I totally agree with this!
President Trump declares, "No property taxes for people over 65 who own house outright! Housing should not be a burden for seniors."
— Charlie Kirk 🇺🇸 Commentary (@CharlieK_news) June 2, 2025
Do you agree?
A. Yes
B. No pic.twitter.com/4sWTMrT7ES
Nowadays, these seniors are arming up to protect themselves against criminal attacks. MSN has posted a slideshow of the reasons.
The start it off with:
Gone are the days when Grandma’s biggest weapon was a wooden spoon. Today’s seniors are trading their knitting needles for something with more firepower. Across the country, older adults are arming themselves, and it’s not just to keep those pesky kids off their lawns.
But why are seniors suddenly packing heat? These boomers have some pretty solid reasons for embracing their Second Amendment rights.
To see the slideshow, go here.
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| Above, Yosemite National Park's Tenaya Creek. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
My great uncle used to say, "Growing old isn't so bad when you consider the alternative."
Indeed, now that I have reached 70, I can appreciate that folks in my age group need to keep active. One way to do so is visiting national parks.
There are some national parks more senior-friendly than others. Sports Illustrated has posted a list of national parks that seniors need to visit.
They begin with:
Visiting and exploring national parks is something that everyone, regardless of age, should be able to enjoy. Alas, there are some people who believe that the older they get, the tougher it will be to get out there.
While there may be some intimidation conquering some regions of the United States at an advanced age, there is still plenty for seniors to take in. Some parks even have trails designed specifically to ease the difficulty of the trip.
Jacqueline Kehoe, a Yahoo Creator, put together a list of the best national parks in the country for seniors to visit.
Before starting your journey, it is highly recommended they take advantage of the American the Beautiful Senior Pass, which provides access to the parks for life at a one-time fee. Also, grab a national parks passport to document all of your adventures.
To see what national parks that are senior-friendly, go here.
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| Above, yours truly at the Kinkaku-ji "Golden Pavilion" in Kyoto in 2015. |
It is hard to believe that in less than a week I will be saying goodbye to my sixties.
For my age, I am in reasonably good shape. My weight is down (I am around 160 lbs.). I am following my cardiologist's instructions on getting exercise. I am regularly taking my medications. I still travel.
For those still in middle age, don't laugh. Before you know it, you will be reaching retirement age.
One place that is an ideal destination for those in their "golden years" is Japan. I have been there eight times and plan on heading back.
Outlook Retirement has an article on why Japan is so ideal for seniors.
They begin it with:
With its harmonious blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity, Japan emerges as a perfect haven for elderly travellers seeking a unique and enriching experience. From serene temples and historic gardens to efficient public transportation and age-friendly amenities, Japan offers a multitude of reasons why it stands out as an ideal destination for those in their golden years.
To read more, go here.
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| Above, at the KOA-Lazydays RV park in Tucson last April. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
Everything in life has a beginning and it also has an end. That includes RVing.
As one gets older, there will come a time when one is done with RV travel. Physical conditions and illness are two things (among others) one faces as we age.
What to do for when it's time to settle down? RV Life has some tips on how to deal with it.
They begin with:
What Should You Do When You’re Done RVing?
RV travel is exhilarating, but every journey has its end. When it’s time to transition from the mobile to the immobile, it can be a mix of emotions. Here’s how to navigate the change.
Sell your RV in the spring
The best time to sell your RV is in the spring, when people are shopping for campers in anticipation of summer. To maximize your sale, consider listing your RV during this season. This ensures a broader audience and a quicker sale.
To read more, go here.
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| Above, at Tombstone's Crystal Palace Saloon back in April. |
The other day, Larry Lucier and I were musing about how fast this year has gone. I mentioned that it is hard to believe that the clampout in Tombstone, Arizona I attended was way back in April and here we are already in October.
We mentioned that it is said that time seems to go by faster as we get older.
Obviously, we weren't the only ones thinking such. It has been the subject of studies, including some of different age groups. The old saying, "Time flies when you're having fun" actually has some validity.
WebMD has an article on this that should pique one's interest.
It begins with:
April 18, 2023 – Time can feel like a roll of toilet paper – it unrolls faster and faster the closer you get to the end.
Psychologists and social scientists know this -- that time goes faster as we age -- but why is that so?
It's not just an academic inquiry. Our time perception has real effects on our mental health. The feeling of time going faster is linked to anxiety, while slowing time down – through mindfulness, for example – can help us feel less stressed and more relaxed.
The topic has drawn particular attention lately, thanks to the pandemic, when many people – more than 80%, according to a recent U.K. survey – felt time moved differently during lockdown.
But scientists are still unraveling the mysteries of time perception. Some say it’s related to how long we have lived – a 5-year-old feels a year is long because it makes up 20% of their life. Others point to changes in the brain. A 2019 research paper suggests our ability to process visual information slows with age; we perceive fewer mental images, and time feels like it’s speeding up.
To read more (if one wants to take the time to do so), go here.
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| Above, yours truly enjoying the wonders of Monument Valley Tribal Park last year. |
When I retired eight years ago (but I started collecting Social Security a few months after), I couldn't wait to do so.
My parents didn't have much of a retirement as they started having medical issues. I did as well, three years after. I thought at the time, when it cropped up, it was a good thing I retired when I did.
After having two stents put in a coronary artery, I changed my diet, became more active, faithfully took my meds and followed doctors' orders. So far, everything is fine (knock on wood).
One of the things I also did was to travel. World Health Net has posted an article on just this topic, "Retirement Reimagined: The Therapeutic Wonders of Travel In The Golden Years".
They begin it with:
Most people think that retirement is a time to slow down, rest, and spend sleepy evenings with the family. However, if you’re new to retirement, you may feel the urge to put your newfound freedom to good use.
Reimagining your retirement can help you make the most of your golden years. You don’t need to break the bank while traveling to new locations and countries, either. Traveling on a budget is easier today than ever before and can help you get more from life.
Traveling in your golden years can help you overcome common conditions like loneliness and depression, too. This is particularly powerful if you’re an early retiree or are struggling to adjust to life without a 9 to 5.
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| Above, two weeks ago with Ethan Wayne at the John Wayne Cancer Foundation marathon near Ridgway, Colorado. I volunteered to man one of the course's aid stations for the runners. |
Some family members and friends took their time to retire. Some are still working, chasing that "almighty dollar". Some who did finally retire, ended up being glad they did.
To read more, go here.
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| Above, at camp at Base Camp 550 in Ridgway, Colorado last weekend. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
Aging is inevitable, unless one plans to "cash in their chips" a lot earlier. The old saying about growing old is true, "It sure beats the alternative!" I'll be hitting 70 in a few months.
It is weird that mentally, one feels the same as if they were still in their 20s, but the body isn't exactly cooperating. There are ways of dealing with that.
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| Above, yours truly at the house used in True Grit (1969) near Ridgway. |
Travel is one thing that I still enjoy doing. Keeping active, according to my cardiologist, is the key to prolonging good health. This goes for RVing. I had a great time last weekend going to the John Wayne Cancer Foundation's Half Marathon and 5K and volunteering to man an aid station in Ridgway, Colorado. The drive to and from Ridgway was only six hours long, much of it was on winding mountain roads. I also did a lot of walking, which is also essential.
With the above in mind, RV Travel has posted an article on navigating RV life as we age.
They begin it with:
A recent “tweak” in my back sidelined me. I took a week off from our latest construction project to recuperate. The incident reminded me that I’m no spring chicken! I’m rushing headlong into “old hen” territory. I don’t like it, but there it is. I’m getting older, and my recovery stint got me thinking about navigating RV life as we age.
Basics
Of course, the best thing an RVer can do is take good care of themselves—health-wise: Eat right. Exercise. Visit your healthcare professional once a year. We all know the drill. We need to DO it!
Once you put a checkmark beside the aforementioned basics, are there other tips for navigating RV life as we age? You bet! It’s essential to make adjustments so that your RV lifestyle remains safe, enjoyable, and comfortable even as you grow older.
To read more, go here.
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| Above, RV travel is one way to enjoy retirement. |
As time goes on, retirement is on the horizon for more of the baby-boomer generation. As we move deeper in years, more baby boomers are starting retirement. The baby boomer generation is usually defined as people born from 1946 to 1964 (following the end of World War II).
I retired early eight years ago. I figured I'd better retire while my health was still excellent. It was a good thing that I did, as I had a heart issue crop up three years after retiring.
RisMedia has a list of nine ways to a more rewarding retirement, some of which I am doing.
They begin with:
No matter how long you’ve looked forward to retirement, cleaning out your desk for the last time can come as a bit of a shock—especially if you haven’t thought much about how you will spend your days beyond scuttling the alarm and sleeping in.
But, psychologists say, retirement these days can last for many years, and having a plan beyond the financial can extend it for many more.
To read more, go here.
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| Above, Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
Senior citizens (or, as Rush Limbaugh used to say, "seasoned citizens") have many avenues for discounts. Some are specifically tailored to seniors and some for people in general.
RV Life has posted an article listing the best senior discounts for RVers.
The start it with:
Camping On A Budget? These Senior Discounts Can Help
Many retirees decide to pack up their belongings and move into an RV. Those who are at least 50 years old will qualify for a variety of camping perks and discounts. Whether you travel full-time, seasonally or just once or twice a year, you can benefit from senior discounts.
Your eligibility for these discounts will vary based on your age, location, and RV type. But regardless, senior citizens can enjoy plenty of reduced prices wherever they travel. This sweetens the deal because many retirees are looking for fun experiences and travel opportunities that might otherwise be too expensive.
Below, we’ve collected information about the best senior discounts that could save you money while camping. Some of these options still cost a bit of money, but the benefits far outweigh the price. In addition, several of these discounts and clubs will pay for themselves in a short period of time! Read on to learn how you can get the most out of your next vacation.
To read on, go here.
Philip N. Diehl, 35th Director of the U.S. Mint (1994–2000) and President of U.S. Money Reserve, and Edmund Moy, 38th Director of the U.S. Mint (2006–2011) and U.S. Money Reserve’s Senior IRA Strategist, are joined by Angela Roberts, U.S. Money Reserve CEO; Brad Chastain, U.S. Money Reserve’s Director of Education; and host Chuck Woolery. The panel discusses inflation.
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| Above, some 60-somethings camping in Quartzsite, Arizona. |
It has been some time since I crossed over age 55. Since then, although I had to have two stents put into a coronary artery five years ago, I am in pretty decent shape for my age (knocking at the age 70 door), all things considered. My weight is down and following doctor's orders on medications, diet and exercise. Next year will mark 10 years since I retired.
When I can, I do head out in my motorhome (a trip to Tombstone, Arizona is coming up this month) with the Lost Dutchman Chapter of E Clampus Vitus.
RV Life posted some tips for senior RVers over age 55 which should be useful for you geezers.
They start it with:
RVing has long been a popular option for seniors. It lets you downsize, live simply, and see all the places on your bucket list. But starting to RV as a senior can definitely feel daunting.
Thankfully, there’s no need to worry. With a few simple pieces of advice, you can make your new RV life easier and more fun. Let’s take a look at some of the best tips for RVing as a senior.
To read more, go here.
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| Above, some seniors prefer group camping trips with like-minded friends. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
Seniors (age 50+) vary in interests and vacation preferences like all other age groups. So "one size doesn't necessarily fit all" when it comes to senior. Not all seniors are into cruises or bus tours.
USA Today has an article with five trip ideas geared towards seniors.
They begin it with:
The internet offers a bewildering array of senior travel tours and ideas for older travelers. Many of us have the time and resources for serious travel and we’re aware of the health benefits of physical activity. But we are also a diverse group, so not all of the senior adventures that pop up on the web or in brochures will be relevant to all of us.
For one thing, the senior age range (50 and older) is wider than that of any other group. We bring to the table a variety of life experiences and physical capabilities. A friend my age (74) spent last summer vacation doing her “usual activities”: cycling, canoeing and backpacking. I prefer to take long walks to get to know a destination. Other seniors use their vacations to visit the best dude ranches or luxury glamping resorts or simply take advantage of AARP travel discounts at nice hotels.
Some active seniors may not want to go full-speed on every day of a trip. Some may have health or mobility issues, or be traveling with someone who does. We may wish to travel with people who have very different interests and physical capabilities – a skip-gen vacation with our grandchildren, for example. And while some seniors have very specific bucket lists, many simply want to go somewhere, do something and stay healthy.
Here are five different types of trips for active seniors that take into account a variety of travel styles and interests.
To read more, go here.
The latest in kookery had been posted last week at Trending Politics.
They posted an article on the World Economic Forum video advocating that seniors "off themselves" (i.e., self euthanasia) due to overpopulation "for the children."
They posted:
In the height of hypocrisy of “for the children” the World Economic Forum is now complaining about overpopulation and/or suggesting that older people consider euthanasia “for the children”. In a video seen on Twitter full of geriatrics saying they’ve had a good life after explaining there’s too many humans on the planet. The video suggests that elderly folks who no longer are productive should opt for euthanasia. I’m certain children all over the world are thankful their grandparents will be suggested to off themselves for their benefit.
And while it is couched in “for the children” narrative, the truth of the matter is much more sinister. Christina Lagarde of the International Monetary Fund has been quoted as saying, “Old people live too long and this is a risk for the global community. What Christine is saying in effect is, unless you are a productive member of society your entire life, you don’t deserve to live. Christine, with her white hair, manicured nails, and designer clothing probably never worked a manual job a day in her life. She would like to tell our senior citizens who defended this country, grew our food, built machines and trucks, mined coal, drilled oil, and worked on the railroad that now that they are no longer useful, they should just die. It is psychopathy to look at a person who has worked 30, 40, 50, and sometimes even 60 years, at the end of their life when they should be enjoying the twilight hours left for them and tell them they just need to die because they are a drain on the global community.
You first, Ms. Lagarde! Or maybe I should say, "You go, girl!"
To read more, go here.
Well, I finally got my 2021 income tax documents to my tax preparer in California. I am doing it later than usual, mainly because I hadn't thought much about it since I generally don't have to pay anything (I will likely not get anything back either) since I retired.
I just had my Social Security, IRS (for the Economic Impact Payment) statements and 1099 for my investments to send.
Next year, a new law passed and signed this year eliminates New Mexico taxation on Social Security, saving New Mexico seniors over $84 million next year. The idea is to entice seniors to move to New Mexico, now a more taxation-friendly state for them.
I "inherited" my tax preparer from my mom, who used him when she was alive and I have used him since 2011 or thereabouts.
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| Above, a couple of geezers on the balcony of the main house at Southfork Ranch in Texas. |
Since 2015, I have been joyfully retired. Except for a "slight bump in the road" when I had a heart attack (or something) that required two stents in an artery in 2018, it has been an enjoyable time.
Besides the usual camping trips such as the Great American Eclipse trip, the near cross-country trip to Metropolis, Illinois and others, I have also been to Key West, Florida, Havana, Cuba, Wells (Nevada) Fun Run, Idaho Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas and several clampouts, just to name a few.
Retirees have the benefit of plenty of time to travel (just watch the money) and some can be prone to making mistakes.
Travel + Leisure posted an article on mistakes retirees have made so that others can avoid them.
They begin it with:
Travel is high on the list of plans for many retirees. With time available for longer trips, retirees want to explore new places, visit family, and spend time with friends. Even experienced travelers encounter problems along the way, many of which are unavoidable. For those new to taking extended trips, cruises, or international journeys, there can be a lot to learn.
Travel + Leisure heard from retirees across the U.S. who shared stories about difficulties they encountered on trips, with the hopes of saving someone else from making the same mistakes. Here are a few of the lessons they learned the hard way.
The first one mentioned was a hard lesson, after having to deal with the vast airports of Phoenix Sky Harbor, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (now the Harry Reid International Airport).
To read more, go here.
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| Above, the new coffee maker. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
Social Security beneficiaries won’t have to file tax returns in order to receive the coronavirus relief payments, the Trump administration announced Wednesday in a quick reversal of an earlier position.
“Social Security recipients who are not typically required to file a tax return need to take no action, and will receive their payment directly to their bank account,” Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a news release.
Millions of people receiving Social Security retirement and disability benefits aren’t required to file federal returns because their incomes are so low they don’t owe any taxes.To read more, go here.
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| Above, the South Entrance to Yellowstone National Park. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
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| Above, The Beast at Diamond Lake RV Park in Oregon. Photo by Armand Vaquer. |
Now look at the population over 65. The growth rate of the 65-and-over population is running more than three times greater than the total population growth rate, and Census Bureau projections have this difference lasting through 2030. With faster growth of the senior population, expect more sales and services to this demographic segment.
The RV industry is a good example. Although some new units are sold to younger people, the bulk of the market is older people. And over the past five years, annual growth of RV units sold has averaged over eight percent per year. That’s much faster than GDP growth. (Last year saw a small decline in unit sales, probably reflecting higher interest rates and the weak stock market. Even with the 2018 drop, though, the sales growth figures are impressive.)
