How To Help Your Aging Parents Deal With Loneliness

 How To Help Your Aging Parents Deal With Loneliness

Elder loneliness is a harsh reality in the US since older people are likelier to live alone here than anywhere else in the world. A recent Pew Research Center study discovered that 27% of adults aged 60 and above live alone compared to 16% of adults in the 130 countries and territories examined. The effects of loneliness on elders extend beyond mere social isolation since it puts them at a higher risk of several conditions and even death. Luckily, there's a lot you can do to make your aging parents less lonely. Here's how to help your aged parents deal with loneliness.

1. Keep in touch

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Your parents may not be able to drive or may be afraid of taking to the roads due to more traffic and slower reaction times. As such, you will have to do all the visiting to stay in touch with them as they age. Regular visits can give your parents something good to look forward to, so they are never weighed down by loneliness. You can simply drop by for a chat or a cup of tea or plan fun days out with other relatives to make your visit more memorable. These visits will also help you identify and fix key problems in their home to take better care of them. Alternatively, you can keep in touch through regular phone calls, texts, and video chat if you can't visit.

2. Put them in a nursing home

It is estimated that 1.5 million Americans currently live in nursing homes for various reasons ranging from specialized healthcare needs to assistance with daily living. Nursing homes are also excellent for their social needs since they provide several socialization opportunities that might not be accessible at home or elsewhere. Your aging parents will be surrounded by their peers in a nursing home, so they will always have someone to talk to. What's more, these homes organize fun social activities for seniors like karaoke, board games, group walks, and birthday parties. You can partner with a nursing home advisor to find the right place for your parents if you can't decide on the many available options, so keep this in mind.

3. Teach them about technology

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Lonely seniors enjoy more socializing opportunities with technology, so it is best to teach them how to navigate it. If you cannot teach your parents how to use smartphones, social media, and computers yourself, you can send the grandkids over for a few helpful lessons. The mere act of teaching your aging parents something new is an excellent social opportunity itself, and the lessons will help them be even more social. For instance, you can teach them how to use an ai character chat bot to ensure they'll have someone to talk to at all hours of the day. Seniors can also learn how to reach their family members anytime through video chat to keep them amused and socially connected. Furthermore, they can additionally learn how to use social media, find classes in their area, and join forums to interact with like-minded people. However, the FBI reports that seniors lost almost $1 billion through elder scams in 2020 alone. Therefore, teach your parents about online privacy and how to spot common scams to keep them safe.

Food Prices Are Soaring, But You Still Needn't Get Burnt In The Kitchen

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As food prices increase at rates that we haven’t seen in decades, it’s easy to assume that increases in grocery costs are an inevitable part of life right now. The trouble is that, for families who were already paying a great deal for their weekly food shop, this additional cost can feel like too much to bear.

This is especially true when you pair raising food costs with general inflation of around 7.5%. Luckily, while we can’t impact general inflation and its effects on things like household bills, grocery increases are, at least, something that we can manage if we put our minds to it.

That’s not to say you can entirely overcome paying anything extra in this area over the coming months, but it does at least mean that you can try to keep costs around the level that they were before by simply perfecting priorities like the following. 

Step 1: Pay with the right card

Though it may seem strange to use a credit card to ultimately save yourself money, the fact that many credit card providers offer as much as 2-6% of cashback at nationwide supermarkets means that you can at least reduce the impact of increases by paying this way. By taking the time to consider the best possible options for this benefit with the help of companies like Compare Credit, you can especially ensure that you’re getting almost as much back as the extra you’re spending in the first place. If you pair this with the ability to pay credit card bills as soon as they come through your letterbox, you can at least ease the sting you’ll inevitably feel here otherwise. 

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Step 2: Cut back on meat

With meat currently costing around 21% more than it did in 2021, reducing meat products to one or two meals a week can also significantly help to reduce food expenses overall. This is by no means a new concept, but the cost-cutting benefits of surprisingly affordable protein and iron-rich alternatives like lentils and beans are coming even more into their own right now. Even better, the ability to store these items in the long term can save on food wastage, which will also help to cut back on overall costs here. 

Step 3: Cook in batches

Speaking of reducing waste, cooking in batches is another more financially sustainable way to continue cooking your own meals. As well as saving on the risk of having to throw away food, having affordable meals like chilis and curries in the freezer can especially cut down on the need for shopping trips that leave you at risk of the expensive impulse buys that many of us are guilty of otherwise. And, you’d be amazed how much of a difference that can bring to your monthly grocery outlays overall. 

Cost of food increases are undeniably daunting for those of us with families to sustain, but weathering the change using these simple techniques is guaranteed to make this an easier adjustment than you might be expecting. 

 

Too Busy At Work? Quick & Healthy Lunch Ideas You Need!

 How much money do you spend per week on your working lunches? So many people spend cash every single day buying lunches from the local takeout stands, not thinking about what could be nourishing. A healthy lunch is harder to come by with all of the prepacked options on the shelves, and quick and healthy lunch ideas are absolutely necessary so that you can enjoy your meals and feel energized at work at the same time. 

Almost every day, you can whip up a healthy breakfast and a nutritious dinner, even if you have a slow cooker going all day you can make your evening meal a hearty one. So how can you ensure your lunches are the case? And what are your options? You can batch cook and bring your own lunches as standard - it’s the best option if you want to ensure that you are eating really well! Whether you are whipping up Vietnamese pho from Nourished Kitchen or you are putting on a large portion of chili ready to be frozen, your lunches should make you feel full and nourished all at once. Below, we’ve got some quick and healthy lunch ideas that’ll ensure you are well fed while you’re at work.

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1. Embrace veggies. You don't have to be a vegetarian to really enjoy your veggies, and vegetables don't have to be boring, either. You can enjoy vegetables in a myriad of ways, from a quinoa veggie bowl with a tahini dressing to a delicious vegetable soup. While you’re working, you want to be able to think straight and a big part of that will be in what you eat to get you through the day. If you’re eating foods that make you feel sluggish, you’re going to find it much harder to concentrate. 

2. Bake a batch of muffins. While the muffins at the coffee shops are delicious, we’re talking savory muffins over sweet. Veggie muffins or mini frittatas are the perfect option for work as they’re easy to grab and can be eaten with a hearty side salad. You can even bring that veggie soup you made and use the soup as a dip! Your muffin making skills will show off a little of what you can do and you’ll feel fuller for longer in the office as a result. 

3. Try out loaded potatoes. Slicing up pre baked sweet potatoes and loading them up with your choice of toppings is a good way to go if you want something healthy and filling. Adding fresh salsa, refried beans and greens will ensure that you get the fulfilling meal that you’re looking for - and not a burger in sight!

4. Explore your wrap options. Wraps don't have to be all carb-y and boring. You can do so much with wraps and you can use large green lettuce leaves if you want something more fulfilling than a regular wrap. Veggies with fish or eggs, meats in strips with cheeses and even meatball wraps all work for you.

14 Easy Ways To Spruce Up Your Backyard!

 Your backyard is your own personal oasis - a place to relax, entertain, and enjoy the great outdoors. But if it's been a while since you've given your backyard a makeover, it might be time for an update.

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Here Are 14 Easy Ways To Spruce Up Your Backyard And Make It Look Its Best:

1. Add Some Color

One easy way to update your backyard is to add some color. This can be done by planting flowers or adding colorful outdoor furniture or decor. Adding color will instantly make your backyard more inviting and enjoyable.

2. Create A Cozy Seating Area

Another way to update your backyard is to create a cozy seating area. This can be done by buying an outdoor dining table, adding a patio or deck, setting up a fire pit, or adding some comfortable outdoor couches or chairs. A cozy seating area is the perfect place to relax and enjoy your backyard.

3. Add Some Privacy

Consider adding a fence or hedge if you're looking for ways to update your backyard and make it more private. This will give you some much-needed privacy and make your backyard feel like its own oasis. In addition, privacy will also increase the value of your home.

4. Get Rid Of Weeds And Debris

Weeds and debris can ruin the look of your backyard and make it feel unkempt. To update your backyard, be sure to remove any weeds or debris that might be present. This will give your backyard a neater appearance and make it more inviting.

5. Add Some Lighting

Adding some soft lighting to your backyard is a great way to make it more inviting and enjoyable. You can add solar lights along your walkways, string lights around your seating area, or even install landscape lighting. Adding lighting will make your backyard feel more like an extension of your home.

It creates a more inviting atmosphere, but it can also be used for safety purposes. When adding lighting to your backyard, be sure to choose weather-resistant and durable fixtures.

6. Get Rid Of The Clutter

One easy way to instantly update your backyard is to get rid of any clutter that might be taking up space. This could mean donating old furniture or toys, storing away seasonal items, or simply getting rid of anything that you no longer use or need. Getting rid of the clutter will make your backyard feel more spacious and inviting.

7. Bring In Some New Plants

Another easy way to update your backyard is to bring in some new plants. This could include adding flowers, shrubs, or even trees. Adding new plants will help give your backyard a fresh and vibrant look. In addition, plants can also help to provide privacy and increase the value of your home.

8. Add A Water Feature

Adding a water feature to your masterpiece is a great way to make your backyard more enjoyable and relaxing. Water features can include anything from a small fountain to a large pond. Adding a water feature will help to create a tranquil and serene atmosphere in your backyard.

9. Paint Or Stain Your Fencing

If you have a fence around your backyard, consider painting or staining it. This will help to give your backyard a fresh and new look. In addition, painting or staining your fence will also help to protect it from the elements and increase its lifespan.

10. Add A Fire Pit

A fire pit is an awesome way to make your backyard more enjoyable. Fire pits can be used for cooking, entertaining, or just relaxing. Adding a fire pit will definitely make your backyard stand out.

11. Plant A Veggie Garden

If you love to cook, consider planting a veggie garden. This is a great way to get fresh produce for your family and save money at the grocery store. Planting a veggie garden is also a great way to get your kids involved in gardening.

12. Install An Outdoor Kitchen

If you love to cook outdoors, consider installing an outdoor kitchen. Outdoor kitchens are becoming increasingly popular and can really make your backyard stand out. Outdoor kitchens can include features such as grills, sinks, and refrigerators.

13. Add A Pergola

A pergola is a great way to add style and functionality to your backyard. Pergolas can be used for shading, entertaining, or even just as a decorative element. Adding a pergola will definitely make your backyard stand out. There are different styles of pergolas available, so checking out COLORBOND pergolas and other similar types, will show you what will fit in with your backyard.

14. Hang String Lights

Hanging string lights is a great way to add ambiance to your backyard. String lights can be hung from trees, fences, or even on poles. Hanging string lights will help your backyard look its best and make it more inviting.

In Conclusion

These are just some of the many easy ways to update your backyard and make it look its best. You can easily transform your backyard into your own personal oasis by following these tips.

Can You Get Rid of Payday Loans with Bankruptcy or Debt Relief?

 If you are behind on debts, the bills are piling up, and you’ve begun getting letters from PO box 25759 Greenville SC, waiting until your next paycheck may not seem realistic. Payday loans offer a fast, easy and reliable way to get money when you need it. However, it comes with its downsides and could cause financial hardships over time as it traps you in an unending cycle of debt. When going through a financial crisis, you might opt to file bankruptcy to eliminate debt. But are payday loans dischargeable in bankruptcy cases? Here is everything you need to know about payday loans and bankruptcy.

1. Are you Eligible to File for Bankruptcy?

Pay day loans can be discharged in a bankruptcy if they are unsecured.

Before considering filing for bankruptcy to discharge your payday loans, the first step should be identifying if you are eligible to file for bankruptcy. Use a Chapter 7 means calculator to test your eligibility.

If you are eligible, there are other factors to consider, like the cost of filing for bankruptcy. The costs of filing bankruptcy depend on where you live. So when doing your research, you should specifically look at the costs in your state rather than checking general costs for an accurate prediction. Here is a guide on how much it costs to file bankruptcy in Georgia and how much it costs to file bankruptcy in Colorado. You should also compare other debt-relief options and their pros and cons before filing for bankruptcy.

2. Should I Include Payday Loans When Filling Out Debts in My Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Case?

When filing for bankruptcy, the court will ask you to disclose your income, debt, and expenses. If you have an outstanding Payday loan, you should include it in your bankruptcy schedule alongside other debts, irrespective of whether the debt is dischargeable. Although most unsecured debts are dischargeable, payday loans aren't always dischargeable. If you don’t qualify for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, it may be worth your time to take a Chapter 13 payment calculator to see what your other options are.

Debts Incurred Less than Three Months Before Filing Bankruptcy

If you incur debts between 60 and 90 days before filing bankruptcy, these debts may not be eligible for discharge. The assumption is that you took out these loans in anticipation of filing bankruptcy, and you knew you had no means to repay. Therefore, it is fraudulent, and these debts cannot be discharged.

A major challenge payday loans pose is that most renew every 30 to 60 days. So, your lender may argue the debt should be non-dischargeable since they were incurred shortly before filing bankruptcy.

Agreements That May Prohibit You From Listing Payday Loans in Bankruptcy

Unique cases could prohibit you from listing payday loans under debts in your bankruptcy loans. Always go through the paperwork, terms, and conditions of the payday loan before signing. Some lenders add a clause stating the payday loan cannot be discharged in bankruptcy. However, the clause is not legally recognized and, thus, will not impact a discharge. So, if the court finds your payday loan eligible for discharge following federal bankruptcy laws, the clause added in the loan agreement will not prevent the court from issuing discharge.

How the Law Treats Bad Checks

Other than adding a clause to term the payday loan non-dischargeable, some lenders might also state you will go to jail if you attempt to close your bank account to avoid withdrawing funds or deposit a post-dated check under ACH authorization.

Usually, this is an invalid threat since the lender knew you weren't in a financial position to pay the electronic withdrawal or post-dated check when you signed the agreement. So, it is hard to prove your actions were fraudulent because the lender accepted a "bad check" and was aware of your financial position.

Can I File Chapter 7 Bankruptcy After Taking a Payday Loan?

It is not wrong to file Chapter 7 bankruptcy after recently taking a payday loan. However, if your payday loan is recent, it may not be dischargeable. So, if the lender objects to the payday loan discharge, you might be legally responsible for paying the loan despite filing for bankruptcy relief

Different States have Varying Laws on  PayDay Loans

The laws on payday loans vary according to state. Most states have laws governing payday loans since most are abusive to consumers. Payday loan companies are prohibited from automatically renewing the loan in other states, which is helpful since you might wait for months before filing bankruptcy to get debt relief.

3. Understanding How Payday Loans Work

While there isn't a standard definition for what qualifies as a payday loan, there are some characteristics all payday loans share in common. All payday loans are short-term loans that are repaid on the next payday (between two and four weeks or even 3 months) either from salary, social security, or pension and in a single payment. Payday loans are commonly referred to as payday, cash, or paycheck advance

Most lending companies ask their borrowers to submit a post-dated check for the full amount, including fees and interest. Some lenders may need their borrowers to sign an ACH authorization to enable electronic withdrawals from their bank account on specified dates.

Some of these payday loans can be renewed or rolled over, requiring the borrower to pay the interest and fees but allowing an extension of the principal amount for another period. Payday loans and fees are often high, and some lenders can charge high fees with an annual percentage rate of 400 or more. Thus, creating the need for regulation.

Although Payday loans come in handy and are easy to access, they often worsen financial problems. Most people who apply for payday loans soon get trapped in a cycle of rollover payday loans due to the inability to pay the original loan balance. Others borrow money from a different source to pay their Payday loans, increasing their debt further.

4. Should I Consult a Bankruptcy Attorney About Payday Loans?

If you want to file for bankruptcy, it is prudent to schedule a consultation with a bankruptcy attorney if you have a payday loan. Consider hiring a local attorney since payday loan laws vary according to state, and a local attorney understands these laws better.

A bankruptcy lawyer gives you reliable, professional advice on if your payday loan is eligible for discharge and offers alternatives to settle your payday loans. Depending on your case, an attorney can advise you to close your bank account and wait for at least three months before filing bankruptcy.

Each case is unique, and there is no sure way to know if your payday loan is eligible for a discharge. Hence, you need to consult a bankruptcy attorney to review your loan agreement, assess your financial situation and predict the outcome.

5. Are There Alternatives to Filing Bankruptcy to Get Out of Debt

You can consider debt relief as an alternative to bankruptcy, but you may want to consider the fees.

National Debt Relief and Freedom Debt Relief are two of the biggest players in the space. That said, you should consider the National Debt Relief pros and cons of this options as the fees can be quite expensive.

If you have fallen behind on your debt payments and still have outstanding payday loans to repay, you can try other debt-relief options. However, given the rise in malpractices as alleged in the Freedom Debt Relief Lawsuit, you should do extensive research on companies you plan to work with.

6. Where Can I Find a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Lawyer for Hire?

Would you like to file for bankruptcy but have a payday loan? Seek the services of a bankruptcy lawyer to help you see if bankruptcy is the best option and if your payday loan will be discharged. Most bankruptcy attorneys offer a free consultation. So, get a local bankruptcy lawyer, and schedule your consultation. You can also ask your attorney to advise you on different debt relief options available to you and advice on alternative options to get rid of debt. Call us today to book your consultation.