XMWare

2025-11-06T08:01:00

(BPT) – By Daniel J. Boffa, MD, MBA, FACS, Vice-Chair, American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer

Lung cancer can enter a person’s life like a tornado, creating chaos out of nowhere and leaving them feeling powerless. Nobody chooses to have lung cancer, but thanks to advances in research and treatment, some choices may lower the chances of lung cancer shortening life.

Choices that reduce risk of lung cancer

Five out of six lung cancer patients smoked tobacco at one time, and quitting at any age reduces your chances of lung cancer and other smoking-related diseases. There have never been better options to help people quit, including more effective nicotine replacements, medications to curb withdrawal symptoms and counseling.

Other cancer-causing chemicals can make their way into the air, such as radon — an odorless gas that can seep into homes from the ground — or smoke from cooking and wildfires. Test your home for radon and address levels if elevated. Minimize situations where the air you breathe is irritating to your nose and throat. Avoid contact with chemicals in poorly ventilated spaces. Use air filters and wear an appropriate mask to help decrease exposure until the air clears.

Choices that lead to earlier detection

Lung cancer screening can detect disease earlier when treatments tend to be easier on patients and more effective. For people who smoke tobacco or smoked in the past, a yearly CT scan can dramatically reduce a person’s chance of dying of lung cancer. Current or former smokers aged 50 or older should ask their primary care provider about lung cancer screening.

One in six lung cancers happens in someone who never smoked and can sometimes run in families. Currently, there are no screening recommendations for never smokers, but this is an area of intense research. People with an immediate family member, such as a parent or sibling who developed lung cancer as a never smoker, should ask their primary care providers about screening during their yearly check-up, as screening recommendations are likely in the next few years.

While it is better to find lung cancer before symptoms occur, there are symptoms that shouldn’t be ignored. People with a cough that does not improve after 4 weeks, or who cough up blood, should contact their primary care provider and potentially have chest imaging.

Choosing better treatment

It is important to include lung cancer experts on your care team who know all the latest incredible breakthroughs in lung cancer. Experts not only will know the right tests, procedures and treatments to offer you, but will understand what parts of your treatment can be handled close to home and what parts may need to happen in a larger hospital that may have more resources in case something goes wrong. The American College of Surgeon’s Commission on Cancer is an organization that ensures hospitals follow the best practices and have the right people to deliver high-quality care to cancer patients. You can connect with a cancer team at an ACS Commission on Cancer accredited hospital.

Lifestyle choices can also improve the safety and effectiveness of cancer treatment for many types of cancer. Quitting smoking, even after you have been diagnosed, can significantly reduce complications of treatment and improve cure rates. Other healthy habits can benefit cancer patients. For example, researchers recently found that patients who exercised after their cancer treatment experienced better survival rates.

Choosing a better tomorrow

Cancer research saves lives. In the past five years the survival rates of patients with advanced lung cancer have quadrupled because cancer research brought us new treatments. However, we have more work to do. In the U.S., more than 120,000 people lose their battle with lung cancer every year, so we must keep looking for a better way. You can help by supporting the people who support medical research — from contributing to research fundraising to advocating with policy makers. Research is our best chance at turning hope into miracles.

Getting screened, lowering your risks, recognizing potential symptoms, seeking the right care and supporting research are all choices today to keep lung cancer from shortening your life in the future.

Daniel J. Boffa, MD, MBA, FACS, is vice-chair of the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer and a professor of Thoracic Surgery at Yale School of Medicine, specializing in treating esophageal and lung cancer.

2025-11-06T09:45:00

(BPT) – If you have diabetes, you’re intimately aware that building an experienced care team is key to protecting your health. From establishing care with a knowledgeable primary care physician to finding a trusted endocrinologist, many health care professionals make it possible to thrive while living with this disease. However, you may be missing an essential member of your care team: A retina specialist.

Because diabetes can lead to retinal damage, preserving your vision should be top of mind. Of the nearly 40 million Americans who have diabetes, approximately half will develop diabetic retinopathy, the leading cause of irreversible blindness in working-age Americans.

That said, vision loss isn’t an inevitable condition. Early diagnosis and treatment can go a long way in preserving your sight and can greatly reduce the risk of vision loss. This National Diabetes Month, if you have diabetes, make it a priority to find and book an appointment with a retina specialist so you can see for a lifetime.

Why retina specialists are best equipped to preserve your vision

While there are many eye health providers, retina specialists have dedicated their careers to mastering the complexities of retinal disease. In addition to completing medical school, internship and ophthalmology residency, these medical doctors complete one to two years of additional fellowship training focused on diseases and surgery of the retina and vitreous.

In total, that’s 10 years of extensive specialized training. That’s why retina specialists are the most qualified experts to help diagnose and treat diabetic retinopathy before the condition becomes irreversible.

When to see a retina specialist

Diabetic retinopathy doesn’t happen overnight. You may have the condition for a long time before you notice symptoms. However, you may notice the following symptoms in one or both eyes:

• Blurred vision
• Difficulty reading
• Spots or floaters in your vision
• A shadow across your field of vision
• Eye pressure
• Difficulty with color perception

Even if you’re not currently experiencing symptoms of diabetic retinopathy, it’s vital that you see a retina specialist. They can help monitor your vision, identify and diagnose vision problems early, and treat diabetic retinopathy in its earliest stages when treatment is most effective.

What you can do every day to protect your vision

Seeing a retina specialist is the best way to protect your vision from diabetic complications. However, there are daily steps you can take to protect your vision long term.

If you have diabetes, invest in your overall well-being and vision by:

• Getting regular dilated eye exams
• Controlling your blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol levels
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Staying physically active
• Taking prescribed diabetes medications as directed
• Quitting smoking
• Reporting any vision changes immediately

See the difference a retina specialist can make in your vision health

You don’t have to manage your diabetes-related vision problems alone. Find a retina specialist who can partner with you to preserve your vision now and for years to come.

To learn more about how you can maintain your retina health to preserve your vision, visit SeeforaLifetime.org. You can find a retina specialist in your area by visiting FindYourRetinaSpecialist.org.

2025-11-06T15:01:00

(BPT) – The holiday season is filled with fun, laughter, and festivities, but it can also be marked by chaos. From gift-wrapping mania to the cookie crumbs, spills, and clutter of prepping and hosting, you might sometimes feel a little humbug creeping into your holiday vibes. However, with a bit of planning and some help, you can lower your anxiety levels and make your holidays truly jolly again.

Here are tips from the cleaning experts at Molly Maid to help you minimize stress and maximize joy this time of year.

1. Take stock of your essential cleaning supplies

Make sure you’re ready to tackle pre-party prep, as well as any messes that occur in real time, without having to run to the store. Must-have items include microfiber cloths, paper towels, cleaning vinegar, furniture cleaner, and large garbage bags. Go room by room to determine what you’ll need in each space, from extra hand towels in the bathroom to a quick-sweep plan for high-traffic areas. This helps you stay organized and ensures every part of your home is party-ready.

Pro tip: Designate a closet or shelf on each floor of your home to store a set of these items so you don’t have to run around (or up and down stairs) searching when you need them!

2. Create a family-friendly cleaning plan

Encourage shared responsibility among your entire household by creating a holiday to-do list that includes everyone, assigning age-appropriate cleaning duties that you know they can manage.

Pro tip: Instead of trying to accomplish everything on one day (such as right before a party), schedule cleaning tasks over several days to build in a cushion and avoid burnout.

3. Start at the top

Begin your cleaning efforts with high-traffic areas, starting from the top of the room (ceiling fans, shelves, windows) and working your way down, saving the floors for last. You’ll likely knock plenty of dirt and dust onto the floor when vacuuming or mopping.

Pro tip: Concentrate effort on areas where guests will spend the most time, including the entryway, living room, and bathrooms.

4. Don’t be afraid to get help

During the holiday season’s hustle and bustle, it can be challenging to complete everything on time. It’s okay to ask for help when you need it. You can get professional assistance with a pre- and post-event cleaning visit from Molly Maid to help you conquer the mess before guests arrive, so you can focus on what matters most.

5. Welcome visitors with special touches

Having guests stay at your home over the holidays? Create a warm welcome by providing guest rooms with extra blankets or pillows, a basket of snacks and travel-sized toiletries, extra set of clean linens, and reading materials they might like.

Before guests arrive, conduct a quick walk-through to assess the spaces from the perspective of a visitor. Ask yourself what would make you more comfortable. Could you add a few thoughtful touches, such as fresh flowers, phone chargers, or a portable reading light?

Pro tip: Make sure to leave a card providing the household Wi-Fi password.

6. Post-party cleanup

If your home looks like a tornado blew through it when the party’s over, start with the basics by walking through rooms with a trash bag and a bin for items that belong elsewhere. Once you’ve cleared the clutter, you can start wiping down surfaces and finish with vacuuming or mopping.

Overwhelmed by the holiday mayhem? Visit MollyMaid.com to schedule after-party cleaning services.

Holiday gifts anyone would love

Still looking for that perfect gift? Molly Maid Gift Certificates are the perfect gift for friends and family, home or apartment dwellers alike, this year. You won’t just be giving the gift of a clean home, you’ll be giving loved ones the gift of time to play, relax, and enjoy everything they love about the season. Visit MollyMaid.com/gift-certificates to purchase a gift certificate today!

2025-11-06T10:33:00

(BPT) – When it comes to gifting the perfect holiday present to the anglers in your life, no one has better instincts than Santa Bass.

Gifted with the same powers as the jolly man from the North Pole, Santa Bass handles the aquatic side of gift-giving. He sees anglers on boats in the summer when they yearn for a different size of their favorite bait. He sees blank spaces on walls where memories of the year’s biggest catches could live. He sees the overflowing tacklebox that won’t stay closed.

Nothing gets past this sneaky creature.

For the gift givers whose angler friends and family are on the Nice List this year, here are Santa Bass’s top 10 picks to make this the best holiday season ever.

Frame a photo of their best catch – The best gifts are sentimental. If you’ve gone on a legendary fishing trip with the person you’re gifting, print your favorite photo of the trip and frame it. PRs come and go, but photos are forever!

Upgrade the classics – If your loved one is a die-hard angler, they probably already know and love certain fan-favorites such as CrushCity’s The Mayor or Rapala’s Original Floating lure. But do they have their favorite baits in the newest sizes or colors? The Mayor, for example, now comes in six new colors and one new size. The Original Floating comes in three new colors. Plus, Rapala just upgraded this tried-and-true killer to an even more premium design called the Floater Elite. Treat your loved one (or yourself) to something you know they’ll love.

New soft baits by the pros – That being said, some anglers get the most fun out of trying entirely novel baits. If that sounds like someone you know, the brand-new baits developed by the pro anglers at CrushCity just might become your loved one’s new favorite. The Jerk and the Salted Ned Roll are two delectable soft plastics that just launched this year and have already won big on the competition circuit.

New year, new rod – Has your father, sister or fishing buddy been using the same cruddy rod since before the turn of the century? Watch their eyes light up when you gift them a brand-new, premium rod. If you know which technique is their favorite, check out 13 Fishing’s lineup of technique-specific rods like the Shaker Rod, Jigging Rap Rod or the Power Cork Rod. If you’re on a budget, consider the Jinx rod by 13 Fishing.

Put some pride on their wall – It always feels good to decorate your space with the things you love. When Rapala released the Original Floating Giant Lure in the color USA Flag, anglers went berserk, mounting the beloved ginormous bait in small town bars, basements, log cabins, rec-rooms, offices and fishing sheds across the nation. Now, Rapala is introducing another beloved Giant Lure to the mix. Mimicking the legendary DT (Dives-To) series lure in the USA Flag style, this 24″ monster makes for a sure-fire conversation starter for the angler with more stories to tell than hook scars on their arm.

Rep your sport off the water – There’s next to no one who wouldn’t appreciate a brand-new sweatshirt, beanie or baseball cap from a brand they love. Rapala has tons of apparel so your loved one can rep what they love sitting by the fire this year.

Sharpen their tools – A colorful, premium piece of filleting equipment is the perfect gift for the angler who appreciates quality, but it’s also a special treat for the more frugal anglers whose knives could use more than a little love. Rapala’s Fish ‘N Fillet knife is a great bet for both characters. Continuing with the original features — a progressively tapered, full-tang blade of European stainless steel that takes and holds an ultra-sharp edge, and a birch handle with fine tooled leather sheath — anglers can now pick up this mighty knife in the color Firetiger.

Don’t forget stocking stuffers – They say the best gifts come in small packages. Well, if what your loved one is seeking is a major bite under the ice, the Nano Rap is the gift of the season. This lure is the smallest that Rapala has made in all its 90-year history. Made for those times when panfish such as perch, crappie or bluegill succumb to winter lethargy and a slower metabolism, this micro lure is the perfect easy meal to trigger a bite. A well-equipped ice angler will have a few of these in their tackle box to tie on when all else fails.

Keep your angler cozy – Some ice anglers can be stubborn about what gear they wear to the lake. So, gift your loved one who always arrives home a little chillier than they should a new jacket and bibs so they stay on the ice even longer. Top ice anglers helped create the StrikeMaster pro jacket, which is built to keep anglers warm even in the roughest winter conditions.

Go big to win big – Saltwater anglers all know this one pelagic truth: Big fish eat big fish. As of this year, Rapala’s Sarda lure now comes in the biggest size yet, size No. 22, with a body length of 8-1/2 in. For coastal anglers on the hunt for massive bluefin tuna, this lure is a day-maker.

2025-11-05T08:01:01

(BPT) – Do you or a loved one have a chronic health condition like diabetes or heart disease? Managing these conditions can be overwhelming and expensive. You shouldn’t have to do it alone. If you’re eligible for Medicare and have been diagnosed with a chronic condition, you may be able to sign up for a Medicare Advantage plan called a Chronic Condition Special Needs Plan, or C-SNP, with tailored benefits to support your health.

In 2026, Aetna^® is expanding its C-SNPs and will have plans available in 18 states.

Unique benefits to support chronic health conditions

Aetna Medicare Advantage C-SNPs are for people who are eligible for Medicare and have a qualifying chronic condition. They provide extra support and resources to help C-SNP members live healthier, more empowered lives. Benefits include:

• A personal care team to help members manage their care and improve their quality of life
• $0 copays for in-network primary care and certain in-network specialty care related to the qualifying chronic conditions, including cardiology, nephrology, endocrinology and pulmonology
• An Extra Benefits Card with a monthly allowance for certain everyday expenses including over-the-counter (OTC) products, healthy foods, transportation, utilities and personal care products
• $0 or low-cost prescription drugs at in-network pharmacies to help with your chronic condition
• Dental care, eyewear and hearing aid benefits

“Having a comprehensive medical plan like an Aetna Medicare Advantage C-SNP provides additional benefits. These include a care team that will call you every couple of days to check on your health,” said Ali Khan, MD, MPP, FACP. He’s a practicing general internist and chief medical officer, Medicare, at Aetna, a CVS Health^® company. “When living with a chronic health condition, that kind of care isn’t just nice to have — it makes a real difference for your health.”

Additional support to help members stay proactive about their health

Exercise and staying active are crucial for supporting health as people age, and this is particularly important for those with chronic conditions. Aetna C-SNPs include a popular SilverSneakers^® basic fitness membership with access to thousands of participating locations. Plus, exercise classes outside of traditional gyms, such as recreation centers and parks. SilverSneakers also offers resources to help improve brain health and memory, like on-demand classes for meditation and yoga.

“Exercise benefits the body in so many ways — strengthening the heart, building bone strength and balance and improving mood. That’s why I encourage my patients to stay active,” added Dr. Khan. “Having a fitness benefit in your Medicare Advantage plan provides a variety of options to help with this.”

C-SNP members will also have access to the CVS Health Resources for Living (RFL)^® program.* RFL helps address basic needs by connecting members with community services and resources like transportation, housing, food programs, and caregiver support based on individual member needs. RFL also offers support and resources that address many issues affecting members’ physical and mental health, such as loneliness.

Who is eligible for an Aetna Medicare Advantage C-SNP?

You may qualify to enroll in an Aetna Medicare Advantage C-SNP plan if you have certain chronic conditions. The full list of eligible chronic conditions includes:

• Diabetes mellitus (high blood sugar)
• Chronic heart failure (CHF) (heart is unable to pump blood as it should)
• Cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats)
• Coronary artery disease (blocked blood vessels in the heart)
• Peripheral vascular disease (poor circulation in the arms and legs)
• Valvular heart disease (damage of flaps in the heart that control blood flow)

Unsure if you qualify? The easiest way to find out is by talking to a licensed Aetna agent. They can confirm your eligibility and answer your questions at no cost. Just call 1-844-588-0041 (TTY: 711) from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. 7 days/week. They can also help you complete the eligibility form and work with your provider to verify your condition.

When you can enroll

The Medicare Advantage Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is currently open and runs through Dec. 7. If you’re eligible for Medicare, or caring for a loved one who is, it’s an important time to review your health needs and which health plans can best support your health care needs. However, you can also enroll in a C-SNP throughout the year if you’re newly diagnosed with a chronic condition covered by a C-SNP.

Medicare plans change every year. So, even if you’re already enrolled in a plan, it’s a good idea to review your explanation of benefits, or annual notice of change to decide if your plan still fits your needs. Remember, choosing the right plan based on your specific needs is one of the most important decisions you can make for total health and well-being.

Learn more about Medicare Advantage plans to help support your health or the health of a loved one at AetnaMedicare.com.

*FOR RFL PROGRAM COST: There’s no extra cost to contact Resources For Living. Members only pay for the costs (if any apply) for services they use.

Aetna Medicare is a HMO, PPO plan with a Medicare contract. Our DSNPs also have contracts with State Medicaid programs. Enrollment in our plans depends on contract renewal. See Evidence of Coverage for a complete description of plan benefits, exclusions, limitations and conditions of coverage. Plan features and availability may vary by service area.

The Aetna C-SNP is available to Medicare members who have at least one of the qualifying chronic conditions. To ensure a successful enrollment process, we’ll confirm with your healthcare provider that you have one of these eligible conditions. If verification of eligible condition is not received, involuntary disenrollment will occur.

Resources For Living is the brand name used for products and services offered through the Aetna group of subsidiary companies.

Participating health care providers are independent contractors and are neither agents nor employees of Aetna. The availability of any particular provider cannot be guaranteed, and provider network composition is subject to change.

To send a complaint to Aetna, call the Plan or the number on your member ID card. To send a complaint to Medicare, call 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048), 24 hours a day/7 days a week. If your complaint involves a broker or agent, be sure to include the name of the person when filing your grievance.

SilverSneakers is a registered trademark of Tivity Health, Inc. ©<2025> Tivity Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

Y0001_6420150_2026_M

2025-11-05T11:25:00

(BPT) – For outdoor adventurers, staying connected while exploring remote locations is key to having fun and staying safe. From making sure that your loved ones know your location to accessing online maps and emergency services, having a reliable digital connection lets you confidently wander the wilderness.

But some areas make it impossible to connect to terrestrial networks. In fact, according to T-Mobile, there are more than 500,000 square miles in the U.S. where traditional cell towers simply can’t reach, including national parks, oil fields, lakes, rural farmland and mountains.

Using a dedicated satellite phone is a typical solution. These phones are built specifically to connect to satellites instead of land-based cell towers, making them a good choice in very remote areas with virtually no cell coverage. But they’re unlike your typical smartphone. They’re stripped-down, bulky devices made to withstand harsh conditions.

As of this year, satellite phones aren’t the only solution anymore. Now, you can access satellite connectivity straight from your smartphone.

The freedom to unplug and the ability to reconnect when it matters most

As part of its mission to put an end to dead zones, T-Mobile created T-Satellite with Starlink. This direct-to-device satellite connection uses more than 650 Starlink satellites in low Earth orbits that essentially act as cell towers in space.

It’s the first and only service of its kind in the U.S. that connects automatically to compatible phones from the last four years, which means you won’t need special apps or extra steps to connect to T-Satellite. If you can see the sky, you’re connected.

Not only can you send SMS messages, share your location and text 911, but T-Satellite now supports some of the most popular go-to apps when off grid, including WhatsApp, AllTrails, X, AccuWeather, T-Life and Google Maps.

So, whether you want to share your location with friends, receive updates from home, or check weather and road conditions while backcountry skiing, camping, hiking, fishing or hunting, you’re connected.

A proven solution

While the service may be new, T-Satellite has already proven itself during recent natural disasters.

T-Satellite proved to be helpful in a moment of crisis for first responders following the devastating Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The satellite service connected over 1 million people who sent over 650,000 SMS messages and helped distribute 200 wireless emergency alerts.

Additionally, during the Oregon wildfires in October, T-Satellite connected nearly 7,000 people who sent over 24,000 SMS messages and helped distribute seven wireless emergency alerts.

In both cases, these important and life-saving messages and alerts would not have been possible using terrestrial cell networks.

T-Satellite also supports text-to-911 services, enabling anyone with a satellite-capable device ­— even if they aren’t T-Mobile members or T-Satellite customers — to text with first responders for free from almost anywhere when help is needed most — you just need to sign up.

Connecting to service is just a swipe away

T-Satellite already works on nearly every smartphone made in the last four years. If you’re a T-Mobile member on the Experience Beyond plan, T-Satellite is already included. All other T-Mobile members and non-members can sign up for T-Satellite for only $10 a month — including Verizon and AT&T customers.

Are you ready to get your hands dirty and commune with nature? To learn more about how you can connect to satellite service no matter where you roam, visit T-Mobile.com/Satellite.

2025-11-04T17:01:00

(BPT) – In small towns and rural communities across the United States, access to health care can mean the difference between life and death. On National Rural Health Day (Nov. 20), the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) recognizes the dedicated health professionals who serve these regions — and the Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) who are often the key to ensuring safe, timely care close to home.

“On average, rural trauma victims must travel twice as far as urban residents to reach the nearest hospital,” said Jeff Molter, MBA, MSN, CRNA, president of AANA. “Because of this and other health disparities, nearly 60% of trauma deaths occur in rural America — even though only 20% of Americans live there. CRNAs, also known as nurse anesthesiologists or nurse anesthetists, play a vital role in ensuring patients receive the anesthesia and pain management care they need when and where they need it most.”

What is a CRNA?

CRNAs are advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) who specialize in anesthesia and pain management. They deliver care before, during, and after surgical, therapeutic, diagnostic, and obstetrical procedures.

With more than 150 years of trusted service, CRNAs are highly trained clinicians who provide the full range of anesthesia services in every type of health care setting — from large hospitals to rural critical access facilities.

The Health Care Challenges Facing Rural America

Rural areas face a variety of health care barriers — including hospital closures, workforce shortages, and long travel distances to care.

According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs more than one-third of veterans with service-connected disabilities live in rural areas. The U.S. Department of Agriculture also notes that rural communities have a higher proportion of older adults, many of whom live with chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and heart failure.

Without local CRNAs, many of these patients would have to travel hours for essential surgical or anesthesia care. When emergencies happen, those hours can make all the difference.

CRNAs: The Lifeline of Rural Health Care

CRNAs safely administer more than 58 million anesthetics each year and represent over 80% of anesthesia providers in rural U.S. counties, according to AANA. In many small hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers, CRNAs are the sole anesthesia providers, supporting critical services like obstetrics, surgery, trauma stabilization, and pain management.

Their presence keeps lifesaving care within reach, helping rural hospitals stay open and their communities healthy, resilient, and self-sufficient.

“Working as a CRNA in rural settings shows just how critical our role is in medicine,” Molter said. “When we can practice to the full extent of our education and training, we help bridge health care gaps and deliver care to people who need it most. It’s why we celebrate and advocate for CRNAs who keep rural America safe and strong.”

Learn More

To learn more about the essential role of CRNAs in rural and other health care settings — or to explore how to become a CRNA — visit AANA.com.

2025-11-04T09:31:00

(BPT) – Almost 7 in 10 Americans (68%) say Thanksgiving will be more expensive this year, according to new Empower research. Still, 73% say that Thanksgiving dinner is worth every penny.

2025-11-03T09:01:01

(BPT) – New research from Empower reveals how Americans are adjusting to inflation, tariffs, and shifting traditions around the holiday table. Cost is on the menu as nearly 7 in 10 Americans (68%) say Thanksgiving will be more expensive due to tariffs and inflation. Two-thirds (66%) expect their grocery bill will rise compared to last year, with people expecting to spend an average of $137 on Thanksgiving dinner, with younger generations anticipating the highest costs (Gen Z $176; Millennials $169; Gen X $135; Boomers $90). More than a quarter plan on passing on Thanksgiving this year due to the expense (26% overall; 33% Millennials; 31% Gen Z), and 42% will host Thanksgiving this year, but a scaled-down version to save money (50% Millennials).

Half of people (48%) say the price of cooking spices like thyme and pepper has increased, so they’ll be buying less or using them more sparingly to stretch ingredients (54% younger generations). With rising costs, some 57% think they are “getting priced out of my own kitchen” — with groceries too expensive to cook Thanksgiving at home.

The table is shifting too, with nearly half open to replacing turkey with less costly alternatives (47% overall; 56% Gen Z). For 38%, that means they’ll swap the bird for roasted chicken to save money (48% Millennials). Others are reimagining the menu altogether: 30% are considering serving burgers, pizza or fast food instead of a traditional meal to keep costs in check, a trend pronounced among younger generations (38% vs. 23% older generations).

Still, 73% of Americans say that Thanksgiving dinner is worth every penny, and it’s a holiday where they don’t mind spending a little extra (70% overall; 79% Boomers). Half say hosting the holiday is one of the most important things they spend money on all year (56%).

The price of tradition

Seven in 10 say turkey prices climb every year, yet 52% feel pressured to serve one despite the cost. Still, close to a third (30%) say they’ll pay the price tag, as turkey is the star of the Thanksgiving table.

Though more than half (52%) say rising food prices are making them rethink hosting altogether, a strong majority (76%) still want a sit-down dinner: 57% note that their parents and older generations insist on hosting. Families are adapting by budgeting carefully (63%) and sharing expenses to make the holiday more affordable (72%), while Friendsgiving is emerging as a new tradition for nearly 40% of Americans, especially Millennials (46%).

More than half (57%) say Thanksgiving is stressful because of grocery costs and preparation (64% of Gen Z) though, ultimately, 73% see Thanksgiving as an investment in family, connection, and lasting memories.

Budgeting for Thanksgiving

More than half (53%) of Americans say the Thanksgiving menu looks a lot different than it did in the past: 52% will look for pre-packaged “meal deal” bundles to stretch their dollars. A third (32%) say meat is too expensive, so they’ll serve only appetizers and sides at the Thanksgiving table (41% Millennials). While 65% agree leftovers help justify the cost, 40% call them “overrated” and too expensive — they’d rather make less food to save money (47% Millennials).

Making trade-offs

• 53% say Thanksgiving travel is now too expensive
• 23% are cooking fewer side dishes or desserts
• 22% are buying smaller quantities
• 16% are planning smaller meals to cut down on leftovers and waste
• 16% are switching to store brands over name brands
• 15% are choosing cheaper cuts of meat or non-traditional proteins
• 1 in 10 say it’s the year of the side dish and don’t plan on serving a main protein

Conversations and etiquette

Money may be shaping Thanksgiving more than ever, but most Americans don’t want to talk about it at the table.

• 66% say discussions about pay, raises, or bonuses should be off-limits
• 72% say talk of debt and bills doesn’t belong at dinner
• 76% believe it’s fine to politely steer conversations away from money
• 34% say they’d rather talk politics than money at the Thanksgiving table
• 52% say big purchases (homes, cars, vacations, etc.) are not appropriate discussion topics for the table (43% Gen Z)
• 70% say asking others about their holiday spending or budgets should be avoided (59% Gen Z)

Screen-free meals matter too: 74% want a no-screen-time rule at the table, even as AI is becoming a Thanksgiving assistant.

AI on the menu

• 35% plan to use AI to find grocery deals (47% of Millennials)
• 44% say AI shopping tools make Thanksgiving more affordable
• 32% will ask AI to design a menu within their budget
• 45% rely on AI to compare prices across stores

Beyond the meal

Thanksgiving also traditionally marks the start of the holiday shopping season, with 39% saying as soon as the Thanksgiving meal is over, they start shopping for holiday gifts (50% Millennials; 47% Gen Z; Boomers 23%).

• 62% say stores shouldn’t open on Thanksgiving Day (Gen Z 50%; Millennials 58%; Gen X 67%; Boomers 70%)
• 41% consider Black Friday shopping a family tradition
• 43% say they plan their holiday budget around Black Friday or Cyber Monday deals
• 37% feel pressured to spend more than they should during Black Friday sales (46% Gen Z; 48% Millennials)
• 57% feel skipping Black Friday makes the holiday less stressful
• 65% now prefer shopping online during Black Friday instead of in stores

Meanwhile, most prefer watching the parade from home (75%) rather than spending money to see it in person. Forty-eight percent say they’re more likely to purchase something if they saw an ad for it on Thanksgiving or during the holidays.

Visit The Currency™ to read Empower’s full research study, “Table Stakes.“

Methodology:

Empower’s “Table Stakes” study is based on online survey responses from 2,200 Americans ages 18+ from September 3-4, 2025. The survey is weighted to be nationally representative of U.S. adults.

RO4809618-0925