Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2023-05-25T10:05:00

(BPT) – A healthy pet doesn’t happen by accident. Even a dog or cat without preexisting health conditions needs their owner’s help to live their best life and maintain their well-being. Check out these five tips from pet experts at Purina who explain how to prioritize your pet’s health to keep your four-legged companion happy and healthy.

1. Provide complete and balanced nutrition

Ensuring your pet is receiving proper nutrition is key. “Many pet foods on the market today are meant to be the only source of nutrition for pets,” said Jason Gagné, DVM, DACVIM (Nutrition), Veterinary Technical Communications. “That’s why it’s critical that they’re 100 percent complete and balanced for the intended life stage.

When you see “complete & balanced” on your pet’s food, it means that it provides your pet the right amount of all essential nutrients and in the right proportions that their bodies need.

2. Get plenty of exercise

Nothing strengthens the bond between you and your pet like doing something energetic together. Whether you take your dog for a walk in a place you both love or play a new game with your cat, spending quality time together is top of the list when it comes to showing your pet you love them and care for their well-being. Not only are pets kept active, but pet owners also reap the health benefits here.

3. Take care of their skin and coat

Brushing your pet isn’t just for looks. Taking care of your dog’s skin and coat is important for your pup’s health. “A dog’s skin and coat is their largest organ and protects their bones, muscles and other organs,” says Gagné. “It also plays a vital role maintaining body temperature.”

Using a supplement like EverRoot Skin & Coat oil is a great option if your dog has sensitive skin, as it includes skin-loving nutrients like MCTs, vitamin E, DHA & EPA.

4. Teach them new skills

Investing time in your pet is a wonderful way to show them how much you care, and it’s another great way to care for their physical and mental health. “Teaching new skills will help keep their minds sharp, is a great form of entertainment and can incorporate physical activity as well,” said Dr. Ragen McGowan, PhD, Animal Behavior Scientist. “Interactive puzzle toys for dogs or food maze bowls for cats and dogs are great ways to keep them mentally fit.”

5. Consider using supplements

To make sure you’re doing everything you can to keep your pet as healthy as possible, consider using supplements to help address their specific needs.

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements offers options to help with a variety of circumstances pet parents may encounter. For example, FortiFlora is a probiotic supplement that contains a safe and effective strain of beneficial bacteria to promote normal intestinal microflora, which means digestive and immune support for cats and dogs.

“If your dog or cat is displaying anxious behaviors, ask your veterinarian about Calming Care, a probiotic supplement that helps pets maintain calm behavior and cope with external stressors,” said McGowan. And for owners who feel their cat could use help staying hydrated, Hydra Care is a nutrient-enriched water which has been shown to increase total liquid intake when compared to cats consuming only water and dry food.*

To find more products that support pet health, visit ProPlanVetDirect.com and EverRoot.com.

*Cats must consume at least 2 oz per 5 lbs of bodyweight daily for benefit.

2023-05-24T15:31:00

(BPT) – Anyone who has lived through the last few years knows how dramatically the world of work has changed — and how it continues to evolve in ways that are not always predictable. As advanced technology, business environments and the ways people work are all hurtling toward the future, it stands to reason that employees and employers alike are constantly reevaluating what’s next in terms of their needs, goals, and ambitions. If you’re one of the many professionals currently looking for the next great opportunity to advance your career during these complex times, you’ll want the right partner to help you develop and implement your career plan.

To help you get started, Dexian, a new enterprise brand built on the combined legacies of leaders in the staffing, IT, and workforce solutions industry — including DISYS, Signature Consultants, D2M, and others — is bringing together the best talent, technology and top businesses around the world to create trajectory-changing outcomes that help everyone fulfill their ambitions and achieve new levels of success.

“The launch of Dexian reflects a forever-changed world of work that requires new, focused solutions to new modes of work,” said Maruf Ahmed, DISYS president and COO. “It’s not just the way we work, where we work and how we work that has changed. If we can do right by our employees, our clients and our consultants, we are in the business for good.”

Dexian partners with hundreds of leading organizations every year to help modernize their workforce with scalable, specialized talent who bring ingenuity and experience and are ready to help support key programs, eliminate technology barriers, and accelerate digital transformation. If you’re looking to further your career and work with some of the most prestigious companies, here are some of the ways that Dexian can help you prepare for and accomplish your next great career move.

Train for the future of work

No matter where you currently are in your career, the fast-changing nature of technology means that there will always be more to learn. To help you stay up-to-date and to continue growing in your career, Dexian provides top-notch training opportunities including upskilling and reskilling through virtual learning, bootcamps and advanced workshops.

Develop a personalized career plan

To optimize your next career move, it’s best to have a concrete, well-thought-out plan, rather than simply bouncing from position to position. Your skills, your experiences, your talents and your ambitions are all unique to you, so your career path needs to reflect that, too. Specialist advisors at Dexian can help you with creating and executing your personal, bespoke career plan. You’ll receive agent-like support and career guidance every step of the way, whether you’re looking for consulting opportunities or a permanent position.

Find not just a job, but a position curated for you

To achieve success today, it’s not just about finding someone to fill a position — it’s about finding the right solution, curating the best talent and the best opportunities, to create the perfect fit. In order to reach your personal career goals, you’ll want to partner with a team that works with top-tier businesses as your trusted advisor — a team not only committed to finding you a job, but one that is also focused on delivering a bespoke fit for you, your career and for the company you’ll be working for.

Dexian puts their candidates first. One of the many benefits of working with Dexian is the access that you will have to clients working in all industries across the globe — and the opportunity to help leverage technology to address core challenges and drive innovation for Dexian clients. And, as Dexian partners with companies to deliver tailored staffing and IT solutions that help drive their business forward, its career advisors identify opportunities that help execute on your personal career plan, working with you as needed to continue to up-skill and train so you can achieve your goals in your unique career trajectory.

“As the company that is in business for good, Dexian believes the most critical way for us to deliver on this promise is through the advanced workforce solutions we are providing today and will continue to innovate as we move forward into the future,” added Ahmed. “We work with talent to find the best jobs, and we work with clients to find the best talent, bringing organizations and individuals together so each can fulfill their ambitions and succeed.”

Ready to get started? Visit Dexian.com to learn more.

2023-05-24T20:01:00

(BPT) – Are you an active-duty service member or military spouse planning a permanent change of station? Now is the time to protect your family’s information online.

A third of the military — nearly half a million families — make a PCS move every year. According to the Federal Trade Commission, active-duty service members are three times more likely to be victims of digital theft than the general public.

While financial and identity theft can happen any time of year, military families are especially vulnerable when moving for a permanent change of station. Anyone managing a move risks sensitive data being stolen. In fact, personal information is shuffled from one location to another, leaving it accessible to movers, family members, dumpster divers, real estate agents and home buyers, contractors, appraisers and more. That’s why it’s critical to be proactive and secure your digital lives before a move so you don’t leave yourself open to digital attacks. Here are five ways to keep your family safe before, during and after relocation.

1. Don’t overshare on social media.

You may be tempted to share the excitement of your move online, but doing so can make you vulnerable. Avoid sharing information about your family’s relocation, or any personal information for that matter, on social media.

You may think sharing your new neighborhood, children’s school or duty station is harmless, but cybercriminals can use these tidbits of information to steal your identity. Even when you’ve settled into your new home, stay vigilant. Use caution when sharing information like your location, favorite sports team, children’s birthdays or any details that could help hackers guess your passwords.

2. Update passwords.

Speaking of passwords, you should update your passwords as you prepare to move. Even better, create complex passphrases with multiple digits, special characters and letters in various cases. Don’t pick phrases a stranger could guess by looking at your social media or publicly available information.

Even if you have a strong passphrase, don’t reuse it across multiple accounts. If a cybercriminal successfully breaches one of your accounts, they could use it to access the others with the same passphrase.

Finally, don’t write your passwords or passphrases down digitally or on paper. To make it easier to remember your credentials and keep them secure, consider using a password manager, like Aura’s, which alerts you when you need to change your password, if there has been a data leak or breach.

3. Keep track of your credit.

It’s important to monitor your credit and bank statements for suspicious activity, especially if you’re in the military. The FTC found that active-duty service members report problems with debt collectors and credit bureaus at more than twice the rate of other adults.

If you haven’t already, set up active-duty credit alerts with any of the three credit bureaus. This encourages lenders and creditors to take extra steps to verify your identity, making it more difficult for bad actors to open new credit lines in your name.

If you want to be extra safe, freeze your credit when you move so you don’t have to worry about it as you navigate your permanent change of station. If you see anything unusual, take action immediately.

4. Have “the digital talk” with your children.

According to Ipsos research, 21% of parents surveyed have never started a conversation with their children about online safety. However, those same parents were concerned that their children would be tricked into sending money to someone online (30%), ordering or over-ordering food (22%), making unauthorized purchases (31%) or spending money on online games without their consent (35%).

If you haven’t talked with your children about online safety, or it’s been a while since your last conversation, make sure to discuss it with them before your move. Set an example and talk with your children about online safety. Highlight the importance of keeping personal information private and not sharing it with strangers or on social media. Beyond identity theft, sharing information like where they go to school or where they frequently hang out can allow predators to stalk them.

5. Explore digital security solutions.

Simplify your digital safety before your move and beyond by exploring digital security solutions. Consider signing up for an all-in-one online security platform like Aura. This easy-to-use security solution keeps your and your family’s personal information, devices and finances safe from online threats.

Aura offers everything you need to proactively control your digital life and keep your finances and identity safe and secure. This includes lost wallet recovery, antivirus, VPN, multi-device protection and monitoring for credit, bank accounts, Social Security numbers, home and title use, and criminal and court records.

To thank military members, Veterans and their families for their service, Aura offers up to 50% off its protection plans, starting with a two-week free trial. Learn more by visiting https://aura.com/military.

Don’t wait for cybercriminals to strike. Using these five tips, you can help your family stay safe online before, during and after your permanent change of station.

2023-05-23T09:01:00

(BPT) – Everyone loves a clean home, but as the weather gets nicer, many of us want to spend less time sprucing up and more time enjoying summer with family and friends. This is when a few good cleaning hacks can come in handy.

In a recent Bona/Harris Poll online survey, most Americans (92%) noted they’d like some type of cleaning “hack” to save time and energy. To help get the job done faster and easier, consider these home cleaning tips and tricks. Bonus: They all take a greener approach to cleaning so you can feel good about your home and your impact on the planet.

Use ice to clean your garbage disposal

A lot of crud goes down your kitchen sink drain. If you have a garbage disposal, it can get dirty and stinky over time. The blades of the disposal system are dangerous to clean directly, so instead, toss in a few ice cubes and run the system for a minute. Better yet, freeze a bit of lemon or orange rind into the cubes to clean the blades and leave behind a fresh scent.

Steam clean the microwave

Instead of scrubbing a grimy microwave, use the power of steam. Place a cup of water in a large microwave-safe bowl or container like a glass measuring cup and add a splash of lemon juice for a citrus scent. Run on high for 3-5 minutes so the water steams the microwave and softens the food and grime. Carefully remove the container and wipe down the inside with a soft cloth — no scrubbing required.

Use biobased cleaners and reusable cloths

Avoid bringing toxins into your home by using biobased products like the new USDA Certified Biobased Bona All-Purpose Cleaner. As one of only a few 99% biobased surface cleaners available, it’s safe for all the surfaces in the home while still being tough on grease and grime. In addition, skip the wasteful paper towel by using washable and reusable microfiber cloths, like the Bona Microfiber Cleaning Cloths. These new cloths are customized for every cleaning chore — from the kitchen cloth’s tight zig zag weaves to catch food particles, to the bathroom cloth’s looser zig zag design to help clean hair and soap scum. Made from 80% post-consumer recycled material, these cleaning cloths can be washed and reused up to 300 times.

Soak shower heads in vinegar

There’s nothing like jumping into a shower and looking forward to a warm cascade of droplets, only to be met with a frantic spray with unsatisfying pressure. Over time, minerals in the water can build up on the shower head and block the flow. An easy solution is to remove the head and place in a bowl of vinegar. A quick soak loosens buildup that you can easily clean off with a small brush so your shower flows again.

Use baking soda to deodorize carpet and more

Baking soda is one of the most versatile natural cleaning ingredients. Known for its ability to absorb scents and deodorize, it’s great for cleaning tough spots around your home. Have a carpet that could use a refresh? Sprinkle baking soda on the carpet, let it sit for half an hour and then vacuum. You can also do this for other soft-surface areas of the home that are hard to deodorize, such as couches, chairs and mattresses.

These hacks help save time and energy cleaning, plus you can feel good that you’re being kind to the planet. The only thing left is to enjoy your summer time fun!

2023-05-22T07:23:00

(BPT) – The sizzle, the scent, the satisfaction of that first bite — there’s nothing quite like grilled food on a beautiful summer day. This year, seafood is taking over grills across America, and everyone from casual foodies to professional chefs are getting hooked on grilled fish.

Catch the flavor of the season

Why is fish the hot dish for grilling this year? Fish is wonderfully versatile and can be prepared with different flavor profiles, including savory, spicy, fruity, citrusy and many more. It pairs nicely with other beloved flavors of summer, such as a crisp fresh salad, ripe fruit or grilled vegetables as a side. Plus, packed with omega-3s and other nutrients, fish is often a healthier alternative to other popular grilled foods, like red meat or processed sausage.

Make a splash at mealtime

Grilling fish might be intimidating to some people, but it doesn’t have to be. One time-saving tip is to look for Morey’s Fine Fish & Seafood at your local grocery store. This family-owned company has been procuring high-quality fish and seafood products for over 80 years. With an emphasis on quality and flavor, you’ll find premium fillets paired with chef-inspired seasoning and marinades so you can make the most of grilling season — without the stress.

“Seas the day” with salmon

What options are best for summer grilling? While many fish are great for the grill, you can’t go wrong with salmon. This meaty-textured fish is ideal for the grill, whether you place it right on the hot grates or wrap it in foil for a delicate and delicious steam. Salmon is low in saturated fat and high in protein, which is good for maintaining bone and muscle strength.

Morey’s has several wild salmon options that make grilling a breeze:

• Wild Salmon Seasoned Grill has a smoky blend of garlic, basil, salt and red pepper seasoning that becomes even more pronounced through grilling.
• Wild Salmon Steakhouse features white and black pepper with notes of jalapeño and rosemary for a savory dish with a subtle kick.
• Wild Salmon Lemon Herb has a citrus-style marinade for bright notes that balance this naturally buttery, rich fish.

Set taste buds adrift with new recipes

Grilled fish makes an amazing meal any time, but if you want to try new flavors and be inspired, check out the recipes at Moreys.com/Recipes. With a variety of mouth-watering recipes, you’ll find inspiration for any occasion.

For example, the Steakhouse Salmon Quinoa Bowl recipe puts two superfoods together — salmon and quinoa — to produce a nutritious and hearty meal that comes together in about 30 minutes. While the quinoa and salmon cook, mix up the aromatic and flavorful dressing made with lime, jalapeño, honey, red wine vinegar and olive oil. Set the table indoors or dine al fresco, and prepare for a relaxing meal at home.

Get ready to make waves at your next meal. With these tips for simple preparation and cooking, you’ll find grilled fish to be your new go-to for grilling this summer.

2023-05-21T23:01:00

(BPT) – Every summer, parents nationwide get ready for the upcoming school year by purchasing necessary school supplies. However, a whopping 92% of classrooms have students with families who can’t afford many of the basics, according to AdoptAClassroom.org. Families are feeling stretched by inflation, forcing some to choose between buying new clothing, putting food on the table, or paying rent and utilities. Many teachers are also being pinched, with 96% already spending money out of their own pockets (an average of $860 each year) to help their students by purchasing necessary classroom supplies.

Preparing for this coming school year may be even more challenging, due to the rising costs of goods that are required for any classroom. For example, the cost of pencils is up 40%, and the price of a ream of paper is up 60%. These expenses — for families and teachers — are likely to reach an all-time high this summer. With the financial burden on teachers growing, even more students may enter classrooms without the items they need.

Mission-driven partnerships working to help

Nonprofit organizations and corporations are recognizing these challenges and working together to help make a difference for teachers and students. Over the last two years, for example, Subaru of America, Inc. has focused their Subaru Loves Learning^® initiative on a partnership with AdoptAClassroom.org, which will support more than 470,000 students nationwide with school supply donations by this summer. This ongoing collaboration has been able to provide teachers across the country with flexible funding to purchase more of the supplies they need to help their students thrive. Students and educators are requiring even more support in face of today’s unprecedented challenges, and the Subaru Loves Learning initiative helps pave the way toward childhood success and academic innovation.

“As families begin preparing for each new school year, not every student has the same opportunities to make the most of their education,” said Alan Bethke, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Subaru of America, Inc. “Together with AdoptAClassroom.org, our retailers are helping to relieve some of the financial burden from teachers while helping all students secure the resources they need to learn and succeed in the classroom.”

Recognizing the impact of social good across the country

The success of this initiative and many more are being recognized by Engage for Good’s annual Halo Awards, North America’s highest honors for corporate social impact initiatives engaging consumers or employees. The prestigious awards celebrate programs that blend brand purpose and social impact to build a better world and bottom line.

The Subaru Loves Learning initiative in partnership with AdoptAClassroom.org was recently recognized with the Gold Halo Award in the “Best Education Initiative” category. Their efforts have so far equipped 167,943 students with necessary school supplies, funding 5,699 classrooms across the U.S., with 100% of the funding going to high-needs schools. High need is defined as a school that has a Title I Schoolwide Program and/or a school where 40% of the student population qualifies for the free or reduced-price lunch program.

The initiative not only provides tangible items, but it also helps to make teachers feel appreciated and supported as professionals, boosting their morale — which can help make the difference between a teacher continuing to teach or leaving the profession. It also gives students equitable opportunities to succeed in school, regardless of their family’s financial means.

“When you give under-resourced children new supplies, you make them feel valued, build their confidence and ease the mind of their parents,” added Bethke. “Education is foundational for strong, healthy communities and gives children a pathway out of generational poverty.”

2023-05-19T14:25:00

(BPT) – Living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis (UC), can be extremely frustrating to people living with the conditions and significantly affect their quality of life.

Moreover, the 1.6 million Americans that live with IBD often feel misunderstood by friends and family members who often minimalize their conditions, as well as offer medical guidance based on their preconceived notions.

People living with IBD express that life with ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease can be challenging – particularly when they have to run to the bathroom in the middle of a work meeting or dinner date. Friends and family often tell them that they look healthy and should give themselves a cheat day to eat the foods they used to love.

World IBD Day is observed on May 19 every year, and Crohn’s and UC are the two most common kinds of IBD. During the last 20 years, an increasing number of people have been diagnosed with IBD, which is a serious, chronic digestive disease with no cure, no recognized cause, and a lack of awareness of the pain and suffering that people living with IBD endure. World IBD Day creates awareness of the struggles of such people.

Central to this mission, Janssen Pharmaceuticals recently launched Together, We Know IBD, a campaign designed to break through the misconceptions surrounding IBD, as well as motivate people living with the condition and Health Care Providers (HCPs) to talk about their condition, continued research in the field and treatment options on the horizon.

Together, We Know IBD personifies common situations that people with IBD encounter from friends and family who don’t fully understand this disease. The campaign’s caricatures of “the uninformed” is the initial focal point of the campaign, intending to evoke a strong emotional reaction from people with IBD that deeply empathizes with their day-to-day struggles.

The Together, We Know IBD website is a vital resource to help raise awareness and education of Janssen’s IBD clinical trials and support conversations between doctors and people living with IBD about potential participation in active clinical trials.

Between the triggers, the carousel of medications, and the fatigue, those living with IBD have a lot to deal with, and most people just don’t know about IBD. Janssen does know IBD and appreciates that better treatment options start with clinical research. Together with leading HCPs and people affected by the condition, Janssen hopes to advance the science of IBD treatment so that one day, long-lasting remission can be a possibility.

Remember: Together, We Can Drive Research; Together, We Know IBD.

To learn more about the Together, We Know IBD Campaign visit: www.weknowibd.com

2023-05-19T09:01:00

(BPT) – Summer camp season is nearly upon us. Whether that means your kids are canoeing at the lake, scoring s’mores at sleepaway camp or sharpening their soccer skills, they’re going to need the right clothes.

Because every camp is a little different, here are three sets of packing tips — each tailored to a different type of summer fun.

THE ADVENTURE PACK

If your happy campers will be exploring the great outdoors, start with a fresh twist on comfortable camp classics. For her, it’s OshKosh B’gosh rib bike shorts and sporty skorts with breezy, match-back tanks. For him, muscle tanks and pocket tees pair perfectly with pull-on shorts for easy dressing. And nothing says summer vibes like tie-dye.

Next up: versatile footwear that stands up to all-day play. Durable, strappy sandals are great for going from the canteen to the kayak, and quick-close straps make them easy for kids to take on and off.

Quick-drying swimsuits with built-in UPF 50+ sun protection offer more peace of mind when your kids are spending their days splashing around in the sun (but don’t forget the sunscreen, too). Are they bunking with their big brother, big sister or BFFs? Carter’s offers bright matching prints from rashguards to 1-pieces and trunks for the ultimate twin day look.

More can’t-miss accessories to throw in their pack:

• Hats: Buckets or baseball caps, snag their favorite style with UPF 50+ protection
• Sunglasses: 100% UVA-UVB protection for those days on the water
• Friendship bracelets: To turn camp friends into best friends

THE SLEEPAWAY SET

It could be their first time at overnight camp, or maybe they’re already pros who love to bunk with their friends every summer. Either way, the right PJs make for well-rested nights that lead to more fun-filled days.

One big question to ask: Does their bunk have air conditioning? If it’s a “bring your own fan” situation, pack short-sleeve, 2-piece sleep sets and nightgowns in lighter fabrics. If there’s AC, go with mix-and-match sleep sets that include shorts and pants, so your kid can choose what’s most comfortable.

THE ALL-STAR SCORE

For some kids, the season never stops. Summer is the perfect time to lace ‘em up and leap into a new sport or activity.

Kids activewear these days has styles so cute you’ll wish they came in your size. Take this stretchy, easy dress with active fabric and built-in shorts in a marbled pink print. It’s an ace for your little tennis pro.

Need to pack a pair of cleats? Look for supportive insoles in breezier fabrics like mesh with wipe clean tech for when rain turns the soccer field into a muddy mess.

For all the cool new camp styles out there, don’t forget to load up on basics. Multipacks of comfy socks and underwear are always your friend. Pair those with this list of go-tos and they’ll have all the clothes they need to make their camp experience extra special.

2023-05-17T13:01:00

(BPT) – From the beach to the backyard to the campfire and beyond, summer is the season for enjoying delicious foods and time outdoors. While eating al fresco may require a bit of planning, it doesn’t need to be difficult to create memorable meals in amazing settings. Simply follow these five tips and tricks to make the meal at your next outdoor gathering delicious.

Enjoy real bacon without the cleanup

Bacon is always a crowd favorite, but cooking it outdoors can be challenging. That’s why HORMEL^® BLACK LABEL^® Chopped Bacon is the ultimate hack for campfire meals, backyard cookouts and more. Made from real bacon that’s chopped and packaged in a resealable bag, there’s no prep or cleanup required. Top or add to any meal you’re cooking outside this summer to give it a delicious, crispy upgrade. HORMEL^® BLACK LABEL^® Chopped Bacon is available nationwide at your local grocery store or supercenter.

Divide and conquer to reduce stress

Group gatherings outdoors can be fun, but meals can be complex if you need to feed more people. Instead of one person handling it all, opt for a potluck approach where everyone brings something to share. You can simplify the process by assigning items to each person so you know all aspects of outdoor dining are covered. For example, request different people bring drinks, sides, main dishes, desserts, condiments and extras like plates, napkins and cutlery.

Freeze water bottles for double duty

Staying hydrated is important outdoors, especially during warm weather. If you’re having a big group, consider creating a drink station so people can refill as needed. Drinks need to stay cool, so instead of packing them in ice, simply freeze water bottles instead. They’ll keep other drinks cool, and as they melt, will be a refreshing drink option themselves. Bonus tip: To prevent drink mix-ups in groups, pack a permanent marker so people can label their drink to easily keep track of it.

A time-saving trick for new recipes

Whether it’s just close friends or a big family event, you can make your next outdoor gathering extra special by trying a new recipe. Need inspiration? Visit Hormel.com to explore a variety of recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert and snacks. Remember, you can save time by using HORMEL^® BLACK LABEL^® Chopped Bacon in recipes for salads, potatoes, omelets, dips and so much more. It’s available in a convenient, resealable pouch that is shelf stable (refrigerate after opening) so you can bring it with you, no matter what kind of outdoor adventures you’re planning.

Plan for trash and limit your load

Leave no trace is the idea that wherever you go outside, you only leave with memories while respecting the environment around you. You can make a difference by simplifying food packaging and making sure any trash you create is properly disposed of before you leave. For large groups, a trash bag placed in a large cardboard box makes a great makeshift garbage that’s easy to remove when you pack up and head out. This even works great for backyard gatherings so people aren’t going in and out of your home looking for the garbage.

2023-05-17T07:01:00

(BPT) – Nearly one year ago the U.S. economy took an uncomfortable turn for many consumers courtesy of inflation and rising interest rates. Costs for groceries and daily living skyrocketed, the job market became unsteady, and incredibly high gas prices hit communities nationwide.

While some of these financial strains have lessened, many are still looking to find balance and budget-friendly ways to continue to do the things they love — particularly during this time of year when there are many opportunities to gather, give, travel and celebrate. In addition, there are important factors that must be balanced within our finances, such as health needs. All of this can take a toll on your wallet, and even well-being, begging the question: is it possible to experience better living on a budget?

With a little planning and some helpful tips from money-saving expert Trae Bodge, and by taking advantage of your AARP member benefits, you can be both fiscally conscious while still enjoying moments that matter.

“You can be smart with your money and enjoy a stacked social calendar. It just takes being a bit more thoughtful with your choices, including ways to save money or time — or both — when you’re taking care of your health,” Bodge said.

Gift Thoughtfully

“It’s fun to have a lot to celebrate but feeling like each event warrants another pricey gift can quickly put a damper on the excitement,” advised Bodge. “Remember, gifts don’t have to be flashy or expensive to make an impact. Often, it’s things that are meaningful, offer an experience or serve a purpose that are the most appreciated.”

When it comes to something meaningful, flowers always deliver. They’re also a great way to show you care without having to stress to find a gift. Make your selection by occasion, recipient, color or flower type, or even opt for a plant if it’s more their style. Flower arrangements and delivery may seem expensive, but when ordering through FTD, AARP members automatically save 25% sitewide on flowers and 30% on select items with promo code AARP30. No minimum purchase amount is required, and same-day delivery is available by local florists.

As you celebrate with family, what better way to honor the occasion than with a gift that delves into the history of that very institution? An Ancestry subscription offers access to historical information, billions of records and opportunities to connect with others to uncover your family’s unique story. AARP members save 30% on the first year of an All Access or a World Explorer subscription and get access to records and online tools to search, save and share their family history. If you’re new to Ancestry, you’ll receive the discount on the first year of your subscription, and if you already have an account, you’ll receive the discount when you renew your subscription for a year.

Celebrate Wisely

According to Bodge, “A budget-conscious celebration can still be festive. Look for venues that offer deals and discounts or consider entertaining at home. The most important thing is not where you celebrate, but who you celebrate with.”

Gathering at home, whether around the table or in the backyard, is a convenient way to manage costs. You can decorate as much as you desire and keep tabs on food and beverage expenses ahead of time. Use a local caterer or flex your culinary muscles and do it yourself.

When it comes to libations, Naked Wines helps make it easy and affordable with world-class wine sourced directly from independent winemakers. AARP members receive a $110 voucher on the first order of $139.99 or more. Plus, when you sign up to become a Naked Wines Angel and invest directly in the winemakers, you will receive an ongoing benefit of an additional $72 in annual wine credits to put toward wine purchases.

Rather avoid the stress of hosting and clean-up? Let someone else do it. Check out a local restaurant that can accommodate your gathering and budget. Or simply pick a family favorite to enjoy some quality time together. AARP members can save 15% on their check at participating Denny’s locations, for example. You can also have the best of both worlds by ordering to-go* and enjoying at home and still receive the 15% discount.

Enjoy Healthfully

While you’re busy making the most out of your social calendar, it’s a good idea to also check in on your health. Sometimes, in our effort not to disappoint, we overcommit despite not feeling our best. Take some time to rest and focus on your well-being, especially if travel is involved. If it is, it’s a good idea to confirm that you’re up to date on your latest exams and be sure to stay on top of managing any strict medication regimens you might have.

A check-in with your primary care provider can help prevent, detect and treat any health issues that might arise and prevent you from attending celebrations. If you don’t already have a provider, Oak Street Health provides primary care services with more than 170 centers across 21 states, and also offers phone and video visits to Medicare eligible adults from a team of doctors, nurses and other professionals, dedicated to keeping you well.

If high levels of physical activity, standing for long periods or getting from place to place might impact your attendance or ability to enjoy an event, physical therapy is a great way to improve strength, flexibility and balance, especially after a procedure or injury. AARP Physical Therapy At Home by Luna enables you to receive in-person treatment in the comfort of your own home. Easily find a therapist and make an appointment online; a prescription may not be needed to start. Luna accepts most insurances and Medicare, and AARP members and non­members can take advantage of physical therapy access at home.

Finally, go confidently into the rest of this year with the knowledge that you won’t miss a beat, or a conversation. It’s possible to address hearing concerns without breaking the bank through AARP^® Hearing Solutions™ provided by UnitedHealthcare Hearing. Members save 20% on hearing aids and 15% on accessories, plus receive an online hearing test at no cost and personalized support through a large nationwide network of hearing providers.

Ultimately, with these tips, you can enjoy better living on a budget year-round. To learn more about ways to live your best life without overspending, visit aarp.org/benefits.

*Offer does not apply to Dennys.com or in-app purchases.

AARP member benefits are provided by third parties, not by AARP or its affiliates. Providers pay a royalty fee to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Some provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions. Please contact the provider directly for details.