Proposed Rule Threatens Housing Assistance for Older Adults

Takeaways

• The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has proposed a new rule that would allow local housing agencies to require work and set time limits on federal rental assistance for nonelderly, nondisabled residents in public housing and voucher programs.

• Supporters argue the rule promotes self-sufficiency and frees up housing for others in need, citing positive results from pilot programs.

• Critics warn the change could cause millions of people, including many children, to lose essential housing aid. They argue that the proposed rule’s expectation for recipients to rapidly double their income is unrealistic and that the plan lacks funding for necessary support services.

For millions of Americans, federal housing assistance means the difference between a stable home and living on the street. A proposed rule announced in March 2026 by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) could change the terms under which that help is provided. The rule would introduce, for the first time on a broad scale, work requirements and time limits across the country’s major rental assistance programs.

What the Rule Would Do

The proposed rule would allow Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) and HUD-assisted property owners to require certain adults to work to receive housing assistance. It would also let them set time limits on how long some families can stay in the program. The rule would apply to residents in public housing and those receiving assistance through:

• Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV),

• Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), or

• Project-Based Rental Assistance (PBRA).

In plain terms, some working-age adults without disabilities could be required to have a job to keep their housing, and some families could face limits on how long they can receive assistance. The proposed rule would allow work requirements of up to 40 hours per week, and term limits as short as two years.

HUD defines “work-eligible” as residents ages 18 to 61 who are not disabled, pregnant, primary caretakers of children under 6, or college students, among other exempted categories. Acceptable “work activities” include not just employment, but also job training, education, community service, and child care.

Importantly, this rule gives PHAs and property owners the flexibility to implement work requirements, term limits, both, or neither. It establishes guardrails that agencies choosing to act must follow, while still allowing flexibility to adopt alternative standards within those boundaries.

Why HUD Says the Rule Is Needed

HUD Secretary Scott Turner has framed the proposal as a way to promote self-reliance and make housing available to more families. “Housing assistance was never meant to trap work-able individuals on government support their entire lives,” Turner said. Instead, he described it as a temporary stepping stone toward financial independence. He added that the proposal would “expand access for deserving families on waiting lists, while still preserving protections for elderly and disabled households.”

HUD notes that it currently serves only about a quarter of those eligible and in need of housing support. The agency argues that helping some working-age residents move toward self-sufficiency could free up housing for others on long waiting lists.

The department also points to results from pilot programs. For example, the Housing Authority of the County of San Bernardino, part of HUD’s “Moving to Work” initiative, tested a five-year term limit for nonelderly, nondisabled households using vouchers. According to HUD, the program was associated with higher earned income, increased full-time employment, and a drop in unemployment among participants.

What Critics Are Saying

Not everyone is convinced that the proposal is a good idea. The National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC), for example, strongly opposes the rule. One recent analysis estimates that a two-year time limit would cause 3.3 million people to lose their rental assistance, including more than 1.5 million children.

Some economists have also questioned whether the rule’s requirements are realistic. To qualify for housing assistance, households typically earn very low incomes – often around 30 percent of their area’s median income. But the proposal assumes that within two years, participants could raise this income enough to no longer need help.

In practical terms, that would mean more than doubling their income in a very short time – something that rarely happens in the U.S. job market. Experts say this kind of sustained wage growth is highly unlikely for most workers.

Critics also note that the rule does not include additional funding to help residents meet these new expectations. At the same time, housing agencies and property owners would still be expected to provide support services, but without clear funding to pay for them.

What This Means for Older Americans

On the surface, the rule appears to protect seniors. It clearly exempts seniors and people with disabilities from any work or time limits. That means a retiree in public housing or using a housing voucher would not, under the proposed rule, face a work requirement or a deadline to move out.

But advocates for older adults say the reality is more complicated. LeadingAge, a national association representing aging services providers, has expressed concerns about how the rule could affect the workforce that supports older adults. Many home health aides, nursing assistants, and other caregivers rely on affordable housing themselves. If they are subject to new work requirements or time limits, they could lose housing stability, potentially making it even harder to recruit and retain workers in an already short-staffed field.

There are also concerns about people in their late 50s. Under the rule, “work-eligible” adults include those between the ages of 18 and 61. That means someone who is 59 or 60 years old (too young to qualify as a “senior” under HUD’s definition) could still be required to work up to 40 hours per week. This could be difficult for people dealing with age-related health challenges that don’t meet the official definition of a disability.

In addition, advocates worry the rule could create new bureaucratic hurdles. Because disability status would now affect eligibility, more residents may need to formally document their conditions. For older adults, this could create paperwork burdens and uncertainty in an already complex system.

What Happens Next

After the public comment period, which ends on May 1, 2026, HUD will review feedback before deciding whether to finalize, revise, or withdraw the proposal. Anyone can submit comments through the Federal eRulemaking Portal.

Given the scale of the changes and the volume of opposition already emerging from housing advocates, the rule is likely to face significant scrutiny, and possibly legal challenges, before it takes effect.

For now, residents of public housing and voucher programs, especially older adults living close to the age thresholds, should pay close attention to what their local housing authority decides and consider making their voices heard before May 1.

Additional Reading

For additional reading on topics related to housing and older adults, check out the following articles:

• Affordable Housing Options for Low-Income Older Adults

• Older Adults Struggle to Meet the Dual Burden of Housing and Care

• Innovative Long-Term Care Housing Solutions for Seniors

• Home Safety for Aging in Place: A Guide for Older Adults

• HUD Housing Programs That Support Aging in Place

• Affordable Housing Is Getting Scarce for Older Adults

• Tax Break Helps Pay for CCRC Fees

What to Do If You Lose Your Medicare Advantage Plan

Takeaways

• If your Medicare Advantage plans ends, you won’t be left without coverage; you’ll typically move back to Original Medicare (Parts A and B).

• Your biggest immediate risk is a prescription drug gap, so make sure you have Part D or other creditable drug coverage lined up.

• A plan termination usually gives you a Special Enrollment Period, plus possible guaranteed-issue rights for certain Medigap policies — but these windows are time-limited.

Imagine opening your mailbox and finding a letter that says your Medicare Advantage plan won’t be available next year. No negotiation, no appeal — just a notice that your insurer is leaving, and you need to figure something out before January 1.

That’s what recently happened to tens of thousands of older adults in Vermont, and it’s becoming an increasingly common reality across the country.

Vermont: A Cautionary Tale

Nearly the entire Medicare Advantage market in Vermont collapsed heading into 2026. According to a recent study, about 92 percent of Vermont’s Medicare Advantage enrollees were forced to disenroll after insurers exited their areas. By February 2026, only about 21,000 Vermonters, roughly 12 percent of the state’s eligible adults, remained enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan.

Vermont’s situation is an extreme version of a trend playing out nationally. Estimates suggest that roughly 10 percent (around 2.9 million) Medicare Advantage enrollees in standard HMO and PPO plans faced forced disenrollment for 2026. For context, from 2018 through 2024, the average annual rate was just 1 percent.

Why Is This Happening?

Medicare Advantage, often called “MA,” is the private insurance alternative to traditional government Medicare. Insurers receive payments from the federal government to provide your Part A and Part B benefits. For years, many MA plans attracted seniors with enticing extras like dental, vision, and hearing benefits, often at low or zero monthly premiums.

But those attractive benefits came with a financial reality that is now catching up with the industry.

Rising medical costs have squeezed insurer profit margins significantly. At the same time, the federal government has tightened oversight of how insurers calculate patient health risk scores, which is a key factor in determining how much the government pays the plans.

As a result, insurance companies are cutting benefits, shrinking service areas, and in some cases pulling out of markets entirely. UnitedHealthcare, the largest MA provider in the country, is on track to lose between 1.3 and 1.4 million Medicare Advantage members in 2026.

The drastic drop in MA enrollment in Vermont was partly driven by state-specific factors. The state’s health care landscape is dominated by a single large health care system, making it hard for insurers to negotiate favorable rates.

Vermont is also one of the most rural states in the country. Research shows that rural beneficiaries are disproportionately affected by plan terminations. While rural residents make up 14 percent of typical Medicare Advantage enrollees, they represent nearly 23 percent of those whose plans were terminated in 2025. Idaho, Wyoming, and South Dakota also each saw disenrollment rates of at least 40 percent in 2026.

Vermont may be more canary than outlier. When plans exit a market, their less healthy and more costly enrollees get pushed into whatever plans remain, thus potentially making those remaining plans less profitable, triggering further exits, in a process that could continue to spread.

What This Means for People With MA Plans

Medicare Advantage now covers more than half of all Medicare-eligible Americans (over 34 million people). The program’s rapid growth over the past decade was fueled by aggressive marketing, generous extra benefits, and zero-premium plans that made traditional Medicare look comparatively spartan.

But the current pullbacks mean many of those extras are disappearing. Across the country, MA plans are reducing dental and vision benefits, raising copays, and narrowing their networks of doctors and hospitals. Some major hospital systems have also cut ties with Medicare Advantage insurers in 2026, citing frustrations with prior authorization denials and slow reimbursements. This means that even seniors who keep their plans may find that their preferred doctors or hospitals are no longer covered.

The broader picture reveals an MA market in the process of a painful correction, with seniors caught in the middle.

What to Do If You Lose Your Medicare Advantage Coverage

If your Medicare Advantage plan terminates, you won’t fall off a coverage cliff. You will automatically revert to Original Medicare (Parts A and B), which covers hospital care and medical services. However, Original Medicare alone doesn’t include prescription drug coverage, so you’ll need to act to avoid a lapse.

Read Your Termination Letter and Save It

When your Medicare Advantage plan exits your area, the insurer must notify you in advance, typically by September 30 for changes taking effect January 1. The letter should tell you when your current coverage ends and what your options are. Keep this letter; it may be useful if you have to prove you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) or other protections.

Use Your Special Enrollment Period

If your Medicare Advantage plan terminates through no fault of your own, you typically qualify for an SEP. An SEP gives you extra time to:

• Choose a different MA plan (if available), or

• Return to Original Medicare and pick a Part D plan.

If you receive notice that your plan will not renew, you generally have from October 15 through the end of February of the following year to select a new plan or switch to traditional Medicare. Don’t wait until the last minute; the earlier you act, the less you risk a gap in coverage.

Consider Your Three Main Paths

• Pick a new Medicare Advantage plan. If there are other MA plans in your area, compare your options using Medicare’s Plan Finder tool. Compare plans by your medications, doctors, and budget.

• Switch to Original Medicare + Part D. Traditional Medicare with a standalone Part D prescription drug plan to cover your medications gives you more flexibility in choosing doctors. However, consider whether you need supplemental (Medigap) coverage to help with deductibles and coinsurance.

• Consider Medigap if you’re leaving MA. In some situations, losing your MA plan can trigger “guaranteed-issue” rights for certain Medigap policies. This means you may be able to buy a policy without medical underwriting, so insurers cannot deny you coverage or charge you more based on health conditions. This window is time-limited, so act quickly.

Protect Your Prescription Drug Coverage

This is urgent: If you go 63 days or more without creditable prescription drug coverage, you may face a Part D late enrollment penalty. That penalty can last as long as you have Part D. When you switch plans, make sure drug coverage is in place and continuous.

Verify Your Doctors and Prescriptions Are Covered Before You Commit

Before enrolling in any new plan, confirm that your primary care doctor, specialists, and regular medications are covered under the new plan’s network and formulary (drug list). Do not assume; call the plan directly or check through the Medicare Plan Finder tool.

Get Free, Unbiased Help

Every state has a State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) that provides free, unbiased Medicare counseling. These counselors can help you compare plans and avoid missing any deadlines. Find your local SHIP at shiphelp.org or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

Keep Records of Everything

Hold on to termination letters, enrollment confirmations, and notes on any communications with your insurer or Medicare. If billing errors or coverage disputes surface during a transition, documentation is essential.

The Bigger Picture

What’s unfolding in Medicare Advantage plans is a collision between decades of rapid expansion and the financial realities of covering an aging, higher-need population against a backdrop of government payment adjustments and tightening regulatory oversight.

For now, the program remains, in many parts of the country, robust. But Vermont shows what can happen when the economics stop working for insurers in a given region. Seniors in rural areas, in markets dominated by a single health system, or in states already seeing significant plan exits should pay especially close attention to their coverage as each annual enrollment period approaches.

The annual open enrollment window is when most Medicare beneficiaries can make changes for the following year. Use this window to compare different plans in your area and switch if that makes sense. Even if your plan isn’t ending this year, it’s worth reviewing your coverage each fall. Benefits, networks, and premiums can change, and what worked this year may not be the best option for next year.

Caring for Grandkids: A Way to Slow Cognitive Decline?

Takeaways

• Grandparents who provide some child care scored higher on tests that measure key cognitive abilities, like memory and word-finding, than those who didn’t.

• More babysitting time wasn’t linked to bigger benefits; even occasional care may help.

• What you do matters: homework help and active leisure (like games) were the strongest standouts.

• Mixing up activities may be better than repeating the same routine every visit.

• Enjoyment and balance also matter; stressful, involuntary, or overwhelming caregiving may not have the same effects.

New research suggests that helping care for grandchildren may improve memory and strengthen overall brain function, and you don’t have to babysit every day to benefit. These benefits may be modest, but they may still prove meaningful over time.

If you’ve ever come home from an afternoon with the grandkids feeling both exhausted and somehow energized, science may have an explanation for that second feeling. A new study published in January 2026 in the journal Psychology and Aging suggests that grandparents who care for their grandchildren score higher on tests of memory and verbal skills than those who don’t. For grandmothers especially, that involvement may actually slow the brain’s natural cognitive decline over time.

The findings are good news for the millions of American grandparents who already play a central role in their grandchildren’s lives.

What the Researchers Did

To take a deeper look at how grandparenting affects the brain, lead researcher Flavia Chereches, a Ph.D. candidate at Tilburg University in the Netherlands, and her team examined data from 2,887 grandparents, all over the age of 50 (with an average age of 67), who participated in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing. Between 2016 and 2022, participants completed cognitive tests (simple tests of memory and thinking skills) and answered survey questions.

The survey asked whether participants had provided care for a grandchild at any point during the past year, how frequently they provided care, and what kinds of care they provided. Types of child care included watching grandchildren overnight, caring for them when they were sick, helping with homework, playing or doing leisure activities with them, driving them to school and activities, and preparing meals.

What the Researchers Found

The team found that, overall, grandparents who provided any care for their grandchildren scored higher on tests of memory and verbal fluency (how easily you can find and use words) compared with those who didn’t. The results held even after accounting for differences such as age and health.

The brain boost didn’t require a major time commitment. Among grandparents who provided care, how often they babysat made no measurable difference to their brain health. A grandmother who looked after her grandchildren once a week exhibited the same cognitive performance as a grandmother who cared for hers several days a week.

What mattered more than the time they spent together was what they did during that time. Of the seven caregiving activities that were examined, two activities stood out: helping with homework and doing leisure activities, such as playing games. Only these activities were associated with better performance on both the memory and verbal fluency tests.

Helping a child with homework often requires explaining concepts in different ways, problem-solving on the fly, and adapting to how the child learns. Playing games and doing activities together require more mental activity than passive interaction and involve creativity, planning, and constant social interaction.

The study found that engaging in a variety of activities was beneficial. Grandparents who rotated through different types of activities, such as homework help one day, cooking together another, and outings on weekends, showed better cognitive functioning overall.

Why Grandmothers Seem to Benefit More

One of the study’s most striking findings involves a gender gap. Grandmothers who provided care experienced slower cognitive decline than those who didn’t babysit. Grandfathers also enjoyed cognitive benefits from interacting with their grandchildren but showed no slowing of cognitive decline compared with men who didn’t babysit.

Researchers suspect that traditional gender roles may account for this difference. Grandmothers typically engage in more hands-on caregiving, such as preparing meals, planning activities, and managing schedules. Meanwhile, grandfathers tend to occupy a more supportive role by providing care alongside their spouses.

Another possibility for the difference in benefits between the genders could be that grandfathers may feel more obligated to help, while grandmothers more often choose to be involved. It could be that caregiving done out of a sense of duty rather than desire might not deliver the same mental benefits.

Enjoyment and Balance Matter

The researchers were careful to note that not all caregiving is equal. Study author Chereches noted that providing care voluntarily, within a supportive family environment where another family member can share the load when needed, may have different effects than caregiving that feels unsupported, involuntary, or like a burden.

This is an important distinction for some American grandparents, many of whom are shouldering significant caregiving responsibilities. In 2023, about 1 million children in the United States were being raised in households headed by grandparents, with no parents present. This type of scenario presents a different situation from the occasional afternoon of babysitting and the stress involved in full-time, unplanned caregiving may offset the cognitive benefits that grandparents get from occasional caregiving.

What This Means for You

The study has not proven with certainty that babysitting causes better brain health; it’s possible that grandparents who are already cognitively sharper are simply more likely to take on active, part-time caregiving roles. It also doesn’t mean caregiving prevents dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. But the results of the six-year study are encouraging. Grandparents can benefit from spending time with their grandkids, regardless of the amount of time – and with the biggest benefits showing up in more mentally engaging activities. The broader experience of being engaged and involved, it seems, is what counts.

For grandparents who want to make the most of their time with their grandchildren, the study points to a few practical takeaways. Activities that actively engage the mind, like helping with homework, playing board games or card games, working on creative projects, and spending time outdoors together, may be the most mentally stimulating. Variety may also help; rotating through different types of activities from visit to visit can challenge different thinking skills.

Just as important, the caregiving context matters. Time with grandkids is most likely to feel beneficial when it’s enjoyable and manageable, not overwhelming or done out of obligation. And because this research can’t prove that caregiving causes better cognition, it’s best viewed as encouraging evidence that staying socially and mentally engaged – in ways that feel positive and sustainable – may support brain health over time. In other words, your grandchildren may be doing as much for you as you’re doing for them.

Additional Reading

For additional reading on topics of interest to older adults, check out the following articles:

• Giving to Grandkids? Consider Gift Tax, 529 Plans, and More

• Pass Assets to Grandchildren in a Generation-Skipping Trust

• Home Safety for Aging in Place: A Guide for Older Adults

• Promoting Healthy Aging During Financial Literacy Month

• Getting Help for a Parent With Memory Loss

April Fool's Guide to Messing Up Social Security Benefits

Editor’s Note:

In honor of April Fool’s Day, this article uses satire to highlight common Social Security mistakes. The “Reality Check” sections explain what to do instead. If you’re making a claiming decision, speak with an elder law attorney or trusted financial advisor about your specific situation.

The humor is intentional; the goal is to help you avoid costly mistakes.

Takeaways

• If you are hoping to spoil your Social Security benefits, this tongue-in-cheek guide will tell you how to do just that.

• Better yet, consider this a list of what not to do and instead work with an elder law attorney to make the most of your retirement.

So, you’re nearing retirement and ready to collect your Social Security benefits. You’ve spent decades working, paying into the system, and now it’s finally time to cash in. But before you go making any smart or responsible decisions, consider how to truly mess things up.

This satirical guide will walk you through the best ways to botch your retirement benefits, shortchange your future, and give yourself a solid case of retiree regret. Think of this guide to missing out as a public service announcement — in reverse.

1. Sign Up for Social Security Benefits As Early As Humanly Possible

Why wait until full retirement age — or worse, age 70 — when you could start collecting at 62? Sure, your monthly payments will be reduced by as much as about 25 percent to 30 percent forever (or more, depending on your full retirement age), but you’ll get that smaller check right away.

Reality Check: Claiming early makes sense for some, but it’s one of the most financially impactful decisions you’ll make. Waiting until your full retirement age (age 67 for most people born in 1960 or later) or even age 70 can significantly increase your monthly benefit — for life. If you expect to live into your 80s or beyond, delaying can pay off.

2. Completely Ignore Spousal and Survivor Benefits

If you got married for love, not Social Security strategy, don’t even bother looking into spousal or survivor benefits.

Reality Check: Spouses (and ex-spouses, if the marriage lasted at least 10 years) may be eligible for up to 50 percent of their partner’s benefit — even if they never worked themselves. And if your spouse passes away, survivor benefits could be a crucial part of your income. Ignoring these options is like turning down free money.

3. Assume Social Security Will Be Gone Anyway

If Social Security is going bankrupt, it’s better to assume the whole system will collapse and make decisions based on panic, right?

Reality Check: While the Social Security trust fund may face shortfalls in the 2030s, the system will still be able to pay most benefits from ongoing payroll taxes. Experts estimate around 77 percent of promised benefits will still be payable even without reform. Planning based on doom-and-gloom headlines can sometimes do more harm than good.

4. Forget About Taxes — You’re Retired Now!

Taxes are a working person’s problem. You must be off the hook for paying taxes once you retire, right? Collect your benefits and tap those retirement accounts with wild abandon.

Reality Check: Up to 85 percent of your Social Security benefits can be taxable, depending on your total income. Withdrawals from retirement accounts, pensions, or side gigs can push you over the threshold. Smart tax planning can help reduce how much you owe — and help your money go further.

5. Never, Ever Check Your Earnings Record

Why bother logging into the Social Security Administration (SSA) website to check your earnings history? The government definitely must have all your information perfectly correct. What are the chances they missed a year or two?

Reality Check: Your benefit is calculated based on your highest 35 years of earnings. If there are gaps or mistakes in your record, your benefit could be lower than it should be. Verifying your earnings history is a small task that helps ensure you don’t leave money on the table.

6. Don’t Coordinate With Your Spouse’s Strategy

You’ve made it this far without having to align your retirement plans; why bother starting now? Just claim your benefits when you feel like it and let your spouse do their own thing.

Reality Check: Coordinating when and how you and your spouse each claim benefits can optimize your combined income, especially if one of you has significantly higher lifetime earnings. A good joint strategy can maximize spousal or survivor benefits and help stretch your income through your later years.

7. Forget About Asking a Professional — You’ve Got This

You’ve read a couple of articles about financial planning and heard a few things in the dentist's office waiting room; surely you know all you need to know.

Reality Check: Social Security is surprisingly complex. The difference between a good strategy and a great one can mean thousands of dollars over your lifetime. A brief conversation with a knowledgeable advisor — or even a visit to a local SSA office — can help you avoid irreversible mistakes.

8. File Based on What Your Friends’ Friends Did

A friend of your buddy Steve filed at age 62 and bought a boat, while your neighbor’s cousin’s sister-in-law Marlene waited until age 70 and still watches cable. Just do what they did; it’ll probably be fine, right?

Reality Check: Your Social Security strategy should be based on your health, earnings history, marital status, other income sources, and life expectancy — not someone else’s. What worked for them could be completely wrong for your situation.

Ready to Wreck Your Retirement?

If you’re still reading and planning to do everything wrong, you’ve certainly got a foolproof way to leave money on the table, stress out your future self, and regret skipping the fine print.

However, if you’re the type who prefers to retire with confidence and financial stability, do yourself a favor: Don’t wing it. Check your SSA records, run the numbers, talk to an experienced elder law professional in your area, and build a strategy that fits your life.

Social Security payments aren’t just about a check — they’re about the freedom to enjoy the next chapter on your own terms.

Your Quick Checklist for How to Actually Do Things Right

• Check your earnings record on the Social Security Administration website.

• Understand how claiming age affects your monthly benefit amount.

• Learn about spousal benefits and survivor benefits.

• Know your tax exposure.

• Coordinate with your partner.

• Get professional input before filing. Contact your local Social Security office or consult with an elder law attorney near you today.

April Fool's Guide to Messing Up Social Security Benefits

Editor’s Note:

In honor of April Fool’s Day, this article uses satire to highlight common Social Security mistakes. The “Reality Check” sections explain what to do instead. If you’re making a claiming decision, speak with an elder law attorney or trusted financial advisor about your specific situation.

The humor is intentional; the goal is to help you avoid costly mistakes.

Takeaways

• If you are hoping to spoil your Social Security benefits, this tongue-in-cheek guide will tell you how to do just that.

• Better yet, consider this a list of what not to do and instead work with an elder law attorney to make the most of your retirement.

So, you’re nearing retirement and ready to collect your Social Security benefits. You’ve spent decades working, paying into the system, and now it’s finally time to cash in. But before you go making any smart or responsible decisions, consider how to truly mess things up.

This satirical guide will walk you through the best ways to botch your retirement benefits, shortchange your future, and give yourself a solid case of retiree regret. Think of this guide to missing out as a public service announcement — in reverse.

1. Sign Up for Social Security Benefits As Early As Humanly Possible

Why wait until full retirement age — or worse, age 70 — when you could start collecting at 62? Sure, your monthly payments will be reduced by as much as about 25 percent to 30 percent forever (or more, depending on your full retirement age), but you’ll get that smaller check right away.

Reality Check: Claiming early makes sense for some, but it’s one of the most financially impactful decisions you’ll make. Waiting until your full retirement age (age 67 for most people born in 1960 or later) or even age 70 can significantly increase your monthly benefit — for life. If you expect to live into your 80s or beyond, delaying can pay off.

2. Completely Ignore Spousal and Survivor Benefits

If you got married for love, not Social Security strategy, don’t even bother looking into spousal or survivor benefits.

Reality Check: Spouses (and ex-spouses, if the marriage lasted at least 10 years) may be eligible for up to 50 percent of their partner’s benefit — even if they never worked themselves. And if your spouse passes away, survivor benefits could be a crucial part of your income. Ignoring these options is like turning down free money.

3. Assume Social Security Will Be Gone Anyway

If Social Security is going bankrupt, it’s better to assume the whole system will collapse and make decisions based on panic, right?

Reality Check: While the Social Security trust fund may face shortfalls in the 2030s, the system will still be able to pay most benefits from ongoing payroll taxes. Experts estimate around 77 percent of promised benefits will still be payable even without reform. Planning based on doom-and-gloom headlines can sometimes do more harm than good.

4. Forget About Taxes — You’re Retired Now!

Taxes are a working person’s problem. You must be off the hook for paying taxes once you retire, right? Collect your benefits and tap those retirement accounts with wild abandon.

Reality Check: Up to 85 percent of your Social Security benefits can be taxable, depending on your total income. Withdrawals from retirement accounts, pensions, or side gigs can push you over the threshold. Smart tax planning can help reduce how much you owe — and help your money go further.

5. Never, Ever Check Your Earnings Record

Why bother logging into the Social Security Administration (SSA) website to check your earnings history? The government definitely must have all your information perfectly correct. What are the chances they missed a year or two?

Reality Check: Your benefit is calculated based on your highest 35 years of earnings. If there are gaps or mistakes in your record, your benefit could be lower than it should be. Verifying your earnings history is a small task that helps ensure you don’t leave money on the table.

6. Don’t Coordinate With Your Spouse’s Strategy

You’ve made it this far without having to align your retirement plans; why bother starting now? Just claim your benefits when you feel like it and let your spouse do their own thing.

Reality Check: Coordinating when and how you and your spouse each claim benefits can optimize your combined income, especially if one of you has significantly higher lifetime earnings. A good joint strategy can maximize spousal or survivor benefits and help stretch your income through your later years.

7. Forget About Asking a Professional — You’ve Got This

You’ve read a couple of articles about financial planning and heard a few things in the dentist's office waiting room; surely you know all you need to know.

Reality Check: Social Security is surprisingly complex. The difference between a good strategy and a great one can mean thousands of dollars over your lifetime. A brief conversation with a knowledgeable advisor — or even a visit to a local SSA office — can help you avoid irreversible mistakes.

8. File Based on What Your Friends’ Friends Did

A friend of your buddy Steve filed at age 62 and bought a boat, while your neighbor’s cousin’s sister-in-law Marlene waited until age 70 and still watches cable. Just do what they did; it’ll probably be fine, right?

Reality Check: Your Social Security strategy should be based on your health, earnings history, marital status, other income sources, and life expectancy — not someone else’s. What worked for them could be completely wrong for your situation.

Ready to Wreck Your Retirement?

If you’re still reading and planning to do everything wrong, you’ve certainly got a foolproof way to leave money on the table, stress out your future self, and regret skipping the fine print.

However, if you’re the type who prefers to retire with confidence and financial stability, do yourself a favor: Don’t wing it. Check your SSA records, run the numbers, talk to an experienced elder law professional in your area, and build a strategy that fits your life.

Social Security payments aren’t just about a check — they’re about the freedom to enjoy the next chapter on your own terms.

Your Quick Checklist for How to Actually Do Things Right

• Check your earnings record on the Social Security Administration website.

• Understand how claiming age affects your monthly benefit amount.

• Learn about spousal benefits and survivor benefits.

• Know your tax exposure.

• Coordinate with your partner.

• Get professional input before filing. Contact your local Social Security office or consult with an elder law attorney near you today.

What to Know About Prior Authorizations for Medications - Why Does This Matter to Older Adults?

Takeaways

• Prior authorization is a rule requiring doctor approval before a health insurance plan pays for certain medications or services.

• Delays or denials can interrupt treatment for chronic conditions. Manage this by requesting refills early, appealing denials, and communicating with your doctor.

For many older adults, taking prescription medications is part of everyday life. Drugs for high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and other conditions help people stay healthy and independent. But sometimes patients discover that their prescription cannot be refilled, even when their doctor says they still need the medication. Often the culprit is something called prior authorization.

What Is Prior Authorization?

Prior authorization is a rule used by many health insurance companies. Before they will pay for certain medications or services, the insurer requires the doctor to explain why the drug or treatment is medically necessary for the patient. Only after the insurance company approves the prior authorization request will it cover the medication or service.

These requirements are most common for expensive medications, newer drugs, treatments that have cheaper alternatives, and drugs that insurers believe might be overused. If the authorization expires or the insurer changes its rules, patients may suddenly find that their prescription cannot be filled — even if they have taken the drug for years.

Why This Matters for Older Adults

Prior authorization delays can be more than an inconvenience. Many older adults depend on consistent medication to manage chronic illnesses.

When approvals are delayed, people may experience:

• Worsening symptoms

• Withdrawal effects from stopping a medication

• Increased risk of hospitalization

• Stress and confusion about what to do next

For people with chronic conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or autoimmune disorders, missing even a short period of treatment can cause significant health problems.

Why Prescriptions Get Delayed

Several things can trigger a prior authorization problem:

• The authorization expired. Some approvals only last a few months or a year. When they expire, a new request must be submitted.

• Insurance plans change. Insurance companies can update their list of covered medications (called a formulary) at any time.

• Paperwork problem. Missing documentation, incorrect codes, or delays between the doctor’s office and the insurer can slow the prior authorization process.

• Drug cost. More expensive medications tend to receive closer scrutiny from insurers.

How Prior Authorization Works in Medicare

Most older adults receive their health coverage through Medicare, but the experience with prior authorization can vary depending on the type of plan they have.

Traditional Medicare

Under traditional (Original) Medicare (Parts A and B), prior authorization is relatively limited. However, prescription drugs are usually covered through Medicare Part D, which is run by private insurance companies.

Part D plans often require prior authorization for certain medications, particularly high-cost drugs with less expensive alternatives.

Medicare Advantage

Many older adults are enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans, which are private insurance plans that replace Original Medicare coverage. These plans frequently use prior authorization not only for medications but also for medical services such as imaging tests, specialist visits, rehabilitation services, and certain medical procedures.

In recent years, federal regulators have introduced rules requiring Medicare Advantage plans to process many authorization requests faster and electronically. These changes are intended to reduce delays, but patients may still encounter challenges.

Ways Older Adults Can Cope With Prior Authorization Problems

Although the system can be frustrating, several strategies can help reduce delays.

• Request refills early. Don’t wait until you are almost out of medication. Since approvals can take days or even weeks, request refills well in advance.

• Track when authorizations expire. Ask your doctor or insurance company how long the authorization lasts and mark the expiration date on your calendar.

• Ask about expedited reviews. If going without medication could harm your health, your doctor can sometimes request an expedited review, which requires the insurer to make a faster decision.

• Consider alternative medications. Your doctor may be able to prescribe a similar drug that your insurance company covers more easily.

• Appeal a denial. If your insurer refuses to cover a medication, you have the right to appeal. Many appeals succeed, especially when your doctor explains why other treatments are not appropriate.

• Stay in contact with your doctor’s office. Most medical practices have staff members who specialize in insurance paperwork. Calling to check on the status of a request can sometimes help move things along.

• Keep records. Save letters from your insurer and keep a list of medications you have tried in the past. This information can be helpful if you need to file an appeal.

A New Wrinkle for 2026

Starting in 2026, a pilot program called WISeR (Wasteful and Inappropriate Service Reduction) will require Original Medicare participants to get prior authorization for certain services — but only in six states: Arizona, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, Texas, and Washington.

This program is supposed to run through the end of 2031 and covers procedures that the government has flagged as potentially prone to overuse or fraud, including skin graft procedures, electrical nerve stimulators, and knee arthroscopy for knee osteoarthritis. If you live in one of the six participating states and have Original Medicare, talk to your doctor about whether this will affect any of your planned treatments.

The Bottom Line

Prior authorization is intended to control costs and ensure that treatments are medically appropriate. But for older adults who rely on prescription drugs to manage chronic conditions, the process can sometimes delay needed care.

Understanding how prior authorization works, especially within Medicare, and planning ahead can help reduce the chances that paperwork will interrupt your treatment. Staying organized, communicating with your doctor, and knowing about your right to appeal can make the process easier to navigate.

Additional Reading

For additional reading on topics related to health care for seniors, check out the following articles:

• Turning 65? What to Know About the 4 Parts of Medicare

• Entering and Leaving Medicare Advantage Plans

• Medicare Part D Plans 2025: Prescription Drug Coverage

• Does Medicare Cover Prescription Weight Loss Drugs?

• 2027 Will Bring Lower Prices for 15 Medicare Part D Drugs

• Is Purchasing Canadian Drugs Legal?

Free Dementia Care Resources at Local Libraries

Takeaways

• Libraries nationwide are becoming valuable, free resources for people living with dementia and their caregivers, offering support beyond traditional books.

• Key offerings often include memory kits, educational courses on caregiving and well-being, and memory cafés.

• Many libraries are adopting “dementia-friendly” practices, including specialized staff training and accessible physical spaces, to better serve this community.

While local libraries are best known for their books, many are expanding their role to meet evolving community needs, including support for people affected by dementia. According to Columbia University, one in 10 Americans aged 65 and older is living with dementia, and an additional 22 percent have mild cognitive impairment. In response, many libraries across the country are working to make free, practical dementia care resources more widely available.

People living with dementia, along with their loved ones and caregivers, can increasingly turn to their local library for support. Offerings may include memory kits, educational courses, and programs tailored to their needs. Some libraries also host memory cafés – free or low-cost social gatherings that provide a welcoming space for people with dementia to connect with others.

Memory Kits

Memory kits are curated collections of materials designed to engage people living with dementia, often in partnership with their caregivers. Using familiar and sensory-based objects, these kits are intended to help stimulate the mind, spark memories, start conversations, and provide comfort.

Public libraries may offer memory kits as part of their “Library of Things” – collections of nonbook items available to borrow, much like traditional library books. While the contents of each kit can vary, the shared goal is to support meaningful engagement for people with dementia and those who care for them. Some kits focus on gentle cognitive stimulation, while others aim to encourage reminiscence.

Kits intended for mental engagement may include items like easy-to-read calendars, fidget toys, flash cards, music players, tactile objects, and simple puzzles. Reminiscence-focused kits can often center on a certain decade, such as the 1950s, or a familiar theme, like pets, that could interest and engage older adults and prompt memories.

For example, the Ohio County Public Library in Wheeling, West Virginia, has memory kits organized around specific themes, including the Great Outdoors, the 1950s, Patriotic USA, and Cats. Each kit includes a DVD and flash cards. The cat-themed kit contains a plush animal, which could provide comfort while helping to spark memories and conversation.

Courses and Programming

Many local libraries also offer programs and courses designed to support people living with dementia as well as their caregivers. These offerings often address both practical concerns and emotional well-being, helping families navigate the challenges of dementia with greater confidence.

The Westmont Public Library in Illinois, for example, coordinates programs for people with dementia, their caregivers, and others. Program topics include home safety and alternative care options, caregiver well-being, and strategies for meaningfully engaging a loved one with dementia.

Memory Cafés

Memory cafés are another type of program that libraries may host. These gatherings are designed to create a welcoming, engaging environment where people with dementia and their caregivers and family members can socialize in a relaxed, supportive setting. Along with coffee and tea, the cafés may feature themed spaces – such as an “under the sea” motif – or activities like trivia or arts and crafts.

Most memory café meetings last one to two hours and typically include both structured programming and informal social time. Activities may involve music, dance, yoga, arts, storytelling, or history. Because these events are intended to be person-focused, attendees are not expected or required to discuss their diagnosis or medical details.

Dementia Friendly America has a directory of memory cafés, which can be found in libraries as well as other community settings, such as senior centers.

Additional Library Resources for Dementia

Across the country, libraries are working to expand support, inclusion, and resources for people living with dementia and their caregivers. Library staff may undergo training, such as through Dementia Friend America, to better serve patrons with cognitive impairment. Dementia-friendly libraries aim to create welcoming, inclusive environments.

To learn more about the dementia-related resources available at your local library, visit its website or speak with a librarian. While some materials, like memory kits, may require a library card to borrow, other resources, including courses, special programming, and memory cafes, are often open to the public, even if you do not belong to the library. Interlibrary loan programs may also make it possible to borrow materials from partnering libraries. Visit your library to learn more about what resources are available in your community.

In addition, you may want to check out the following articles:

• Studies Show Shingles Vaccine May Reduce Risk of Developing Dementia

• What’s the Difference Between Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia?

• The Benefits of Memory Care

• Resources for Caregivers of Older Adults With Dementia

Nancy Guthrie's Disappearance: Keeping Older Adults Safe

Takeaways

• The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie highlights the tension between an older adult's desire to “age in place” and an adult child’s concern for their safety.

• Families can support the independence of their aging loved ones while reducing risk through practical steps, including creating check-in protocols, protecting against financial scams, and maintaining open conversations about safety.

The recent disappearance of Nancy Guthrie from her home in Catalina Foothills, Arizona, has highlighted the difficult balancing act many families face: older adults’ strong desire to remain in their own homes and their adult children’s equally strong desire to keep them safe. While cases like this are rare, they underscore a broader reality: older adults living on their own can be more susceptible to scams, fraud, and delayed assistance if something goes wrong.

For many older adults, staying at home is about far more than convenience. However, for their children, safety risks, especially when a frightening event makes headlines, can be impossible to ignore.

Why Older Adults Want to Age in Place

Most seniors say they want to “age in place,” or remain in their own homes and communities as they grow older.

Home represents independence. After decades of making their own decisions, managing households, and raising families, many older adults are reluctant to give up control over their daily routines. Moving to a facility or even to their adult child’s home can feel like a loss of autonomy.

Home is also filled with memories. The house where someone raised children, celebrated holidays, or cared for a spouse can carry deep emotional meaning. Leaving it can feel like losing part of one’s identity.

In addition, familiarity supports well-being. Knowing where everything is, recognizing neighbors, and being comfortable in a long-standing community can reduce stress and anxiety. Many older adults value their community connections, such as friends, faith communities, local shops, and doctors. Staying put allows them to maintain those social ties. For people experiencing mild cognitive changes, familiar surroundings can be especially important.

Cost is often an important factor as well. Assisted living and other long-term care settings can be expensive. Remaining at home, especially if the mortgage is paid off, may feel like the more financially sustainable choice.

Why Adult Children Worry About Their Parents

While older adults may be focused on the positives of staying in their homes, their adult children often see risks their parents may downplay.

• Safety is a primary concern. High-profile crimes against older adults can heighten fears about vulnerability. Adult children may worry about scams, financial exploitation, or physical harm.

• Falls are another major concern. Falls are the leading cause of injury and death among older adults. A fall can result in a hospital stay or a permanent decline in health or mobility.

• Medical emergencies also weigh heavily on families. Adult children may wonder: What if Mom falls and can’t reach the phone? What if Dad has a stroke and no one notices for hours?

• Isolation is another issue. Living alone can increase the risk of loneliness and depression. Adult children may worry that their parents are not getting enough social interaction or help with daily tasks.

• Cognitive changes can further complicate matters. Even mild memory problems can make managing medications, finances, or household maintenance more difficult, and potentially dangerous.

When these concerns are combined with a frightening news story, it can intensify family discussions about whether an older adult should continue living independently.

Ways to Make a Home Safer and Ease Family Concerns

Fortunately, aging in place and safety are not mutually exclusive. Many practical steps can reduce risks and provide reassurance to concerned family members. In addition to reducing fall hazards throughout the home to make it a safer environment for aging loved ones, consider some other proactive measures.

• Install security features. A monitored security system, doorbell camera, or smart locks can increase safety and peace of mind. Some systems allow adult children to receive alerts if something unusual happens. Outdoor lighting and trimmed landscaping can also improve visibility.

• Use medical alert systems. Personal emergency response systems, such as wearable pendants or watches with emergency buttons, allow older adults to call for help quickly. Some devices include automatic fall detection.

• Simplify the layout. If possible, move essential living spaces to one floor to minimize stair use. Rearrange furniture to create clear walking paths.

• Address medication management. Use pill organizers or automatic dispensers to ensure medications are taken correctly. Some devices can send reminders or notifications to family members.

• Stay socially connected. Regular visits with neighbors, friends, or family members can reduce isolation. Community programs, senior centers, and faith groups can also help older adults stay engaged.

• Establish a check-in protocol. Beyond staying socially connected, designate one or two trusted contacts who know the senior’s routines. Set regular check-in times, such as a daily text or weekly call, and create a plan for what to do if a check-in is missed.

• Vet and monitor in-home help. If a senior receives assistance from caregivers, housekeepers, or others, use licensed, bonded, and insured agencies. Avoid sharing personal details, such as daily routines, unless necessary.

• Connect with local law enforcement or community programs. Many police departments offer senior safety registries or welfare check services. Reach out to your local Area Agency on Aging to see what options are available.

• Protect personal and home security information. Avoid posting real-time location data on social media. Consider using a P.O. Box to prevent identity theft. Keep spare keys in controlled, documented locations, not hidden outdoors.

• Plan for emergencies. Create an emergency plan that includes a list of medications, doctors, and emergency contacts. Post important numbers in an easily visible place. Consider sharing a spare key or installing a lockbox for emergency access.

Protecting Older Adults From Scams and Fraud

Financial scams are one of the fastest-growing threats to older adults living on their own. Criminals often target seniors because they may have substantial savings, own their homes, and tend to be trusting. However, families can take practical steps to reduce risk.

Encourage skepticism about unsolicited calls, emails, and text messages. Older adults should never provide personal information, Social Security numbers, bank account details, or Medicare numbers to unexpected contacts.

Set up call-blocking services and register phone numbers with the National Do Not Call Registry. Though this will not stop all scams, it can reduce unwanted solicitations.

Review bank and credit card statements regularly. Consider setting up account alerts that notify a trusted family member of large or unusual transactions.

Freeze credit reports with the major credit bureaus to prevent fraudulent new accounts from being opened.

Talk openly about common scams, including impersonation scams (where someone pretends to be a government official or relative in distress), tech support scams, and romance scams. Ongoing conversations help reduce embarrassment and make it more likely that an older adult will report suspicious activity.

Consider adding a trusted person to financial accounts. Many banks and investment firms allow customers to name someone the institution can contact if financial exploitation is suspected.

Above all, create an environment where older adults feel comfortable asking, “Does this seem legitimate to you?” without fear of losing their independence.

Have Open Conversations

Perhaps most importantly, families should talk openly and respectfully about concerns. Instead of framing the discussion as “You can’t live alone anymore,” it may be more productive to say, “How can we make your home safer so you can stay here longer?”

When older adults feel heard and included in the decision-making process, they are more likely to consider practical safety upgrades. Adult children, in turn, may feel reassured knowing concrete steps have been taken.

The desire to remain at home is deeply human. So is the instinct to protect a loved one. With thoughtful planning, honest communication, and practical home modifications, many families can find a middle ground of supporting independence while reducing risk.

Additional Reading

• Home Safety for Aging in Place: A Guide for Older Adults

• In-Home Senior Care Technology and Elder Law

• Getting Help When Providing Care at Home for Aging Parents

• Is an Independent Living Facility Right for Me?

What We Know So Far About the New Medicaid Work Requirements

Takeaways

• A new federal law passed in 2025 requires most low-income adults (ages 19–64) on Medicaid to start meeting work or community engagement requirements (like working, volunteering, or going to school) to keep their health coverage, starting by January 1, 2027.

• To stay eligible, adults must document at least 80 hours per month of qualifying activities. Reporting this information will be required at least every six months, and possibly more often depending on the state.

• Many groups are exempt from these new rules, including those over 65, those who are dually eligible for Medicare, veterans with disabilities, and most caregivers of young or disabled dependents.

• Critics worry that the new reporting and paperwork requirements will cause tens of thousands of people to lose coverage, especially older adults (ages 50–64) who may already face barriers like chronic health conditions or age discrimination.

In 2025, Congress passed a sweeping federal spending and budget law known widely as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (officially H.R. 1), which included major changes to the Medicaid health insurance program. Among the most significant new policies are national work requirements for Medicaid enrollees. States are required to implement the work requirements by January 1, 2027, but states can roll out implementation earlier.

Although some states, such as Georgia and Arkansas, have implemented Medicaid work requirements, this is the first time such requirements are being introduced at this scale. Previous implementations of Medicaid work requirements led to large-scale coverage losses and administrative burdens.

Under this new law, most low-income adults on Medicaid will need to show that they are participating in community engagement activities, such as working, volunteering, going to school, or participating in job-related programs, to keep their health coverage. Individuals who fail to meet the work requirements and who are not exempt from the requirements will also be disqualified from receiving marketplace subsidies on health insurance.

The nationwide Medicaid work requirements have sparked recent discussions among advocates of older adults, including nonprofit Justice in Aging, which recently hosted a webinar focused on how these rules will be applied and the risks they pose to people who rely on Medicaid.

Who Will Be Required to Participate

The new work requirements generally apply to most adult Medicaid enrollees who are between the ages of 19 and 64 and who do not meet work requirement exemptions. To stay eligible for Medicaid, these adults will need to document that they meet a minimum of 80 hours per month of qualifying activities such as:

• Paid work

• Community service or volunteering

• Job training programs

• Half-time or greater enrollment in school

• Or some combination of these activities

The new law requires Medicaid enrollees to comply with work requirements at least one month prior to enrollment or redetermination. (Note that states can require compliance up to three months prior to enrollment.)

The law also requires Medicaid enrollees to report their compliance at least as often as when they go through the redetermination or renewal process. This used to be once each year but is now required at least every six months. However, states can require enrollees to submit their renewals or redeterminations more frequently, even monthly.

Who Is Exempt From the New Rules?

The law and current guidance include several exemptions. Medicaid recipients who qualify for an exemption will not need to meet or report any work or engagement hours.

Mandatory Federal Exemptions

Some groups of people are generally excluded from meeting work requirements, such as:

• Individuals receiving Medicaid for pregnancy or postpartum coverage

• Those who are under age 19 or over age 65

• People who are also enrolled in, or are entitled to, Medicare (referred to as dually eligible)

• Medicaid enrollees who are aged, blind, disabled, or who have a serious or complex medical condition

• Parents, guardians, caretaker relatives, and family caregivers of a disabled individual or dependent child who is 13 years old or younger

• Foster care and former foster care youth under the age of 26

• Disabled veterans with a total disability rating

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services provides more information on who is eligible for Medicaid.

Optional or State-Level Hardship Exemptions

States may provide short-term hardship exceptions for individuals facing special circumstances, such as:

• Receiving care in a hospital, nursing facility, psychiatric facility, or other intensive care setting

• Residing in counties with an unemployment rate higher than 8 percent or 1.5 times the national unemployment rate

• Living in a federally declared disaster area

• Having to travel outside their community for medical care, either for themselves or their dependent, to treat a serious or complex condition for an extended period

What This Could Mean for People With Medicaid

Supporters of the work rules argue they can encourage engagement and align Medicaid with other benefit programs. However, advocates and health policy analysts, including those at Justice in Aging, warn that:

• These rules could lead to coverage loss if people miss reporting deadlines or paperwork requirements.

• Administrative burdens and verification systems may be inconsistent across states.

• Evidence from prior work requirement implementations suggests that more people lose coverage because of technical violations rather than for lack of work.

Since adults aged 50 to 64 are more likely than younger adults to have chronic conditions and caregiving responsibilities, they are more likely to have trouble holding down a job. But they are more likely to need consistent health coverage.

The new Medicaid work requirements are likely to hit these older adults especially hard, as they may be unable to handle physically demanding work they could do when they were younger. Some of these older adults may also face education or technology barriers or age discrimination when trying to reenter the workforce.

Though there is a range of exemptions, qualifying for them could prove to be a barrier for some due to the vagueness of some parts of the law. For example, individuals who are deemed “medically frail” can be exempt from the work requirements; however, it is not clear which disabilities and conditions qualify as medically frail.

According to the AARP, a handful of states have implemented Medicaid work requirements in the past. In these states, tens of thousands of people either lost coverage or were projected to lose coverage because the administrative hurdles were so great.

Don’t risk a loss of coverage: Understanding the new work requirements and keeping precise records is essential for people enrolled in Medicaid to navigate these upcoming changes safely. To seek out further guidance, contact your state Medicaid agency.

Additional Reading

For additional reading on topics related to Medicaid, check out the following articles:

• What to Do If You Lose Your Medicaid Coverage

• How Gifts Can Affect Medicaid Eligibility

• Medicaid Expansion: What Might It Mean for You?

Digital Tools to Protect Older Adults From Financial Abuse

Takeaways

• Financial abuse of older adults is increasingly digital and results in billions of dollars in losses annually.

• Digital tools such as password managers and two-factor authentication, which are often already built into phones, email, and financial accounts, can help actively prevent, detect, and respond to this abuse.

• The most effective protection combines technology with education, making it easier for older adults to remain independent while staying safe.

Older adults lose billions of dollars each year to financial abuse and exploitation. In 2025, adults aged 60 and older in the United States reported $2.4 billion in losses to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), per CNBC. Because so many incidents go unreported, the FTC estimates that the actual cost of elder financial abuse and exploitation is likely much higher.

Today, financial exploitation happens quietly – and digitally. Instead of stolen checks or forged signatures, abuse may involve compromised passwords, unauthorized online account access, or highly convincing phone calls or emails designed to pressure an older adult into sending money.

The same digital tools that scammers exploit, however, can also help prevent, detect, and respond to financial elder abuse. From password managers to account monitoring services, practical digital protections can help reduce risk of financial abuse while allowing older adults to maintain their independence.

Below are some of the most useful tools older adults and their caregivers may want to consider.

1. Passwords and Password Managers

Passwords remain a first line of defense for financial accounts, email, and devices like computers and phones. If someone gains access to an older adult’s email or smartphone, they may also gain access to bank accounts, retirement funds, or saved payment information.

Strong passwords matter; however, managing them can be unrealistic for many people. Weak or reused passwords are common because they are easy to remember. For example, “123456,” which has been used more than 4.5 million times, only takes 1 second to guess, according to CBS.

That’s where password managers come in. A password manager is a secure app that creates, stores, and fills in strong passwords for you. Instead of remembering dozens of passwords, you remember one master password or can unlock the app using a fingerprint or facial recognition.

Many phones and computers already include built-in password managers, and standalone options are also widely available. For older adults, password managers can:

• reduce memory burden

• prevent password reuse across accounts

• make it easier to update compromised passwords quickly

For caregivers, password managers can also provide shared or emergency access, allowing a trusted person to help the older adult without knowing their every password.

Use a password manager for your financial accounts, email, and any account that can reset other passwords, such as an Apple ID or Google account.

2. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-factor authentication (2FA) goes a step further. In addition to a password, the user must confirm their identity in a second way, such as:

• a one-time code sent to a phone

• a prompt on a trusted device

• a biometric identifier like a fingerprint or facial recognition

Most financial institutions and email providers already offer two-factor authentication, but it is often optional. For older adults, 2FA can be particularly beneficial because it protects accounts even if a password has been stolen. In addition, biometric options reduce the need to remember additional information. Alerts can also notify users of login attempts they didn’t initiate.

Consider turning on 2FA for banking, email, retirement, and payment accounts, and ask financial institutions what backup options are available if a phone or device is lost.

3. Screening Scam Calls, Texts, and Emails

Many seniors are inundated with scam calls, text messages, and emails. The average American receives about 100 scam messages a week, according to Talker Research. As artificial intelligence (AI) improves, these scams are becoming not only more convincing but also more difficult to spot at a glance.

Some phones, email providers, and third-party apps now use AI-powered screening tools to reduce exposure to scams. Examples include:

• call screening features that answer unknown calls, ask questions, and transcribe responses

• spam and phishing filters that flag suspicious emails or messages before they are opened

• scam detection alerts that alert users about likely fraud

These tools don’t eliminate scams entirely, but they can dramatically reduce interruptions and prevent impulsive responses.

Note that AI-generated voice scams, such as calls that imitate a loved one asking for money, can bypass technical defenses. For these situations, experts recommend behavioral safeguards, such as hanging up and calling the person back using a known number.

Enable call screening and spam filtering on phones and email accounts, and consider creating a simple “pause and verify” rule for urgent financial requests.

4. Monitoring and Trusted Oversight Services

For older adults who want extra protection or who already rely on a trusted individual to help with managing finances, comprehensive monitoring services can provide early warnings of suspicious activity.

Some services, such as EverSafe, are specifically designed for seniors and monitor:

• bank and credit card accounts for unusual transactions

• credit reports for unauthorized accounts

• changes to real estate titles or liens

• email accounts for scam or phishing messages  

A key feature of many services is the ability to designate a trusted advocate, such as a family member, caregiver, or professional. The older adult controls what information the advocate can see, helping balance oversight with autonomy.

Other identity protection services, while not designed specifically for seniors, may offer:

• credit monitoring

• antivirus software

• scam call detection

• Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

• built-in password managers

These tools can be particularly helpful as an early warning system when paired with an engaged caregiver.

When considering monitoring services, review costs, privacy settings, and alert options carefully.

Education Still Matters

Technology works best when paired with education. Understanding common scams can help older adults recognize red flags and use protective tools more effectively. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) offers free, downloadable resources that explain how to recognize and prevent financial exploitation. These materials can help older adults and caregivers decide which protections to prioritize and when to seek help.

Financial exploitation of older adults is increasingly digital – but prevention can be, too. Practical tools like password managers, 2FA, scam screening, and account monitoring can help reduce risk without sacrificing independence.

No single tool is foolproof, but used together, and combined with education and trusted support, these digital protections can make it significantly harder for scammers or bad actors to succeed.