Knowledge Tools: Resources for Baby Boomers…and Beyond!

Hello all,

Here’s another great tidbit from The Savvy Senior, written by Jim Miller, a regular contributor to the NBC Today Show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book:

Hotels: While most hotels offer minimal senior discounts, the Hyatt (www.hyatt.com; 888-591-1234) offers the biggest – up to 50% off to seniors, age 62 and older.

Transportation: The only domestic airline that still gives discounts to seniors today is Southwest (www.southwest.com; 800-435-9792), which offers senior fares to passengers age 65 and up. For train travel Amtrak offers a 15% discount to coach travelers age 62 and older (www.amtrak.com; 800-872-7245). And if you’re going by bus, Greyhound (www.greyhound.com; 800-231-2222) offers a 5% discount on unrestricted fares to seniors over 62. Also, most local bus lines offer discounted senior passes.

Car rentals: Most car rental companies offer discounts to seniors, especially to club members like AARP and AAA.

National Parks: One of the best travel deals available is the “America The Beautiful – Senior Pass” (www.nps.gov/fees_passes.htm). This is a lifetime pass that will let you and anyone in your car into national parks, forest, recreation areas and monument grounds. Available to those 62 or older, you can get it at one of the federal recreation sites for a one-time fee of $10 and it never expires.

And, here’s a title recommended:

Another great resource is Joan Rattner Heilman’s book “Unbelievably Good Deals and Great Adventures That You Absolutely Can’t Get Unless You’re Over 50,” (McGraw-Hill; $16.95). In its 18th edition, the 2009-2010 version lists hundreds of discounts, perks and privileges on just about everything. You can find this book online and in bookstores nationwide.

Joan Jackson, Principal

JMJ Information Services

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Coverageforall.org  is a comprehensive site that provides information and links to all private and public health insurance programs in each state, and offers a short quiz that you can take to help you identify the best insurance option for your particular situation.

You can also call for help at 800-234-1317.

Joan Jackson, Principal

JMJ Information Services

Market Research and Information Products for Your Business

Hello Folks!! 

I’d decided to take a hiatus for the month of July.  I trust that everyone is having a relaxed summer so far!  Now I’m back to bring you more newsworthy nuggets for your “knowledge pleasure”

As mentioned in the title, August is National Immunization Awareness Month.  This not only applies to us Boomers, but everyone!  Below is an article from the CDC (Center for Disease Control) that’s worth your attention:

August is recognized as National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM). The goal of NIAM is to increase awareness about immunizations across the life span, from infants to the elderly.

August is the perfect time to remind family, friends, co-workers, and those in the community to catch up on their vaccinations. Parents are enrolling their children in school, students are entering college, and healthcare workers are preparing for the upcoming flu season.

Why are immunizations important?

Immunization is one of the most significant public health achievements of the 20th century. Vaccines have eradicated smallpox, eliminated wild poliovirus in the United States. and significantly reduced the number of cases of measles, diphtheria, rubella, pertussis and other diseases. But despite these efforts, people in the U.S. still die from these and other vaccine-preventable diseases.

Vaccines offer safe and effective protection from infectious diseases. By staying up-to-date on the recommended vaccines, individuals can protect themselves, their families and friends and their communities from serious, life-threatening infections.

Who should be immunized?

Getting immunized is a lifelong, life-protecting community effort regardless of age, sex, race, ethnic background or country of origin. Recommended vaccinations begin soon after birth and continue throughout life. Being aware of the vaccines that are recommended for infants, children, adolescents, adults of all ages and seniors, and making sure that we receive these immunizations, are critical to protecting ourselves and our communities from disease.

When are immunizations given?

Because children are particularly vulnerable to infection, most vaccines are given during the first five to six years of life. Other immunizations are recommended during adolescent or adult years and, for certain vaccines, booster immunization are recommended throughout life. Vaccines against certain diseases that may be encountered when traveling outside of the U.S. are recommended for travelers to specific regions of the world.

Be aware, and stay aware of your health.  Stay tuned for more information-rich nuggets!

Joan Jackson, Principal

JMJ Information Services

Market Research and Information Products for Your Business