Protecting your nest egg from virtual crows

[March 23, 2012]  One out of every five people older than 65 -- 7.3 million Americans -- has been the victim of a financial swindle, according to a survey sponsored by the Investor Protection Trust. Identity theft statistics are also alarming: In 2010, more than 1 million people older than 65 were targeted by identity thieves, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics. Factor in everyone older than 50, and that number soars to more than 3.5 million. (Click here for the rest of the story.)

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Baby boomers: Don't let your world fall silent

(ARA) -- Larry Crum didn't realize how bad his hearing really was until he was hunting one afternoon with some friends. He couldn't hear a wild boar grinding his teeth just a few yards away. (Click here for the rest of the story.)

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Understanding and spreading knowledge about the risks of Type 2 diabetes

(ARA) -- Knowing your risk for developing type 2 diabetes is the first step in preventing or delaying the disease. (Click here for the rest of the story.)

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Women and Social Security

March is Women's History Month -- a time to focus not just on the past, but on the challenges women continue to face in the 21st century. (Click here for the rest of the story.)

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Watch out for scams involving benefits applications

The Illinois SMP program at AgeOptions has been receiving reports of health care companies offering to do benefits applications for older adults in senior buildings in various parts of the state. While there is nothing inherently wrong with health care providers assisting with benefit applications, we would like to provide a couple of relevant tips to ensure that consumers protect themselves from potential fraud. (Click here for the rest of the story.)

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Part D phone scam

The Delaware SMP reported a scam this week in which a caller claims to be verifying that the person they are calling is enrolled in Part D. The caller asks the person for his/her address, phone number, and banking information. (Click here for the rest of the story.)

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Boomers: Big-impact health activities you can do in 15 minutes or less

[March 24, 2012]  (ARA) -- The American baby boomer generation isn't content sitting still -- they live full lives working, traveling and pursuing their favorite hobbies. Age is only a number for this determined group whose population is pushing an estimated 78 million. If you are one of the many active baby boomers, you understand your health is a priority, but that doesn't mean you want to spend long hours each day making sure you stay well. Luckily some of the best things you can do for yourself only take a matter of minutes each day. (Click here for the rest of the story.)

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7 simple steps to senior bathroom safety

(ARA) -- One in three seniors over the age of 65 will experience at least one fall annually, according to the Centers for Disease Control. The bathroom is one of the most dangerous rooms in the home for the elderly. Slick floors, small spaces, sharp edges and few things to grasp make mobility difficult and increase chances for dangerous falls. (Click here for the rest of the story.)

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Medicare Part B deadline approaching

If you didn't sign up for Medicare Part B medical insurance when you first became eligible for Medicare, you now have an opportunity to apply — but time is running out. The deadline for applying during the general enrollment period is March 31. If you miss the deadline, you may have to wait until 2013 to apply.  (Click here for the rest of the story.)

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