Contact me for: Using a straightforward online questionnaire, Practical Plans generates a legally binding living trust for California residents, reviewed by an attorney, in under an hour.
Mark Powell is the founder and CEO of Practical Plans, an innovative, web-based estate planning solution that caters to young families and individuals in California. Powell sought an innovative approach for clients with simple needs that often do not need the complicated plans that traditional law firms tend to create. Using a straightforward questionnaire, Practical Plans generates a legally binding living trust for a flat fee, reviewed by an attorney, in less than an hour.
Powell, who has nearly 20 years of deep legal seasoning, is the managing partner at Albrecht & Barney, an estate and gift tax law and estate planning firm in Orange County, California. He is a certified specialist in estate planning, trust and probate law by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. Powell received his law degree from Mercer University School of Law and is a graduate of University of Georgia.
Powell serves as an Adjunct Professor of Law in the taxation program at Chapman University School of Law. He is also a member of the American Bar Association (Taxation Section), Orange County Bar Association (Probate and Trust Section) and the Orange Coast Estate Planning Council. He has written extensively in a variety of media and has been named by Worth magazine as one of the “Top 100 Attorneys” in the estate planning field.
Expert Articles by Mark Powell
Estate Planning
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Having a baby? Create an estate plan to protect your familyDon’t feel that setting up an estate plan when preparing for a baby is one more burdensome item on your list. Embrace the moment but think about how you’ll want your spouse and new addition taken ... |
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A well-rounded estate plan will help protect your familyCompile and evaluate all of your assets and think about how you’d want them safeguarded after you’re gone. Think about how you’d like your spouse and kids cared for. Finally, consult with an att... |
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No family to pass your assets to? Advice for creating an estate planAn estate plan is a personal thing, so make sure your assets go where you would like them to after you’re gone. Trusting those who are put in charge of caring for those assets is important and you s... |
Expert Articles Sponsored by Mark Powell
Wills and Estates
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Helping you through probateProbate can be a complex process depending upon the amount and value of the assets in the estate, the debts owed and the number of people involved. It is important that you know what to do and what no... |
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Things to consider with a power of attorneyA power of attorney utilized by the right person in the right situation(s) is a very helpful and effective tool. Unfortunately, many people sign a power of attorney without proper guidance from an att... |
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What’s the difference between a will and a living trust?There are many factors that go into deciding whether your family is best served by a will-based estate plan or a living trust. Making the right decision can save money, hassle, and heartache. Like mos... |
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Should I leave assets outright or in a trust?Leaving assets to heirs can be a tall task for people. There are often numerous considerations that need to be addressed, including whether to leave assets in trust or whether to leave those assets ou... |
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Evaluate elder’s competency to protect their health and financesA competency evaluation team includes medical professionals and clinical psychologists who evaluate a person's cognitive functioning, memory capacity and reasoning capability. These factors are import... |
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A revocable living trust will protect your assets and avoid probateThough setting up a living trust may seem complicated compared with a will, ultimately it may provide you and your loved ones with more options when it comes to planning for the future. Because estate... |
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Create a postnuptial agreement to protect your financial futureWhen bringing up the topic of getting a postnup, always remember that this is a financial plan for your future; to protect the finances you and your spouse have acquired since being married. Always ma... |
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Create a written will to protect loved ones and give you peace of mindWriting a will is an emotionally fraught issue. For many people, making sure their relatives and loved ones are taken care in the event of their demise is essential. Though there are myriad issues and... |
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Expert advice on deciding if a prenup is right for youA prenup is what you make it. It can be simple, straightforward and equally protect both parties. It can be used simply as a planning tool to expedite a divorce, or it can be used to protect only one ... |
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Ensure your pets are taken care of in your estate plan and willDetermining what should happen to your pets if you become unable to take care of them is an important and often overlooked part of estate planning. If you think of your pets as members of your family,... |
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A will helps control the distribution of your estate after deathEven if you desire to leave all of your property to those who would be considered your “heirs at law,” a simple self-proving will appointing an independent executor will streamline the probate pro... |
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Newlyweds should prepare a will and discuss estate planningThis article discusses some of the most important estate planning issues to be concerned with for newlyweds. If you need further help, you should contact an estate planner or an attorney who is experi... |
Estate Planning
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Planning your funeral service in advance gives you peace of mindBeginning the pre-planning process presents several choices to consider. A good start is by searching online for a funeral service that suits your needs. Simply making an appointment at a funeral home... |
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Advice for selecting the right estate planner for your situationLike any other professional engagement, the biggest problem is often finding the one you are comfortable with and who possesses the skill and knowledge to address your situation properly. The list of ... |
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Having a baby? Create an estate plan to protect your familyDon’t feel that setting up an estate plan when preparing for a baby is one more burdensome item on your list. Embrace the moment but think about how you’ll want your spouse and new addition taken ... |
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Create a well-designed estate plan for you and your familyThere are many shapes and sizes of estate plans, from basic to very complex. Finding the one that is right for you takes some thought and planning, but is not that difficult to do. Approach the proble... |
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A well-rounded estate plan will help protect your familyCompile and evaluate all of your assets and think about how you’d want them safeguarded after you’re gone. Think about how you’d like your spouse and kids cared for. Finally, consult with an att... |
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Receive an inheritance recently? Here is expert financial adviceReceiving an inheritance leaves most people feeling overwhelmed and confused. Figuring out how to manage it can be financially and emotionally draining on something that should be a real blessing. Pla... |
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No family to pass your assets to? Advice for creating an estate planAn estate plan is a personal thing, so make sure your assets go where you would like them to after you’re gone. Trusting those who are put in charge of caring for those assets is important and you s... |
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Plan your funeral service and ensure your wishes are fulfilledFunerals are meant to provide ceremony around the loss of a loved one, which will help those left behind to grieve. Grief is a complicated and difficult emotion, so helping families walk the path of g... |
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Choose the right casket for your loved one when planning the funeralThe purpose of a funeral is to celebrate a life well-lived. Choosing the right casket is just part of the funeral experience, but it can be one of the most overwhelming given the sheer number of optio... |
Advice for choosing a qualified estate plannerCreating a legacy for your family is important. If you want a will or trust that will ensure that the wealth you have created is passed to the people you want, they way you want, with the least cost a... |
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Save your family the time and stress of probate with your estateTaking the time to understand your options and to set up non-probate options such as revocable trusts, TOD accounts, or lifetime gifts can protect your privacy, simplify your estate administration, an... |
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Create an estate plan that works for you and your beneficiariesPlanning and creating a will is an important step in your life, and it is not one that should be taken lightly. However, it does not have to be daunting or depressing. It can be an assurance that your... |
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Financial steps you must take immediately on the death of a spouseThe next few months (and years) will be a transition period in many different areas, including your finances. Get organized and recruit professionals, family and friends to help. Tackle the time sensi... |
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A new baby is good reason to review and update your estate planThese are a few general do’s and don’ts for a new parent to consider, but certainly not a complete list. Consult with experienced professionals for guidance in how to make the best plan possible. ... |
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What every young mom needs to know about wills and estate planningSo once you have completed your estate plan, give yourself kudos! You have done what so many people fail to do—even the rich and famous. As you begin to work on your estate plan, make sure that it i... |
Retirement Planning
Gen Y workers must start saving and investing early for retirementDeveloping an effective retirement strategy as early as possible helps ensure you have lasting financial success. You can have more peace of mind that you’ll actually be able to retire when you want... |
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Have the money you need for retirement with lifetime income annuityLifetime Income Annuities, also called Single Premium Immediate Annuities, provide an income stream that you can never outlive. You can use that contractually guaranteed payment to help budget and cov... |
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Expert advice on choosing lifetime income annuity programLifetime Income Annuities (aka: Single Premium Immediate Annuities) are the purest form of “transfer of risk” annuity strategies available to the public. These products are contractually guarantee... |
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Take control of your future with a self-directed retirement planSelf-direction as a retirement wealth-building strategy can be a great way for savvy investors to take control of their investments with alternative assets they already know and understand. It is cruc... |
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Know how to financially plan for retirement so you can retire on timeThere you have it. By sticking to these simple and straightforward guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to planning for your retirement years successfully.... |
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Understand net unrealized appreciation for your 401KFailing to take NUA treatment into account is the #1 mistake people make with respect to their qualified retirement plans. If you own employer stock in a 401(k), ESOP, or other qualified plan, be sure... |
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How to benefit from rolling over your 401(k) to an IRAWhether you feel like a 401(k) plan or IRA is right for you, it’s important that you have a firm understanding of what both options bring to the table. Take the time to consider every angle and stay... |
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Expert advice on retirement planning for small business ownersSo, what is the end result of setting up and funding a small business retirement plan? Well, nothing beats the happiness of a small business owner who is able to retire and have a bucket of money allo... |
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Planning for health care costs is vital to successful retirementWhen it comes to retirement planning, don’t delay. Start planning today. If you stay on top of your future healthcare costs, you will not only gain confidence from being prepared, but you can relax ... |
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Key considerations in saving for a confident retirementWhether you’ve been saving for retirement for 20 years or you have your head in the sand when it comes to putting money away, it is important to remember that it is never too late to start and there... |
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Save for retirement the moment you land your first job after collegeDon’t ever allow yourself to fall into the mindset that you have the rest of your life to save for retirement. The sooner you start saving, the brighter your financial future may be. Make a commitme... |
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Guarantee income in your retirement with fixed indexed annuities (FIA)Fixed indexed annuities are a wonderful way to balance out a retirement portfolio because they are a low-risk insurance product that increase with index growth and are protected from market volatility... |
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Young people: take a new investing approach to retirement planningThe retirement landscape is shifting, and it’s important to understand what you need to do to ensure your retirement savings is secured. Use these tips to protect your future.... |
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Plan for retirement and get the most out of Social Security benefitsA wide variety of factors will determine the optimum strategy for claiming your Social Security benefits. Everything from age, health, income, and even marital status can have an impact. Periodically,... |
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Understand the differences between deferred and immediate annuities |
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Gain control of your financial health for retirement with a budgetWe have created the basic tool—the budget—to provide you with a guide to your financial health. Life spans have increased; therefore, retirement funds need to last longer. A budget is not written ... |
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Start planning for retirement as soon as you get your first jobFinancial planning is a lifelong process, and the sooner you get started, the better. Planning ahead means you will not only have a more comfortable retirement, but you also may be ready to retire soo... |
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Advice on how to reduce the fees on your 401K retirement accountThe big enemy to your retirement savings plans is the fees many traditional plan funds charge whether you are aware of them or no. While seemingly small, these fees have significant impact on your sav... |
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Expert advice on planning your retirement togetherAs you can tell, planning for your retirement as a couple is a multi-faceted and complicated effort. It should be a wonderful time of your life together, but without looking at that picture from diffe... |
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When to collect social security benefits in retirementDeciding when to take Social Security is an extremely personal decision and can ultimately be a very difficult one. It’s important to weigh all of the factors and consult your financial advisor in o... |
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Make the most of your money and minimize taxes in retirementTaxes can be one of the largest items in a retiree’s budget. However, taxpayers can use a combination of annual and long-term planning in order to keep their tax bills to a minimum and to maximize t... |
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Retiring overseas is possible with careful financial planningRetiring abroad should make sense both financially and personally. For many, moving overseas provides lower healthcare costs and a higher quality of life. Before making this Money Milestone move, make... |
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How to make sure your retirement savings lasts the rest of your lifeThere are many strategic moves - none of which are a complete answer - that seniors can take to ensure that they don’t run out of money. It requires discipline, strategic planning and an approach to... |
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Advice for when you lose your job and forced into early retirementAn unexpected retirement after being forced out of your job can be unsettling, but it’s not impossible to remedy. If you have prepared as best you could for your planned retirement date, you will ha... |
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Create financial security and well-being for your entire familyBy following this advice, families can take control of their finances and help give their children the best possible start in life. After all, as parents, we often say our kids are our biggest reward.... |
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A low-risk annuity investment will ensure steady retirement incomeThe day you step into retirement, your entire financial life collapses down to one issue, and the issue is perfectly binary. There are only two possible outcomes, and they’re mutually exclusive. On ... |
Caring for Aging Parents
Advice for elderly families in transitionHaving parents or elders age forces conversations between parents and children around elder’s wishes on housing, care and end of life directives. These can be uncomfortable conversations but are nec... |
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Help your elderly parent maintain independence with good communicationMany of these suggestions are common themes in successful communication between adults. Mutual respect and courtesy is a must, and developing new skills, along with practice, is a constant. The reward... |
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Get help caring for an elderly parent with this expert advice... |
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Get long-term care that is the right fit for your elderly parentFinding long term care for your loved ones is not something to be taken lightly. There are many options and it’s important to know the wishes of your loved ones and to be informed about the differen... |
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Discussing difficult life issues with aging family membersTalking with aging family members about difficult life issues is not easy. But mapping out the conversation ahead of time and avoiding major pitfalls can make important family discussions more positiv... |
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Managing the stress often associated with family caregivingReaching out for love and support can be a sure-fire way of sustaining yourself as a caregiver and the well-being of your loved one. When done mindfully, respecting your own needs and preferences, as ... |
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Minimize the holiday blues for seniors suffering from depressionAs a caregiver or family member of a depressed older person, make it your responsibility to get involved. You can make a significant difference and remove or lessen the holiday blues for seniors suffe... |
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Talk openly by starting a care conversation with aging parentsAfter conversing with a loved one’s doctor or care provider and determining what type of care center is most appropriate, a family can explore options within their community that fits their budget a... |
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Preserve the dignity of your elderly parents by caring for their needsTogether we can work toward making a difference in the overall well-being and preservation of dignity of the elders in our communities, who, indeed, are deserving of our care and respect. Help your el... |
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Navigating the challenges of becoming a caregiver to aging parentsCaring for aging or sick parents can bring rewards, but it also comes with challenges. Take the steps to assist your parents in getting their legal documents in order before caregiving becomes require... |
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Advice for seniors moving to a smaller home or retirement communityMove while you are the one in charge. If you put in the work up front, during the planning and sorting phase, your move will be much smoother. Let experienced movers, such as Senior Move Managers, ass... |
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Advice for managing the depression of your aging loved onesDepression is the most common mental illness affecting seniors, and the signs should not be ignored. In fact, the elderly have the highest rate of suicide out of all age groups. While today’s treatm... |
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How to best approach your parent on moving into a nursing homeResponding to the needs of aging parents is a difficult and emotional process for everyone. Adult children need to communicate clearly and directly with the parent while being respectful and caring. A... |
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How to find a good home care agency and stay in your homeMom and dad have made the decision to stay at home instead of moving to a assisted living facility. You know that in order for them to be safe and comfortable they are going to need assistance. Home C... |
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Loved ones can help seniors though the progression of Alzheimer'sAlzheimer’s affects more than 5 million Americans, and the disease has an impact on the entire family. While adult children become caregivers for aging parents, young children and teens need support... |
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How to ensure the safety of your aging parents behind the wheelAging does not necessarily mean a person's driving days are over. However, it is vital to ensure the safety of your loved ones on the road. This begins with learning more about how to detect problems,... |
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Maximize rewards and minimize stress when caring for aging parentsHaving parents age and fail is unsettling emotionally and disruptive in many other ways. Caregiving can be extremely taxing and very tricky to navigate, but it can be deeply rewarding. A major key to ... |
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How to help and support your aging parents as they grow olderKeeping these simple guidelines in mind will not only help improve the relationship you have with your parents, but it will also ease the stress that invariably accompanies changing roles. We all want... |
Cancer
Expert advice on undergoing breast reconstruction due to breast cancerBreast reconstruction is complex. It requires time, energy, and patience. There are a wide variety of options - implant or tissue. Do your homework. Seek an experienced, board-certified reconstructive... |
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Take a DNA test to avoid a breast cancer biopsy misdiagnosisIf you or a loved one is going through this difficult process, talk to your physician about steps that can be taken to ensure you receive your confirmed biopsy results. With the emotional, life-changi... |
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Integrate acupuncture and Western medicine to help treat cancerThere are many benefits to utilizing acupuncture therapy along with traditional Western medical treatment. Further research, education and clinical trials are being conducted to continue the validatio... |
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Advice on getting lymph node transfer for lymphedema patientsLymphedema is a common problem when it comes to mastectomy for breast cancer treatment. A lot of times the problem doesn’t show up right away and may take years for it to become apparent. Lymphedema... |
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Recognizing moles and skin as cancerous and getting helpIt’s important to remember that you are not responsible for making a diagnosis! Your task is to identify any suspicious lesions and have your internist, family physician, or dermatologist check them... |
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Maintain your femininity when diagnosed with breast cancerWhen first diagnosed, it can be an overwhelming experience; however, taking the right steps to breathe, learn and release emotion, as well as find ways to exude your personal style, will lead to a str... |
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Breast cancer treatments: How to choose the best option for youHundreds of thousands of women are diagnosed with breast cancer and begin treatment each year. While the discovery of a positive diagnosis can be difficult, choosing a treatment option doesn't have to... |
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Cancer rehabilitation can help you recover and tolerate treatmentThe bottom line with patients undergoing cancer treatments and in need of cancer rehabilitation is to know yourself and your symptoms. Talk to your doctors, therapists, friends, etc. Develop and keep ... |
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Mohs micrographic surgery can help treat skin cancerEnsuring that you are ready for surgery also involves ensuring you are prepared for aftercare. Following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions is important so that you are able to heal properly with... |
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Advice for getting proton therapy treatment for prostate cancerProton therapy can be an ideal treatment for prostate cancer for a patient who is looking to avoid surgery or spare surrounding healthy tissue from damage that might occur during standard radiation tr... |
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Little known things that can reduce your cancer riskThis may be recommending dramatic changes from normal life, but getting cancer (eventually) is very normal. If you want to reduce risk you have to move from normal to optimal. That’s the science. Ev... |
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A patient’s survival guide: Prevent medical mistakes and misdiagnosisThe best way to prevent medical errors from happening is to take an active role in your care and the care of your family. Following these tips and being responsible will help to keep you and your fami... |
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Prevent cervical cancer with early detection and educationCervical cancer is a preventable disease and is treatable when discovered early on. Regular screening and understanding the symptoms of this disease are the best way to stay healthy. Making sure the w... |
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Advice on helping a loved one who has been diagnosed with cancerBeing there for a loved one with cancer isn’t always easy, but being genuine, caring and thoughtful in your efforts to support them will help make the difference. While there’s no rule book to thi... |
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Preventing melanoma starts with protecting your skin from UV raysYour skin is your body’s largest organ, so make skin health a priority during all months of the year. It is vital to take the lead in your skin health, educate yourself and your loved ones on sun sa... |
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Find the right dermatologist to remove precancerous molesYour skin is the largest organ in the human body. It is the site of the most common type of cancer, skin cancer. Your dermatologist is uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat all types of skin disord... |
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Steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing lung cancerLung cancer can be extremely difficult to detect and treat, which is why it is the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. While screening options are limited, it is important to follow up with your... |
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What to expect and how to prepare for undergoing chemotherapyEveryone is different, their treatment for cancer is different and they react to chemotherapy differently. Your health care team wants to help you have the best possible experience. Keep them informed... |
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Advice on treating and managing cervical cancerA cancer diagnosis can be devastating for anyone but now there are treatment options for cervical cancer that are very encouraging. Under the guidance and care of a gynecologic oncologist, women can c... |
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You can reduce the risk of skin cancer and enjoy the great outdoorsThe skin is the largest organ we have so we need to remember to protect it. Most skin cancer can be prevented with proactive protection. Follow this advice for your best chances for preventing melanom... |
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How to manage lymphedema when undergoing cancer treatmentsIf you are facing treatment that could harm your lymph nodes, it is good to know that you have resources and qualified experts to help you learn about and manage lymphedema. If you think you may be at... |
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Stay positive when diagnosed with cervical cancerAfter being diagnosed with cervical cancer, it’s essential that you take time to understand your diagnosis, talk to your doctor about treatment options, find systems of support and treat yourself ri... |
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How to emotionally cope when you are diagnosed with cancerIf you are diagnosed with cancer you must take the time to survey your feelings and see how the diagnosis is really impacting you. Once you understand your feelings of stress, anxiety, or depression, ... |
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Prepare for surgery by speaking with your anesthesiologistRemember, your anesthesiologist is most likely a board-certified physician, just as your surgeon is. There’s every reason to entrust your anesthesiologist with your total care. But it’s also smart... |
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A trusted healthcare team can help manage and treat ovarian cancerOvarian cancer treatment is very challenging. You will not have recovered from the surgical procedure when the chemotherapy has starts. After the completion of all your treatment, it may take up to 12... |
Marriage and Couples
Get help if you are unsure of your marriage or relationshipMaking a decision about changing a relationship is one of the hardest things that people do. When there are kids involved, that decision making process is even harder. Give yourself the time that you ... |
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Date night is a must for parents to ensure a healthy relationshipFinding the opportunity, and the courage, to spend time alone with your partner isn’t easy for many parents. Not only are there the very real demands of modern family life, fear and hesitation may b... |
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Parents can still have a romantic relationship while raising kidsMost long-term couples - especially parents - go through periods when their romantic life loses its vitality. While it can be pretty distressing, try to regard it as a normal stage in the life span of... |
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Admitting when you are wrong supports a healthy relationshipRemember, the one who apologizes or gives into their partner is not admitting they are wrong, but supporting their relationship over their point of view. And true love always overcomes self-righteousn... |
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Save your relationship with an experienced marriage counselorYou want to pick a marriage counselor who has a good amount of experience and who focuses on marital issues as his focus of work. It is also important to get a counselor who will help you experience c... |
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Expert advice for a strong and passionate marriage and relationshipStrengthening your marriage is a necessity, not a luxury. Marriages cannot afford to be in an inert or status quo state. We need to work on ourselves and the relationship to get the most out of it. As... |
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Expert advice on meditation and how it can improve your relationshipMeditation, being mindful, and appreciative will improve all aspects of your life and relationship. Just like going to the gym, the most important thing is to start and be consistent, and all the bene... |
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Get the love you want in your relationship with help from a therapistYou may ask yourself, what can I get out of couples therapy? The answer lies in what you are hoping to learn about yourself, your partner and/or your troubled relationship. People go to couples counse... |
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Maintaining sexual and emotional intimacy is vital for parentsMany couples will make changes in their lives for the sake of their children before they will do it for themselves. But having a thriving, robust sex life is possible when you have children. In fact, ... |
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Expert advice for keeping the romance alive after having a babyMost new parents feel daunted by the difficulty of keeping their sex life alive. Faced with the multitude of challenges that come home with the baby, it can feel like an unsolvable riddle. But with so... |
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Do you tell your fiancee that you don't love the engagement ring?The Maybe Factor: If it’s a family heirloom, all bets are off and a whole new set of rules apply.Prevention is always best. If you slip your partner hints from the beginning, most of this could have... |
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Emotionally connect to make it a good relationship and marriageEmotional connection is an essential ingredient in a healthy relationship. It is built and destroyed by the way you handle little everyday things. As the saying goes “The devil is in the details.”... |
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Parents can rekindle their intimacy to create a strong marriageIntentional acts of love, kindness and sensuality stimulate the part of our brain that thinks, “Yes, I am a sexy person and not just a parent.” These small connections may not be explicitly sexual... |
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Great first wedding anniversary gift ideas for your husbandWhether it’s a special watch, cufflinks or a ring, there are many unique jewelry pieces that you can purchase for your husband on your first wedding anniversary. Consider these tips to find the perf... |
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Fostering strong connections is essential to family well-beingCreating traditions of connection in your relationship is vital for building a lasting bond. Work with each other on introducing and nurturing behaviors that will put you back on the path towards each... |
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Create meaningful relations by nurturing fulfillment and intimacySustaining long-term intimacy is real and attainable. By following these steps and making a commitment to practice, you can achieve new levels of happiness and fulfillment with your partner and in you... |
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Understand the 4C's and get the best value when buying a diamondFrom understanding diamond grades to knowing your lady’s preferences, from asking if a diamond is color treated to watching out for simulants, it’s important to have background knowledge before yo... |
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How to create the perfect marriage and avoid divorceThe power to create a successful marriage lies in our very own hands. Divorce can truly be avoided if we each do our part to foster a climate of love, devotion and commitment. We must recognize the pa... |
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Plan the perfect Valentine's Day for your wife or girlfriendValentine’s Day is about celebrating your relationship, and expressing your love. It’s the thoughtful little things that show you truly care; so swap the pricey present for a new experience togeth... |
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Tips to ensure parenting does not interfere with your marriageBeing a parent is tough. But it doesn’t have to interfere with your marriage. Parenting and marriage should both be fun. And if one is causing problems for the other, that’s a sign that you are do... |
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How to put the sizzle in your sex life regardless of your ageAcknowledge, address and resolve your issues in and out of the bedroom. We all need more fun in our lives. So beginning today, talk to your partner and jointly make a decision to take whatever steps a... |
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Improve your marriage and relationship through better communicationEven if your relationship is on a rocky road at the moment, smoother sailing can be just ahead. Strengthening your communication skills and making time to connect every day will go a long way to impro... |
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An unplugged weekend getaway will do wonders for a relationshipA change in scenery and pace creates the opportunity to change your perspective. Getting out of your routine shakes things up and helps you rediscover and rejuvenate yourself and your relationship. Th... |
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How can married couples thrive when one partner has adult ADHD?It is possible that you are one of the millions of couples whose relationship is on the rocks because of undiagnosed adult ADHD. If you think you detect symptoms of ADHD, such as chronic distraction a... |
Children and Death
Mourning can help children navigate grief, loss and crisisGrieving is a very complicated and difficult process, especially for children. It is our wit and our wisdom that help our children, and us, through the passages of grief. It is in our grieving that we... |
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Helping children navigate loss after the death of a loved oneThere is no life without loss. Helping children navigate death and loss is extremely important because they are beginning to assimilate new information, which can be painful. The role of parents is to... |
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What parents need to know when talking to children about deathTalking to your children will not be easy, but if you are honest and thoughtful, it will be one of the most meaningful conversations you will have with your child. Children grieve and when we give the... |
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Helping kids with autism spectrum disorder navigate bereavementBereavement is a universal loss. While many are resilient in the face of loss, individuals on the autism spectrum may not always be so resilient as their neurotypical counterparts. It is important to ... |
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Effectively communicating with your kids about illness and deathWhen we as parents must face the painful realities of death and illness, we must first understand our own emotions and manage them. Central to good parenting is the ability to be emotionally supportiv... |
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What's the best way for parents to help their kids deal with loss?Do children grieve differently than adults? Ultimately, the answer is best summarized by the phrase, “monkey see, monkey do.” But it doesn’t start out that way. Children respond normally and nat... |
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From helpless to helpful: Parents can assist their grieving kidsWhen you are grieving the loss of a loved one or a pet, it is difficult to cope with your personal grief, while also helping your children cope with theirs. Reach out to support systems, attend suppor... |
Aging and Longevity
Your elderly parent fell? This could change everythingThere are rarely any easy answers when circumstances for seniors change quickly due to illness or injury. The best approach for adult children is to gather as much information as possible, turn to tru... |
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Choose a trustworthy and qualified caregiver for your elderly parentChoosing a caregiver for your parent is an important decision, and it can be an emotional one as well. The caregiver that you choose assumes a great deal of responsibility; he or she becomes a part of... |
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Empower yourself as a senior because you deserve a better lifestyleThis may seem pretty serious and business-like, but when you think about it, the business of life is very serious and your future independence relies on it. You have earned your seniority position in ... |
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Prevent falls as a senior by creating a safer living environmentFall prevention is protecting our seniors. This issue has become such a meaningful matter that our Senate has passed a bill making September 22, National Fall Prevention Awareness day. We don’t want... |
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Discover in-home healthcare options that are safe and comfortableToday’s healthcare options range from home care and medical alert systems to assisted living and skilled nursing homes. When choosing the right care option, it’s important to consider your health ... |
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Live longer and feel younger by delaying old age as late as possibleAging is inevitable, however, old age is optional and personal. It depends on your state of mind and your beliefs about aging. Becoming a vibrant youthful thinking independent 80 year old is far more ... |
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Embrace the change of moving into an assisted living facilityYou can choose to view your move to an assisted living facility as a life sentence or as a new chapter, brimming with possibilities. The way in which you view your circumstances is your choice to make... |
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Choose a qualified in-home caregiver from a reliable providerEveryone is different and has unique support needs, so the biggest piece of advice I can offer is to ask a lot of questions and get to know the individuals and companies well before committing to them... |
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Keep your independence with the help of an in-home care agencyChoosing a caregiver agency can be a daunting prospect, but the information presented here should provide a checklist to make the interviewing and selection easier.The main things to remember are that... |
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Reduce the effects of aging using vitamin and nutrient supplementsSupplementing your diet with the correct amount of vitamins and other dietary supplements is key in optimizing your health, especially at old age. Make sure you get your fill of omega-3 fats, probioti... |
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Overcome your fear of death by embracing love and happinessSo as you can see, most of this advice is about living with love, and in the present moment. Whether we’re living a normal life in normal time, or whether we’re in the end or last stages of life, ... |
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A life coach can help you reduce stressful decisions in retirementThose of us who have coached clients know the extraordinary impact coaching can have on people’s lives. Be committed to having a fulfilling life and don’t settle for anything less. Feel empowered ... |
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Planning and preparation can help with the care of aging parentsWhile no one likes to talk about these issues, it is critical to have a legal and financial plan in place. There are many situations in which a medical crisis occurs, and while last minute planning ma... |
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Age gracefully with a positive attitude, strong mind and healthy bodyThe secret to aging gracefully is taking good care of yourself as you age. Drastic measures like plastic surgery can be avoided by taking the right steps to stay healthy, strong and lean. The sooner y... |
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Expect spiritual expansion and change when experiencing hospiceThe above material hopefully has help you see how your spiritual life can greatly expand through the hospice experience. Let’s all take the time and energy to dive deeper into our spiritual lives an... |
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Forgetful? Memory enhancement is still possible as you ageMedical advances have made it possible for us to have a much longer lifespan. We all know we should eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and control our stress, but now there is another factor to c... |
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Help managing Parkinson's disease symptoms and getting treatmentThere are still many questions that need to be answered about PD related to causes, diagnosis, symptoms and treatments. Studies and clinical trials are being conducted around the globe. It is imperati... |
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Embrace hospice as a guide on the journey through terminal illnessThere arguably is no more compelling example of compassionate care in our healthcare system today than hospice. Hospice staff and volunteers can be angels on earth, whether they are providing care in ... |
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Ensure you track and take your medications on timeIt is very important that you take your medications as prescribed, on time, and in the correct dosage. It is also equally important to ensure you are taking the medication you are supposed to be takin... |
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What can older adults expect from assisted living communities?Assisted living communities provide a wonderful option for seniors to maintain as much independence as possible, with the security of knowing that, as their needs change, they can receive support and ... |
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Understand Alzheimer’s disease and the care options availableThe prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease in our country is increasing rapidly. It is critical to understand the distinctions between normal memory loss associated with aging and very specific impairmen... |
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Using modern technology can help elderly people with dementiaWhile researchers and scientists focus on finding a cure for dementia, the person living with the disease is often left out in the cold. Technology, when delivered appropriately, can be a huge tool in... |
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Age beautifully and gracefully to help stay healthy and happyAging well is really all about being happy and healthy at each stage of life. No age is better than another and being young is no better than being old- each one has its charm. You are the creator of ... |
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You may be able to stay in your house with home care assistanceHome care is right choice for millions of Americans to help them stay in their homes for many years safely and comfortably. Often times this option is more cost efficient than skilled nursing homes fo... |
Heart Disease
A heart healthy diet is your first step to prevent heart diseaseFollow this advice for a healthier heart and healthier you. Instead of viewing these guidelines as a new diet, instead try to make changes that become incorporated into your healthy eating lifestyle. ... |
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Reduce your sodium intake to help lower your blood pressureReducing your sodium intake doesn’t have to be difficult, but it will require some small changes in how you buy, prepare and think about food choices. Try implementing these simple steps to see your... |
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Stay healthy and out of the hospital when living with heart failureHeart failure is a chronic medical condition and has become a major burden on our healthcare system resulting in multiple hospitalizations annually. Heart failure is also generally a progressive disea... |
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Achieve balance emotionally to ensure the best heart healthOur emotional health is intimately tied into our physical health. Every thought and every emotion leads to the instantaneous cascade of neurotransmitters and hormones that either orchestrates a benefi... |
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Expert advice on diagnosing and treating atrial fibrillationAtrial fibrillation can hijack a person’s life. The heart beats irregularly and can affect everyday living, making even small chores, such as carrying a basket of laundry up the stairs, difficult. N... |
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Expert advice for managing Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)PAD is a prevalent disease but can easily go undetected and untreated. Make sure to take charge of your health as a patient and consult with your physician if you experience any symptoms, even if they... |
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Simple lifestyle changes that will boost your heart healthAchieving an optimal lifestyle is a key part of improving heart health. With such pleasurable and easy changes as adding chocolate to your diet, getting enough sleep, and laughing, following this pres... |
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Ensure you are ready for sexual activity after having a heart attackEngaging in sexual activity following a heart attack is safe and even healthy when precautionary measures are taken. Work with your doctor to better understand your health status and physical capabili... |
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Prevent heart disease with simple lifestyle changesSmall changes can reduce your risk of heart disease stroke and cancer. Keep a positive attitude, engage a buddy and start today to make healthy choices. You’ll love the way you look and feel. Rememb... |
Health Insurance
Manage your health savings accountWhen managing your HSA, you should always keep in mind the fine print. In particular, it is important to be aware of your deductible, your maximum out of pocket payment, and your annual contribution l... |
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Selecting disability income insuranceIncome protection is important because your income is important. Your ability to earn an income is the basis for your standard of living, your financial goals and your retirement savings. Look at it t... |
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Why you need travel insurance for your tripGood travel insurance coverage shouldn’t cost you a fortune. In fact, you should expect to budget no more than an additional 7 to 8 percent of the cost of y... |
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Purchasing travel medical insuranceTravel medical insurance is an integral part of your next international vacation. Make sure you go over plans carefully and ensure that you are getting the best deal and coverage for your specific tra... |
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Dealing with a family member's long-term care insuranceIn reality, long-term care insurance policies are expensive but we can’t disregard the fact that they are very valuable. Getting one for yourself or for a loved one ensures that the beneficiary will... |
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Considering a Flexible Spending Account (FSA)?FSAs or Flexible Spending Accounts offer a valid and easy vehicle to utilize pre-tax dollars and achieve significant tax savings for common eligible expenses. Given the wide array of eligible expenses... |
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No longer covered by your parents’ health insurance?Since the late 1970’s, we have been conditioned that health care should be free or almost free. Consumer’s wanted low-co-pays and low premiums. With the advent of an amazing amount of medical adva... |
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Buy travel medical insurance for a safe study-abroad experienceAs you can see, travel medical insurance is an integral part of your next trip to study abroad. Just as important as broadening your educational horizons, so to is making sure your health and wellness... |
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Best pet insurance policy to protect your cat or dog and budgetFor many of us, dogs and cats are not just pets – they’re members of the family. While every parent wants to provide their pets with the best care possible, sometimes the high costs can force you ... |
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Long term care insurance ensures you're covered for medical costsFollowing this suggested advice should give you a good idea of what the costs are and which long term care option works best for your particular situation. Every person has different needs, but it is ... |
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Know how to navigate the Affordable Care Act to get the best coverageThe ACA aims to transform the U.S. healthcare system, and has already expanded coverage of young adults, eliminated lifetime limits on what insurance will cover, lowered the cost of drugs for seniors ... |
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Recent college grads should understand their health care optionsYoung, health Americans make up a large percentage of America’s uninsured. In fact, 16 million young adults are uninsured in the U.S. Under the Affordable Care Act, 82% of them will qualify for fede... |
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Prepare for higher medical costs during senior and retirement yearsHeathcare could bankrupt this country as it has millions of Americans. There is still no real assurance that you can avoid a catastrophe if something unexpected happens. But if you do the best to prep... |
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Plan ahead for Alzheimer's and obtain long-term health insuranceAlzheimer’s is a debilitating disease that is on the rise as the baby boomer generation reaches retirement age. It behooves Americans to prepare for this disease by making sure the proper insurance ... |
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Advice for women on getting long-term care insuranceLong-term care insurance is an important part of an overall financial plan, especially for women. By doing a bit of homework, you can be prepared and put a plan in place to cover any future long-term ... |
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Health and disability insurance can protect you when playing baseballYou may not think of disability insurance as a necessity for your career but disabling sports injuries seem to be happening with increasing frequency. The benefits from this insurance will keep you an... |
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How to get the right health insurance coverage for you and your familyHealth insurance and the cost of medical care can be intimidating, but there are creative ways to save money within the system. To learn more about your health insurance options and what the health re... |
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Protect your family's financial security with the right insuranceInsurance has become an important part of life, as it should be. The likelihood of disability or a significant injury increases every year, not to mention disasters that can destroy your home in a spl... |
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Determine your need to buy a long-term care insurance policyNot everyone needs a long-term care insurance policy but it always pays to be well informed. Get in touch with your insurance agent or a trusted expert to talk to you about your current insurance need... |
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Think ahead when purchasing a long-term care insurance policyMany states offer a list of websites and companies you can go to with questions regarding a LTC insurance policy. By taking the time now to decide on your long-term care, the more stability and comfor... |
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How to apply and receive veteran's benefits and servicesMany veterans are eligible for benefits and services as a result of their military service. Although the process can be frustrating, there are a lot of options that can help you work through it to rec... |
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How to mitigate and avoid the denial of a health insurance claimWhen a health insurance claim is denied or delayed, it only adds to the existing problems for customers. That is why it is so important to know what your policy covers and the steps you can take to he... |
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Understand the financial benefits of voluntary insuranceIf you were to become disabled or ill for a long time, hopefully you and your family would be taken care of. However, if you're uncertain of your financial situation, now is the time to cover that ris... |
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Advice to recent college graduates on buying necessary insuranceThese are not the only insurance policies out there. Have someone guide you through which policies are the most important for you to have upon graduation and save the others for when you have the stab... |
Life Insurance
Selecting term life insuranceLife insurance is a product that has been helping to provide financial stability to families and their loved ones for decades, during challenging times of grieving and loss. This article has discussed... |
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Selecting whole life insurance when you're newly marriedWhole life insurance can be the heart of a strong, full financial plan. Bought properly and structured appropriately, it can serve both the insured and their beneficiaries safely throughout their life... |
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Selecting whole life insuranceThese guidelines will help in making one aware of a few aspects in selecting a whole life policy, but it is imperative that one seek proper financial counsel to ensure that one’s financial objective... |
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How to use life insurance to protect assetsThis article is meant to be an introduction to the use of life insurance in a tactical and specific way. There are countless nuances in policy construction and features, as well as the individual need... |
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Understanding your Canadian permanent insurance options |
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Selecting Canada's Term-to-100 life insuranceTerm-to-100 Insurance is a very simple product, and is one of the more affordable types of Permanent Insurance available. Although it is simple, care and proper planning must still go into selecting t... |
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Selecting Canada's whole life insurancePermanent cash value whole life insurance can be a complicated product, but as long as it is structured properly and the right fit exists within your personal situation, it can prove to be a great add... |
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Selecting Canada's universal life insuranceEveryone wants to protect and give their family financial security in case of an unforeseen disaster. Life insurance is one of the most convenient methods to achieve this goal. But, which life insuran... |
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Shop online for term life insurance that is right for youMany people find life insurance too complex, and they put off the decision of buying a policy. Let’s face it, who wants to think about their death? However, life insurance is the cornerstone of any ... |
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Protect your family in your 40's with right term life insuranceWithout adequate life insurance to protect your dependents, they will surely be left behind to fend for themselves while facing the burden of certain financial hardship. Term life insurance is the lea... |
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Financially protect your family’s future with term life insuranceWhile life insurance is not a glamorous purchase that you can show off, it provides money for your family to carry on without you when it is needed most. It means your spouse is not working day and ni... |
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Between 20 and 25, protect your financial future and buy term life insuranceTerm life insurance is the right product for a short term protection need. It also gives you significant coverage when wealth and cash flow do not allow a permanent insurance solution. However, in the... |
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Saving money is easy when you buy term life insurance in your 20sMake sure your life insurance policy has a “convertibility” feature to give you options down the road. Always purchase your term insurance with the “Waiver of Premium” rider in the event of a ... |
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Buy term life insurance when you are young, married or have a babyThe best time to purchase a term policy is right after you are married and have some assets and definitely after the birth of a child. In deciding the dollar amount and time period for the policy, you... |
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How to get term life insurance with pre-existing health challengesAs society lives longer, insurance companies have become more apt to approve people that have a pre-existing health condition. Work with an experienced agent that has experience in impaired risk life ... |
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New parents: Understand whole life insurance before buyingRegardless of the type of life insurance you want to buy, the most important factor to consider is how much life insurance your family will need if the primary income earner were to die unexpectedly. ... |
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Read and understand the life insurance policy before you make a claimFor most people the life insurance they own at death can be their single largest estate asset. Making certain that the proceeds are paid correctly and to whom you want is critical for the successful t... |
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Advice on using permanent life insurance as an investment vehiclePermanent life insurance is a self-completing accumulation vehicle used by those who understand how it fits into their overall financial goals for a lifetime full of changes and milestones. The level ... |
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Expert advice for getting a high risk life insurance policyIf you are looking for a life insurance policy but pose a higher risk than a standard adult, you’ll need to take a few extra steps to ensure you get the best coverage at the best possible rates. It ... |
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Options for life insurance when diagnosed with prostate cancerApplying for life insurance with prostate cancer takes patience, and it is important to be informed of what to expect when applying for life insurance coverage. Despite popular belief, affordable life... |
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Learn the benefits of a No Medical Exam life insurance policyAs life expectancies increase, life insurance companies are more likely to accept a policy from an applicant without having to undergo a health exam. When you work with an experienced life insurance b... |
Money and Health Care
Do not let large medical bills weigh you downBy staying in constant communication with your billing office, paying the debt off slowly, and researching assistance programs, you can pay off your large medical debt easily. Keep in mind that paying... |
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Read the small print when signing medical financial consent formsOther kinds of small print can also harm your finances when you sign one of these forms. Always read before signing, and ask the right questions, to help protect your family budget against possibly un... |
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Protect yourself and your budget when signing online medical financial consent formsMany factors can affect your health care experience including your doctor’s financial policies. Be vigilant and aware of unclear language or mistakenly waiving your legal rights. If you find yoursel... |
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Understanding your medical bills can protect your financial healthHaving a medical procedure or test can be intimidating in and of itself. Take the time to understand how your insurance plan will cover the service and or your financial obligation. Communicate with y... |
Coping with Death and Grief
Cope with grief in a culture that tends to not honor bereavementPerhaps you’ve already noticed, the most important thing we need to do when we’re grieving is to love ourselves deeply. This is easier for some and not as easy for others. If we already know ourse... |
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Learn how to cope when a loved one commits suicideI hope that this discussion of an admittedly difficult topic helps. Perhaps the best reaction to suicide is re-dedicating our lives to creating a better world in which those who are suffering so have ... |
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Use memories of the person you lost to help you grieveThere are many ways to use your memories to help yourself through the loss of a loved one. You can enjoy thinking about the happy memories, and you do not have to stay angry, sad, or have regrets. Goi... |
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Participating in a grief support group can benefit your well-beingGroups that are created to support and provide community for those dealing with grief make an important impact. There is one constant in the journey of someone who has lost a loved one: something big ... |
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Grieving is normal, but it's vital to do so in a healthy wayWhile grief is often described as a “process,” the truth is the process is never the same for anyone. Just as our interpersonal relationships with friends and family are different and ever-changin... |
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How to explain death and terminal illness to your loved onesKnowing how to start this important conversation and what to say and what not to say can help ease your own fear and anxiety during this time. Odds are you are also grieving over this diagnosis or los... |
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How to respond to a friend when their loved one has passedWhile you may feel awkward in knowing how to respond when a friend loses a loved one, this is a time when you can show your support and true friendship. Ignoring the death is the wrong reaction. Keep ... |
Death of a Spouse
Advice for surviving the death of a spouse or partner at a young ageThe journey of young widowhood is not easy. However, there are many healthy ways to cope with your loss that will help you move through it and even uplift you. Reach for support when you need it, spea... |
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Learn to accept and embrace the death of a loved oneCan you recall all the love, intellect, caring, humor and other positive qualities of your departed loved one? All that continues on beyond bodily death! That’s the great news that will help you get... |
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Advice on helping a loved one through the first year of grievingSupporting a loved one through their grief journey can be challenging. You might feel a bit lost at times and unsure about how to best offer support. There are many tips and tools that can help you as... |
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The death of a spouse: Rebuilding your life after the first yearThe second year after the loss of a spouse is a time of change. Grieving takes second place to refiguring and rebuilding your life. This is a time to not only reclaim your life and refocus on a new, s... |
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Live, love and laugh again after the loss of a loved oneAt first it’s hard to make the transition to a new ‘you’. It requires not feeling guilty for smiling again, laughing again….to face your fears head-on by taking risks again. Above all else, th... |
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Take care of yourself emotionally after a loved one diesCoping techniques may help you emotionally after someone dies. Help yourself by learning to identify what normal grief reactions are and then utilize the coping techniques that best work for you. If y... |