Vetting is the process of thoroughly investigating an individual, company, or other entity before deciding to go forward with a joint project.

SOURCE: Investopedia

Quote of the Month
“It is better to be alone than to be in bad company.”
- George Washington

View Last Month's answers

SOURCE: BrainyQuote©

For information about Medicare or Claiming Social Security, please visit briangoldman.myasbagent.net. Should you have any questions, please email me at brian.goldman@successfs.com or call 412-897-0760.

Brian Goldman
Retirement Specialist, Financial Adviser
412-897-0760brian.goldman@successfs.com