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Ask the expert: Vision health as you age

2019-06-25T18:59:00

(BPT) – Many people expect their eyesight to decline with age — perhaps requiring a stronger eyeglass prescription or “readers.” Some vision changes are linked to age, but there are steps to consider to help our eyes stay as healthy as possible.

Dr. Linda Chous, OD, chief eye care officer, UnitedHealthcare, answered the following questions:

1. Are my eyes going to keep getting worse as I age?

While your eyesight is not guaranteed to deteriorate with age, it is normal to notice changes to your vision as the years pass, including:

  • Minor adjustments to your eyeglasses prescription or needing to use “readers” for the first time;
  • Trouble distinguishing colors, such as blue from black; and
  • The need for more light to see well.

Although these changes are often normal, they can also be signs of conditions like cataracts or even diabetes. It is important to maintain regular appointments with your eye doctor to help identify pressing concerns. If you experience sudden vision loss or any rapid change to your eyesight, contact your eye care provider immediately.

2. What are the tiny spots or specks that float across my vision?

These tiny threads of protein float across the gel-like substance between your eye’s lens and retina.

Usually there is no need to worry if you notice these spots occasionally and they disappear after a few minutes, but only a dilated eye examination can determine the cause of the “floaters.”

If your vision is overcome by these specks or you notice vision loss, contact your eye doctor, as it could be a symptom of a sight-threatening condition.

3. What are some common vision-related diseases that come with age?

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

AMD is the leading cause of vision loss in people over 65. AMD causes damage to the macula, the small spot on the retina that enables people to see clearly and view things straight ahead of them.

Common symptoms are distortion and blurring of the center of your field of vision. If caught early, there are potential benefits from certain prescription medications and nutritional supplements. Late-stage AMD is much more difficult to treat.

Certain factors like heredity, ultraviolet light exposure and smoking may increase the risk of AMD. Consult with your eye doctor to determine if a preventive treatment plan is right for you.

Cataracts

A cataract is the clouding of the lens in your eye, blocking the flow of light to the back of your eye (retina), which ultimately causes loss of sight. Most form slowly and do not cause pain. Significant clouding can form in some people and, ultimately, negatively impact vision.

Cataracts are treatable via surgery that replaces the clouded lens with a clear plastic lens. Cataract surgery is generally safe and one of the most common surgeries in the U.S. Once a cataract is removed, it cannot grow back.

Glaucoma

Glaucoma is caused by increased pressure inside the eye, which can cause permanent vision loss and blindness if untreated. The most common form usually has no noticeable symptoms in the early stages — the only way to detect it is routine testing.

Treatment may include prescription eye drops, oral medications, laser treatment surgery or a combination of any of these. It is important to find glaucoma early because once vision is lost, it cannot be regained.

4. What are the best ways to keep my eyes healthy as I age?

Some of the best ways to protect your eyes include:

  • Stop smoking. Smokers are up to four times more likely to develop AMD and may contribute to development of cataracts.
  • Maintain a healthy weight. Conditions associated with being overweight, like diabetes and heart disease, increase your risk of vision loss from cataracts, glaucoma and retinopathy.
  • Wear sunglasses. Help protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays.
  • Be physically active. People who are physically active experienced less vision loss over 20 years compared to those who are less active.
  • Eat a healthy diet. Colorful fruits and vegetables contain nutrients that can keep your eyes healthy and reduce AMD risk.

5. Do sunglasses really protect my eyes?

Sunglasses act as a buffer between your eyes and the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Exposure to these rays can put you at greater risk of cataracts and AMD. Look for a pair that blocks 99% to 100% of UV rays.

Note that polarization is different from UV protection; however, most polarized sunglasses also provide UV protection. Check the product tag or ask for assistance in choosing the right pair.

6. How often should I see my eye care doctor?

Eye exams are crucial to maintaining eye health as you age. Many eye diseases, like glaucoma, have no symptoms in early stages. And many systemic conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, can be first found during a routine eye exam. Aim to see your eye doctor annually even if your vision hasn’t changed, so your doctor has a record of your eye health. See your doctor immediately for sudden changes.

For UnitedHealthcare Medicare Advantage members, many plans include routine vision services as well as additional services not covered under Original Medicare. It’s helpful to learn how to take advantage of these and other benefits.

Plans insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare.


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Combine graceful forms and slender proportions for mid-century style

2019-06-25T12:31:00

(BPT) – Mid-century style celebrates the aesthetic influences of the 20th century, bringing clean lines, slender forms and high function to the interior space. From modernist architectural structures to furnishings that embrace rounded geometries and smooth contours, design elements from this period are rooted in a sense of history, yet seamlessly integrate into the present for a truly enduring, iconic look. Incorporate these elements to create a space that distills the essence of timeless sophistication and captures the je ne sais quoi of mid-century influence.

Streamlined aesthetic

Curate a distinguished, mid-century look by implementing a streamlined design, eliminating unnecessary visual weight and avoiding overly ornate items. Use the space wisely, selecting furniture that boasts clean lines and modern characteristics, such as an etagere bookshelf or a stacked glass coffee table with brushed steel trim. Experiment with form while remaining mindful of function, and strategically place items such as a custom slatted bench or vintage leather cantilever chairs, which provide comfort, purpose and debonair style.

Stunning contours

Incorporate intriguing curves throughout a space to complement a clean, broader aesthetic, embodying a key component of the mid-century period. Bring the era’s sleek style to life in the master bath with faucets from the Levoir Bath Collection by Brizo. Slender, graceful forms pay homage to classic British automobile design, creating simple yet elegant silhouettes for unparalleled luxury. Augment the subtle contours and smooth planes with a geometric flower vase, or use a hexite backsplash to add angular interest.

Material intrigue

The unexpected use of familiar materials is a key component of the mid-century approach. Place a sculptural glass globe lamp atop a walnut tripod table to introduce a blend of shapes, or fill a brass bar cart with square decanters and aluminum tumblers as a nod to the classic cocktail culture of the 1960s. Keeping authenticity and craftsmanship in mind, look for decorative pieces such as a rich rosewood desk for the home office, or rounded Lucite nested coffee tables in the living room.

Daring accents

Set the stage for distinguished design with a canvas of muted neutrals, and add a layer of visual interest with bold accent pieces and statement colors inspired by mid-century palettes. Suspend a bright, citron tapestry for an unexpected pop in the foyer, or add a chartreuse high-back lounge chair in the master bedroom, finished in velvet to accentuate its contours. Perfect the aesthetic with quintessential mid-century statements, such as large-pane windows for abundant natural light, complemented by a circular sunburst clock to complete the space.


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5 must-haves to pack for a fun holiday weekend

2019-06-25T08:01:00

(BPT) – It’s finally here! Independence Day weekend! A time to celebrate with friends and family while eating good food, dancing to music and best of all — enjoying the fireworks! You can’t wait for the long weekend and all the fun you’re going to have as you celebrate together. But what should you pack? You’ll want to be practical and also think of easy ways to turn the weekend get-together into a real party, so here are some ideas for essential items to put on your list.

Health and safety necessities

No trip is without its occasional minor mishaps. Make sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, bug spray and a good, basic first aid kit, just in case. Items like extra batteries and chargers along are also lifesavers. This way, you can rest easy knowing you’re prepared for anything, so everyone can relax and have fun!

All the best snacks and beverages

Pack fun, warm-weather-appropriate meals, snacks and drinks you know everyone will love, and that are easy to transport and clean up, whether you’re headed to a cabin, a beach or someone’s home. Divvy up your food and beverage list with the other partygoers so you’ll know you’ve all got the essentials covered, without too many duplicates. Make sure to consider the weather in your planning — for example, if you’ve got ingredients for s’mores on your must-have list, store chocolate bars and marshmallows in your cooler to prevent them from melting en route.

Don’t forget the ice

If your get-together will be located in a place where ice is readily available, you can pick up ice at the last minute. If not, be sure to pack plenty of ice in a good quality cooler along with other cold items. Grab a few ice packs for your cooler, too — especially if you’ve got a long drive ahead of you, or the temps are especially high.

Bring on the music

A party isn’t a party without music. Party like a boss by bringing along a portable, easy-to-carry LG PK5 Bluetooth speaker from LG Electronics USA for up to 18 hours of non-stop music. The speaker offers amazing sound, with enhanced bass and clear vocals. You can also boost the fun factor using its built-in flashing colorful LED lights that synchronize to the rhythm of the music, creating a pulsing light show, turning your party into a disco floor. The LG PK5 goes anywhere with the Grab & Go handle, weighing less than three pounds and offers easy Bluetooth pairing and high-definition streaming anywhere you go. Now, all your friends can connect and add their favorite tracks to the party playlist! And don’t worry about water splashing it — the water-resistant speaker is built to play in less-than-ideal conditions.

Games and activities

Depending on the age of your partygoers, you and the other guests will want to plan for plenty of fun things to do together, especially if the weather doesn’t cooperate all weekend. Include a few indoor activities like decks of cards and board games. Pack age-appropriate outdoor items like swimming gear, outdoor games like balls, hula hoops, plus firecrackers (following any local ordinances and safety rules, of course).

With just a little bit of planning, you and your friends or family can have a great, fun-filled weekend celebration. It’s all about enjoying your time together and making the most of the occasion for an amazing holiday weekend.


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The top 3 ways to fuel up for summer sports season

2019-06-25T09:01:00

(BPT) – The summer season is often packed to the brim for families everywhere — from vacations and barbecues to camp and summer reading lists. One of the main activities keeping families on the go during the summer months? Youth sports. In fact, according to new research from Lance Sandwich Crackers, 70% of parents with children in sports say summer is when their child is most active.

To help kick off the season, Lance Sandwich Crackers, the Official Snack of Little League® Baseball and Softball, has uncovered new research to help inspire teams everywhere to get into a winning mindset this season. From the go-to pump-up songs for kids’ sports teams across the country, to the cherished practice rituals and superstitions before the big game, Lance’s new insights are celebrating all the ways teams win both on and off the field.

Tip 1: Nail the Rituals

Routines and rituals have always been a part of the fabric of sports, and can be a fun way to get in the zone before a big game. For a little inspiration, Lance surveyed parents on today’s top habits for kids’ teams across the country. The top four “lucky” superstitions are: 1. Snagging the same jersey number every year; 2. Wearing a “lucky” clothing item again and again (like that special headband or pair of socks); 3. Having certain lucky faces cheering in the stands; 4. Grabbing the same go-to snacks before every game — in fact, almost all parents (90%) say fueling up with the right food before the game can make a huge difference.

And when it comes down to the crucial moments before game time, Lance finds that parents say the top four go-to pre-game rituals are: 1. Stretching It Out (52%); 2. A Team Chant (49%); 3. Special High-Five (49%); 4. Listening to Pump-up Songs (43%).

Tip 2: Get Your Head in the Game

One of the age-old fuel-up habits for kids’ teams everywhere is listening to the right pump-up songs before heading onto the field. Nailing the pre-game tunes can be a great tactic for getting in the right headspace before game time. To reveal the ultimate pump-up playlist, parents nationwide have shed a light on the top songs kids teams are putting on today including:

  1. “We Will Rock You,” Queen
  2. “Eye of the Tiger,” Survivor
  3. “Thunder,” Imagine Dragons
  4. “Happy,” Pharrell Williams
  5. “I Gotta Feeling,” Black Eyed Peas
  6. “Shake It Off,” Taylor Swift
  7. “Can’t Stop The Feeling,” Justin Timberlake
  8. “Don’t Stop Believin’,” Journey
  9. “Fight Song,” Rachel Platten
  10. “The Final Countdown,” Europe

Tip 3: Stock Up on the Right Snacks

Lance’s new research also uncovers that the majority of parents (65%) say snacking rituals are one of their child’s favorite parts of the season’s routines — like fueling up before or in between big games. And a strong majority of parents (84%) agree that win or lose, snacks after the game fuel great team bonding. So to help make the most of these moments, stock up on crowd pleaser snacks, like Lance Sandwich Crackers, made with baked, crispy crackers and real ingredients like freshly ground peanut butter.

No matter how you and your family plan to tackle the summer sports season, remember one of the most important rules in sports: Don’t forget to have fun out there.

For more information about Lance Sandwich Crackers visit lance.com.

Methodology: This online survey was conducted by Censuswide on behalf of Lance between May 29-31, 2019, among 1,000+ U.S. parents of children in sports.


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No bank account? 3 reasons why having one is an important step to financial health

2019-06-25T07:01:00

(BPT) – Having a bank account is the start to being truly in charge of your finances, including managing payments and getting paid. If you’ve never had a bank account before, or you’ve struggled with keeping one in the past, you have options.

Here are three reasons why having a bank account matters:

Saving on fees

When you get a check, is it a pain to cash it? Whether it’s from a relative or an employer, if you don’t have a bank account, you probably have to go through extra steps and pay fees to cash it. With a bank account, you can easily cash your check without the extra fees and can even take advantage of direct and mobile deposit, so your check automatically goes into your account without having to visit a branch. It’s not only convenient, but you’ll save money because you won’t have fees stacking up with each check when you get paid. That can amount to hundreds of dollars per year!

Paying bills

Another issue people without bank accounts face is how to pay their bills. It’s difficult and even risky to carry around large amounts of cash so you can pay things like rent, groceries and child care. In addition, electronic and digital payments are increasingly preferred by many, and are a more secure alternative to paying with cash.

A bank account that has a debit card allows you to easily pay your bills virtually anywhere at any time. Setting up rent or your electric bill to be automatically paid electronically at the start of the month helps you eliminate costly late fees. Pay in one swipe at the store for easy and fast checkout.

Staying on budget

Overspending can often trigger overdraft fees. However, some accounts do not charge overdraft fees. These accounts make it easier to stick to your budget and avoid overspending and overdraft fees altogether.

One example to consider is Chase Secure Banking, a simple and low-cost alternative to a standard checking account. With no minimum deposit to open and no paper checks, the account is designed to ensure you only spend what’s available in it, so you’ll never be charged overdraft fees. No more worries about when a check will go through and if it will bounce. You only spend what you have, making staying on budget simple.

Chase Secure Banking comes with all the benefits and perks of being a Chase customer, like fast access to thousands of fee-free ATMs, the mobile app, the ability to send and receive money and support from bankers in person or over the phone. Learn more at www.chase.com/SecureBanking.

Bottom line

Getting a bank account can help you gain money confidence and take more control of what you earn and spend. You can use your money like you want to, without extra steps, hassles or unnecessary fees. Take control of your finances and consider your options today.


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How to avoid hidden dangers in home and office furniture

2019-06-24T11:28:53

(BPT) – Awareness of health risks from potentially harmful chemicals has grown exponentially in recent years. Consumers are demanding transparency regarding what’s in the food, personal care products and household items we use every day.

But did you know that many home and office furnishings contain chemicals linked to cancer, asthma and other ailments? These chemicals can create potentially toxic air that we breathe inside — where we spend 90 percent of our time — every day. According to the EPA, concentrations of volatile organic compounds in the air are consistently higher — up to 10 times higher — indoors than outdoors.

Healthy, environmentally friendly ingredients

Aiming to establish industry standards for reporting building product content and potential health impacts, the Health Product Declaration Collaborative (HPDC) created an “Open Standard” so manufacturing companies can be more transparent about building materials used in furniture and other products for homes and workplaces. The HPDC standard is based on scientific analysis, providing builders, architects, designers and consumers accurate information about chemicals used in the manufacturing processes of the furniture we live with, and how it might affect our health.

Many manufacturing companies are joining HPDC to demonstrate their commitment to greater transparency about the materials used. Included in HPDC membership are companies such as Armstrong Ceiling Solutions, GAF Roofing and Humanscale. Another nonprofit organization dedicated to materials transparency is the International Living Future Institute, which allows companies to “Declare” their products using an online platform, providing a resource for builders and consumers seeking healthier products.

Humanscale makes ergonomic and environmentally sustainable office furniture. Jane Abernethy, chief sustainability officer, describes the importance of materials transparency in their mission of sustainability: “We’re leading our industry in materials transparency with more Health Product Declarations (HPDs) and Declare ingredients than any other company. Inspired by what we’re seeing brands such as sustainability pioneer Patagonia do in apparel, we’re diving deep into our supply chain to create thorough and accurate disclosures. By understanding what goes into our products, we’re creating a healthier environment not only where we live and work but also for the world.”

Cooperation with these transparency and sustainability standards is voluntary, so as a growing number of manufacturers are joining the effort, there are still many companies making furniture and other products without revealing information about their possible harmful effects on the interior environment.

Abernethy confirms that it’s an ongoing commitment for her company, explaining that with ingredient labels on nearly 70 percent of products, “It’s not only a reflection of our commitment to avoid red-list materials and chemicals of concern; it’s proof that we’re prioritizing ingredients that are healthy and environmentally friendly.”

Learning about labels

What can consumers do to protect themselves? One step is to educate yourself about the issue. Learn about products you plan to bring into your home. Check with the HPDC or Living Future websites to see if the products you’re buying or companies you’re purchasing from are listed. Ask about products and furniture at your workplace and help inform your employer about the issue of environmental health.

To learn more about product safety, you can take four new online courses available to everyone at the Parsons School of Design. Alison Mears, head of the Healthy Materials Lab at Parsons, explains the importance of education for consumers, saying, “If you want to understand more about the paint for your baby’s bedroom, you could actually start taking these courses and would be pretty well informed and know where to look for more.”

Becoming more educated about household products, furnishings and labels helps consumers concerned about everyday exposure to chemicals make smarter, healthier choices. Companies wanting to grow their business, particularly with the younger generation, also need to pay attention to these concerns. According to research from Nielsen, millennials and members of Generation Z are much more willing to patronize companies that demonstrate a commitment to a positive social and environmental impact. So what’s good for the consumer and the planet is also good for their bottom line.


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5 tips on preparing your home for summer travel season

2019-06-24T12:53:00

(BPT) – According to AAA Travel, nearly 100 million Americans — four in 10 U.S. adults — are planning to take a family vacation in 2019, with two-thirds of all families embarking on a summer getaway. As families across the country take time off to travel and spend quality time together, the last thing they want to worry about is if their homes and belongings will be the victim of theft or break-ins. Luckily, there are several ways that can help summer travelers keep their homes safe — even from miles away.

From alternative delivery options to light timers, here are five tips that will keep you stress-free and your home safe during upcoming summer vacations:

1. Never wonder if the garage door is open.

It’s not uncommon for people to drive away wondering if they remembered to close the garage door when they are in a rush to begin their vacation. Installing a Chamberlain or LiftMaster myQ-connected Smart Garage Door Opener allows travelers with a smartphone and the myQ app to check the status of their garage door and open or close it from anywhere.

2. Take advantage of Key by Amazon in-garage delivery service.

Just because you’re on vacation doesn’t mean your online shopping habit has to be! With Chamberlain Group (CGI) and Amazon’s recently-announced in-garage delivery service, Prime members in 50 cities and surrounding areas now have the option to choose in-garage delivery when shopping. CGI’s myQ technology — which is included in all newer Chamberlain and LiftMaster garage door openers or can be added to most garage door openers in minutes via a smart garage hub — plus Key by Amazon ensure homeowners never have to worry about their packages going missing or damaged by bad weather. In-garage delivery gives travelers peace of mind their packages are safe and secure in the garage until they return.

3. Make it look like you’re still at home.

Schedule lights to turn on and off while away to give the appearance someone is home even if you are dining out alfresco hundreds of miles away. Also, a classic tell that you’re out of town is an overcrowded mailbox. When leaving on vacation, don’t forget to stop your mail, newspapers and other subscriptions.

4. Install your own security camera to deter theft.

Home security devices, such as surveillance cameras strategically placed to be seen — but out of reach of would-be thieves — can go a long way in deterring package theft. There are many smart options available today, including Tend, Ring and more.

5. Make sure your neighbors know you’ll be away.

Most neighbors are naturally nosy — take advantage of that and let them know ahead of time that you’ll be going out of town. From watering plants to letting out the dogs, a trusted neighbor can keep tabs on your home while you’re away, so you can enjoy a sunset walk on the beach without worrying about what’s happening back home.

Traveling should never be stressful, and having the right tactics in place to ensure your home is secure has sizable benefits for safety, convenience and accessibility. Follow these tips, and you’ll have peace of mind that your home will remain safe and secure no matter where you are or what you’re doing.

Prime members in 50 cities and surrounding areas now have the option to choose in-garage delivery when shopping: www.amazon.com/checkmygarage.



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Sweet cherries: Your on-the-go, healthy summertime snack

2019-06-24T08:01:00

(BPT) – Summer is peak vacation season. According to a recent AAA Travel survey, nearly 100 million Americans will take a vacation in 2019, with 68% of those vacations occurring in the summer. While vacations are fun, traveling can be hectic, making it that much more important to have healthy on-the-go snacks to keep you energized throughout your trip.

Sweet cherries are an ideal grab-and-go summer snack, with high concentrations of nutrients and bioactive components like fiber, polyphenols, carotenoids, vitamin C and potassium. Long praised for their many health benefits, they can help tackle several chronic health issues, according to a review of nearly 30 published studies. Read on to learn how this snack can help you manage five common health concerns.

1. Oxidative stress

Oxidative stress occurs when free radicals and antioxidants are out of balance in your body. Under normal conditions, free radicals help the body by fighting off pathogens that can lead to infection or disease. But when antioxidants are far outnumbered, free radicals can go rogue and attack the body’s fatty tissue, protein or even DNA. Once compromised, the body becomes more susceptible to various diseases over time, such as heart disease, diabetes and hypertension, to name a few.

Sweet cherries are rich in polyphenols and vitamin C, which have powerful antioxidant properties. Studies have shown that eating sweet cherries can increase antioxidant capacity and reduce oxidative stress, bringing the body back into a healthy balance.

2. Inflammation

If you’re among the 54 million Americans who suffer from arthritis or another rheumatic disease, sweet cherries may be able to provide some relief. Research shows that their anti-inflammatory properties can have the same effect as ibuprofen.

3. Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis, and sufferers tend to experience severe pain, redness and tenderness in their joints. The condition is associated with elevated levels of uric acid in the blood, levels that have been reduced with a diet incorporating sweet cherries. A recent study with gout patients found a 35% lower risk of gout attacks among those who consumed the fruit over two days. When that was combined with their prescribed medicine, specifically allopurinol, the risk of a gout attack was 75% lower.

4. Sleep

Vacation and travel can throw off your sleep patterns, and a good night’s sleep is essential in a great vacation. With sweet cherries, you have a reliable source of tryptophan, serotonin and melatonin. Tryptophan is necessary to the development of serotonin, which, in turn, plays an important role in regulating sleep, mood and appetite. Adequate levels of serotonin can contribute to feelings of well-being, while depression has been linked to low measures. Additionally, melatonin helps maintain your body’s internal clock, regulating your sleep and wakefulness patterns.

Studies show that along with this enhanced sleep quality and quantity, mood and anxiety also display improvement. Researchers say enjoying the fruit about an hour before bedtime can help stabilize your sleep cycle.

5. Blood pressure

Finally, studies point to a link between the consumption of sweet cherries and lower blood pressure, both systolic and diastolic measures. Prolonged consumption correlates with a decrease in a potent vasoconstrictor, a compound that narrows blood vessels and restricts blood flow. The fruit is also associated with increased effectiveness of vasodilators, which help widen blood vessels and reduce blood pressure.

The addition of sweet cherries to your diet can reduce common health concerns and minimize the risk for developing illnesses such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Best of all, they are delicious! They are only in season for a short time, so grab them while they’re at their freshest, then freeze, dry or preserve them to enjoy throughout the year.


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Get almost anything you want (or need) delivered from Amazon Prime in one day or less

2019-06-24T08:01:00

(BPT) – We all want to find both essentials and fun products easily — with lots of variety — and get them delivered fast, and for free. This summer, spend more time with friends and family and less time shopping. Prime Free One Day ensures members can find last-minute birthday presents, sunscreen and beach towels for an impromptu getaway, as well as closet organizers and cleaning products — all delivered the very next day.

Amazon is in the process of expanding one-day delivery with Amazon Prime. Today, Prime Free One Day is available to members with no minimum purchase amount on more than ten million products, coast to coast. Millions of members are already noticing and enjoying free one-day delivery right to their door, garage and even to their car.

Here are some questions we asked about Prime Free One Day.

Where is Prime Free One Day available today?

Prime Free One Day is available on ten million products, coast to coast, and customers across the U.S. may have already noticed expanded one-day selection when they shop. In fact, Amazon customers in thousands of cities and towns across 44 major metropolitan areas already have access to millions of items with free same-day delivery.

What products are available for one-day delivery?

Over ten million products are available for one-day delivery and the selection is continually increasing. Amazon’s vast selection varies from the best of Amazon entertainment to everyday necessities like diapers, apparel and household items, as well as consumer electronics and more.

How is one-day delivery made possible?

Amazon has built its network for more than 20 years, growing it to include 110 fulfillment centers, 40 package sorting centers, 100 delivery stations and 20 air gateways — all to be closer to customers. This network allows the company to deliver orders faster and more efficiently.

What one-day delivery options does Amazon offer?

To make delivery even more convenient, Amazon offers multiple package pickup and return options, including Amazon Locker and Amazon pickup locations in towns and cities across the U.S. Other delivery options even include in-garage, in-car and in-home deliveries using Key for Amazon.

Amazon obsesses over making customers’ lives easier, better and more fun with Prime. In fact, Amazon customers in thousands of cities and towns across 44 major metropolitan areas already have access to millions of items with free same-day delivery. Simply look for items marked as eligible for delivery today, order before lunch and get them by bedtime. For delivery in a matter of hours, members can also use Prime Now to receive grocery delivery from Whole Foods Market in nearly 90 U.S. metros, or grocery pickup in as little as 30 minutes in 30 metros, with more to come in 2019.

To learn more about Amazon Prime or start a free trial, visit amazon.com/prime.


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Alleviating some financial burden felt by the ‘Sandwich Generation’

2019-06-24T09:01:00

(BPT) – You’re middle-aged and the thought of how you’re going to enjoy your golden years is becoming more persistent. You may be daydreaming about finally buying an RV to take that cross-country trip you and your significant other always talk about, or maybe you’ve begun planning how you can buy that vacation home. You take a quick look at your portfolio and it brings you back down to earth. You realize that those plans seem further off as you find yourself “financially stuck” between two generations of dependents — your aging parents and your adult kids struggling to find their financial footing. Congratulations, you are officially part of the Sandwich Generation.

As the population ages and lives longer, adults in their 40s and 50s are increasingly finding themselves navigating some thorny near-term financial demands while also trying not to wholly forgo any hopes of retiring with some financial surety. A Pew Research Center study shows that nearly half (47%) of adults in their 40s and 50s have a parent aged 65 or older and are either raising a young child or financially supporting a grown child (age 18 or older). That study also shows that one in seven middle-aged adults (15%) are providing financial support to both an aging parent and a child.

Sandwich Gens are facing an increasing number of financial responsibilities and with that comes growing financial shortfalls and serious disruptions to their long-term financial planning.

But the Sandwich Generation isn’t the only generation facing the retirement planning dilemma. Increased market volatility means that retirement portfolios are more volatile than ever, making it difficult for those who are already at retirement’s doorstep to plan for the full retirement experience typically afforded them.

So, what can those in the Sandwich Generation and those who may already be retired do to alleviate the pressures that come along with planning for the future in today’s turbulent financial environment? One often overlooked — or misunderstood — financial tool is a reverse mortgage. Americans now hold over $7 trillion in home equity and tapping into that equity to adequately fund retirement is an increasingly popular option. Whether you’re a retiree trying to figure out how to afford the vacation home that you’ve dreamt about for the last 40 years or a Sandwich Gen with an aging parent and dependent children, tapping into home equity can help to both supplement retirement income and increase cash flow.

A reverse mortgage allows qualified borrowers age 62 and older to borrow against their equity in the form of a non-recourse loan. With a reverse mortgage, you live in and retain ownership of your home while using your home equity to help fund expenses. There’s no silver bullet when it comes to difficult financial decisions, but a reverse mortgage — as part of a balanced retirement solution — can be a viable option that can help families regain their financial footing.

Not your father’s reverse mortgage

Many people’s apprehensions about reverse mortgage are based on antiquated views about the offering and which demographic it could be designed to support. It turns out that in the past decade reverse mortgages have matured and evolved — both in terms of product innovations and in the protections they offer customers.

According to Finance of America Reverse, the current average borrower for a jumbo loan has a credit score of 729 and a home value of $1.7 million. Rather than drawing down on portfolios intended to be the base of a long and fruitful retirement, many people are managing to maintain their long-term financial plan while supporting dependent loved ones by tapping into home equity. And it seems like it’s working.

According to a study by the trade group NRMLA, compared to other financial products, reverse mortgages see incredibly high approval ratings, with 83% of seniors responding positively to their decision. Innovative products like Finance of America’s HomeSafe suite of reverse mortgage loans offer benefits of no mortgage insurance premium and zero out-of-pocket funds required at closing.

Tapping into home equity is now much more than a last-ditch effort to secure quick cash in a bind. Reverse mortgages serve as a viable option for building and maintaining a family’s financial legacy and easing the choke hold on the Sandwich Gens. Reverse mortgages can allow homeowners to provide children with an early inheritance, help those children purchase their first home, help alleviate ballooning college debt and even establish a trust fund for their grandchildren, as well as taking their own needs into account such as covering medical or in-home care expenses.