live • laugh • learn

LIVE • LAUGH • LEARN
Pg 1.indd 1
4/25/14 11:47 AM
WELCOME | LETTER
Did you know?
Drinking green
tea can help boost
your brain health.
See page 18 for
more smart tips.
LIVE • LAUGH • LEARN
STAY
MENTALLY
SHARP
4
BRAINBOOSTING
FOODS
FROM
A TO Z
REGIS PHILBIN
SHARES HIS
SECRETS OF
SUCCESS
ON THE COVER
As active as ever,
Regis Philbin shares
with Renew his love of
tackling new challenges.
2|
pg 2.indd 1
NOW THAT’S SMART
How’s this for a wellness plan? Eat more dark chocolate, play video
games, join your friends on a fun adventure and enjoy another
guilt-free hour or two of sleep each night. It sounds almost too
good to be true, but when it comes to brain health, these activities
(and a slew of others you’ll learn about on the following pages) are
just what the doctor ordered.
No wonder this issue of Renew has been so much fun to put
together. Discovering easy ways to help keep our brains strong
and healthy is inspiring. Take tango lessons? Sign us up! Gobble
up more blueberries? Consider it done. And here’s a huge brainfitness bonus: The smart things we do for our gray matter are often
beneficial for our bodies, too.
Our cover celebrity, Regis Philbin, is definitely aboard the brain
train. Wait till you read how he recently took up cooking — not
only to stretch his mind muscles, but also to please his wife, Joy.
How do you engage your brain? We’d love to hear about it!
–Th e Renew Team
“All we ever have is now.” – Bill Cosby
4/25/14 8:49 AM
contents
FEATURES
| I SSUE 5
14 NEW ADVENTURES
22 FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Regis Philbin shares thoughts with Renew
about his better-than-ever life at age 82.
How small (and easy) changes in your diet
can yield big brain benefits.
18 A–Z BRAIN BOOSTERS
Work your way through the alphabet —
and toward better brain health —
with our 26 tips.
Meet
Dr. You
Look for this
symbol to find
simple tips on
becoming your own
health advocate and
helping to improve
your quality of life.
| Brought to you by UnitedHealthcare | 3
pg 3.indd 1
4/25/14 8:49 AM
CONTENTS | IN THIS ISSUE
26
What Do
You Think?
IN THIS ISSUE:
12 Travel: A Savannah Stroll
21 Ask the Expert: Alzheimer’s Disease
25 Health Check: Annual Wellness Visits
26 Keep Moving: Yoga
30 Your Health Your Wealth:
Money Housekeeping
Share your thoughts for the next issue
of Renew.
One in five U.S. adults provides unpaid
care to another adult, according to the
National Alliance for Caregiving.
Perhaps you’re one of them. If so, you may
be experiencing both the joy that comes
from helping a loved one as well as the
strain that can accompany some of the
more demanding activities of caregiving.
We’d like to hear from you.
In 150 words or less, please answer one
of the following questions:
PLUS:
5 LIVE • LAUGH • LEARN
10 DR. YOU
27 BRAIN BOOSTER
29 ASK DR. REED
32 FIVE-MINUTE MEDITATION
We’re Here For You
We want to make sure you get the information you need.
Have a question about your plan? Call the number on
the back of your member ID card to speak with one
of our friendly UnitedHealthcare® Customer Service
representatives.
8 a.m. - 8 p.m. local time, 7 days a week
Or log in to myAARPMedicare.com
4|
pg 4.indd 1
y What do you love most about being
a caregiver?
y What do you find to be the most
challenging aspect of providing care
to a loved one?
y How do you try to relieve the stress
that can accompany caregiving?
Share Your Thoughts
Do you have comments about Renew
or a great article idea? We’d love to
hear from you.
Submit your response or share
your feedback and article ideas at
renewMedicareRx.com
Or write us at:
UnitedHealthcare Renew
P.O. Box 410018
Kansas City, MO 64141-0018
“Sometimes the best things in life take a while.” – Emily Beth
4/25/14 8:49 AM
live • laugh • learn
LIFE-BOOSTING
TIPS & IDEAS
SUMMER FRUIT:
¿
Scrub produce thoroughly under running water to remove dirt and bacteria.
And leave peels on when possible to help retain fiber and nutrients.
| Brought to you by UnitedHealthcare | 5
Pg 5.indd 1
4/25/14 1:47 PM
live • laugh • learn
WAYS TO
STAY SAFE
IN THE SUN
WHAT’S
NEW
AT THE
LIBRARY?
BEYOND
BOOKS
If you’re only borrowing
books at your local library,
you may be missing
out on…
` Free use of computers and
Wi-Fi Internet for browsing
and checking emails.
` CD and DVD loaning for
music and movies (especially
classics)!
` Electronic book downloads
for your e-reader.
` Book clubs for like-minded
readers. Love a good whodunit? Ask if your local library
has a reading group — or
start one yourself.
Did you know?
Most libraries
offer free classes,
seminars and author
readings.
6|
pg 6.indd 1
AVOID SUN
EXPOSURE
BETWEEN
10 A.M. AND
4 P.M.
WEAR SUNSCREEN (SPF 15 OR HIGHER)
AND REAPPLY IT EVERY FEW HOURS.
Put on a hat —
preferably one with
a three-inch brim
or wider.
DRINK LOTS OF WATER.
Wear sunglasses that meet ANSI UV
requirements or prescription glasses
with lenses that darken with sunlight.
Mind your ears, scalp
and neck. They’re
easy to forget but
are common areas
for developing
skin cancer.
DON’T FORGET
YOUR LIPS —
USE LIP BALM
WITH SUN
PROTECTION.
Cover up with
SPF-treated
clothing.
CHECK YOURSELF
MONTHLY FOR NEW
OR CHANGING SKIN
DISCOLORATIONS
OR ISSUES.
WEAR
SUNSCREEN!
(Did we say
that already?
We mean it.)
Fedorable!
The hats our fathers wore to work,
fedoras, are having their second day in
the sun as attractive toppers for both
men and women. They also do a great
job of protecting scalps, ears and necks from sun
damage. Dapper Dad would be proud.
“What you think you become.” – Buddha
4/25/14 8:50 AM
live • laugh • learn
Shopping for summer shoes? Seek out these
foot-friendly attributes to help your feet
look and feel great.
} Natural materials. Canvas breathes best
and flexes with your foot, so you can expect
less blistering and tripping. And always opt
for genuine leather over plastic or pleather.
} Low heels. Be aware of height.
Choose shoes with low heel height for
optimal comfort.
} Back straps or closed heels. Fire your
flip-flops. Back straps and closed heels keep
shoes on your feet and fitting properly.
} Closed toes. Covering those little piggies
is a must for hiking and biking.
BY THE NUMBERS
Lew Hollander
Physicist. Ironman competitor.
Daily heart-pumper. Octogenarian.
81
Lew’s age in 2011 when he
became the oldest man to
complete the Ironman, a race
that consists of a 2.4-mile
swim, a 111-mile bike ride
and a 26.2-mile run
55
30
Lew’s age when he
completed his first
Ironman, in 1985
Minutes per day he
spends stretching
} Sporty soles. Shoes with grooved treads
and grippy soles help prevent slips and falls.
23
} Adjustable straps. Feet tend to swell as
the day progresses. Adjustable straps ensure
just-right comfort morning, noon and night.
Number of times
he’s competed in the
Ironman (so far)
} Arch support. Cork and rubber are often
molded in the arches, which works wonders
for flatter feet.
IT’S ONE STEP
AFTER ANOTHER.
YOU JUST KEEP
GOING.
365
Days per year
Lew exercises
0
Number of processed
or canned foods
Lew eats
84
Average age to which
today’s 65-year-old
man can expect to live
We can’t all be like Lew, but we can
put our best foot forward when it
comes to our personal physical fitness.
Ask your doctor about what kind of exercise program might be best for you.
Photo courtesy of Bakke-Svensson/IRONMAN
SOLID
FOOTING
| Brought to you by UnitedHealthcare | 7
pg 7.indd 1
4/25/14 8:49 AM
live • laugh • learn
{last laugh}
GO WITH THE FLOW? NO!
Let’s get proactive about urinary incontinence.
I firmly believe that some
things should be leaked — the
secret start date of an upcoming flash sale at your favorite shoe
store, or an accidental deal on airline
tickets to Venice for only $79. Urine,
however? That’s another story.
More than 20 million women
and six million men have experienced UI at some point in their lives,
according to the National Institutes
of Health. But contrary to popular
myth, UI is not an inevitable side
effect of living longer, and we do not
need to settle for wearing absorbent
pads and muddling through life with
limited activity.
UI isn’t fun, but here’s the good
news: There have never been more
options for managing it. Your first
step? The American Urological Association encourages people to engage
the help of their doctors. There is no
need to be embarrassed. Simply say,
“I’m having a bladder control problem. Are you the right person for me
to talk to?” Your doctor may refer
you to a specialist or recommend
trying over-the-counter patches and
prescription medications. If you
prefer a more proactive approach,
specialized physical therapy may
help you resolve your UI issues
without surgery or medication.
There are many alternatives to
accepting UI as untreatable. The
sooner you talk to your doctor, the
sooner you can get back to the dry
life, where leaks are reserved for
roofs, government officials and stock
options. And when you stumble upon
those $79 tickets to Venice, you can
rest assured that the term “watery”
describes the city — not you. Gretchen Gross is a clinical instructor at the University of Vermont
College of Medicine.
Want to learn more? Check out our infographic and humorous but
helpful video on urinary incontinence at renewMedicareRx.com.
8|
pg 8.indd 1
“Life is what we make it.” – Grandma Moses
4/25/14 8:54 AM
HAVE
YO
HEARU
D?
We’re always looking for ways to help our members save.
Member Perks from UnitedHealthcare offers exclusive savings
on dozens of healthier foods and over-the-counter products.
UnitedHealthcare makes it easy to tailor your savings to
your own shopping list. Print the coupons you know you
use or download them to your favorite store’s loyalty card.
Offerings from your favorite retailers and manufacturers are
updated frequently, so check back often.
These exclusive deals are designed to help improve your
wellness and your wallet. Stocking up on healthier items
has never been simpler. For more information, sign in or
register at UHCMemberPerks.com/magazine. Choose the
“Register Now” button to create an account, then select the
“my Member Perks” tab.
REASONS
to play video
games
1
In a 2013 study from the
University of California, San
Francisco, participants who played
a specially designed racing game
saw a sharp uptick in their ability to
multitask, while also seeing gains in
both working memory and focus.
2
People age 63 to 92 who
played video games tested
higher for social function and lower
for depression than non-gamers,
according to 2013 North Carolina
State University research.
3
You can “game” on the
go on your smartphone,
tablet or laptop. Try solitaire
or Bejeweled.
| Brought to you by UnitedHealthcare | 9
pg 9.indd 1
4/25/14 8:55 AM
Look in the mirror and meet Dr. You.
Use the helpful tips that UnitedHealthcare offers to
become Dr. You, your strongest health advocate.
How to Avoid a
Hospital Readmission
When health issues get serious, it’s important to have good
hospital care. But you don’t want to find yourself back in
the hospital soon after being discharged. Instead, follow
these tips to help you stay healthy and stay home:
 Find a primary care provider.
Having a doctor who knows
you and sees you regularly
can make a big difference
to your health. If you don’t
already have one, find a doctor
you trust. Make sure you feel
comfortable asking him or
her questions.
 Whether you're going home
or to a friend's home when
you leave the hospital, have a
plan in place for when you are
discharged. (See the “After”
list on page 11.)
 Let your caregivers know
what you will need when you
are discharged. Have one of
them in the room with you
when you are talking with
your care team. Better yet,
encourage your caregiver to
take notes or even record the
conversation to ensure that no
details are missed.
 Avoid any confusion about
post-op medications by
getting detailed instructions
— in writing — about what
to take, what not to take and
when to take medicines.
And remember to inform
your doctor about all the
prescription medications
you're already taking,
including those not related
to your hospital stay.
Did you know?
Sites like signupgenius.com can
help your family coordinate your care.
pg 10.indd 1
4/25/14 8:54 AM
JEF
F
Q&A:
Before:
Q: How do I cope with all the
changes in my life?
} Be sure to get pre-operation tests as
suggested by your doctor.
} Arrange for any medical equipment
or home care help you will need.
} Confirm who will drive you home and
stay with you for the first 24 hours.
} Get written instructions, a phone
number to call for advice, and medications.
After:
} Follow all post-op directions.
} Take prescriptions as directed.
} Let someone stay with you for 24 hours
even if you’re feeling fine.
} Go for your post-operative checkup.
} Ask your doctor when you can resume
normal activities.
Emergency Surgery:
Be ready if an accident or
illness makes emergency
surgery necessary. Carry a
list of your doctor’s name
and phone number, family phone numbers,
medical issues,
medicines and
any allergies to
medicines.
.
M.D
F,
Your Surgery:
What to do?
EYERHO
YM
F
E
R
EMOTIONAL
HEALTH
A: Your world naturally changes as you age. While
many changes are positive, others can be more
challenging. Your body and mind may not work
as well. It hurts to lose loved ones. But a positive
outlook can work wonders. Look for inspiration in
nature and books. Spend time with people who
make you laugh. Make new friends — even if it’s
been years since you’ve tried.
Q: Can exercise really help my mood? What if I
can’t handle it?
A: No matter what your physical limitations, there is
some activity you can do safely, whether it’s walking,
gardening or just stretching. The important thing is to
move. Getting the blood flowing actually changes the
chemistry in your brain. It can help lower your stress
and promote better sleep. Ask your doctor what kind
of exercise is right for you.
Q: It’s bothering me that I seem to be becoming
more forgetful. What can I do to boost my
brain health?
A: It’s natural to have a harder time remembering
things as we age. But there are ways for you to take
more control of your brain health — and there’s a
good chance you’ll feel more upbeat overall as a
result. This issue of Renew magazine includes an
inspiring list of “Brain Boosters” — 26 to be exact!
Choose a couple items from the list (on page 18)
to try right away. After all, why wait?
Q: Feeling “blue” is just a normal part of life,
right?
A: No. If you have little energy and don’t enjoy
things you used to, talk to your doctor. You may
have depression, a serious but treatable illness.
Jeffrey Meyerhoff, M.D., National Medical Director,
UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement,
OptumHealth Behavioral Solutions.
| Brought to you by UnitedHealthcare | 11
pg 11.indd 1
4/25/14 8:55 AM
TRAVEL | SAVANNAH, GA
A
Stroll
Through
Savannah
BY ANNABELLE CARR
It’s hard to imagine a better walking city than
Savannah, Georgia. An urban grid of 22 lush
public squares allows visitors to stroll through
nearly three centuries of history and architecture.
Bonus: The park-like squares have benches — and
loads of historic plaques — making it easy to take
in this Southern city at your own pace. So put on
your walking shoes and get started!
12 |
pg 12.indd 1
DAY 1
To experience the heart of the South’s
Hostess City — and get your bearings
among the squares — start at bustling
Forsyth Park, where ancient oaks
drip with Spanish moss. Grab a latte
or a vegetarian snack at the earthy
Sentient Bean, then stroll north along
Bull Street toward the Savannah River.
Among the many breathtaking
pre-Civil War homes and gardens,
you’ll pass several landmarks from
“The only disability in life is a bad attitude.” – Scott Hamilton
4/25/14 8:56 AM
FLAME
AZALEAS
ARE A
SAVANNAH
NATIVE.
Explore your hometown by foot. Check your
local Parks Department for walking tours.
the bestseller (and subsequent
movie) Midnight in the Garden of
Good and Evil, including Monterey
Square’s Mercer Williams House
Museum.
When you get to Madison Square,
pop into E. Shaver, Bookseller;
then dig into your new page-turner
at Public Kitchen and Bar, perched
at a busy street corner where you
can watch passersby over a bowl of
creamy shrimp and grits.
Farther along, towering over
the northeast corner of Oglethorpe
Avenue, the Juliette Gordon Low
Birthplace is a stunning landmark
that honors the founder of the
Girl Scouts with a memorable
home tour.
Just across its namesake park
and left on State Street, Wright
Square Antique Mall is a must-stop
for lovers of vintage treasures. You’ll
soon glimpse the gold dome of City
Hall ahead, marking the city’s steep
descent to the Savannah River.
(Look for the elevator to the right if
you’d rather not navigate stairs.)
But locals are just as likely to
skip the descent and turn right for
a delicious dinner at Vic’s on the
River, where cargo ships the size
of city blocks glide effortlessly past,
bound for one of the biggest ports
on the eastern seaboard.
DAY 2
Most of Savannah’s best house
museums open at 10 a.m., which
will give you time to enjoy the
homemade scones at your bed and
breakfast. Walk off the carbs on your
way to Columbia Square to explore
the Isaiah Davenport House, the
place where Savannah’s historic
restoration movement began.
Due west on State Street, the
Owens-Thomas House allows
you inside one of America’s best
examples of English Regency
architecture. (Admission here
can also get you into the Telfair
Museums’ two art treasuries, a halfmile due west on Telfair Square.)
If you’ve seen enough history,
make your way north on Abercorn
to Broughton Street, Savannah’s
“Main Street” and a pleasant detour
for shopping and eating. Turn left
to lose yourself in well-curated
treasures at The Paris Market,
buy house-made bath products at
Nourish, sample healthful honey at
Savannah Bee Co. or invest in local
statement accessories at Satchel
and Zia Boutique. Turn right for
secret-recipe treats at Leopold’s Ice
Cream, an old-timey parlor filled
with signed movie posters from
owner Stratton Leopold’s life as a
Hollywood producer.
As dusk settles in, head one block
north on Whitaker Street to Circa
1875, a gorgeous gastropub that’s
steeped in historic atmosphere.
The dining room is lovely, but
locals often eat their cassoulet or
hamburger au poivre with truffle
fries at the warm wood bar, where
the darkened room is abuzz with
cheerful gossip.
If you like a heart-healthy glass
of wine after dinner, you can sip
while you stroll according to city
law (as long as you stay north of
Jones Street).
When your feet get tired, hitch
a Savannah Pedicab back to your
hotel. Your peddler is likely to be a
local art student with plenty more
creative insights on how to make
the most of your time in America’s
13th colony.
Annabelle Carr is the editor of
Savannah Magazine.
Walk This Way
Wherever your travels take you, be sure to walk once you get
there! Hoofing it allows you to get up-close and personal with
local landmarks. But your body benefits, too. A 2013 study
published in Diabetes Care found that walking can lower your
rate of weight gain. Other benefits? Walking can reduce dips
in energy and enhance your mood.
| Brought to you by UnitedHealthcare | 13
pg 13.indd 1
4/25/14 8:55 AM
New
Adventures with
By Deborah Caulfield Rybak // Photos by Dan Hallman
With a whip-smart take on staying
mentally sharp, one of America’s alltime favorite talk show hosts proves
he’s as fit, fun and friendly as ever.
egis Philbin may not be
actively pursuing the title, but
he might as well be the poster
boy for lifelong brain health. At 82
years old, Philbin (known to many
in the industry as the “hardest
working man in show business”)
is keeping his brain nimble by
firing endearing wisecracks during
his frequent appearances on the
Late Show with David Letterman,
R
14 |
pg 14.indd 1
cooking up a storm on The Rachael
Ray Show and acting opposite
fellow superstar Betty White in
Hot in Cleveland.
For Philbin, continually learning
and growing is key to staying
active throughout every season
of life. “Let’s face it,” the former
Who Wants to Be a Millionaire
host tells Renew. “The brain is
everything. You must stay active in
“A day without laughter is a day wasted.” – Charlie Chaplin
4/25/14 1:58 PM
NEW ADVENTURES WITH REGIS
Dubbed the “hardest working man in show
business,” Regis Philbin has dedicated his
more than 50-year career to mentally and
emotionally challenging himself.
pg 15.indd 1
4/25/14 8:56 AM
The brain is everything.
You must stay active in your thinking,
reading, listening and learning.
your thinking, reading, listening
and learning. It all helps.”
That attitude is why Philbin
quickly dismissed talk about his
“retirement” when he stepped
down from Live! With Regis
and Kelly in 2011, bringing his
50-year career as a TV mainstay
to a close. After years of talking
about the news of the day —
never with a script — the idea
that he would somehow come
to a complete stop mentally
was unthinkable to Philbin.
But he was ready to set aside
the “mental and physical stress
of such a demanding career.”
Indeed, Philbin seems to have
instinctively pursued a calmer
(yet equally invigorating) path
as he’s redefined his career
throughout the past few years.
“I do enjoy staying in touch with
the business,” he admits.
Today, Philbin’s show business
work aligns closely with his
personal passions and interests.
Take competitive sports, for
example. The admitted sports
junkie hosts Crowd Goes Wild on
Fox Sports 1 to indulge his love
of football and baseball (he’s a
huge fan of both the Notre Dame
Fighting Irish and the Yankees),
something he claims he wasn’t
allowed to talk about much
on the morning show. “Kathie
Lee was known for looking at
her nails when I talked sports,”
Philbin once joked. “Kelly Ripa
would look at her shoes.”
Another personal passion?
Cooking for his wife, Joy. It was
in that spirit that he decided
to start joining food phenom
Rachael Ray in the kitchen of
her daily televised talk show
whenever possible. Philbin
thinks it’s fun, yes — but he
also believes in keeping his
brain finely tuned by learning
new skills.
Philbin sings whenever he can
(the wine cellar in his Greenwich,
Conn., home is named after Dean
Martin) and still enthusiastically
pursues his other great love:
the rant.
“I was recently asked by
WOR Radio in New York to take
one minute and rant on anything
I want to say about what’s going
on in [New York City] or this
country,” he explains. “You’d be
Cook like Regis:
Do you share Regis’s love of cooking?
Don’t miss “Food for Thought” on page 22.
pg 16.indd 1
4/25/14 8:56 AM
NEW ADVENTURES WITH REGIS
Pursue your passions
to stretch and
strengthen your mind. And,
like Regis, try to discover new
interests along the way!
surprised how getting something
off of your shoulders makes you
feel. I’m loving it!”
When it comes to embracing
his 80s, Philbin is equal parts
realistic and optimistic. “I hate
to say it,” he confesses, “but the
older you get, the tougher it is to
stay fit under any circumstances.
That’s no secret. But there are
many ways to keep your mind
going. Certain TV shows, movies,
the newspapers. Watching the
news and reading keeps you in
touch. As for the physical end,
I’ve spent all of my years in a
gym lifting weights, running
on treadmills and hoping to
stay strong.”
Perhaps the biggest plus for
Philbin’s mental health is his
relationship with his wife, Joy,
which is now going on its fifth
decade. They work at keeping
mentally and physically fit as a
team. “We both go to the gym
together most of the time,”
Philbin says. “We read the papers
every day, and occasionally, Joy
gives me a kiss and a hug.”
With classic Philbin timing,
he delivers the kicker a moment
later: “Once every year.”
Los Angeles Times reporter
Deborah Rybak has covered
the entertainment and movie
industry for 10 years.
PHILBIN FACTS
The secret to Regis Philbin’s lifelong zest is keeping busy and
trying new things. Here’s a glimpse into some of the life roles
that have allowed him to do just that.
FATHER
Dad to four children: Amy,
Joanna, J.J. and Daniel.
MOVIE BUFF
Heading to the cinema is his
favorite leisure activity.
TELEVISION MAINSTAY
He’s spent nearly 17,000
hours in front of TV cameras,
according to the Guinness Book
of World Records.
TENNIS PLAYER
It’s his favorite sport to play.
FITNESS ENTHUSIAST
He exercises five days a week.
HOST WITH THE MOST
He hosted “Live!" for 28 years.
AUTHOR
He’s written three
books: How I Got This Way,
I'm Only One Man! and
Who Wants to Be Me?
EMMY WINNER
He’s brought home five.
SINGER
He once sang a “Rudolph the
Red-Nosed Reindeer” duet
with Donald Trump on a
Christmas album.
SUPER FAN
He follows the Notre Dame
Fighting Irish football team with
fervor. (It’s his alma mater.)
ADMIRER
“David Letterman has all the
mental acuity one needs to do
an interesting talk show every
night,” Philbin says.
| Brought to you by UnitedHealthcare | 17
pg 17.indd 1
4/25/14 9:29 AM
A–Z
BRAIN
boosters
BY BLAKE MILLER
The brain is an amazing thing. It is the body’s Grand Central
Smart eats:
Get schooled
on brainhealthy foods
on page 22.
Station of function, thought and memory. It’s what makes you you
— which is why it’s necessary to keep your most important organ
functioning at its peak. “People used to be taught that you were born
with one set of brain cells,” says Vonda Wright, M.D., author of Fitness
After 40: How to Stay Strong at Any Age and Guide to Thrive. “But we
know now that’s not true. There’s never an age or skill level where we
can’t maintain or rebuild our brains and bodies. Age is not a barrier.”
Read on to see what easy steps you can take today to improve your
health, memory and cognitive function.
18 |
pg 18.indd 1
“A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new.” – Albert Einstein
4/25/14 9:36 AM
A-Z BRAIN BOOSTERS
A nything. As in
doing anything
you can to keep
your brain strong and
memory sharp. “I do
everything to keep my
mind healthy,” says Michael
Roizen, M.D., chief wellness
officer of the Cleveland Clinic.
“I eat a Mediterranean diet, I
exercise, I try to get more sleep
than I ever have and I'm constantly exposed to new things.”
B rain Games.
Test your skills at
renewMedicareRx.com with
quick and fun brain games
designed to adapt to you; once
you pass certain levels, the
games get more challenging.
C offee. Love
your daily cup
of Joe? Drink up!
In 2013, Nature
Neuroscience
reported that
drinking coffee
improved participants’
long-term memories just 24
hours after consumption.
D ance. A 2011 study in the
Journal of Sports Science
and Medicine found that
adults who learned to dance
the cha-cha twice a week for
six months showed marked
improvement in memory and
cognitive ability.
E ngage. “Mental activities
like reading, watching the
news and volunteering help the
mind to stay active and healthy,”
says Mustafa Husain, M.D., a
vice chair in the Department
of Psychiatry and Behavioral
Sciences at Duke University
Medical Center.
F ish. A 2013 University of
Exeter Medical School
study shows that a Mediterranean diet — one that’s chockfull of fruits, vegetables, whole
grains, legumes, poultry and
plenty of fish — may lower the
risk of developing dementia.
The goal: Eat fish one to two
times per week.
exercise improved memory
consolidation in both healthy
adults and those suffering from
cognitive decline.
J aques-Dalcroze
Eurhythmics. Last year,
Swiss researchers found that
participation in a six-month
eurhythmics class (where
adults performed tasks such
as walking to the rhythm of
a piano while playing a percussion instrument) showed
improved cognitive function
and decreased anxiety.
K oogle. “Simply
Googling a subject
matter you don’t know
anything about will keep
your brain stimulated,” says
Wright. Did your granddaughter just start judo lessons?
Spend 30 minutes online to get
schooled on her new passion!
“Kick It”
into Higher
Gear. According
to Roizen, exercising for at least
20 minutes three
times a week may have positive
effects on the hippocampus,
the section of the brain where
your memory is processed.
H L G ave Fun with Friends.
“Establishing important
social ties is a key aspect to
remaining mentally vibrant,”
says Sandra Bond Chapman,
author of Make Your Brain
Smarter. “Your mind hates
status quo, so align with fellow
adventurers to discover new
areas of interest.”
I nterval Training. Scientists
at University of California
Irvine’s Center for the
Neurobiology of Learning
and Memory reported in 2009
that short bursts of moderate
augh. Love to clown
around? Keep at it!
Prevention magazine reported
in 2011 that humor yields
big brain benefits, including
improving your memory and
exercising your brain.
M agnesium. Loading
up on magnesium-rich
foods (such as pumpkin
seeds, soy beans, brown rice
and bananas) can potentially
reverse middle-age memory
loss, according to 2010
MIT research.
| Brought to you by UnitedHealthcare | 19
pg 19.indd 1
4/25/14 9:36 AM
A-Z BRAIN BOOSTERS
Read up: Learn more about brain science with
The Brain That Changes Itself by Dr. Norman Dodge.
N
Q uit Multitasking.
“Our brain is not wired
to do more than one thing at
a time,” explains Chapman.
“Multitasking fatigues the
brain and reduces productivity
and accuracy."
W O R hale. That
blissful
state of happiness and peace
often achieved
through breath-focused meditation can also
increase blood flow to the
brain. “As you practice regulating your attention and emotional response, you improve
your ability to pay attention and
regulate your emotions,” says
Majid Fotuhi, M.D., in his book
Boost Your Brain.
ap. A 15-minute nap just
might make your brain
healthier, say Georgetown
University researchers who
recently suggested that our
brains at rest are organizing
memories and information
critical for cognitive function.
rgasm. “Mental exercises
increase brain activity
but only in relatively localized
regions of the brain," reports
Rutgers researcher Barry
Komisaruk. “Orgasm activates
the whole brain.”
P ilates. “I meditate and practice
Pilates three times
a week,” says Naomi
Judd. The Grammy
Award–winning
country singer also reads often
to keep her “brain and memory
healthy and strong.”
REWIRE YOUR BRAIN BY
TRYING ONE OF THESE
“TOP 10” HOBBIES:
 Volunteering
 Playing Sports
 Gardening & Cooking
 Dancing
 Walking
 Travel
 Stretching, Yoga, Pilates
 Restoration (think tinkering)
 Swimming
 Creating (artful hobbies)
Source: discoveryfitandhealth.com
20 |
pg 20.indd 1
ap. “Memorizing new
lyrics to songs, even rap,
strengthens your mind,” says
Wright. “It’s also a great way to
connect with your grandkids!”
S tress-Free. “The events
of stress aren’t what age
us; it’s our reaction to those
events,” explains Roizen.
T
ea. Green tea may
help boost brain cell
production to aid memory,
according to research published
in Molecular Nutrition & Food
Research in 2012.
U
nwind. “Make brain
downtime a priority,”
says Chapman. “Step away and
disengage at least five times a
day to free your mind for that
next ‘aha’ moment.”
V ino. It
appears
a glass of red
wine a day
does a body
good. According to a
2011 study out of the
Mount Sinai School of Medicine, polyphenols, antioxidants
found in red wine, may reduce
your risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
atch Your Media
Intake. In her
Living
the Good Long Life,
book lifestyle guru Martha Stewart
says, “I know that when I have
too much input, there’s less
output from my mind.”
X
Y
ou. What interests you?
Take the time to learn
new hobbies and activities that
you’ve always wanted to try.
“We rewire our brains every
day by how we use them,”
says Chapman.
Z
zzzs. “Studies suggest
that a good night’s sleep
helps foster both mental and
emotional resilience,” reports
Harvard Health Publications.
Blake Miller has written for
SELF, Glamour, Women’s
Health and Redbook. She lives
in Charlotte, N.C.
“It is never too late to be what you might have been.” – George Eliot
4/25/14 9:36 AM
ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE | ASK THE EXPERT
About Alzheimer’s
Ruth Drew, Director of Family and Information Services at the Greater
Illinois Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association, sheds light on the disease.
By Stephanie Ash
Q At what point are most
people diagnosed with
Alzheimer’s?
It really is all over the map. More
people are getting diagnosed
earlier. Earlier diagnosis can help
families have time to plan, organize care and prevent some of the
crises that can happen when they
don’t know what’s coming. When
you know what you’re dealing
with, you can have conversations
early — and the person with
Alzheimer’s can have a voice.
Q Why is Alzheimer’s sometimes recognized late?
People often miss early signs or
don’t really want to see the signs.
And some people don’t know
that Alzheimer’s is not a typical
part of aging. But then something
happens when you have to say,
“No, this is not normal.” That said,
there are some conditions that
can look similar to Alzheimer’s but
are treatable or curable. The point
is, it’s always important to get
a diagnosis.
Q When are caretaking
decisions typically made?
It tends to be in the middle or late
stages, but it’s different for every
family. Some Alzheimer’s patients
in the middle stages get anxious,
and their families may therefore
need to make changes earlier. At
some point family members say,
“We can’t do a good job at this
anymore.” A change may be bringing a caretaker into the home.
Or maybe it’s adult day care
services or assisted living. My
grandfather had Alzheimer’s. He
was a strapping 6-foot-tall Swede.
Providing all of his care became
more than my grandmother could
physically do. But it’s very hard to
make that decision.
Q Why are social
connections important?
It’s easy to get isolated and not
do the things you used to do. So
family and friends of people with
Alzheimer’s should find ways of
engaging them in meaningful
activities. We all have a need for
human connection. When people
have that, when they are treated
as individuals instead of as a
disease, they tend to do better.
Stephanie Ash is a Minneapolis
freelance writer.
Get involved:
The Alzheimer’s Association
has 80 chapters throughout
the country. Visit alz.org to
find one near you.
Want to keep your brain muscles pumped up? Try a few fun,
interactive BRAIN GAMES online at renewMedicareRx.com.
| Brought to you by UnitedHealthcare | 21
pg 21.indd 1
4/25/14 9:37 AM
FOOD
FOR
THOUGHT
What can a tuna sandwich or a
square of dark chocolate do to
help improve brain function?
More than you might think.
BY JULIE KENDRICK
pg 22-24.indd 1
4/24/14 1:10 PM
Water
CHEW ON THIS:
You might be able to eat your way to a
sharper brain. The American Journal
of Clinical Nutrition suggests that wise
food choices can fuel our brains to work
better, sharpen our memory, improve
our concentration and may help
prevent conditions such as Alzheimer's
disease or dementia. The best news?
You can find all these high-nutrient
foods at your local grocery store.
Total Body Benefits
Just like your body can suffer from eating
poorly, so can your brain. If your diet
doesn’t have a good balance of essential
nutrients, it can put a damper on your
ability to remember important
topics and stay focused. And, since
a “brain-healthy” diet is naturally
high in better-for-you choices, eating
foods that are good for your brain may
also help your heart.
Keeping your blood vessels open
and healthy helps oxygen and
nutrients get to your brain, your
heart and your entire body. “The
triangle connecting a healthy
heart, a healthy brain and a
healthful diet has a strong
scientific base,” says Irwin
Rosenberg, M.D., a professor of
nutrition at Tufts University.
Breakfast Boosters
Eating a healthy morning meal
can help keep short-term
memory and attention at top
performance levels all day long.
Superstar foods for the brain
include high-fiber whole grains, lean
protein and whole fruit. Tomorrow
morning, try replacing your go-to
Danish with fresh fruit and a wholegrain bagel topped with salmon. And
don’t skip that cup of coffee. The mild
stimulant found in coffee and some
teas improves mental acuity and boosts
your ability to concentrate.
pg 22-24.indd 2
Nutritionist and member
of the Dr. You Health Team
Amanda Albers advises
patients to follow a simple
“8x8” rule: Drink eight 8-oz.
glasses of water every day.
Dark Chocolate
Not only does it pack powerful
antioxidant properties, but
dark chocolate also contains
natural stimulants like
caffeine, which can help
maintain mental
sharpness. An ounce
a day is enough to
yield benefits.
THE
FAB
ADDING THESE
BRAIN BOOSTERS
TO YOUR DIET
IS EASY!
Leafy Greens
A recent study from
Harvard Medical School found
that women who reported eating
the largest amount of leafy greens
and vegetables such as broccoli
had a markedly lower rate of
declining brain function compared
with those who ate the least.
Deep-Water Fish
Salmon, sardines and herring are rich in
the omega-3 essential fatty acids EPA
and DHA, which are essential for brain
function. EPA and DHA are also linked
to a lower risk of dementia, along with
improved focus and memory.
4/25/14 1:05 PM
Easy Meal Additions
What should you reach for the
rest of the day? Diets that include
a variety of fruits and vegetables
help ensure that you get enough
potassium, a mineral important
for healthy blood pressure
levels, which in turn helps to
protect the brain and heart. All
fruits have healthful properties,
but blueberries (dubbed
“brainberries” by admiring
researchers) are especially
beneficial to cognitive health.
Eat them fresh, frozen or dried.
Another powerhouse brain
booster is spinach, which
contains lutein. According to
Elizabeth Johnson, M.D., of
the Jean Mayer USDA Human
Nutrition Research Center on
Aging, lutein, which may improve
brain performance, is also found
in leafy greens as well as winter
squash, corn, peas, broccoli,
pistachios and egg yolks.
Other foods that contribute
to overall brain health
include deep-water fish
(stock up on tuna!) and good
monounsaturated fats, such as
those found in olives and tree
nuts. A 2013 study in the Annals
of Neurology found that women
who consistently ate more
healthy fats from nuts and olive
and canola oils scored higher on
cognitive function tests and were
determined to be at a lower risk
of mental decline. To get more
monounsaturated fats in your
diet, cook with vegetable oils like
olive and canola, snack on tree
nuts like walnuts and almonds,
and swap out mayo and
cheese for pureed avocado on
your sandwiches.
Eat Just Enough
It’s also important to pay
attention to portion size, since
eating too much or too little
can impact mental focus. While
everyone knows that a rich and
heavy meal can sap your energy,
it’s also true that too few calories
can result in distracting hunger
pangs. The Japanese chain of
islands called Okinawa has some
of the longest-living, healthiest
people on Earth. People there say
“hara hachi bu” before every meal,
which means, “Eat until you are
80 percent full.”
The Mediterranean Model
Folks in the sunlit Mediterranean
countries have the right idea about
diet and health. A 2012 study of
1,000 older Americans found that
men and women had less damage
to the small blood vessels in their
brains when their diets included
these Mediterranean trademarks:
eating more fruits, vegetables,
legumes, cereals and fish; mild to
moderate alcohol intake; more
monounsaturated fats than
saturated fats; and eating fewer
meat and dairy products.
Small Changes,
Big Benefits
The best news about all this
research is that so many of these
smart-choice foods are also
low-cost, widely available and
delicious. Add just one or two of
them to your regular meals and
you’ll be on your way toward a
healthier brain — and a stronger
body, too.
SIMPLE GREEK SALAD RECIPE
½ head of lettuce (green leaf, red leaf or
romaine) cut into thin strips
½ cucumber, chopped
½ cup chopped tomatoes
1 15.5-oz can chickpeas (garbanzo beans),
no salt added, drained and rinsed
½ red onion, finely sliced
½ cup crumbled fat-free or low-fat feta
or shredded Parmesan
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine or
cider vinegar
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
1. In a large bowl toss lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, chickpeas, cheese and onion.
2. In a small bowl whisk olive oil, vinegar, garlic powder and pepper.
3. Pour dressing over salad mixture and toss. If desired, garnish with hard-boiled
egg and Kalamata olives.
Source: American Heart Association
24 |
pg 22-24.indd 3
“People who love to eat are always the best people.” – Julia Child
4/25/14 1:05 PM
ANNUAL WELLNESS VISIT | HEALTH CHECK
Your
Path to
Wellness
WHAT'S
AN ANNUAL
WELLNESS VISIT?
Stay on track with your
annual wellness visit.
Quick quiz: Who’s the most important member of your health care team?
(Hint: It’s the person who knows you
best.) That’s right, you play the biggest
role in making sure you get the care you
need. But life is busy, and it can be hard
to focus on your health — especially if
you’re already feeling good. That’s why
it’s so important to create your path to
wellness with a proactive personal wellness plan.
Your path to wellness follows
three steps:
1
2
Prepare for good health by scheduling your annual wellness visit.
3
Maintain your prevention plan
throughout the year by following
up with necessary visits/exams.
Act by working with your doctor
at your wellness visit to create a
personal wellness plan.
Annual wellness visits are designed
to lead you to an important goal: better
health and well-being so you can enjoy
life to the fullest.
What to Expect
During your annual wellness visit, your
doctor will check your blood pressure, height and weight, and physical
and emotional well-being. This is a
pg 25.indd 1
Your annual wellness visit
is an important part of your
overall personal wellness plan.
If you’re new to
Medicare, your medical
benefits include a
one-time Welcome to
Medicare visit during
the first 12 months of
coverage. After that, you
can see your doctor for
an annual wellness visit
every 12 months. These
visits are available at
no additional cost to
you and consist of a
review of your medical
history. Your doctor
will also do a height,
weight and bloodpressure measurement
and provide counseling
about preventive
services and healthy
behaviors.
great chance for you to ask questions
such as:
} What can I do to help maintain or
improve my overall health?
} What types of physical activity are
right for me?
} Are the drugs, supplements and/
or vitamins I’m taking appropriate
for me?
} What screenings, immunizations or
vaccinations do you recommend?
By getting regular preventive care
and taking control of your well-being,
you can enjoy the peace of mind that
comes with knowing you’re following
doctor’s orders — the orders of the
brilliant Dr. You.
4/25/14 9:37 AM
KEEP MOVING | YOGA
Stretch Your Mind
Looking for a big-benefits way to keep your brain on its toes? Try yoga.
BY EMILY GURNON
More than 15 million Americans
practice yoga, according to Yoga
Journal — and nearly 20 percent of
them are age 55 or older. You might
be one of them. But do you know
yoga’s full health benefits? Terrie Arfi
does. She’s been a yoga instructor
for decades and is well-acquainted
with its healthful effects on her
body and her stress levels. She
also knows what others may just
be discovering: that yoga’s combination of stretching, breathing,
fitness and meditation can be just
as good for your brain. “When I’m
learning a new pose, I have to think
about it and break down the steps of
what I’m doing,” the 67-year-old says.
It helps her stay sharp.
Arfi sees the brain
benefits of yoga
frequently in
her classes,
including one
especially for
people with
memory loss.
“They need
to practice
following
the instructions,” she
says, like
lifting one
arm and
pg 26.indd 1
then the other, “and that keeps their
minds more alert.” Science backs her
up: A 2013 study at the University of
Illinois at Urbana-Champaign found
that cognitive performance after a
20-minute yoga session was “significantly superior” to that after 20 minutes of aerobic exercise.
YES, YOU CAN BE A YOGI!
Despite its reputation for tricky
balances and pretzel-like poses, yoga
can be enjoyed by everyone. It’s also
affordable (try instructional DVDs
or inexpensive classes at many community and senior centers). Don’t let
physical limitations stop you — some
instructors provide chairs and other
props to make the movements less
challenging. As with all exercise programs, be sure to find an instructor
who is properly trained, and always
talk to your doctor before beginning
any new exercise program. Before you
know it, you’ll be listing yoga as one of
your favorite hobbies.
Emily Gurnon is a health and lifestyle
writer whose work has appeared in the
San Francisco Examiner.
Read up:
Get an in-depth look at the
benefits of yoga by reading
Your Brain on Yoga, by Harvard
Neuroscientist Sat Bir Khalsa,
PhD, with Jodie Gould.
4/25/14 9:36 AM
BRAIN BOOSTER
HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW YOUR
State Names?
1
5
8
What state name is first
alphabetically?
Which four state names begin
and end with the same letter?
Two letters of the
alphabet each start eight state
names. What are those letters?
2
9
Alphabetically, what state name
follows Iowa?
3
Which four state names end
with an “o”?
6
Which four state names begin
with the word “New”?
Alphabetically, what state name
precedes Rhode Island?
10
Which three state names have
only four letters?
7
4
Which two state names end
with a “t”?
If spelled backward, what
state name would be first
alphabetically?
(Find answers on page 28.)
Check out fun, interactive
brain games available only to
UnitedHealthcare members
at renewMedicareRx.com.
BRAIN FITNESS 101
Sharpen your mind with brain training.
We can do situps to strengthen our abs, squats to tone our legs and lift
weights to improve our arms. But what can we do to give our brains a
focused, results-driven workout? The answer is brain training. Unlike brain
games, which are played mainly for fun (think crossword puzzles), brain
training is more like taking your gray matter to the gym for targeted exercises designed to help improve attention, focus, memory and brain speed.
BrainHQ, designed by neuroscientists at Posit Science, is one such
online training program. “What sets BrainHQ apart is our commitment to
science,” says Dr. Michael Merzenich, Posit Science’s chief scientific officer. “More than 70 published scientific papers show that using BrainHQ
improves cognitive function. And those brain changes may enhance the
quality of everyday life.”
Did you know?
Watch a helpful video
about BrainHQ by visiting
positscience.com and
clicking on “Why BrainHQ.”
| Brought to you by UnitedHealthcare | 27
pg 27.indd 1
4/25/14 9:37 AM
NOTEWORTHY | INFO + ANSWERS
BRAIN BOOSTER Answers:
1. Alabama; 2. Kansas; 3. Colorado, Idaho, New Mexico, Ohio;
4. Vermont, Connecticut; 5. Ohio, Alaska, Arizona, Alabama;
6. New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York; 7. Florida;
8. “M” and “N”; 9. Pennsylvania; 10. Iowa, Ohio, Utah.
28 |
pg 28.indd 1
Please let us know if you no longer
wish to receive Renew magazine.
To remove your name from the
Renew magazine mailing list, write
us at UnitedHealthcare Renew,
P.O. Box 410018, Kansas City, MO
64141-0018. Please be sure to give
us your name, full address and
your UnitedHealthcare member
ID number.
This publication is for informational
purposes only and does not replace
the care or advice of a doctor. Always
talk with a doctor before beginning
any exercise program, therapy
or medication.
Plans are insured through
UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company
or one of its affiliated companies, a
Medicare-approved Part D sponsor.
Enrollment in the plan depends on
the plan's contract renewal with
Medicare. AARP® MedicareRx
Plans carry the AARP name, and
UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company
pays royalty fees to AARP for the use
of its intellectual property. These fees
are used for the general purposes of
AARP.
The products and services
described are neither offered nor
guaranteed under our contract
with the Medicare program. In
addition, they are not subject to
the Medicare appeals process. Any
disputes regarding these products
and services may be subject to the
UnitedHealthcare grievance process.
© 2014 UnitedHealth Group
Incorporated
“I never dreamed about success. I worked for it.” – Estée Lauder
4/25/14 9:38 AM
FORGETFULNESS | ASK DR. REED
Ask
Dr. Reed
Forgetfulness
Q: Lately, I’ve noticed my memory seems to be
slipping. What can I do about it?
A: We all forget things sometimes
(where we set our car keys, for example). Sound familiar? That’s because
minor forgetfulness is normal and
becomes more common with age.
But that doesn’t mean it can’t be
worrisome. Folks often tell me that
serious memory loss is one of the
things they’re most afraid of. And
it’s no wonder — about 6.8 million
Americans have dementia, including
5.2 million with Alzheimer’s disease.
We all need to know how to
recognize when simple forgetfulness
becomes the first sign of something
more serious. Be sure to see your
physician if you or a loved one has
some of the following warning signs:
} Forgets how to perform
basic tasks, like making change.
} Gets lost in familiar places.
} Neglects hygiene or safety.
} Frequently repeats stories.
} Has memory loss that disrupts
daily life.
Get a handle on your
memory health with
helpful tools and articles at
renewMedicareRx.com.
Give mental muscles a good workout
every day to help keep your brain in
tip-top shape: Learn a new skill, read
regularly, exercise, eat a healthy diet
and play thinking games, such as
Scrabble or chess.
If you are suffering from memory
loss, there are some simple things
you can do to help lessen the impact
that it has on your life:
} See your physician for a checkup
and medication review.
} Use daily to-do lists.
} Put your wallet, keys and glasses
in the same place each day.
There’s no need to be scared or
ashamed about memory loss. But
you do want to take action. The
earlier you detect memory loss, the
better chance you have of stopping
or even reversing it. It could even be
as easy as changing medications. In
short, put Dr. You in charge of your
mental health just like you do your
physical health. That way, you can
get the help you need to stay sharp.
Clarification from Renew “Your Health Team” article
A physician assistant (PA) is a medical professional who works as part of a
team with a physician. They are trained to perform physical examinations,
diagnose and treat illnesses, order and interpret lab tests, perform
procedures, assist in surgery, prescribe medications and provide patient
education and counseling under the supervision of a physician.
| Brought to you by UnitedHealthcare | 29
pg 29.indd 1
4/25/14 9:37 AM
YOUR HEALTH, YOUR WEALTH | MONEY HOUSEKEEPING
DO AN MRI
ON YOUR
FINANCES.
Money
Housekeeping
A you-can-do-it checklist for getting organized — and gaining peace of mind.
By Caralee Adams
M
any of us have folders
with bills here, a drawer with bank statements
there, and a safe deposit box stuffed
with our important documents. If
that mounting paperwork is stress-
30 |
pg 30.indd 1
ing you out, it’s time to take a financial inventory. Making a list of what
you have, what you pay monthly,
and where you keep your legal documents can give you peace of mind
— and give your family a head start
should they ever have to step in and
help you manage your affairs.
“The mental burden of worrying
isn’t worth it,” says Kerry Hannon, a
Washington–based retirement and
personal finance expert and author.
“The only journey is the journey within.” – Rainer Maria Rilke
4/25/14 9:38 AM
Clip & Save Money Housekeeping
Checklist
Instead, Hannon recommends doing an “MRI on
your finances” to get a clear
picture of expenses and income. If the job seems too
overwhelming to tackle on
your own, consider hiring
a fee-only financial planner to help.
So where do you start?
Use the clip-and-save
checklist on this page to
tackle one item every few
days. Then look back and
say, "This is what I accomplished," advises life transitions expert and author
Bart Astor. "Ultimately
you'll feel better — and
feel protected."
Caralee Adams is a financial writer who's written
for The Wall Street Journal
and Family Circle.
… Legal documents. Get your
will and power-of-attorney
paperwork in order. For your will, you
need to choose an executor to manage your estate. (Be sure to ask the
person if he or she is willing to take
on the responsibility.) A power of
attorney might be the same person,
or maybe you’ll choose a different
relative or trusted adviser to make
financial or health care decisions on
your behalf while you are alive.
… Income statements. Chronicle
all the sources and amounts
of your regular income (pension,
Social Security, dividends or other
investments) and how it is disbursed
(automatic deposit, monthly or
quarterly checks by mail, etc.). Use
a spreadsheet or personal finance
software to review the performance
of your investments regularly, making
adjustments to stay diversified.
… Regular expenses. List all your
ongoing bills and whether you
pay them online or by check.
… IT'S TIME
TO TAKE A
FINANCIAL
INVENTORY.
Account information. Write
down all bank accounts,
investment accounts, credit cards,
loans or other financial relationships
you have; provide account
numbers, account names and
contact information.
… Professional contact info.
Make note of your lawyer,
accountant, doctor, minister or
anyone else who might need to be
consulted on your behalf.
… Passwords. This list grows over
time, but it’s really important
to share it with others in case of an
emergency. For every account, list
all usernames and passwords. And
don’t just stop at the bank accounts.
Your frequent flier plans or rewards
clubs are probably worth something.
… Safe deposit box. Make a list
of everything in your box; note
where both the box and its key are.
… Charitable giving plans. If
you want to give to your alma
mater or another organization, let the
charity know in advance. They might
be able to set up a tax-advantaged
mechanism for giving.
… Final wishes. What are your
burial wishes, including guidance for the service and your
preferred funeral home? Consider
an “ethical will” or letter that conveys your values, memories or final
thoughts to be read to loved ones
when the time comes.
Checklist completed?
Good for you! Now be sure to tell a
trusted friend or family member where
to find everything listed here and
share copies of key lists and papers.
| Brought to you by UnitedHealthcare | 31
pg 31.indd 1
4/25/14 9:38 AM
P.O. Box 219359
Kansas City, MO 64121-7287
OTXMPEN000_OVSP18014
Y0066_140415_000315 Accepted
PRESORTED
STANDARD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
UNITEDHEALTHCARE
Health and wellness or prevention information.
FIVE-MINUTE
MEDITATION
2014 Johns Hopkins University research
findings suggest that the practice of meditation
can help ease psychological stresses like
anxiety and depression. Want to test the
meditation waters? Find five minutes each day
for the next week to give meditation a try, and
then see how you feel.
HERE’S HOW:
} Find a quiet place to relax. Wear comfortable
clothing and play soft music if you like.
} Set a timer for five minutes, then close your
eyes and focus on your breath as you deeply
inhale and exhale. Relax any tense muscles —
even those in your face.
} Focus on the present moment. When
distracting thoughts enter your mind, bring
your concentration back to your breathing.
} When the five minutes are up, return to your
day more relaxed and refreshed.
pg 32.indd 1
4/25/14 11:05 AM