And if you are ready to move... this New York Times post highlights ElderSpirit, one of four existing examples in the country of a senior (not multi-generational) "co-housing" or intentional community built exclusively for this use. An eclectic group of 44 older adults, hailing from 15 states, moved to Appalachia. The majority of residents are over 70. They see the community as a low-cost alternative where they can remain independent, share weekly meals with neighbors, and help each other. Most are thriving, but have been relatively free of critical health issues and dementia. Check out the fascinating videos by fellows at Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism focused on the issues of aging.
USA Today asked readers to report about transformations they have made during the second half of their lives...and more than 150 people sent e-mails and letters filled with details. Among the responses from these 50+ers were stories about pursuing new careers, education goals, adventures, hobbies, and volunteer activities. The most common type of change readers mentioned was pursuing a new career. Many reported that they managed to overcome fears and doubts to make a fuller, richer life for themselves. To get inspired...read more.
As boomers consider leaving their homes for smaller spaces, one of the most formidable tasks is figuring out what to do with all their "stuff." For years, Americans have been gathering and collecting at an amazing pace, filling homes that over the past half-century have more than doubled in size. And even that hasn't been enough to contain our nation's overflow of furniture, knick-knacks, antiques and kitsch. With some 8,000 Americans turning 65 every day, millions are facing a massive purge. And many don't want to just give away their treasures...after all, this "stuff" is valuable!
