Money Management

 The magic million remains an elusive goal for many. Here’s how far most Americans fall short, and what it means for your future planning. 

Fewer than 3 percent of American households have amassed $1 million or more in retirement accounts, according to the latest Federal Reserve Survey of Consumer Finances. That figure highlights the gap between common retirement advice and financial reality for most savers. The idea of reaching seven figures is often pitched as the ideal retirement benchmark, but few get there. The $1 million…

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 People over 50 hold most of the nation’s wealth, and they’re using it to redefine work, travel, and what aging really looks like. 

Americans over 50 now control a vast portion of the country’s wealth, and businesses are taking notice. AARP’s Longevity Economy Outlook estimates the 50+ age group contributes about $8.3 trillion a year — and that figure is several years old. Yet stereotypes persist. Many firms still treat this demographic as tech-averse or stuck in their ways. Several long-term trends have converged…

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 Decent job growth and modest wage increases may shift your next financial move, here’s what to consider before changing course. 

The latest May jobs data just delivered a reality check to anyone stockpiling canned goods and preparing for economic doomsday. U.S. employers added 139,000 jobs in May, beating expectations, and the unemployment rate held steady at 4.2 percent — a historically low level that reflects a healthy labor market, according to reports from Investopedia and Reuters. TheStreet echoed this sentiment…

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 Your daily dose of caffeine might be just what the doctor ordered for a longer, healthier life. 

That morning cup of coffee may boost not just your energy — but also potentially how well you age. Research recently presented at an annual meeting of the American Society for Nutrition connects caffeinated coffee to healthier aging in women. The researchers analyzed 30 years of health and dietary data from over 47,000 women and found that women who drink caffeinated coffee in midlife (ages 45…

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 If you have these plants in your yard, mosquito repellent is only an arm’s length away. 

Use mosquito-repellent plants, such as lavender and geraniums, as natural ways to drive away mosquitoes. Here, we’ll discuss plants that repel mosquitoes. There are plenty to choose from and add to your garden. Although plants in and of themselves won’t repel mosquitoes, various parts of them — usually the leaves — can be bruised and rubbed on your clothes, or they can be burned in the seating…

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 Many older adults are surprised to learn federal energy aid is available right now. Find out how to access support and start lowering your bills. 

Rising energy costs have stretched household budgets nationwide, and older adults may feel the squeeze most acutely. The National Energy Assistance Directors Association reports that heating and cooling price increases hit people over 50 living on fixed incomes especially hard. Fortunately, there is real help available — and many are eligible without even realizing it. The Low Income Home…

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