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The contributions of older Americans is recognized each May.  This year’s theme is “Engage at Every Age”, which emphasizes that you are never too old to enrich your physical and emotional well-being.

To encourage healthy and productive Golden Years, consider these tips:

  • Get an annual medical exam. Annual visits are important for identifying potential health issues early.  Medicare and most Medicare Advantage and Supplement plans cover annual exams at no extra cost.  Check with your plan for details.
  • Take medications as prescribed. And make sure your doctor knows everything you take, including over the counter drugs.
  • Stop smoking. Some Medicare plans cover smoking cessation counseling and prescription medications.
  • Exercise.  Exercise.  Regular exercise will help older adults stay independent and prevent many health problems that come with age. Many Medicare Advantage and Supplement plans offer exercise programs such as Silver Sneakers at no extra cost.
  • Socialize and have fun! Make time for activities you enjoy and seek out others whose company you enjoy.
  • Plan for Incapacity and End of Life. Don’t wait until it’s too late.  Stop worrying about who will make decisions for you if you become incapacitated or who will get your assets when you pass.  Schedule an appointment with an Estate Planning or Elder Law attorney and make a plan.

Questions? The Law Office of Debra Simms is here to help. Call us today 386.256.4882

This blog post is not case-specific and is provided only for educational purposes and is not intended to provide specific legal advice. Blog topics may or may not be updated and entries may be out-of-date at the time you view them.

 

The 19th annual National Women’s Health Week kicked off on Mother’s Day, May 13, and is celebrated through May 19, 2018. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health leads National Women’s Health Week to encourage all women to be as healthy as possible.

The week serves as a reminder for women to make their health a priority and build positive health habits for life.

What steps can you take for better health?

  • Visit your doctor for a check-up and pre-screening exams.
  • Exercise, exercise, exercise.
  • Eat healthy.
  • Avoid unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking, texting while driving and not wearing a seatbelt.
  • Pay attention to mental health, including getting enough sleep and managing stress.
  • Plan for the future. Prepare for illness, incapacity, and end of life.

If you do not have an up to date estate plan, including a Will, Medical Directive, and Living Will, now is the time to put your affairs in order.  Don’t wait until it’s too late!

Questions? The Law Office of Debra Simms is here to help. Call us today 386.256.4882

This blog post is not case-specific and is provided only for educational purposes and is not intended to provide specific legal advice. Blog topics may or may not be updated and entries may be out-of-date at the time you view them.

 

Getting Your Affairs in Order

Making healthcare decisions for yourself or someone who is no longer able to do so can be overwhelming.  That is why I recommend that my clients make decisions and arrangements while they can participate in legal and financial planning.

I have created a checklist to ensure that your healthcare and financial arrangements are in place before a serious illness or a healthcare crisis.

  • START DISCUSSIONS EARLY with your family and friends.
  • CREATE DOCUMENTS that communicate healthcare, financial management, and end of life wishes and instructions. Get the legal advice needed to do so.
  • REVIEW PLANS REGULARLY, and update your documents as your circumstances change.
  • ORGANIZE YOUR PAPERS IN ONE PLACE. Make sure a trusted family member or friend knows the location.
  • MAKE COPIES OF healthcare directives for all the physicians you regularly see.
  • REDUCE ANXIETY for yourself and your loved ones by making funeral and burial arrangements ahead.

Questions? The Law Office of Debra Simms is here to help. Call us today 386.256.4882

This blog post is not case-specific and is provided only for educational purposes and is not intended to provide specific legal advice. Blog topics may or may not be updated and entries may be out-of-date at the time you view them.

 

The 2017 Tax Season is now over, but it’s never too early to start your end-of-year planning to save taxes in the coming year.

Did you know that you can use your required minimum distributions from a traditional IRA to make a charitable gift?  Donors over the age of 70 ½ can instruct their IRA administrator to transfer up to $100,000 a year to a qualified not-for-profit organization.

The value of these gifts will not be counted as part of your adjusted gross income, so you will not pay income taxes on the amount distributed.  However, these gifts will not qualify for charitable contribution income tax deductions.

But, don’t make the mistake of withdrawing the money first and then making the donation to the charity.  Contact your IRA administrator what steps you need to take because the procedures vary from firm to firm.

Questions? The Law Office of Debra Simms is here to help. Call us today 386.256.4882

This blog post is not case-specific and is provided only for educational purposes and is not intended to provide specific legal advice. Blog topics may or may not be updated and entries may be out-of-date at the time you view them.

Contact Us

Port Orange Office:
Prestige Executive Center
823 Dunlawton Ave. Unit C
Port Orange, FL 32129
Local: 386.256.4882
Toll Free: 877.447.4667
New Smyrna Beach Office:
817 E. 7th Ave
New Smyrna Beach FL, 32169
Local: 386.256.4882
Toll Free: 877.447.4667