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J ULY 2026

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2 | Golden Years

HEARST CONNECTICUT MEDIA GROUP

July 2026

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT

SENIORS & VACCINES IMMUNIZATION SCHEDULES BEGIN SHORTLY AFTER BIRTH, AND SENIORS STILL HAVE MUCH TO GAIN FROM BEING VACCINATED. a normal flu shot. Seniors are urged to speak with their physicians about which flu shot is right for them.

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RESPIRATORY SYNCYTIAL VIRUS (RSV)

arents know that vaccination is a big part of caring for young children. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises parents to vaccinate children against a host of diseases and conditions in the first 12 to 18 months of a child’s life. The AAP notes that early immunization helps children build immunity at the best time — before they’re exposed to germs that can make them very sick.

The effectiveness of vaccines in relation to protecting young children is well documented, but what about seniors and vaccines? Are immunizations still a vital part of a wellness routine when adults reach their golden years? The National Institute on Aging advises older adults to speak with their doctors or pharmacists about the vaccines they need, which may help to prevent or reduce the severity of various diseases.

COVID-19

The NIA notes that age is a risk factor for serious illness from COVID-19. Due to the relative infancy of COVID-19, researchers are still learning about the effectiveness of vaccines against new variants of the virus. But older adults are more likely to get seriously ill than younger people, so it’s imperative seniors discuss immunization against the virus with their physicians.

INFLUENZA

The World Health Organization notes that the flu kills as many as 650,000 people across the globe each year. A 2009 study published in the journal Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses indicated that most deaths associated with influenza in industrialized countries occur among seniors age 65 and older. The flu is easily transmitted from one person to another and the NIA advises everyone age six months and older to get an annual flu vaccine. While the protection from a flu vaccine can lessen over time, particularly in older adults, a flu shot still reduces the likelihood of serious illness and/or hospitalization. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that seniors age 65 and older receive a higher-dose flu vaccine or an adjuvanted flu vaccine, the latter of which helps to create a stronger immune response than

The NIA indicates that RSV is a common virus that often produces mild, cold-like symptoms. But older adults should know that they are at higher risk of developing severe symptoms if they are infected with RSV. The NIA notes RSV can be particularly dangerous for older adults with chronic diseases or weakened immune systems. Hospitalization or even death can occur after severe RSV symptoms develop. RSV vaccines can prevent serious health problems, and the CDC urges seniors to speak with their physicians regarding immunization. Doing so prior to peak RSV infection season, which is fall and winter, is ideal.

PNEUMOCOCCAL DISEASE

The CDC advises that all adults age 50 and older get pneumococcal vaccination. Pneumococcal disease is a serious infection that the NIA notes often causes pneumonia in the lungs. The risk of getting very sick and even dying from pneumococcal disease is higher among older adults than younger people. There are different forms of the pneumococcal vaccine, and seniors can speak to their physicians about which one is best for them.

July 2026

HEARST CONNECTICUT MEDIA GROUP

5 WAYS

CAN GET

eople of all ages are encouraged to be physically active, and that includes seniors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say seniors ages 65 and older should aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity and at least two days a week of muscle-strengthening exercises. Although some people may be drawn to the gym, others with no such preference may need to identify other ways to incorporate more physical activity into their lives. Seniors can stay active in various ways by enjoying activities that get them up and moving.

SENIORS

MOVING

PLAY A SPORT.

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Golden Years | 3

Pickleball and padel are the fastestgrowing recreational sports among seniors. Pickleball blends tennis and badminton while padel blends tennis and squash. These activities combine challenging cardio workouts with a social component.

TAKE UP GARDENING.

Gardening can be a thorough workout. The Royal Horticultural Society says gardening provides moderateintensity, full-body exercise that burns approximately 165 to 300 calories every 30 to 60 minutes.

GO DANCING.

A recent meta-analysis found that group dancing enhances social interaction while providing moderate aerobic exercise. Dancing is fun and can get anyone to break a sweat, and it doesn’t feel like exercise.

JOIN OR START A WALKING CLUB.

Seniors can engage with other like-minded individuals by turning their daily walks into something that oﬀers companionship and exercise. An app like Charity Miles oﬀers an additional layer of purpose to the activity, as it turns walks into fundraising opportunities.

TRY AQUATIC ENDEAVORS.

High-intensity interval training (HIIT) in the water is a new exercise trend that allows people to elevate their heart rates without placing any extra strain on the joints. Water activities in general tend to be easy on the body but provide immense benefits for flexibility and gentle resistance. Everyday Health says HIIT in a pool can improve fitness capacity roughly as much as HIIT done on land.

Seniors have various options to stay active and keep moving, which can help seniors maintain a commitment to being physically active.

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5 Reasons

4 | Golden Years

HEARST CONNECTICUT MEDIA GROUP

July 2026

Here are the five reasons why drawing up a will is important.

to Draw up a

CONTROL ASSET DISTRIBUTION

Without a will, a person will die intestate. According to MetLife, state intestacy laws dictate who inherits a person’s property, regardless of the decedent’s actual relationships or verbal promises. A will gives an individual sole authority to decide exactly who receives their real estate, savings, family heirlooms, and investments, preventing potential disputes among surviving relatives.

WILL 2

APPOINT A GUARDIAN FOR MINOR CHILDREN

For parents, this is often the most critical function of a will. If both parents pass away unexpectedly without naming a legal guardian for their minor children, a court will decide who raises them, indicates Snyder Law. A will allows people to choose a trusted individual who shares their values, ensuring children are cared for by someone who parents and children know and trust.

STREAMLINE THE PROBATE PROCESS

DESIGNATE AN EXECUTOR

MINIMIZE ESTATE TAXES

All estates must go through probate in the United States. Investopedia says probate is the court-supervised process of distributing assets. Dying without a will complicates and prolongs this process, requiring the court to appoint an administrator and trace legal heirs. A valid will accelerates probate, minimizes legal fees, and allows beneficiaries to access their inheritance much faster.

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t is easy to put off estate planning for another day. But having a legally binding will drawn up is one of the most important financial and personal decisions a person can make. A will is not merely a document for the wealthy who have significant portfolios and real estate holdings. A will is a vital tool that honors a person’s wishes, protects their assets and spares their loved ones unnecessary hardships during a time of profound grief.

A will is a vital tool that honors a person’s wishes, protects their assets and spares their loved ones unnecessary hardships during a time of profound grief.

An executor manages the decedent’s estate — paying off final debts, closing accounts, and distributing assets according to instructions, indicates TIAA. By drawing up a will, one can select a reliable, highly capable individual to handle these complex duties, rather than leaving them to the court.

A will can be structured to reduce the tax burden on heirs, says Empower. Through strategic asset distribution, establishing trusts or making charitable bequests, a person can shield a larger portion of their estate from inheritance or estate taxes. Taking the time to draw up a will is a final act of care and responsibility that protects one’s legacy and provides peace of mind for family.

July 2026

HEARST CONNECTICUT MEDIA GROUP

Golden Years | 5

Necessary Components of an Estate Plan E

state planning can help solidify finances and secure a person’s legacy upon their death. Despite that, this crucial and useful step is often delayed and sometimes even avoided entirely. Modern estate planning is a vital component that can preserve assets and shield family members from emotional and financial turmoil during a stressful time, according to Charles Schwab.

An effective estate plan goes far beyond a single legal document. Attorneys typically advise five essential documents to cover both asset management and health care transitions. Here’s a deep look at the essential components of estate planning. A LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT

A will outlines how tangible and intangible assets should be distributed. It also is where parents appoint legal guardians for minor children.

A LIVING TRUST

This document helps manage property during an individual’s lifetime and facilitates a seamless transfer of assets to beneficiaries, allowing families to avoid the lengthy, public, and costly probate court process, according to Drexel.

DURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY

MetLife says this grants a trusted individual the authority to oversee financial matters, pay bills and manage investments if the owner becomes incapacitated.

HEALTH CARE POWER OF ATTORNEY

According to New York Life Insurance, a health care power of attorney appoints a surrogate decision-maker to handle medical choices when an individual is unable to speak for themselves.

A LIVING WILL

Also called an advance directive, this explicitly states an individual’s preferences regarding end-of-life medical treatments, such as mechanical ventilation or artificial nutrition, says the National Institute on Aging. Despite the critical protection these documents offer, a gap remains between the necessity of estate planning and actual follow through by the public. According to data from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority National Financial Capability Study, only 54 percent of surveyed investors have a will in place. Among the greater adult population, that percentage drops significantly, often driven by the misconception that a person is not old enough or wealthy enough to warrant an estate plan. Without these legal designations, the responsibility to dictate asset distribution will fall to the court, where the deceased’s actual preferences may not be taken into consideration. Ultimately, estate planning ensures that a person’s final chapters are defined by their own choices, shielding loved ones from administrative chaos and securing a family’s financial future. It’s important that all adults speak with a qualified attorney about an estate plan at their earliest convenience.

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How do you want to be remembered? Preplanning gives you time to plan the service that you envision—ensuring your life is celebrated exactly as you desire without any added stress for your loved ones. Preplanning can also have ﬁnancial beneﬁts. Call us at 203-235-4152 to discuss available options.

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6 | Golden Years

HEARST CONNECTICUT MEDIA GROUP

July 2026

How Seniors Can Remain Physically & Mentally

ACTIVE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, supplemented by at least two days of muscle-strengthening exercises. Brisk walking or swimming can improve cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of stroke and hypertension, says the Massachusetts Council on Aging. Incorporating yoga or Tai Chi is vital for fall prevention, as it targets balance and flexibility. The CDC says improving joint mobility and balance can significantly extend the amount of time seniors can live independently. In addition, lifting light weights or using resistance bands helps combat age-related muscle loss, which is essential for maintaining metabolic health.

COGNITIVE ADVANTAGES

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rowing older is often equated with slowing down. Aging may be characterized as a period of decline marked by an inability to do the things you once did, but recent data indicates otherwise. According to a report in the journal Geriatrics, a far more optimistic reality awaits seniors. Nearly 45 percent of people age 65 and older show measurable improvements in brain health, physical function or both over time when they take certain steps to promote physical and mental wellness.

THE LAW FIRM OF MAHON, QUINN & MAHON IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE… That retired Meriden Probate Judge, BRIAN T. MAHON, is accepting new clients who need help in… • Elder Law Issues • The Probating of Estates • Motor Vehicle Accidents • The Preparation of Wills, Powers of Attorney and Living Wills/Medical Directives

PROTECT YOURSELF AND YOUR LOVED ONES

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Mental fitness is just as vital to seniors as physical fitness. According to the World Health Organization, routine cognitive stimulation enhances “brain capital,” delaying the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s. Strategies for effective mental engagement include: • Learning: Lifelong learning techniques include picking up a new language or learning an instrument. This helps strengthen neural pathways that allows the brain to reorganize itself even in later decades. • Play games: Play isn’t just for kids; games like chess or complex puzzles improve problem-solving and memory retention, according to Nixon Adult Daycare in Houston. • Socialize: Isolation is a leading risk factor for cognitive decline, says the National Institutes of Health. Group activities like book clubs or community volunteering can offer emotional fulfillment and mental stimulation.

POWER OF POSITIVITY

Findings from a recent Yale University study indicated seniors with a positive outlook on aging were significantly more likely to show physical and mental improvements compared to those with negative perspectives. Psychological resilience is an important tool for seniors to stay healthy.

Thank you to our community for voting for Brian Mahon as your Readers’ Choice Best Estate Planning Attorney

636 Broad Broad Street CT CT 06450 636 Street• Meriden, Meriden, 06450 Visiti our vi urwebsite w bsit www.mqmlawyer.com www mqmlawye om

Movement, social interaction, stimulating activities, and a positive attitude can help seniors maintain overall health.

July 2026

HEARST CONNECTICUT MEDIA GROUP

IS MOVING THE RIGHT MOVE

etirement is a milestone moment in life. Each person has their own vision of an ideal retirement. Some may want to travel the world. Others may look for a second career or a chance to volunteer in support of a cause near and dear to their hearts. Retirement also may lead some to ponder if it’s the right time to sell their homes. Retirement is often associated with downsizing a home, but data indicates that even seniors who sell are not necessarily moving into smaller homes. A spring 2026 report from the National Association of Realtors found that seniors between the ages of 61 and 70 who sold a 2,000-square-foot home between June 2024 and June 2025 typically moved into a similarly sized property. Downsizing may not be compelling seniors to move after retirement, but that doesn’t mean newly minted retirees should not give the idea of moving ample

After RETIREMENT?

consideration. In fact, there are many reasons to move after retiring, and considering those factors can help seniors determine if moving is right for them.

Real estate market: Real estate markets

fluctuate, and retirees can monitor home prices where they currently live and where they might want to move to see if the time is right to relocate. If prices are high in your current market and low in areas where you may want to spend your retirement, then a relocation might enable you to pocket a sizable amount of money, which can then be redirected toward retirement expenses like travel, entertainment and health care.

Taxes: Working with an experienced tax attorney

can help retirees determine if moving is in their long-term financial interest. Capital gains taxes, income taxes, and property taxes are just some of the financial variables affected by location. Retirees could save substantial amounts of money by moving to locations with lower tax obligations. Those savings can help to ensure seniors do not outlive their money. Even if you’re attached to your

There are many reasons to move after retiring, and considering those factors can help seniors determine if moving is right for them.

Golden Years | 7

current home, the tax savings associated with relocating to a more retiree-friendly locale may be too great to pass up.

Maintenance: While financial considerations may be foremost on the minds of retirees pondering a move, it’s equally important to ask if you can keep up with the maintenance associated with your current home. There’s also the question of desire in relation to home maintenance. If you’re physically incapable of routine maintenance tasks or simply want someone else to handle chores like maintaining the landscape, then a move to a 55+ community where maintenance is paid for by monthly homeowners’ association fees might be the best decision. Family: Modern families tend to spread out.

According to the Pew Research Center, 32 percent of adults with a postgraduate degree do not live near any extended family members. But 42 percent of such adults live within an hour’s drive of some extended family members. Retirees who aspire to reconnect with grown children and build strong relationships with grandchildren who may live an hour or more away might consider relocating to be closer to the people they love most.

HERITAGE COMMONS RENTAL RETIREMENT COMMUNITY 38 Boston Road ~ Middletown, CT

JULY 2026

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CELEBRATING OUR 38TH YEAR!

8 | Golden Years

HEARST CONNECTICUT MEDIA GROUP

YOU’RE NOT LOOKING FOR A PLACE TO GROW OLD. You’re looking for a place to keep living. Where wellness means strength, purpose, and possibility. Where award-winning residential living and a fully integrated continuum of care work together seamlessly.

Because life doesn’t ﬁt neatly into a category. Neither should you.

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Welcome to Something Better.

July 2026