Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2025-10-16T09:01:00

(BPT) – Menopause is a normal stage of life, but the changes it brings can feel anything but. Hot flashes, restless nights, mood shifts and hair thinning are just some of the common symptoms women experience as hormone levels naturally decline. For many, these shifts arrive at a time when life is already busy with family, work and personal responsibilities — making the added stress of physical changes even more challenging.

With World Menopause Day in October, highlighting the importance of awareness and support, it’s a timely reminder that while every woman’s journey is different, research shows there are natural, science-backed ways to ease this transition and feel more like yourself again.

A natural ingredient backed by research

Pycnogenol^®, a plant extract derived from French maritime pine bark, has been studied for more than 40 years, including on clinical trials involving 600 menopausal women. Findings show it may help reduce common menopause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats and irritability, while also supporting fatigue, sleep quality and memory.

What makes Pycnogenol^® unique is its ability to work on several levels at once — it functions as an antioxidant, circulation booster and natural anti-inflammatory. Many studies have also confirmed that Pycnogenol^® is safe and well-tolerated and has no impact on hormonal levels, making it an appealing choice for women looking for natural alternatives.

Proven benefits for disruptive symptoms

Menopause can bring about more than just the well-known symptoms. For example, women face increased cardiovascular risk during this stage of life. Studies show that menopausal women who took Pycnogenol^® for six months experienced improved cardiovascular markers, thanks to the extract’s positive effects on vascular function.

Skin health may also suffer due to declining estrogen levels, leading to dryness and reduced elasticity. Pycnogenol^® has been shown to improve skin hydration, increase elasticity and reduce pigmentation — benefits that help women feel more confident in their skin.

Another lesser-discussed symptom is joint discomfort. Estrogen loss can cause inflammation and stiffness. Pycnogenol’s^® anti-inflammatory properties have been shown to improve mobility and reduce the need for medication.

Supporting hair health

More than half of women over 50 notice hair thinning, and hormonal changes are a big reason why. Reduced estrogen can affect follicle activity, while dryness and scalp irritation make it harder to maintain strong, resilient strands.

Recent clinical research shows Pycnogenol^® may help. After just two months, women in one study experienced a 30% increase in hair density. The study also revealed an improvement in scalp microcirculation, or blood flow to the skin, that was associated with improved density. Together, these benefits can make a visible difference in how hair looks and feels.

Simple steps for everyday support

Beyond supplements, small lifestyle shifts can also make a difference in how women experience menopause:

• Hydrate: Staying well-hydrated helps support circulation, skin elasticity and cellular health throughout the body.
• Massage: A few minutes of daily scalp massage can boost circulation and help relax tension.
• Nourish: A nutrient-rich diet with a variety of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants supports whole-body vitality, including skin and hair health.
• Rest: Prioritizing restful sleep gives the body time to repair, reset hormone balance and maintain emotional resilience.
• Move: Gentle exercise like walking or yoga can improve circulation and reduce stress, both of which impact overall well-being.

Moving forward with confidence

Menopause may come with challenges, but it’s also an opportunity to refocus on self-care and wellness. From easing disruptive symptoms to supporting hair and skin, natural solutions like Pycnogenol^® can play an important role in helping women move through this stage feeling healthier and more confident.

To learn more, visit Pycnogenol.com.

2025-10-14T08:01:00

(BPT) – Crisp air, golden leaves and the return of comfort food — fall is the perfect time to savor simple, warming meals. This season, make Galbani Fresh Mozzarella your go-to ingredient for melty dishes that elevate fall flavors. With its soft, creamy texture and delicately milky flavor, Galbani Fresh Mozzarella adds irresistible melt to any recipe. From rustic pizzas to toasty sandwiches, it brings comforting flavor to every bite. And it’s made without titanium dioxide, offering a delicious fresh mozzarella experience you can trust.

Discover new ways to enjoy the season with these cozy recipes from the mozzarella experts Galbani Cheese, Italy’s #1 cheese brand:

Fall Pancetta Brussels Sprout Pizza

This savory pizza combines crispy pancetta, tender Brussels sprouts, and creamy Galbani Fresh Mozzarella for a cozy fall twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients:

• Garlic Cream Sauce: 1 Tbsp butter, 1 Tbsp olive oil, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup whole milk, 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan, pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Pancetta and Brussels Sprouts: 4 oz. pancetta (diced), 1 cup Brussels sprouts (thinly sliced), salt and pepper to taste.
• Pizza: 8 oz. pizza dough, 1/2 small red onion (thinly sliced), 8 oz. Galbani Fresh Mozzarella (sliced), fresh basil (for garnish).

Directions:

• Garlic Cream Sauce: Melt butter and olive oil in a medium pan over medium heat. Add garlic and stir. Increase heat to medium-high, then add cream, milk, Parmesan and red pepper flakes. Stir and bring to a boil until slightly thickened, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat.
• Pancetta and Brussels Sprouts: Cook pancetta in a separate pan over medium heat until lightly crispy. Remove from heat, stir in Brussels sprouts, and season with salt and pepper.
• Assemble Pizza: Preheat oven to 450°F. Roll dough to fit a 12-inch lightly greased pan. Spread garlic cream sauce, leaving a 1-inch border. Top with Brussels sprout and pancetta mixture, sliced red onion and Galbani Fresh Mozzarella.
• Bake and Serve: Bake until crust is golden and cheese is melted and bubbling, about 15 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh basil before serving.

Roasted Cherry Tomato Pesto Sandwich

A melty, vegetarian-friendly sandwich that’s perfect for cozy fall lunches or casual dinners, featuring creamy Galbani Fresh Mozzarella.

Ingredients:

• Sandwich: 16 oz. Galbani^® Fresh Mozzarella (sliced), 4 ciabatta rolls (cut in half), 1/2 cup pesto, freshly cracked black pepper, about 16 fresh basil leaves, 1 shallot (thinly sliced), 15 oz. can marinated artichoke hearts (quartered), 12 oz. can roasted red peppers, 16 oz. cherry tomatoes (halved).

Directions:

• Prep Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F and line a large baking sheet.
• Assemble Sandwiches: Spread pesto on both halves of each ciabatta roll and season with black pepper. On the bottom half, layer basil leaves, shallot slices, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Top with Galbani Fresh Mozzarella on the top half.
• Bake and Serve: Bake 10–12 minutes, until cheese melts. Place the top half, cheese side down, onto the bottom, cut in half and serve.

Why Choose Galbani Fresh Mozzarella?

Galbani Fresh Mozzarella is crafted from an authentic Italian recipe, delivering the soft, creamy texture that makes pizzas and sandwiches melt beautifully. It never contains titanium dioxide, a synthetic whitener, commonly found in certain foods, toothpaste and cosmetics. Galbani is Italy’s #1 cheese brand, and its fresh mozzarella products are proudly made and distributed in the United States by Lactalis USA, a subsidiary of Lactalis, the world’s largest dairy company. Available in a convenient 16 oz. sliced log or an 8 oz. ball, Galbani Fresh Mozzarella makes it easy to add melty, creamy flavor to all your cozy fall meals. For more comforting recipe inspiration, visit galbanicheese.com.

2025-10-14T09:01:00

(BPT) – For parents today, the rapid pace of technological change can seem overwhelming. Watching your kids adapt — usually more quickly than you do — to these changes can also cause anxiety. The sudden emergence of AI has accelerated these worries, with many parents wondering how to ensure their children use tech tools safely, responsibly and in a way that doesn’t negatively impact their well-being and development.

Recent data shows that most teens use AI, and more often than their parents realize. Considering its prevalence in the context of the ongoing decline of student achievement nationwide, it’s important for parents to help their kids understand when to use, and when to avoid, AI so as not to undermine the skills they’ll need for successful careers.

Concerned parents can introduce their children to the concept of digital citizenship, which empowers young people to take control of their digital lives as they use social media, AI or other tech tools. It’s important to discuss appropriate behaviors and norms for using devices and participating in digital spaces, so everyone can be safe, responsible and respectful online.

Although these ideals are fundamental to being a good citizen in general, the digital landscape offers more opportunities for missteps and abuse, since digital footprints are public, pervasive and often permanent. Responsible digital citizenship can encompass everything from recognizing and preventing harms like cyberbullying, hate speech and plagiarism to protecting privacy, safety and security.

To help educators, parents and caregivers feel better equipped to guide children through the challenges of today’s technology, Renaissance, a global leader in pre-K-12 education technology, provides high-quality digital citizenship lessons and resources through its interactive Nearpod platform.

In honor of Digital Citizenship Week, Renaissance offers the following four tips for adults to help kids use technology responsibly, both in and out of school.

1. Learn about AI policies

To provide consistency between home and your children’s school, and to better understand the school’s approach, ask teachers and school administrators about their AI policies.

Clarify what safeguards exist at school and if they teach AI literacy skills. If not, you might suggest they try Nearpod’s 21st Century Readiness Program, which equips educators with lessons to help students understand what AI is, how it works, explore its potential benefits and risks and develop critical thinking skills to use AI responsibly.

By learning about the school’s approach to AI, you’ll have a better understanding of your children’s exposure to AI in their education and daily life.

2. Talk frankly about AI

Encourage honest conversations with your kids about what AI does well, and what it doesn’t do well. Include examples of how you use the technology, whether at your workplace or at home. This could include everything from chatbots and AI searches to photo filters and more.

It’s best to be transparent to build trust with your kids. Young people may worry they’ll be judged for using AI, preventing them from feeling free to discuss how they use it. Let them know you’re aware of how much young people already use it and that you’re open to talking about its benefits and potential drawbacks.

Closing this parental awareness gap is crucial for the conversation. You may not realize it, but research shows families may have as much or greater impact than teachers and peers in shaping their children’s educational attitudes and success.

3. Stress the importance of critical thinking

Help your children understand that learning to write well, thinking about topics and trying to solve problems on their own are all crucial skills for future success. Letting AI do things for them means skipping vital steps in their education and development.

Start by helping your children question AI results. While generative AI models can produce confident-sounding responses, they may have inaccuracies or biases. Show your kids how to ask a question and then question the answer — by learning how to double-check AI’s responses using reliable sources (and how to identify reliable sources). To learn actionable tips for helping your children practice critical thinking rather than outsourcing it to AI, check out these practical AI literacy tips for educators and families.

4. Consider the global impact

As part of your discussion, talk about AI’s risks, limitations and possibilities in age-appropriate ways, and how its use might shape the future in terms of education, jobs and how people interact and create. Most importantly, establish norms or guidelines for using AI responsibly in your family. Recent National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) data shows student development is at risk, which underscores the importance of ensuring that kids spend adequate time learning and practicing the reading and math skills they’ll need for college and a career.

Since technology and AI products are used more often in schools and educational settings today, it’s critical for children to learn about responsible AI use so they’ll be ready for the future. However, AI use has to be balanced with children developing independent thinking and learning skills, or they risk losing the ability to do so effectively.

To consider how you might further help your children learn about digital citizenship and AI literacy at home, check out Nearpod’s free lessons for Digital Citizenship Week, which provide tools to support children in developing the skills they need to use devices safely, ethically and effectively, so they can think critically and participate responsibly in the digital world.

2025-10-14T07:01:00

(BPT) – A permanent change of station (PCS) is a regular part of military life that involves many moving parts. Preparing for your relocation now can make a huge difference in how you’ll settle into your new home. To help families prepare for their next move, Navy Federal Credit Union offers the following tips to make your move as smooth as possible.

1. Create a timeline

Confirm all PCS details as soon as possible so you can create a reasonable timeline. The easiest way to do this is to verify your report date and work backward. Remember to budget time for packing, moving and settling in to your new home.

2. Gather your documents

Gather essential documents. Create copies of these documents and keep them all together in a binder, so you can quickly access the information you need to fill out the paperwork involved in your PCS.

3. Review your finances and create a budget

Do you have everything you need to cover upfront moving costs? It may take awhile before you’re reimbursed for your move, so it’s vital to calculate moving costs, create a budget and start saving money as soon as you can. You can use an online tool like Navy Federal’s PCS budgeting calculator to see how much your move will impact your monthly budget.

Pro tip: Schedule a meeting with a personal financial counselor to create a plan for your move and discuss strategies for reestablishing your finances when you arrive at your new assignment.

4. Prepare your family for the move

A military move can be a challenging transition for the whole family. Children can have an especially difficult time moving to a new location. Sit down with them and have frank conversations about the upcoming move and what they can expect leading up to and after a PCS.

5. Decide what you’ll do about housing and transportation

Are you planning to sell or rent your current home? Will you buy a home in your new location? What are your plans for your cars? These are all important questions to answer ahead of your move.

Work with a real estate agent or property manager familiar with the military relocation process. They may be able to help you find a new home that meets your criteria.

Whether you’re moving in-state or out of the country, research vehicle shipping options and review your vehicle shipping allowances.

6. Prepare your accounts

There are a few accounts you’ll need to prepare in advance of your PCS. These include:

• Updating your address
• Providing travel notifications for your bank and credit card accounts
• Setting up joint accounts
• Making plans to transfer money if you’re stationed overseas

You can call Navy Federal and connect with a dedicated member services representative who can help you prepare your accounts. This specialized support can make your move smoother and provide peace of mind.

One hub for all your PCS needs

To help military families during their move, Navy Federal collaborated with Veterans and military spouses to create the PCS hub. This hub offers tools, guidance and resources that can help you manage your moving tasks, including:

• A robust PCS checklist with moving tips and comprehensive to-do lists
• Monthly spending calculator to track current expenses, manage costs and budget for the next duty station
• Special product offers tailored for Servicemembers and military families experiencing PCS
• Real-time guidance through our 24/7 stateside member service team

By consolidating all of these resources in one place, you can start planning your PCS move today. To learn more, visit NavyFederal.org/PCS.

Navy Federal is federally insured by NCUA.

2025-10-14T09:01:00

(BPT) – Autumn is a fantastic time of year for gatherings, from Oktoberfest and Halloween parties through Thanksgiving — with plenty of homegating get-togethers in between! To keep your focus on family, friends and fun, here are tips and top kitchen tools from the lifestyle experts at LG to help you be ready for any celebrations that come your way this season.

Stock your fridge

To avoid last-minute grocery panic and ensure plentiful snacks for impromptu get-togethers, list your tried-and-true crowd-pleasers with necessary ingredients. Check your fridge and pantry so you can stock up on essentials before you need them.

Keeping food fresh is crucial, so if you’re in the market for a new refrigerator — especially in a tight space — check out the LG Counter-Depth MAX™ with Zero Clearance™ 3-Door French Door Refrigerator with Thin Door Design. Its Zero Clearance™ hinges let you install this refrigerator next to a wall or adjacent cabinets for a nearly built-in look. Combined with the thin door design, it lets you fully open both French doors, even in tight spaces.[1] The LG French door refrigerator offers their first and largest capacity freestanding counter-depth refrigerator with Zero Clearance™, giving you ample space for your family’s favorite foods, keeping them conveniently organized and within reach.

Lean on “Chef Mike”

Even accomplished home cooks sometimes need more speed, especially when facing a hungry, clamoring crowd. A high-quality microwave helps prep all kinds of dishes quickly, from loaded baked potatoes or quesadillas to tasty dips — and desserts like microwave cakes and s’mores.

A microwave with the latest tech makes all the difference. Using LG’s 1.3 cu. ft. Smart Low Profile Over-the-Range Microwave Oven with Sensor Cook, you can select from a menu of sensor cooking options and let the microwave determine when the food is ready. Pre-programmed settings and humidity-sensing technology helps you create perfectly cooked meals, without worrying about cook times or power levels. Even better, its EasyClean^® interior resists stains and buildup for easy cleanup.

Elevate your cooking game

Autumn is the perfect time to discover new recipes and use freshly harvested produce to inspire creations like craveable snacks for homegating, spooky Halloween-themed treats and comfort food for chilly evenings.

Celebrate your culinary aspirations using chef-inspired appliances like LG’s 6.3 cu. ft. Smart Induction Slide-In Range with InstaView^®, ProBake Convection^®, Air Fry and Air Sous Vide. This range offers a uniquely designed induction cooktop with exceptional power and precision for fast, even cooking. LG’s ProBake Convection^® brings professional technology home with an oven mode that automatically selects the lower speed for delicate baking or the higher speed for air frying and roasting. It also provides faster preheating, quicker cooking and more even baking on multiple racks at the same time. You’ll enjoy the versatility of its air fry and air sous vide modes, letting you quickly air fry enough crispy favorites to feed a crowd — saving time and counter space.

Make clean-up a breeze

When the party’s over, enlist your whole crew for clean-up duty so you won’t wake up to a messy kitchen. Assigning age-appropriate tasks ahead of time means everyone will know what to do.

Tackle post-dinner cleanup like a pro using LG’s Smart FlushFit™ Top Control Dishwasher with 1-Hour Wash & Dry, QuadWash^® Pro, TrueSteam^® and Dynamic Heat Dry™ w/AutoVent Dry™. The enhanced cleaning power of LG’s exclusive QuadWash^® Pro and Dynamic Heat Dry™ technologies combine to deliver a one-hour wash and dry cycle for sparkling, table-ready dishes quickly, so you can spend more time on what matters. High-pressure jets spray dishes from multiple angles while soaking them with over one million microbubbles to help break down stubborn food residue for exceptional cleaning performance. Dynamic Heat Dry™ technology then circulates hot air throughout the dishwasher for faster, more complete drying (compared to LG dishwashers without Dynamic Heat Dry™ technology) that won’t melt your plastics, delivering sparkling, table-ready dishes right off the rack. Big party? You’ll save time by fitting more dishes and everything from long flatware to small cups with the height-adjustable 3rd rack.

Cook smarter, not harder

Planning ahead, channeling your inner chef and using the best tools for every job will help make any of your fall celebrations less work, and a lot more fun.

To help you cook smarter, check out options to access AI-powered LG ThinQ^® Smart Technology on your LG kitchen appliances, allowing you to control and monitor functions remotely. The ThinQ app offers personalized features like learning user routines, optimizing energy use, receiving maintenance alerts through ThinQ Care and diagnosing problems. ThinQ integrates with Wi-Fi and/or voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant across a wide range of appliances.

Ready for a new appliance? You can enjoy a two-year limited warranty on select appliances purchased through Dec. 31, 2025 via the ThinQ^® app. Terms apply.[2]

2025-10-10T15:01:02

(BPT) – The U.S. is facing a mental health crisis, with 1 in 5 adults (about 59 million people) experiencing daily mental health challenges, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Members of Gen Z are especially affected, as they are navigating constant connectivity and social media pressure. According to the BePresent 2024 Digital Wellness Report, 83% of Gen Z believe they have an unhealthy relationship with their phone, resulting in negative effects on mental health and productivity.

Mental health experts recommend tips like regular exercise and meditation to boost wellness, but there’s one surprising source of comfort for people looking to improve their mental health: cats.

Research about animal visitation programs at college campuses has shown that spending even a short amount of time interacting with cats provides effective stress relief. And according to board-certified psychiatrist Dr. Judith Joseph, “Simply having a cat to pet, play with or talk to increases feelings of well-being, positively impacting your mood and stress levels.”

Here are 6 ways having cats around can be good for your mental health.

1. Cats offer companionship

The mere presence of a cat provides consistent, non-judgmental companionship, especially for people who live alone or have limited social interactions during the day.

“The quiet nature of cats helps people feel calmer,” said Purina Pet Behaviorist Dr. Annie Valuska. “And most cats are more social than they’re given credit for. Even when they’re not actively seeking interaction, many cats prefer staying near their humans. Cats may also offer more companionship when people aren’t feeling well physically or emotionally.”

And according to Dr. Joseph, having a support animal like a cat is especially powerful during times of stress: “When you’re upset or going through difficult times, it’s often easier to share companionship with cats, as they don’t demand conversation or ask questions the way friends or family might. They don’t judge or try to solve your problems; they just stay with you when you need them.”

2. Petting cats helps lower stress

The sensory input of petting a cat, feeling its soft fur and hearing that gentle purr can also positively impact your mood. The presence of a cat has been shown to lower cortisol, the hormone associated with stress, and boost oxytocin, helping ease anxiety and foster emotional safety, according to the American Educational Research Association. Their study found that college students who spent as little as 10 minutes per day petting a cat experienced decreased levels of cortisol.

Recognizing the impact cats have on mental health, Cat Chow is launching the Cats as Therapy Project to promote mental well-being through the healing power of cats. The project benefits Pet Partners, a leading pet therapy organization that registers and trains therapy animal teams with cats, dogs and other companion animals. Visit www.catchow.com/catproject to learn more.

3. Having pets provides necessary routine

Having to feed and tend to your cat every day offers a clear purpose and set routine that is calming and reaffirming. It’s beneficial for most people to have an established schedule and experience putting another’s needs before their own.

“Cats definitely let you know when their dinner is late,” said Dr. Valuska, “which is a good reminder to all of us that we need routines like regular meals and resting times, too.”

4. Caring for cats adds social benefits

Beyond the comfort of your cat’s companionship, having a feline friend can also add meaning to your daily life and spark conversations with others. Being able to talk to other cat lovers about your pet gives you a special bond. Even for those who may have challenges meeting new people, sharing pictures of your cats, telling cat stories and introducing your cat to visitors offers meaningful experiences and opportunities to socialize.

“If small talk is not your strong suit, mentioning that you have a cat can be the perfect ice breaker,” said Dr. Joseph. “Especially for people with social anxiety, bonding over cat ownership can be a powerful way to make a genuine connection.”

5. Cats can get you moving

While cats don’t need to take daily walks the same way dogs do, playing actively with your cat is good for them and for you. According to Dr. Valuska, playing with interactive wand toys and tossing balls for games of chase are great ways to bond with your cat while encouraging both of you to get moving and off the couch.

“While cats love to nap much of their day, they also benefit greatly from regular exercise, just like humans,” added Dr. Valuska. “Getting up and actively playing with your cat each day helps to support their — and your — overall well-being, plus it’s just fun for both of you!”

6. Your cat can inspire creativity

Cats have a long history of being memorialized in art and literature through the ages. Even if you aren’t inspired to draw, paint or write a poem about your cat, having a cat in your home can spark creativity and provide enrichment.

For example, enhancing your space with cat-friendly furniture and environmental upgrades — like building a DIY cardboard tower or installing a catio — can go a long way in creating a more enriching and enjoyable environment for both you and your cat.

“Overall, owning a cat or cats, visiting friends or family with cats or spending time with them at a cat cafe can be effective ways to boost your mental and emotional well-being,” said Dr. Joseph.

2025-10-10T09:31:00

(BPT) – Close to 2 in 5 Americans (38%) say cash feels more “real” than digital money: It’s a tangible reminder of value, and remains a permanent part of their financial toolkit (27%). Yet, new Empower research shows that in practice, physical dollar bills may be fading from daily life: 1 in 5 say they use cash only a few times per year, and just 18% use it daily. Still, a quarter often find themselves in situations where they wish they had cash on hand.

Its popularity may be dictated by what’s going on in the economy, as a quarter (25%) view cash as a “safety net” currency in times of financial downturns, and 1 in 5 Americans have increased their physical cash holdings in the past year due to market uncertainty.

Cash in a digital age

While a third (35%) say they are mostly cashless, for close to 1 in 5 Americans (19%), dollar bills remain a trusted form of payment — something they actively use and keep in significant amounts. Overall, 40% of people feel safer keeping some cash on hand in case of emergencies or tech outages.

Nearly a quarter say they use cash for privacy (21%) in an AI-driven, digital world. The same amount also turn to cash when they want to limit their spending for the day (24%). A third say they’re more likely to make impulse purchases with digital payments (33%), and spend more without the natural guardrail of cash (27%).

With the shift toward digital payments (e.g., debit cards, credit cards, mobile wallets, etc.), 27% say they are more likely to pay bills and save automatically. More than a quarter have better awareness of their spending patterns (27%) and spend less because they can track everything digitally (22%). Close to 1 in 5 admit that if cash disappeared, they’d spend less (17%).

Currency in action

The average person holds between $51 and $100 in their “wallet,” consistent with the $66 cash average from last year’s study. Gen X is the only generation that carries more cash, averaging between $101 and $200.

Half use their physical money for tips (48%), while a third use it to get a discount for paying in cash (34%).

Other scenarios where Americans are most likely to use cash:

• When paying small local businesses that don’t accept cards (46%)
• When splitting costs with friends at a restaurant (30%)
• Paying for parking meters or tolls (24%)
• For emergency expenses (22%)
• At retailers or grocery stores (21%)
• When traveling abroad (18%)
• Paying for gas (16%)
• Paying for a kid’s allowance (16%)

Generational shifts: Piggy banks to digital wallets

For many people, cash is tied to their earliest memories about money: 41% say their first financial experiences involved physical cash, not digital payments. Nearly a third understood the value of cash at an early age (32%) and learned to save by setting aside dollar bills before they ever used a bank account (28%).

Yet, today, money etiquette is changing: 35% say younger generations are skipping physical cash entirely and going straight to digital money. Overall, 37% say each generation relies less on cash than the one before it. Close to a quarter predict their own children will grow up with little or no cash experience (22%).

Money moves

When it comes to where Americans keep their liquid savings, half keep it in a checking account. Over a third keep money in a standard savings account (33%), and the same share holds physical cash at home (35%), as many still want instant, tangible access to their funds.

Nearly 3 in 10 have moved money into high-yield savings accounts (29%), while a quarter rely on money market accounts (24%). For some, the strategy is a balance — 20% split evenly between accounts and physical cash — while others lean on more traditional products like certificates of deposit (18%).

When asked how they’d allocate $10,000 today, most Americans balance digital returns with physical reassurance:

• 55% would deposit it in a high-yield savings account
• 47% would pay down debt
• 41% would invest in stocks for long-term growth
• 40% would keep it as cash for easy access
• 29% would use it for real estate or a property purchase
• 27% would buy bonds or Treasury bills
• 22% would spend the money on education or skills development to boost earning potential
• 22% would buy precious metals like gold or silver

Even in a digital-first world, nearly half the population sees value in liquidity, flexibility, and the physical assurance of cash.

Methodology:

Empower’s “The Vanishing Wallet” study is based on online survey responses from 1,039 Americans ages 18+ from August 18–19, 2025.

RO4817468-0925

2025-10-10T07:01:01

(BPT) – No matter your stage in life’s journey, it’s never too early or late to make financial plans. For military families especially, planning helps you withstand major transitions and gives you confidence about the future. From your first Permanent Change of Station (PCS) to deployment and separation, you’ll have many decisions to make and high-priority items on your to-do list, including managing your finances.

Financial Planning Month is the perfect time to work on setting goals for your financial future. Here are tips to get you started.

Begin with the basics: Savings

Developing a savings plan is a great place to start. Even when you’re starting out in your career, developing the habit of setting money aside from each paycheck can help you build an emergency fund for unexpected events. One approach is to open a separate savings account for that purpose and have a small portion of each paycheck automatically deposited into that account, so you don’t even have to think about it.

How much should you strive to save for an emergency fund? Many experts recommend saving 3-6 months’ living expenses to provide a cushion in case of job loss, unanticipated repairs or other unexpected needs.

“The amount of money needed to maintain financial security can vary widely depending on your individual circumstances,” says Jaspreet Chawla, senior vice president of member and deposit products at Navy Federal Credit Union. “That’s why it’s essential to assess your personal financial situation. If you’re able, try to consistently set aside a portion of each paycheck and aim to save even more, when possible, to build a stronger safety net.”

If you’re unsure what goal is best for you, Navy Federal offers free online calculators to help you determine the amount of emergency funds you’ll need to keep your finances secure, plus tips on creating the fund and what it takes to reach your goals.

You can also find ways to make your savings work harder for you than a traditional savings account using options like a Money Market Savings Account or Certificates, both of which typically offer higher interest rates to help boost your savings.

Household budgeting

While it may sound scary, budgeting is simply knowing how much money is coming in (your income) and how much is going out (your expenses). The key to a good budget is understanding the difference between necessary expenses, such as rent and utilities, insurance, groceries and transportation, versus discretionary spending like entertainment, dining out and vacations. It’s also important to remember that some necessary expenses can fluctuate, such as utilities at different times of the year.

Financial institutions frequently offer online tools to help make budgeting and expense management easier. Navy Federal offers My MakingCents, a free tool to help members manage their money. It allows members to see all their accounts in one place, track spending by category, build custom budgets, and manage subscription services. The goal is to simplify budgeting for members, especially for things like subscription services, that are often easy to overlook or unintentionally overspend on.

As you review your expenses, be sure to include paying down debt as a necessary cost, since less debt will save money on interest down the road. You may find that you sometimes need to reduce discretionary spending and/or find ways to increase household income to help manage your costs so you can keep putting money toward savings and debt repayment.

“Budgeting starts with knowing your numbers,” says Thomas Racca, manager of personal finance management at Navy Federal. “Your budget should work with your life, not against it. Flexibility is key.”

Racca recommends starting with the essentials: “Track your fixed costs first — things like rent, mortgage, car payments and insurance. Then look at your past spending to get a realistic average for variable expenses like groceries, dining out and gas. That’s where you’ll find opportunities to adjust.” One of his top tips is to “treat savings like a bill. Pay yourself first, every month. Even small amounts add up over time and build financial confidence.”

Retirement planning

Whether retirement is years away or just around the corner, the earlier you start saving for your retirement, the more confident you can be when you approach that milestone. Each retirement plan type offers different benefits that can elevate your retirement savings.

Both Traditional and Roth Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) help diversify your retirement savings approach and allow you to contribute up to the limit at any time while you’re earning income.

• Traditional IRA is recommended if you’re expecting to be in the same or lower tax bracket when taking withdrawals, and contributions are potentially tax-deductible. You’ll enjoy tax-deferred growth now and pay taxes on withdrawals when you retire.
• Roth IRA is best for those who expect to be in a higher tax bracket when taking withdrawals, and who don’t need a deduction on taxes now. You’ll pay taxes on contributions now and enjoy tax-free withdrawals later.

Estate planning

Planning for your loved ones’ future is important for protecting your assets, so your heirs won’t overpay taxes — and to ensure your wishes are honored. A well-crafted estate plan can reduce the time, stress and financial burden if the unexpected happens.

Common estate planning documents include a will, trust, guardianship designations, financial powers of attorney and advance directives for medical decisions — also known as a living will. These tools work together to provide clarity and control over how your assets and care are managed.

Expert personalized guidance

Whatever stage you are at in life, it’s natural to have questions about your best next steps. To take the guesswork out of financial planning, Navy Federal Investment Services can help make your vision a reality, using either their online Digital Investor tool, or by meeting with one of their Financial Advisors.

At any stage — transitioning to civilian life, getting married, beginning a family, saving for college or eyeing retirement — developing a concrete financial plan makes all the difference.

“Your financial goals may shift over your career and lifetime, and what you consider a financial accomplishment today could easily evolve with changing circumstances,” says Michael Dale, vice president of investment services at Navy Federal Investment Services. “That’s why maintaining a relationship with a trusted financial advisor or institution is key and ensures your financial strategy adapts with you, so you’re always making the most of your money.”

Navy Federal Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA.

Navy Federal Financial Group, LLC (NFFG) is a licensed insurance agency. Non-deposit investments, brokerage, and advisory products are only sold through Navy Federal Investment Service (NFIS), a member of FINRA/SIPC and an SEC registered investment advisory firm. NFIS is a wholly owned subsidiary of NFFG. Insurance products are offered through NFFG and NFIS. These products are not NCUA/NCUSIF or otherwise federally insured, are not guaranteed or obligations of Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU), are not offered, recommended, sanctioned, or encouraged by the federal government, and may involve investment risk, including possible loss of principal. Deposit products and related services are provided by NFCU. Digital Investor is offered through NFIS. Financial Advisors are employees of NFFG and they are employees and registered representatives of NFIS. NFIS and NFFG are affiliated companies under the common control of NFCU. Call 1-877-221-8108 for further information. Trust Services available through MEMBERS Trust Company. 1-855-358-7878.

2025-10-09T07:01:01

(BPT) – An estimated $5 billion in over-the-counter (OTC) allowances for Medicare Advantage members don’t get used each year — that’s approximately 70% of these benefits wasted. With current consumer prices rising, it’s important to find ways to save on everyday necessities.

Medicare Advantage has become the most popular form of Medicare, with about 30 million members. A great benefit that not everyone knows about for Medicare Advantage is that numerous plans offer an average annual OTC allowance of $400.

What are OTC allowances?

An OTC allowance helps Medicare Advantage members pay for items like non-prescription medications that treat symptoms of back pain, arthritis, hypertension, cough, cold and flu, plus over-the-counter products that support digestive health, dental care and even skincare, among others. Because OTC allowances don’t roll over, any unused funds expire at the end of each plan cycle, on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis — depending on the member’s plan. This makes it crucial for Medicare Advantage members to use them while they last.

New research from Kenvue’s “A New View of Care” report finds most consumers don’t completely stop their health and personal care routines because of cost, but price does impact how consistently they use products. Because OTC allowances help reduce financial strain, it’s easier to maintain your everyday personal care routines without interruption.

“With the cost of everyday essentials on the rise, Medicare Advantage OTC allowances are one of the simplest ways for those with Medicare Advantage plans to save money while staying healthy,” said Amanda Coussoule, Kenvue Chief Customer Officer U.S. “By using their OTC allowance, they can access their favorite trusted products from brands like Tylenol, Zyrtec and BAND-AID Brand, helping them take care of their health without sacrifice.”

Top OTC-eligible products

As a Medicare Advantage member, hundreds of your favorite health and personal care products are eligible for OTC funds. Want to refill your medicine cabinet, boost your skincare routine or restock health remedies? Many of Kenvue’s leading brands, including NEUTROGENA^®, AVEENO^®, TYLENOL^®, IMODIUM^® and ZYRTEC^®, are OTC-eligible. Always be sure to check your specific plan for product eligibility.

Here are top brands in health and personal care categories that may* be covered by your OTC allowance:

• Pain relief: For managing pain, you may be able to use your OTC allowance on products like TYLENOL^® 8-HR Arthritis Pain or the new TYLENOL^® PRECISE™ Pain Relieving Patches.
• Cold, cough and flu symptoms: Now’s the perfect time to be prepared with cold, cough and flu options, including products you can trust such as SUDAFED^® and TYLENOL^® Cold + Flu.
• Digestive health support: Products like PEPCID^® COMPLETE can aid your digestive health and keep heartburn at bay.
• Improve your skincare: OTC allowances can be used for most skincare products with active ingredients such as AVEENO^® Eczema Therapy Soothing Cream, Steroid-Free and AVEENO^® Therapy Nighttime Itch Relief Balm, or acne treatment products such as NEUTROGENA^® Oil-Free Acne Wash, Fragrance-Free. To protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays year-round, use your benefits on NEUTROGENA^® Sport Active Defense™ Lotion Sunscreen SPF 30, NEUTROGENA^® Beach Defense^® Spray Sunscreen SPF 70, or NEUTROGENA^® Invisible Daily Defense Sunscreen Lotion SPF 60+

• Boost your dental care: Consider a LISTERINE^® product like LISTERINE^® Clinical Solutions™ Gum Health to keep your smile fresh and healthy, and continue that three-step oral care routine
• First-aid must-haves: Time to restock the first-aid kit? Consider using OTC allowances for essentials like BAND-AID^® Brand PRO-HEAL^®.

How to save using OTC benefits

Here are the three primary ways* Medicare Advantage providers typically allow members to use OTC allowances:

• Order by catalog: Your Medicare Advantage provider should have an OTC catalog or website listing OTC-eligible products. You can place orders through the website, via the app, by phone or by mail.
• Debit card at retail: Use your OTC debit card and purchase eligible items in a separate transaction. This method often gives you more brand choices than the catalog.
• Receipt reimbursement: After purchasing an OTC-eligible product, you may submit receipts for reimbursement through your provider.

As the number one consumer healthcare company by revenue, Kenvue is committed to ensuring that Medicare Advantage members understand their OTC benefits and use them to support their everyday care. Don’t lose out, learn more about Kenvue’s OTC-eligible products at https://www.kenvuebrands.com/us/medadvantage.

*If you’re unsure how to use your benefit or what products are eligible, contact your Medicare Advantage provider for more information.

2025-10-09T09:01:05

(BPT) – October is Fire Prevention Month, making it an ideal time to review life-saving, fire-safety tips. Fire safety starts at home, and simple steps can go a long way in protecting every moment. In fact, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates that one in five households (19%) are at risk of not having at least one functional alarm. Fire spreads fast and working smoke alarms help give you early warning so you can get outside quickly.

To help protect what matters most, follow these safety tips.

• Check the age of your alarms. Smoke alarms don’t last forever. They should be replaced at least every 10 years, and many homeowners don’t realize theirs may already be expired. Check the date it was manufactured on the back of each alarm. If it’s more than 10 years old, it’s time to replace it.
• Upgrade to 10-year battery alarms. For convenient fire safety, consider upgrading to a First Alert 10-year sealed battery alarm. The sealed battery is designed to power the alarm for a full 10 years, which means you never have to replace the batteries or deal with low-battery chirps during that time. This eliminates the cost and hassle of changing the batteries while helping ensure continuous detection capabilities.
• Update your home with advanced fire-safety technology. Newer smoke alarms are designed and tested to meet the latest industry standards to provide early warning in the event of a home fire emergency, while also reducing nuisance cooking alarms as the technology better differentiates between cooking smoke or steam and a fire emergency.
• Ensure proper placement and number of alarms. According to the NFPA, a smoke alarm should be installed on every level of your home, outside of each sleeping area and in every bedroom. When installing on the wall, place the smoke alarm no more than 12 inches away from the ceiling. Additionally, CO alarms should be installed on every level and outside each sleeping area.
• Care for your alarms. Having working smoke and CO alarms is the first line of defense. Roughly three out of five fire deaths happen in homes with either no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms (NFPA). Be sure to test your smoke alarms regularly to ensure they’re in functioning condition, and replace them at least every 10 years. It’s also important to regularly clean your alarms. To do so, gently vacuum the dust from the unit using a soft brush attachment or use a can of clean compressed air to blow dust out of the sensor areas.
• Have a fire extinguisher on hand. If a fire does happen, make sure to have a fire extinguisher easily accessible — and know how to use it. The First Alert HOME1 Rechargeable Fire Extinguisher is ideal for use in any household location. Remember the acronym P.A.S.S. when operating: Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the trigger and Sweep from side to side.

To learn more about First Alert products, or for additional fire safety tips, visit FirstAlert.com.