Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2025-09-30T20:27:00

(BPT) – This year’s IFA in Berlin may be over, but LG’s booth left a lasting impression. Under the theme AI Appliances Orchestra, we presented our comprehensive vision for the future of home living — a future where LG ThinQ AI enables everyday appliances to seamlessly connect, adapt and evolve to make your life better.

At the core of it all was LG AI Home — a connected suite of appliances and services powered by our unique Affectionate Intelligence. Designed with European lifestyles in mind, LG AI Home is a fully integrated system where products communicate with each other to improve performance, save time and energy, and provide you with the personalized care and comfort you deserve.

Key elements of LG ThinQ AI include ThinQ UP, which lets you customize your appliances with features that fit your needs, and ThinQ Care, which delivers proactive maintenance to help keep your devices running at their best. This empathetic AI elevates home life by putting your happiness — and the health of the planet — first, prioritizing convenience and sustainability at every turn.

The LG booth was divided into several discrete zones, each showing a different aspect of our AI Home vision. The Hero Zone, located at the booth entrance, served as the centerpiece — illustrating how our appliances work together like an orchestra, with ThinQ AI as the conductor, bringing harmony to your home.

In the Fit & Max Zone, we recreated European-style living spaces to show how effortlessly our innovations can fit into real homes. Perfect for compact spaces, the lineup included kitchen and living solutions designed to save space while maximizing capacity — like our new refrigerator with a Zero Clearance Hinge.

The AI Core Tech Zone highlighted the advanced AI technologies behind our latest Better Life innovations. In laundry, we introduced the AI-driven HeatPump WasherDryer, delivering a complete wash-and-dry cycle with an “A”‘ energy rating. Features such as AI Wash™ senses fabric type and weight, while specialized cycles help reduce the amount of microplastics shed by clothing during washing, protecting both you and the water supply.

Over in the AI Home Zone, visitors saw LG AI Home in action through real-life scenarios. Live demonstrations made clear the many benefits of our smart ThinQ ON-powered ecosystem, where you can use voice commands, automated routines and personalized settings to create the home lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of.

We also introduced Spielraum, our AI mobility solution that extends the smart home into vehicles, resulting in a seamless, connected experience that lets you take the comforts of home on the road with you.

Vacuum cleaning solutions were another highlight of our IFA showcase. The new generation of vacuum cleaners we revealed included smarter robot vacuums, featuring a built-in docking station with automated capabilities.

The LG innovations displayed at IFA 2025 also reflected our continued focus on personalization and energy efficiency — two of the most important considerations for customers seeking to buy new home solutions, both in Europe and around the world.

Our commitment to sustainability was recognized at the first-ever IFA Innovation Awards, where we received multiple honors in the home appliance category for our AI-powered living solutions.

For those who managed to visit our IFA booth, either in person or online, the takeaway was clear: LG is actively redefining the role of home appliances. No longer just tools for getting chores done, they are fast becoming intuitive partners that help people to live smarter, more comfortably and more sustainably.

As IFA showed, Life’s Good right now, and with LG taking the lead, it’s only going to get better.

2025-09-30T11:01:01

(BPT) – Just like electricity, broadband is now part of daily living. It keeps us productive at work, entertained at home, and connected to friends and family near and far. It is at the heart of how we work, play and communicate. For so many, the virtual world has become a deeply valued pathway to education, entertainment, community and friendships.

Today, more than 50% of U.S. households have access to fiber broadband, and in the next four years, that number could rise as high as 75%, according to the Fiber Broadband Association. People are relying on the internet more than ever.

In fact, home internet use has nearly doubled in the past five years. The average household now streams, games, works and connects across multiple devices, consuming about 700 gigabytes of data each month.

But not all broadband is created equal, and choosing the right internet provider matters. Here are five features to look for to help you have safe and reliable online experiences:

Futureproof innovation. Technology moves fast, especially in the era of AI, and your broadband should keep up. Look for internet providers offering Wi-Fi 7, the latest generation of Wi-Fi, which delivers faster speeds, more reliable connections, smoother gaming and streaming, and supports an ever-growing number of devices.

Personalized services that fit your lifestyle. The best internet providers focus on delivering great experiences — not short-term discounts. They offer tailored plans with features like traffic prioritization for work calls or gaming, content controls to protect children, and advanced security that keeps your IoT devices running smoothly. By choosing an internet provider that prioritizes experience, your household gets a reliable home network experience today that adapts to your needs tomorrow.

Safety and security. Prioritize internet providers that make online protection simple and transparent. Look for provider mobile apps with dashboards that show blocked threats, parental controls to safeguard kids from cyberbullying or harmful content, connected security cameras to monitor your home, and identity monitoring and theft protection. In the first half of 2025, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission received 748,555 reports of identity theft — a sharp rise from 2024 — underscoring why strong cybersecurity matters.

Self-service and convenience. Managing your internet should be as easy as managing your bank account. A good internet provider lets you pay bills, check your network, and troubleshoot from an easy-to-use app. Bonus points if they offer flexible installation options and real-time support through chat or notifications.

Wi-Fi beyond the home. People today live their lives on the go, so Wi-Fi coverage should extend beyond the home to outdoor and shared community spaces. Imagine working from a café, streaming at the community pool, or staying connected at a neighborhood concert. All with the same reliable connection you have at home.

“Choosing the right internet provider can shape your family’s daily life and strengthen your community,” said Calix Chief Customer Officer John Durocher, who leads a team of experts helping internet providers launch innovations that transform lives. “Today, speed at a fair price is table stakes. The best providers go beyond speed — they deliver exceptional experiences that make life simpler, safer and more connected.”

With the right internet provider, you can experience the many benefits of having a secure, connected home. Wi-Fi powers remote work and school, doorbell cameras that parents can check from an app, and lag-free video calls for remote workers. Kids can do homework indoors, on the patio or even at the park, while seniors connect their tablets effortlessly for safe, reliable online experiences.

“The needs of residential subscribers are not static; they are always expanding because technology is always advancing,” added Durocher. “An excellent internet provider will deliver new capabilities and features before you even know that you need them.”

For more information and to look up an innovative internet provider near you, visit BlastWiFi.com/locator.

2025-09-30T07:01:00

(BPT) – Whether planning for an idyllic romantic escape, a lively group getaway or an adventurous family vacation, the Mexican Caribbean offers a variety of signature experiences, all enhanced by the region’s stunning backdrop of crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches and lush jungles.

Explore vibrant nature

Nature takes center stage in the Mexican Caribbean, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in verdant landscapes and thriving ecosystems.

Holbox is a tranquil sanctuary where visitors can witness the magical glow of bioluminescence at night or marvel at whale sharks during the day. Entirely car-free, this serene island offers a peaceful escape in nature. A short drive from Cancún in the lush jungles of Puerto Morelos, visitors can dive into the mystical natural limestone pools called cenotes, or zip through vibrant jungle canopies. Further south, Bacalar enchants visitors with its “Lagoon of Seven Colors,” ideal for enjoying a variety of water sports including sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding and snorkeling.

These nature-filled escapes promise unforgettable moments surrounded by the region’s most breathtaking scenery.

Discover cultural treasures

Travelers eager to learn more about the Mexican Caribbean’s rich Mayan heritage will find meaningful experiences that reveal details about the region’s traditions and history.

In Chetumal, visit the Museum of Maya Culture or explore nearby archaeological sites that provide fascinating windows into centuries of civilization carved into the landscape. Further inland, Maya Ka’an gives visitors a rare opportunity to interact with local communities to learn firsthand about their ancestral traditions, artisanal skills and the stories that have been passed down through generations.

These destinations offer travelers deeper connection to the region’s distinctive roots, making every visit an enriching experience.

Dive into aquatic excursions

For those captivated by the sea, the Mexican Caribbean offers a wealth of exhilarating aquatic experiences, letting travelers enjoy everything from underwater exploration to coastal charm.

One of Mexico’s largest islands, Cozumel, invites guests to snorkel or dive at Palancar Reef, part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. Its crystal-clear waters and flourishing marine life make it a top destination for undersea adventures. Off the coast of Cancún, Isla Mujeres provides a laid-back retreat with stunning seascapes. Visitors can have a one-of-a-kind snorkeling experience at MUSA, the Underwater Museum of Art, where submerged sculptures promote reef conservation while creating a surreal marine gallery. Further south, Mahahual invites guests to stroll along its relaxed beachfront boardwalk, followed by a visit to Banco Chinchorro, Mexico’s largest coral atoll and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

The Mexican Caribbean invites travelers to explore vibrant marine ecosystems, embark on thrilling underwater adventures, or enjoy peaceful moments by the shore.

Follow new paths to wellness

Many of the Mexican Caribbean’s destinations blend luxury, nature and ancient healing traditions in a calm atmosphere unlike any other location.

In Costa Mujeres, guests are enveloped in an atmosphere of refined relaxation, where indulgence takes the form of rejuvenating spa rituals at luxurious resorts and massages are set against the serene backdrop of the region’s pristine coastline. Meanwhile, Tulum beckons with its harmonious blend of ancient Mayan heritage and contemporary boho-chic allure. Couples and groups alike can unwind through restorative beachfront yoga sessions or partake in traditional temazcal ceremonies, surrounded by lush jungles that echo the spirit of wellness and cultural reverence.

With its seamless fusion of natural beauty and time-honored wellness practices, the Mexican Caribbean stands as an unrivaled destination for renewal where every moment is an invitation to restore energy and foster inner connection.

Find your romantic oasis

Couples in search of an unforgettable romantic retreat will find the Mexican Caribbean rich with enchanting locales, where romance flourishes amid breathtaking tropical beauty.

Cancún stands as the quintessential destination for couples, where leisurely strolls along white-sand beaches are complemented by sunset cocktails. As twilight descends, the city transforms into a haven for romance, inviting couples to indulge in exquisite beachfront dining or dance beneath the stars at vibrant, world-class venues. Just a short journey down the coast, Playa del Carmen captivates with its iconic Fifth Avenue, a lively area brimming with local artistry, boutique shopping and intimate restaurants.

For those seeking special places to reconnect, celebrate love or simply revel in each other’s company, these extraordinary tropical destinations promise to kindle romance and create lasting memories.

The Mexican Caribbean offers endless possibilities for crafting a dream vacation, from sun-soaked beaches to vibrant cultural experiences. Visit MexicanCaribbean.travel to plan your perfect trip.

2025-09-30T09:15:00

(BPT) – If you’ve been denied access to a GLP-1 medication for weight loss, you are not alone. However, there are new science-backed options you should know about that don’t require a prescription.

Health insurance companies are limiting coverage of GLP-1s to people with Type 2 diabetes, higher BMIs or who have other weight-related issues like high blood pressure. The difficulty of getting insurance approval for these medications, plus the fear of getting cut off from them when you’re already taking GLP-1s, is causing frustration and anxiety for millions of people.

“For overweight people it isn’t just about weight — it’s about managing chronic disease,” said Linda Anegawa, MD, at Tonum Health. “When access to these medications is denied, the consequences can be immediate: continued weight gain or regain, increased frustration and the psychological impact from appetite rebound.”

Alternatives when GLP-1s are not available or affordable

Many health care providers continue to counsel their patients to follow a variety of lifestyle adjustments that can have a positive impact on health and weight over time. These include regular cardio and strength exercise and eating a healthier, balanced diet containing whole foods like fruits, vegetables, unprocessed meats and legumes.

But for the many people who struggle to lose weight, even while pursuing a healthier lifestyle, Anegawa recommends trying Motus, a naturally derived, science-backed product that burns fat, not muscle, and helps people keep it off for good.

A recent six-month human study found that participants on motus experienced a 10.4% total body weight reduction, and 87% of the weight lost was fat mass, not lean mass.

“Based on the promising six-­month data, Tonum Health is extending its human study, on its proprietary formula, to 12 months.

Motus is a science-backed natural supplement that can help you reach your weight loss goals — especially if you have concerns about insurance issues or the long-­term health impact of GLP­1s.

Why weight regain after GLP-1s is so problematic

People using GLP-1 medications can experience significant muscle loss while they are taking the medication, which can have a long-term detrimental effect on their health. And when the medications are stopped, most people regain all or most of the weight they lost over time.

“Unfortunately, regaining weight when these medications are stopped generally results in regaining more fatty tissue,” said Anegawa. “This erodes the user’s body composition over time and can worsen their metabolism.”

Many find that the sudden appetite rebound and return of “food noise” leads to old habits returning, which can result in not only weight gain, but also increased metabolic diseases like high cholesterol, high blood pressure and chronic inflammation.

“Everyone should consider transitioning to a healthier lifestyle, regardless of whether they elect to use a GLP-1 or a supplement like Motus as a booster,” Anegawa added. “That includes eating the right portion of lean proteins, green vegetables and good fats, while staying away from sugar and processed foods.”

To learn more about Motus and how it could support you on your weight loss journey, visit Tonum.com. Motus is available for purchase on the website.

* The results were based on an open label 100­-person human study conducted over six months with no caloric restrictions or exercise requirement. This research and these statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

2025-09-29T10:01:00

(BPT) – By Patricia L. Turner, MD, MBA, FACS, Executive Director & CEO, American College of Surgeons

Your doctor has informed you that you need surgery — like 15 million other patients in the United States every year. Naturally, you and your family may want to research your hospital options to have confidence that you are getting the best care.

The American College of Surgeons (ACS) has created a new Find a Hospital search tool to help you find hospitals that meet the rigorous quality standards we set for surgical care.

The ACS has been defining quality care in surgery since our founding more than 112 years ago, and now we make it easier than ever for patients and their families to find ACS Surgical Quality Partner hospitals in their local communities and to access information to prepare for surgery.

What is Find a Hospital?

Find a Hospital is a convenient, user-friendly search tool that helps you locate hospitals that have undergone rigorous accreditation and verification from the ACS to demonstrate their capability to deliver the highest quality surgical care. Based on your individual needs, you can find care that excels in areas across surgical specialties including cancer, geriatric surgery, emergency general surgery, children’s surgery, vascular surgery, trauma care and more.

Receiving accreditation or verification from the ACS involves a rigorous process, including a detailed site visit. These steps ensure that facilities meet and uphold the highest standards of surgical care and ethics. Importantly, ACS accreditation and verification is not something that can just be purchased by a hospital, it must be earned.

Find a Hospital features map-based results for a quick and easy visual location of hospitals and a map function to easily navigate to the hospital. You also can learn more about the list of ACS Quality Programs in which a hospital participates. ACS Quality Programs are grounded in rigorous standards and evidence that define what optimal surgical care should include. These standards provide the roadmap for hospitals to develop their processes and capabilities to deliver high-quality care.

How can I prepare for surgery?

Whether you need a routinely encountered procedure or have a complex, high-risk case, the Find a Hospital tool can help you find the right hospital. Additionally, the ACS Find a Surgeon search tool can help you find surgeons who are Fellows of the ACS (FACS). Fellows are board-certified surgeons whose education, training, professional qualifications, surgical competence and ethical conduct are reviewed and consistent with the high standards of the ACS.

The ACS also offers a range of resources to help you prepare for surgery, including questions to ask your surgeon, nutrition guides and a specialized checklist for older adult surgical patients. For more common procedures, our guides walk patients through the day of surgery and optimizing recovery.

The ACS is your trusted source when you have questions about surgery. Our patient education resources and our Find a Hospital search tool are designed to help you prepare for an operation and to find the best care possible.

The next time you or a loved one need surgical care, make sure to visit www.facs.org.

Patricia L. Turner is the Executive Director & CEO of the American College of Surgeons, the largest professional association of surgeons in the world, founded in 1913.

2025-09-29T08:01:00

(BPT) – Spending time outdoors benefits everyone’s mental and physical health, offering a chance to recharge and cope with life’s challenges. Research continues to confirm these benefits, showing just how important outdoor recreation can be — especially for people living with paralysis, for whom every opportunity to be active and engaged can be life-changing.

This is the motivation behind the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation’s “Outdoors for Everyone” initiative, launched in 2023 to ensure outdoor spaces are accessible for those living with paralysis and other disabilities, their families and caregivers. The Reeve Foundation is committed to curing spinal cord injury by funding innovative research and improving quality of life for individuals and families affected by paralysis.

“Outdoors for Everyone” provides community and outdoor organizations with the knowledge, solutions and resources to ensure that the great outdoors can be enjoyed by everyone. The initiative is part of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation’s National Paralysis Resource Center (NPRC), which provides free and comprehensive information and support to navigate challenges of living an independent and fulfilling life with paralysis.

Focus on fitness

The pilot “Outdoors for Everyone” program initially focused on ensuring that walking, hiking and other outdoor trails are accessible for wheelchair users and others living with disabilities. Last year, the program focused on water-based activities, from accessible kayaking and adaptive water sports to accessible beach equipment and more.

“Adaptive fitness is my lifeline to feeling somewhat normal,” said Mason Branstrator, disability advocate and partner of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation. “Yoga, stretching and cardio on my hand-cycle, ski erg or swimming help me stay focused mentally, sleep better, and take care of my body. Moving in new ways is everything.”

Through the lens of exercise and movement, the Reeve Foundation this year aims to help connect the paralysis and disability communities to a variety of programs and opportunities across the U.S. that share a commitment to quality of life, with the goal of making fitness available to everyone.

“Sharing my journey with the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation has been incredible, showing others that adaptive sports can be safe, enjoyable and empowering,” said Mason. “People with disabilities need to hear this message: Community, exercise and freedom are possible, and resources exist to help you get there.”

“The ‘Outdoors for Everyone’ initiative is opening doors to the health and well-being benefits of outdoor activity,” said Dan McNeal, director of the Quality of Life Grants Program at the Reeve Foundation. “Adaptive exercise and recreation for all abilities doesn’t just improve physical fitness — they build confidence, nurture mental health and create vital social connections.”

How the program works

The Foundation’s highly trained Information Specialist team helps identify accessible exercise programs, adaptive sports opportunities and specialized movement classes. It also assists community members in planning safe and adaptive fitness experiences.

Programs are easy for individuals, family members and caregivers to find via the Foundation’s digital, ZIP code-based tool, “Resources in Your Area.”

Community partners this year include:

• The Kelly Brush Foundation — Encourages and assists people with spinal cord injuries to lead active, connected lives by providing inspiration and grants for adaptive equipment.
• Wisconsin Adaptive Sports Association — Improves access to adaptive sports and comprehensive programs for people with physical and visual disabilities.
• Catalyst Sports — Provides access to adventure for people with physical disabilities in a supportive community.

Community partners are recipients of the Quality of Life Grants Program supported by the Foundation’s NPRC, the only federally funded program of its kind that directly serves individuals living with spinal cord injury, MS, ALS, stroke, spina bifida, cerebral palsy and all other forms of paralysis.

“The Reeve Foundation is proud to champion programs that give people living with paralysis and their caregivers the chance to stay active, grow stronger and rediscover the joy of movement,” McNeal said.

Learn more by using the digital ZIP code-based tool Resources in Your Area, visit ChristopherReeve.org or call their Information Specialists at 1-800-539-7309. Information specialists are available Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. Live agents are available to chat via the Reeve Foundation website, and you can also leave a message if you are calling after hours.

This project is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), as part of a financial assistance award totaling $10 million, with 100% funding by ACL/HHS. The content is those of the author(s) and does not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, ACL/HHS or the U.S. government.

2025-09-26T11:01:00

(BPT) – For many Gen Z workers, launching a meaningful career can feel overwhelming in today’s challenging job market, with recent reports showing that the nation’s current unemployment rate rose to 4.3% in August — the highest level since 2021. This trend also disproportionately impacts young adults entering the workforce, as many organizations reduce their entry-level positions in favor of new technology.

For those who have found employment, dwindling benefits packages often leave them wanting more, with Gen Z placing the greatest value on benefits like health care (70%), time off (72%), learning and development (29%), and student loan repayment (22%).

But even in this turbulent market, one organization that stands out from the pack is the U.S. Army. For qualified individuals, the Army offers not only a rewarding career but also comprehensive benefits and stability for years to come.

The only problem? Many are unaware of the multitude of opportunities that come with an Army career. Read on to discover some of the many benefits that lay the foundation for lifelong success.

250+ careers in every field and on-the-job training

With more than 250 jobs to choose from — including roles in infantry, aviation, medical, engineering, music and more — Soldiers are encouraged to pursue their interests and find meaningful purpose in their careers.

Soldiers also have the flexibility to select from full-time or part-time options to better align with their goals and lifestyle. Soldiers of the U.S. Army Reserve and the Army National Guard have the opportunity to serve part-time close to home, while maintaining full-time civilian careers or pursuing higher education.

Throughout their careers, Soldiers have access to practical, hands-on training to build valuable skills that will serve them both in uniform and civilian life. This includes Advanced Individual Training (AIT), where enlisted Soldiers learn the technical skills required for their specific Army job to ensure they are confident in their abilities.

For those seeking to further specialize or advance their careers, the Army offers a variety of specialized schools, including Special Operations, Army Medical, Army Cyber & Technology and Army Aviation. Soldiers can also earn civilian credentials and on-the-job training for high-demand trade jobs through the United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP), setting them up for success long after their service is complete.

Higher education benefits and training opportunities

The Army helps pay for education, student loans and certifications so Soldiers are set up for success both in the Army and in their careers after service.

Programs like the GI Bill help current and former Soldiers who have served at least three years pursue college, graduate school or certifications, without the burden of overwhelming education costs. Meanwhile, college students interested in an Army career can earn a scholarship and join the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC). This leadership program provides Army-specific training, mentorship and camaraderie while covering up to the full cost of tuition. After earning a degree and completing ROTC, Cadets commission as Officers and immediately step into leadership roles within the Army.

The Army also offers loan repayment programs that can offset the cost of outstanding student loan debt.

Comprehensive total compensation packages

Soldiers earn more than just a paycheck with a full suite of comprehensive benefits and can receive up to $50,000 in total bonuses when they enlist in the Army based on factors like job selection, skills, training and ship date. There are also opportunities for re-enlistment bonuses for Soldiers who choose to continue their Army career.

Finding affordable housing is a growing challenge for many young adults, but eligible active-duty Soldiers have access to a range of housing options — including on-base houses, apartments and barracks — that offer financial savings and convenience. Army housing provides a sense of community with easy access to dining facilities, low-priced shopping, recreation and entertainment, day care centers and places of worship. For those interested in homeownership, the Veterans Affairs (VA) Home Loan is a federal program that helps Soldiers and Veterans secure better terms and benefits when purchasing or refinancing a property.

Soldiers and their families also have access to the health insurance program, TRICARE, which offers medical, dental and vision plans, as well as life insurance and prescription options at little to no cost.

Planning for the future begins right away in the Army, thanks to a range of retirement savings options. Soldiers are automatically enrolled in a retirement savings account with government match contributions and will receive a pension and full retirement benefits after 20 years of service.

Opportunities to experience the world

Soldiers can pursue adventure, explore different cultures and develop their strengths while serving in locations like Italy, Germany, Japan and South Korea, as well as the 50 active-duty bases across the U.S., including Hawaii and Alaska. The Army also offers generous vacation time and 11 paid national holidays off each year, so Soldiers can take the time to explore and enjoy their surroundings.

Soldiers and their families can also participate in the Army Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) program, which is designed to support a high quality of life through resources like gyms, golf courses, bowling alleys, recreational lodging, child care, entertainment and travel opportunities.

Wellness programs that support mind and body

The Army’s Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) system focuses on every aspect of health and wellness, including physical, mental, nutritional, sleep and spiritual health. Whether recovering from an injury, pursuing a goal or maintaining a training regimen, the H2F system provides Soldiers with experts and resources to ensure they are supported across every domain of their physical and non-physical health.

For some, the Army’s benefits start well before they even join the force, thanks to the Future Soldier Prep Course (FSPC), which helps aspiring Soldiers overcome the academic and physical fitness barriers to enlistment by providing specialized training via two tracks. The academic track helps improve recruits’ Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) scores, qualifying them for a wider range of Army jobs, while the fitness track helps recruits meet the Army’s physical standards and learn the basics of holistic health and wellness. With a course graduation rate of roughly 95%, the FSPC has equipped more than 37,000 trainees with the skills needed to achieve their goals as a Soldier.

Are you ready to take the next step toward a rewarding future? Explore how the Army can help you achieve your goals at GoArmy.com.

2025-09-25T07:01:00

(BPT) – Life happens, whether you’re ready or not. So why not be ready? Learn more about the ins and outs of life insurance, and how you can help protect your family’s future, at BostonMutual.com.

2025-09-24T06:01:00

(BPT) – Each year during the fall and winter, respiratory illnesses like flu, COVID-19 and RSV circulate, and people 65 years and older and people with underlying health conditions are at higher risk of developing serious complications if they get sick. The good news? There are now more tools than ever to help protect you and those you care for from severe respiratory illnesses.

Respiratory illnesses pose a higher risk for older adults and people living with underlying health conditions

The risk of serious outcomes from respiratory illnesses, like hospitalization or even death, increases sharply with age, particularly age 65 years or older, as the immune system weakens over time. If you’re an older adult, you may be more likely to have underlying health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes or lung disease, which can make it harder for your body to fight off infections.

However, even healthy older adults can still get very sick. Data show that during the 2023-2024 flu season, about 2.6 million adults 65 years and older got sick with flu, 1.5 million needed medical care, nearly 240,000 required hospitalization, and more than 19,000 older adults died from flu-related complications. Additionally, adults 65 and older were 10 times more likely to be hospitalized by flu, COVID-19, or RSV than adults younger than 50.

Everyday actions can help you stay healthy

There are actions you can take to help protect yourself from health risks caused by respiratory illnesses. These actions include staying up to date on vaccinations, practicing good hygiene, taking steps for cleaner air, and using precautions to prevent the spread of illness if you do get sick.

For older adults, or people with an underlying health condition, health is often top of mind — while getting vaccinated against respiratory viruses may be farther down the list. But getting vaccinated can mean the difference between staying healthy and active and being hospitalized, or worse. Even if you do get sick, being vaccinated can lessen your symptoms and severity of your illness.

You may be eligible for flu, COVID-19, and RSV vaccines, and can even get multiple vaccines at the same visit. Talk to your healthcare provider about what recommended vaccines may be right for you.

If you do get sick, act fast

If you feel symptoms like cough, fever, body aches or fatigue, don’t wait to take care of yourself. Treatment may be available, but it works best when started early, ideally within a few days of when symptoms start. Testing can help confirm what illness you have so you can access the right care. At-home tests are available for both COVID-19 and flu, making it easier to get answers quickly.

Stay home and away from other people until you have been fever-free for 24 hours and your other symptoms have improved. Then, take extra precautions, like practicing good hygiene and taking steps for cleaner air, for the next five days to avoid spreading illness to others.

Protect yourself and your peace of mind

Getting vaccinated and taking everyday actions can help keep you and your loved ones healthy. Talk to your healthcare provider about which vaccines are recommended for you.

You have spent a lifetime caring for others. Now is the time to prioritize your own health. Visit the CDC’s website or talk to your healthcare provider today to learn more about how to protect your health this season.