Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.10, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Designing Brighter Tomorrows Go-To Info Source for the Second Half of Life ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Reaping the Benefits of Relaxation](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/reaping-the-benefits-of-relaxation/) - Is is important to make time in your daily life for relaxation. Stress is a quiet killer. It is a feeling that lives inside your head and a physical response within your body. - [Creativity Can Empower Your Second Half of Life](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/creativity/creativity-can-empower-your-second-half-of-life/) - There are many ways to uncover and develop your creativity. The great thing is it can help all aspects of your life: physical, mental, and emotional. - [How to Create Meaning in Dementia Care](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/connections/how-to-create-meaning-in-dementia-care/) - One of the most important things to a caregiver of someone with Alzheimer’s is to know their loved one is happy. However, they are often so overwhelmed by the responsibility of caregiving, that the fun of being together is lost. All engagement tends to be for survival and not for enrichment. This often results in - [7 Ways to Avoid Stress-Related Weight Gain](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/7-ways-to-avoid-stress-related-weight-gain/) - How to chill out and keep the pounds off Stressful home situations or working at a job that makes you crazy can lead to weight gain over time, according to a new study from Ohio State University. The study involved 58 women, average age 53, who were questioned about their prior day’s stressful events before - [Why Letting Go Is the Path to Happiness](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/growth/why-letting-go-is-the-path-to-happiness/) - Judith Orloff shows why surrender is a more effective approach to life than trying to control or force things. She offers examples and exercises in her new book. - [You are the Center of Your Medical Team](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/you-are-center-of-your-medical-team/) - It can seem daunting when you see your doctor. You are the one who can best describe what is going on with your body. You are the one that needs to understand your health care. - [Making New Friends in the Second Half of Life](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/connections/making-new-friends-in-the-second-half-of-life/) - As you enter the second half of life making new friends can be a struggle. Opportunities to meet with new people and old friends become less frequent. - [Is Yoga the Exercise Program You’ve Been Looking For?](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/is-yoga-the-exercise-program-youve-been-looking-for/) - Many entering the second half of life try yoga for the first time. Studies are proving the positive effect of yoga for senior citizens, even 'late starters'. - [Music Fosters Brain Health and Creative Expression](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/creativity/music-fosters-brain-health-and-creative-expression/) - Cognitive engagement and brain health are a vital part of well-being. Music has been proven to strengthen brain activity and will ward off dementia. Music brings a positive energy force into life. - [Humor Yourself to Lead a Happier, Healthier Life](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/connections/humor-yourself-to-lead-a-happier-healthier-life/) - Laughter is the best medicine. As you enter the second half of life, laughter can enhance your relationships and keep you healthy; physically and emotionally. - [Why I Became a Care Coordinator for My Mom](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/uncategorized/why-i-became-a-care-coordinator-for-my-mom/) - The challenge is taking a fragmented health care system and organizing it into something cohesive to serve the consumer, in this case, your parent. - [Exercise will seem easier when you cut out the negative self-talk.](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/movement/exercise-will-seem-easier-when-you-cut-out-the-negative-self-talk/) - Studies show turning negative self-talk around allows you to not only feel better, but to exercise harder and for longer periods of time. Here's some ideas for you. - [What It Takes to Turn Your Passion Into a Career](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/growth/what-it-takes-to-turn-your-passion-into-a-career/) - : Pursuing your passion as a career should be easy, effortless and create an income that flows and happiness prevails. Reality demonstrates that few will ever reach their desired destination. - [Why Boomers Need to Get Tested for Hepatitis C](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/why-boomers-need-to-get-tested-for-hepatitis-c/) - People over 50 make up the majority of those with the deadly disease Most of the people who get hepatitis C today are intravenous drug users who share needles. That may be the image that comes to mind when you think of the disease. But decades ago, before widespread screening of the blood supply began - [4 Things to Do When Your Parents Are Resisting Help](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/caregiving/4-things-to-do-when-your-parents-are-resisting-help/) - For better health and wellbeing in older adults, it’s not enough to identify the underlying health and life problems. - [Why the Arts Are Key to Dementia Care](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/creativity/why-the-arts-are-key-to-dementia-care/) - The shift from expecting and correcting memory to opening and connecting through imagination can be profound. The arts can help families rekindle an emotional connection - [Why Are You Tired All The Time?](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/why-are-you-tired-all-the-time/) - While the benefits of a good night’s sleep are well documented, chronic and more ambiguous tiredness afflicts millions of people over 50. - [6 Ways You Can Help a Friend Who is Sick](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/connections/6-ways-you-can-help-a-friend-who-is-sick/) - We want to be helpful, but we’re often unsure about what we can do. Plenty, it turns out. Here are six specific, kind, and helpful acts to aid a suffering friend. - [The Unexpected Benefits of Volunteering in Nature](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/growth/the-unexpected-benefits-of-volunteering-in-nature/) - The emerging practice of citizen science is typically defined as projects in which ordinary people — kids, college students, retirees — partner with scientists to answer real-world questions - [Parkinson's Disease: Videos, Internet, and Other Resources](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/video/parkinsons-disease-videos-internet-and-other-resources/) - Resources that you can find on the Internet about Parkinson's Disease, all in one place. Resources are updated all the time. - [Grief in The Workplace](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/caregiving/grief-in-the-workplace/) - When employees view death differently As an employee, what happens when we experience a personal loss, yet life necessitates us to go to work everyday even when we are still in shock, need to take care of personal affairs and are not emotionally stable? And to complicate the situation even further, what happens when your co-workers - [How Sharing a Life Story Helps Dementia Caregivers](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/caregiving/how-sharing-a-life-story-helps-dementia-caregivers/) - The act of sharing your loved one’s life story empowers others to better understand his or her traits, to connect and to provide better dementia care. - [How One Patient Researched Her Own Cure](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/how-one-patient-researched-her-own-cure/) - A 56-year-old self-financed and conducted genetic research on her own life-threatening health problem — and discovered a genetic mutation linked to her disease. - [What Should You Weigh?](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/what-should-you-weigh/) - It could be time to put your fantasy number to bed and focus on reaching or maintaining a healthy weight at which you feel strong, energetic, like your best self. - [Volunteer Puppy Love: Raising a Service Dog](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/connections/volunteer-puppy-love-raising-a-service-dog/) - Because of the high demand for service animals, most training organizations rely on outside help to oversee their dogs' early care. "We could not do what we do without our puppy raisers," says director of Susquehanna Service Dogs. - [When Should You Step In to Help Your Parents?](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/connections/when-should-you-step-in-to-help-your-parents/) - Instead of seeking help, it’s typical for elderly parents to adapt and adjust their activities and routines. Denial isn’t all on the parents’ side. Adult children are often deep in it, too. - [The Sly Tricks Marketers Use to Get You to Buy](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/planning/the-sly-tricks-marketers-use-to-get-you-to-buy/) - There are many social-influence techniques that affect consumers unconsciously. Informing consumers about these techniques, they will be better able to defend themselves the next time they see them being used. - [Why I'm Not Buying the Retirement Gloom](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/planning/why-im-not-buying-the-retirement-gloom/) - Surveys show that boomers aren’t spending much time planning for retirement. The prediction that old-age entitlements will push the U.S. government and economy into a Greece-like collapse seems almost routine. - [8 Things Not to Say to Your Aging Parents](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/caregiving/8-things-not-to-say-to-your-aging-parents/) - Even when we manage to hold our tongue, frustration lingers. That’s when we have to be doubly mindful, because by repressing those emotions, we’re more likely to have an emotional outburst. - [7 Common Drugs That Are Toxic for Your Brain](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/7-common-drugs-that-are-toxic-for-your-brain/) - You’ve been learning about what to do: physical exercise, brain games, foods to eat, supplements to take, sleep to get. But you should also be learning what not to do. - [When Does It Pay to Go Back to School in Midlife?](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/planning/when-does-it-pay-to-go-back-to-school-in-midlife/) - If going back to school is something you’re thinking about, here are 3 considerations for choosing a program and two tips to help you find a job after completing your studies. - [Housesitting: A Fun Way to Travel the World on a Dime](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/planning/housesitting-a-fun-way-to-travel-the-world-on-a-dime/) - The cost of traveling for extended periods can be daunting when living on a reduced income. Housesitting has become a way to live away from home without a steep pricetag. - [What You Know About Millennials Is Wrong](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/connections/what-you-know-about-millennials-is-wrong/) - Millennials are exceedingly high-minded, diligent. They’re working long hours in demanding fields or pursuing advanced degrees to build careers focused on social justice or humanitarian assistance. - [4 Things You Can Fix About Your Aging Body](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/4-things-you-can-fix-about-your-aging-body/) - Dr. Daniel Neides says we can undo some of the damage done to our bodies by neglect and the passage of time, and not just in the abstract terms of reducing disease risk. - [Declutter Challenge: What Works Best for You?](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/growth/declutter-challenge-what-works-best-for-you/) - We invited readers to join the challenge and asked them to share their best tips for paring down their possessions. They had some great advice! - [When and How to Coax Your Parent to Move Closer](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/caregiving/when-and-how-to-coax-your-parent-to-move-closer/) - According to Howard Gleckman, author of Caring for Our Parents. Long-distance caregivers are far more likely to report mental and physical stress than those who live with or near the people they’re assisting. - [5 Steps to Combat and Prevent Elder Abuse](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/caregiving/5-steps-to-combat-and-prevent-elder-abuse/) - A 40-page report, based on interviews with more than 750 experts and professionals who work with older adults, recommends specific action in five areas. - [Stretches and Exercises for Tired, Achy Legs](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/stretches-and-exercises-for-tired-achy-legs-2/) - For normal aches and tightness, simple stretches and specific exercises can help you ease back to your normal routine sooner. Here are four ways you can help ease leg aches and pains. - ["Meetup" - an Online Way to Connect with Others in Your Community](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/connections/meetup-an-online-way-to-connect-with-others-in-your-community/) - There are now Meetup groups all over the world, over 100,000 in-person meetings each week. Meetup groups are a great way to meet people in your area share your interests. - [How to Comfort Someone Who Just Lost a Job](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/planning/how-to-comfort-someone-who-just-lost-a-job/) - If your friend, spouse or family member recently became unemployed, it can be hard to know exactly what to say and how to be helpful. Here's 6 steps that can help. - [How to Go Gray Naturally](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/how-to-go-gray-naturally/) - If you’ve been coloring your hair regularly but feel ready to take the gray plunge, realize that growing it out isn’t going to be a quick and easy process. - [Second Career? They're on Their Third and Fourth](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/planning/second-career-theyre-on-their-third-and-fourth/) - The era of corporate loyalty and the organization man and woman is long gone. Boomers ought to embrace a second career ... maybe a third or a fourth. - [Promising Effort to Curb Elder Financial Abuse](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/planning/promising-effort-to-curb-elder-financial-abuse/) - Financial abuse of the elderly has been called “the crime of the 21st Century”. As many as one in 20 older adults in America may be victims. There is a new effort aimed at getting lawyers to spot and report financial fraud targeting older Americans. - [Building a Network to Look Out for Your Parents](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/caregiving/building-a-network-to-look-out-for-your-parents/) - Looking out for a parent in declining health who lives alone, and who resides more than an hour's drive away? You are a long-distance caregiver. An informal network of eyes and ears provides crucial aid: neighbors, friends, parishioners, even a mail carrier or the pizza delivery person. - [How to Lose 1,000 Square Feet — and Keep It Off](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/planning/how-to-lose-1000-square-feet-and-keep-it-off/) - If you are downsizing or if you are just weary of living with the same old stuff, here are five tips from someone living small and loving it. - [Convincing an Interviewer You Want to Downshift](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/planning/convincing-an-interviewer-you-want-to-downshift/) - When you’re ready to apply for a less-stress job for less pay, how do you communicate that effectively to potential employers? - [Social Security: Best Ways to Max Out Your Benefit](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/planning/social-security-best-ways-to-max-out-your-benefit/) - Three experts joined forces to write a new book that shows you how to get the most out of Social Security benefits you’re entitled to. Here are some of their tips. - [7 Secrets to Get Good Customer Service by Phone](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/planning/7-secrets-to-get-good-customer-service-by-phone/) - The economics are simple, the cost of handling a phone call are more expensive than live chats or email that are about 20 to 30 percent cheaper. Even less expensive are online FAQs that require little maintenance. - [7 Easy Ways to Build Strong Bones](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/7-easy-ways-to-build-strong-bones/) - You can build strong bones at any age. Bone building peaks during adolescence but slows after age 25 and we are less likely to perform bone-stimulating exercises after age 50. - [What's Causing Your Leg Pain, Burning and Numbness?](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/whats-causing-your-leg-pain-burning-and-numbness/) - Aching calves, legs, numbness in the feet — is a common complaint that sends many of us to our doctors seeking relief. Here are some things to consider. - [Still Working After 75 — And Loving It](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/creativity/still-working-after-75-and-loving-it/) - Willie Nelson is 81; Warren Buffett is 84; Mary Higgins Clark is 86 and David Hockney is 77. All still working and going strong. More and more Americans 75 and older are still working — and glad of it. - [Why Now Is the Time to Leave Guilt Behind](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/why-now-is-the-time-to-leave-guilt-behind/) - One of the biggest risks to your health may be guilt. Don't think it's too late to start working out again, that will likely slow the slide toward disease and disability. If you're caring for someone, it is even more important. - [How to Fall in Love With Your Spouse All Over Again](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/growth/how-to-fall-in-love-with-your-spouse-all-over-again/) - Even a marriage that’s about to smash up against the rocks (barring physical or emotional abuse or criminal acts) can tack its way back into calm and pleasant waters. - [Boomers Just Want to Have Fun](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/connections/boomers-just-want-to-have-fun/) - The games you play as a child help form who you become as an adult. Childhood play shapes how you enjoy your leisure time and is part of your self-identity deep into adulthood. - [Are Your Loved One’s Dementia Symptoms Reversible?](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/are-your-loved-ones-dementia-symptoms-reversible/) - There are several conditions that can cause dementia or delirium-like effects in the aging population. Don't make the mistake of seeing dementia as a natural part of aging and failing to check for pseudosenility or reversible dementia. - [The 15 Songs That Defined the Boomer Generation](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/creativity/the-15-songs-that-defined-the-boomer-generation/) - We each have our own life soundtrack. Individual soundtracks pull from a combination of ingredients: when you were born, where you lived and which radio stations you listened to. - [What to Know About Caregiving By 50, 60 and 70](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/caregiving/what-to-know-about-caregiving-by-50-60-and-70/) - You know that your challenges change as your loved-one's health changes. You may be anticipating your own needs for care as you grow older. Here are some tips to help you get prepared. - [How To Beat the Winter Blues](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/how-to-beat-the-winter-blues/) - Symptoms of depression that occur during the late fall and winter are known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD). There are ways to combat the suffering. - [The Good News About Elder Care Benefits at Work](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/planning/the-good-news-about-elder-care-benefits-at-work/) - Many Americans care for aging family members. It’s a reality that employers are beginning to pay attention to. - [When Should You Seek More Family Help?](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/caregiving/when-should-you-seek-more-family-help/) - Significant cognitive change, bringing the wrong people into the home, saying things that hurt you, your stress level is high; time to involve other family members. - [Are You a Caregiver or Just a Good Child?](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/caregiving/are-you-a-caregiver-or-just-a-good-child/) - Today experts in family caregiving have discovered how you identify yourself can make a crucial difference in how the role of caregiving affects you. - [5 Tips to Find Meaning and Purpose in Later Life](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/growth/5-tips-to-find-meaning-and-purpose-in-later-life/) - Moving to the other side of full-time work? Your purpose can become less clear. Here are 5 tips that will ease your passage into a purpose-filled life as it changes. - [7 Back Pain Myths Busted](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/7-back-pain-myths-busted/) - Approximately 80% of Americans experience back pain. If you search for “back pain solutions” you’ll find reams of information — some of it contradictory and harmful. - [Fiftysomething Diet: Make a Healthier Breakfast](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/fiftysomething-diet-make-a-healthier-breakfast/) - When you're over 50, your brain must be on alert even before you sit down at the breakfast table. You need to make smart choices. Designing Brighter Tomorrows can help. - [Paul McCartney, Speaking Words of Wisdom](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/growth/paul-mccartney-speaking-words-of-wisdom/) - Watching Paul McCartney and listening to his stage stories showcased his genuineness and ease on stage, a comfort and command that are hallmarks of aging well — eight years after he turned 64. - [What’s Best in the Second Half of Life: Cardio or Weights?](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/movement/whats-best-in-the-second-half-of-life-cardio-or-weights/) - Well-rounded workout plans include weights and cardiovascular exercise. Physical changes with aging raise questions about reducing risks, such as falling. - [Retiring in the Next 5 Years: A Financial To-Do List](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/planning/retiring-in-the-next-5-years-a-to-do-list/) - Develop a to-do list for retiring in the next five years. This to-do list is designed to ensure that when you retire, you’ll see continued financial stability and success. - [11 Ways to Increase Your Energy](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/11-ways-to-increase-your-energy/) - It's not that we don't have energy; it's that we’ve created conditions — often by many years of bad lifestyle choices — that make it almost impossible for energy to show up. - [The Importance of Sleep and How to Get More of It](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/the-importance-of-sleep-and-how-to-get-more-of-it/) - Sleep is an important factor in living a healthy, happy life. It allows your body to rest and heal, and helps support healthy brain function. - [How to Find a Legit Work-From-Home Job](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/planning/how-to-find-a-legit-work-from-home-job/) - Work-from-home jobs can be a way to earn money full- or part-time on a flexible schedule. This work arrangement can be a gift during a transitional time. - [8 Things Your Aging Parents Want You to Know](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/connections/8-things-your-aging-parents-want-you-to-know/) - As people age, many reach a stage where they are no longer concerned that we will judge them, so they confide feelings that have remained unvoiced for years. - [9 Steps to Communicating Better](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/connections/9-steps-to-communicating-better/) - Have you ever felt like you have misunderstood someone or like someone misunderstood you? One of the best ways to nurture relationships is by learning how to communicate properly. - [Understanding Shyness and 6 Ways to Deal With It](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/connections/understanding-shyness-and-6-ways-to-deal-with-it/) - As you get older, staying social and building strong friendships is a vital part of maintaining your mental and emotional well-being. Shyness and social unease are quite and affect millions. - [Parkinson's Disease: What It Is, How To Diagnose It, What Do To Control It](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/parkinsons-disease-what-it-is-how-to-diagnose-it-what-do-to-control-it/) - Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a neurological movement disorder. Parkinson effects are not noticeable until 60 – 80% of the cells that produce dopamine are compromised. - [Happy Aging Through Creativity](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/creativity/creativity-and-the-arts/) - Your hobbies will change as you age, often due to circumstances beyond your control. There is a power that lies within using your imagination to produce something. - [When Your Adult Child Chooses Another Spiritual Path](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/connections/when-your-adult-child-chooses-another-spiritual-path/) - Most emerging adults feel it is best to traverse a self-imposed spiritual journey to choose their own values and beliefs. This journey is important for all. - [The Many Benefits of Water Exercise](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/movement/) - Water has buoyancy that provides support. Injury-risk of water-based exercise is low. An ideal workout for seniors because risk of falling is lower than any other exercise. - [Current Research Being Done at University of Colorado Anschutz Center](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/caregiving/current-research-being-done-at-university-of-colorado-anschutz-center/) - Dr. Huntington Potter, a top Alzheimer's researcher, has found a common link with Down's syndrome. Here's a video explaining new research at the Anschutz Center. - [Planning to Enhance Life Purpose During Your Advanced Years](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/connections/planning-to-enhance-life-purpose-during-your-advanced-years/) - What ways can we in the second half of life find purpose? What ways can we be a positive force in the lives of others or continue our creative endeavors? - [Four Major Conditions that Could Affect Your Vision](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/four-major-conditions-that-could-affect-your-vision/) - Visually-impaired seniors are at higher risk for falls and fractures, limited mobility and freedom, and may experience depression. - [Benefits of Massage for Second Half of Lifers](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/the-many-benefits-of-massage-for-second-half-of-lifers/) - Massage therapy is a tool help your body recover and strengthen. Studies have shown that massage therapy is a powerful way to strengthen health while aging. - [How to Keep your Brain Healthy](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/how-to-keep-your-brain-healthy/) - Your brain needs just as much care as the rest of your body. The brain controls everything from your thoughts to your movements. A healthy brain is vital to healthy aging. - [Acupuncture: The Medical Alternative That You Need To Know About](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/acupuncture-the-medical-alternative-that-you-need-to-know-about/) - Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese treatment that uses needles to stimulate specific acupressure points in the body. Pain and illness are viewed as a sign that a body is out of balance. - [Video & Other Media](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/video/video-other-media/) - This blog category contains links to videos and other media related to the seven blog categories of Designing Brighter Tomorrows. - [4 Types of Visual Arts To Try](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/creativity/4-types-of-visual-arts-to-try/) - Entering the second half of life, becoming creative maybe a way to bond with others, enhance brain function through creativity, and expand a sense of purpose. - [Affects of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/caregiving/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-and-how-it-may-be-affecting-you/) - Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) causes a person to continue to be on high-alert mode long after a traumatic situation has subsided. - [Arthritis and How It Can Affect You](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/arthritis-and-how-it-can-affect-you/) - Arthritis, a joint disorder that involves inflammation of one or more joints, is a common ailment to those of age 65 or older (second half of life). - [Walking Your Way to a Better Life](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/movement/walking-your-way-to-a-better-life/) - For those entering the second half of life, walking about 20 minutes each day is a great way to exercise without causing strain on the body. - [Volunteering: The Gift that Gives Back](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/connections/volunteering-the-gift-that-gives-back/) - You may find yourself with more time that you know what to do with in the second half of life with a corresponding loss of purpose. Volunteer to gain purpose. - [Life in Review: Writing Down Your Legacy](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/growth/life-in-review-writing-down-your-legacy/) - There are many studies on the positive effects of writing on the human brain. It can help you with emotional pain and it helps to heal physical wounds as well. - [Practice Mindfulness and Find Peace](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/growth/practice-mindfulness-and-find-peace/) - How can you learn to be happy, despite all the changes that are happening in the second half of your life? Mindfulness. - [Leading A Simpler Life](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/planning/planning/) - What does simple look like to you? What makes you happy? What causes stress in your life? What's most important in your life? What can you do without? - [Facing Depression in The Second Half of Life](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/health/caregiving/) - Depression is not a passing mood. Many people find themselves entering the second half of their life with varying states of depression. Here's some help. - [Why 50+ Women Should Take Control of Their Money](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/planning/why-50-women-should-take-control-of-their-money/) - Eight in 10 women say they avoid financial conversations because they are “too personal” or “uncomfortable.” Women are more likely to talk about health issues and sex than salary or investment ideas. - [About DBT](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/uncategorized/hello-world/) - We, the team of creators, researchers, and writers for Designing Brighter Tomorrows, are here for those of you in your second half of life. We aim to bring you ideas on how you can live your life in the fullest, most satisfying ways possible. You have an abundance of life experience, and can step into ## Pages - [Home](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/) - Go-to Info Source for the Second Half of Life. - [Our Staff](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/getinvolved/ourstaffauthors/) - Learn more about the staff authors at Designing Brighter Tomorrows. - [News & Events](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/news-events/) - Find news and events of interest to older adults. - [Contact Us](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/contact-us/) - Contact us with your questions and ideas. We do not share or sell your contact information. - [About](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/about/) - We, the team of creators, researchers, and writers for Designing Brighter Tomorrows, are here for those of you in your second half of life. - [Seven Areas to Explore](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/sevenareas/) - We focus on seven areas that are each important in every life. - [Acknowledgements](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/about/acknowledgements/) - This web page is about thank you's to the organizations that have helped us. - [Contributing Writers](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/contributing-writers/) - Contributors Designing Brighter Tomorrows is a website that has articles in seven areas that promote aging in a positive and conscious manner. This second half of life is one that has the potential of being very rich, purposeful, and filled with growth and joy. In addition to our blog articles written by our staff and - [Get Involved](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/getinvolved/) - Learn more about joining our team and how to contribute to our website content. - [Terms of Use](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/site-map/terms-of-use/) - The contents of the Designing Brighter Tomorrows website, including all contents and links, are for your information only. Nothing that is in this site should be considered a substitute for professional medical, mental health, financial, or legal advise. The information on this site is provided for your voluntary use, is provided on an "as is" basis. All - [More About DBT](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/about/more-about-dbt/) - Learn more about Designing Brighter Tomorrows. - [Join our Team](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/getinvolved/join-our-team/) - Interested in becoming a contributor to our website? - [DBT Privacy Statement](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/site-map/privacy-statement/) - Designing Brighter Tomorrows recognizes the importance of protecting the privacy of all information. - [Site Map](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/site-map/) - We focus on seven areas that are each important in every life. ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/category/uncategorized/) - [Connections](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/category/connections/) - This area explores interacting with family and friend, including things like being supportive, communicating well, being more at ease socially, low-cost fun, enjoying connections with critters, and more. - [Creativity](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/category/creativity/) - This area examines what creativity is and why it is important and ways to be creative through arts and crafts are explored, such as writing, visual arts, theater arts, music, etc. - [Health](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/category/health/) - There are so many ways available to look after your health and the health of those you care about. This is a team process and there is information on who is on your medical team, with you as the center of this process. - [Personal Growth](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/category/growth/) - Personal Growth includes topics such as having purpose through serving and discovering gifts, spiritual practices, personal growth writing, nurturing positive thoughts, etc. These can have many positive influences in all aspects of life. - [Movement](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/category/movement/) - Movement is what signals our body that we are alive and well and it is what keeps out heart healthy, our joints loose and flexible, and helps us to keep our strength and abilities into late adulthood. - [Caregiving](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/category/caregiving/) - This area contains information about taking care of yourself as a caregiver, which is so vital and often overlooked. - [Planning](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/category/planning/) - We all are involved in planning, and have different levels of abilities in this area. The types of planning specific to the second half of life people are things like retirement, housing arrangements, transportation, and safety. - [Video & Education](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/category/video/) - This category includes links to videos and other media posts that are related to the seven blog categories. ## Tags - [women's retirement](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/womens-retirement/) - [financial planning](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/financial-planning/) - [Depression](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/depression/) - [Simplifying](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/simplifying/) - [Friendship](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/friendship/) - [Mindfulness](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/mindfulness/) - [Life Review](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/life-review/) - [Legacy](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/legacy/) - [Yoga](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/yoga/) - [Volunteering](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/volunteering/) - [Purpose](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/purpose/) - [Walking](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/walking/) - [Arthritis](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/arthritis/) - [PTSD](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/ptsd/) - [Creativity](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/creativity/) - [Art](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/art/) - [Acupuncture](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/acupuncture/) - [Brain Health](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/brain-health/) - [Massage](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/massage/) - [Vision](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/vision/) - [Planning](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/planning/) - [Alzheimers](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/alzheimers/) - [Exercise](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/exercise/) - [Adult Children](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/adult-children/) - [Religious](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/religious/) - [Parkinson's](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/parkinsons/) - [Relaxation](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/relaxation/) - [Meditation](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/meditation/) - [Destress](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/destress/) - [Medical Team](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/medical-team/) - [Doctor Appointment](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/doctor-appointment/) - [Humor](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/humor/) - [Music](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/music/) - [Shyness](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/shyness/) - [Communication](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/communication/) - [Working](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/working/) - [Career](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/career/) - [Sleep](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/sleep/) - [Energy](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/energy/) - [Vitality](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/vitality/) - [Aging Well](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/aging-well/) - [Nutrition](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/nutrition/) - [Back Pain](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/back-pain/) - [Caregiver](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/caregiver/) - [Elder Care](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/elder-care/) - [Dementia](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/dementia/) - [Recreation](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/recreation/) - [Relationships](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/relationships/) - [Retirement](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/retirement/) - [Leg Pain](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/leg-pain/) - [Finances](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/finances/) - [Elder Abuse](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/elder-abuse/) - [Personal Care](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/personal-care/) - [Grief](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/grief/) - [Senior Living](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/senior-living/) - [Generations](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/generations/) - [Millennials](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/millennials/) - [Travel](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/travel/) - [Supplements](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/supplements/) - [Parents](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/parents/) - [Animals](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/animals/) - [Weight](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/weight/) - [Advocacy](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/advocacy/) - [Technology](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/technology/) - [Workplace](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/workplace/) - [Research](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/research/) - [Nature](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/nature/) - [Growth](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/growth/) - [Personal Growth](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/personal-growth/) - [Death](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/death/) - [hospice](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/hospice/) - [End-of-life](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/end-of-life/) - [Caregiving](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/caregiving/) - [Compassion](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/compassion/) - [Health](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/health/) - [Medical Treatment](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/medical-treatment/) - [Workout](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/workout/) - [Independence](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/independence/) - [Medical](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/medical/) - [Social](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/social/) - [Gratitude](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/gratitude/) - [Journaling](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/journaling/) - [Happiness](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/happiness/) - [Love](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/love/) - [Stress](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/stress/) - [Surrender](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/surrender/) - [Trust](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/trust/) - [Interview](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/interview/) - [Chronic Pain](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/chronic-pain/) - [Fascia](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/fascia/) - [Movement](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/movement/) - [Muscles](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/muscles/) - [Stretching](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/stretching/) - [Thyroid](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/thyroid/) - [The Conversation Project](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/the-conversation-project/) - [Tai Chi](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/tai-chi/) - [Positive Aging](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/positive-aging/) - [Connections](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/connections/) - [Financial](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/financial/) - [Stroke](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/stroke/) - [Diet](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/diet/) - [Dreams](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/dreams/) - [Aging Well. Growth](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/aging-well-growth/) - [Introvert](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/introvert/) - [Extrovert](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/extrovert/) - [Medicine](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/medicine/) - [Training](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/training/) - [Internet](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/internet/) - [Arts](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/arts/) - [Friends](https://designingbrightertomorrows.org/tag/friends/)