Month: February 2025

She got the First Impression Rose and the first One-on-One.

Over a decade ago, in 2011, I saw Rita Moreno in her one-woman theatre piece, Rita Moreno: Life without Makeup. She was spectacular – singing, and dancing. She was in her early 80s.

Now she is 93 and still taking various roles, both in TV series and cinema productions. In 2011, it did not cross my mind to compare myself with her, but now at 72, I cannot help but feel a twinge of jealousy.

Comparisons Make Us and Break Us

When we were teens, comparison was about who was the most popular or who had a cuter boyfriend. As young parents, we bragged about how early our babies walked or talked. Then it was our careers, or the size of our house, and then what our children were doing with their lives.

It is so easy to compare ourselves to others, so it is natural to compare how we age. We worry about how young we look, and God forbid someone asks us if our husband or sister is one of our children.

We might laugh about it, but these comparisons are damaging. They become an excuse to feel bad about ourselves and become resentful, thinking that others have it so much better.

We Will Always Be Different

There is really no point in comparing ourselves to anyone else. I’ve heard that called “comparing our insides to other people’s outsides.”

Over a lifetime, I believe that everyone has had to face at least one big challenge, whether it is cancer, divorce, problems with our adult children, or a bad turn in our career.

As we well know, in the long-run, who was more popular, which baby walked first, or even career accomplishments shrink from a huge thing into a thing of the past.

For some, our life challenges turn up in wrinkles or grey hair, for others, they are buried deep inside. When you compare yourself with the ‘outside’ of another person, you don’t really know the half of what they have gone through.

Forget Competition, Embrace Shine

My friend Jennifer Abrams directed me onto a way of thinking that turns competition on its head. It’s called the #ShineTheory. The idea that “I don’t shine if you don’t shine” was conceived by Ann Friedman (journalist) and Aminatou Sow (media strategist), cohosts of the podcast “Call Your Girlfriend.” They did a lot of shows before they closed in 2022.

They invented the #ShineTheory to put the brakes on the tendency for women to be competitive. Their idea is for us to celebrate each other’s successes and good fortune, opposed to feeling the twinges of jealousy that can fester into actual resentment.

Take Competition Out of Aging

The #ShineTheory is also a great way to approach aging. The other day, I noticed that I need to be much more careful when I get up from sitting or get out of the car. As I stand up, I cannot leap into action, but must take a moment to get my body moving, even though I go faithfully to the gym.

I can’t remember my mother getting up like that when she was in her 60s. Aging happens differently to all of us. No point in comparing ourselves to others.

Our attitude is very important, but our bodies truly are changing. And for each of us, it happens a bit differently. For some, it is arthritis in the joints, for others, our hearing is going, and for some, night vision weakens, making driving at night no longer an option.

Part of a positive attitude is accepting our limitations. By applying the #ShineTheory I can be happy that my sister and her husband annually ride a bicycle from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

I can also be happy for my sister-in-law who, in spite of a myriad of health problems, can be found posting her salsa dancing videos on Facebook.

And of course, what’s not to like about Rita Moreno paving the way for new attitudes about aging and beauty? So, Sixty and Me friends, let’s let go of comparisons and shine!

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Who do you compare yourself to most often? What feeling does that bring into your heart? Do you think you can switch your attitude from comparison to something more productive? Please share your stories and thoughts below!

Valentine’s Day is the perfect opportunity to show appreciation for the special older man in your life. Does he enjoy practical gifts or indulgent treats? Does he prefer experiences to remember or maybe even something to share with you? There’s something for every personality. 

Here are some thoughtful ideas tailored to older men this coming Valentine’s Day.

1. Luxury Shaving Kit – Many kits come with a classic, vintage-inspired aesthetic that will appeal to men who appreciate timeless style.
2. Smartwatch with Health Features – A smartwatch can help him stay connected and monitor his health. 
3. Gourmet Whiskey or Wine Set – If he’s a connoisseur of fine drinks, consider a bottle of premium whiskey or wine.
4. Weekend Getaway – Plan a weekend trip to a nearby destination he’s always wanted to visit.
5. Experience a Cooking Class Together – Sign up for a cooking class that focuses on a cuisine he loves. 

Continue reading to discover many more Valentine’s Day gifts for older men. There’s sure to be something for your special man!

Valentine’s Gifts for the Mature Man in Your Life

Luxury Shaving Kit

Sandalwood Full Size Kit from The Art of Shaving New York

Upgrade his grooming routine with a luxury shaving kit. Look for sets with high-quality razors, a shaving brush, and nourishing shaving cream. Many kits come with a classic, vintage-inspired aesthetic that will appeal to men who appreciate timeless style.

Smartwatch with Health Features

Apple Watch Ultra 2 from Apple

A smartwatch can help him stay connected and monitor his health. Many models now offer features like heart rate monitoring, step tracking, and even fall detection. Opt for one with a classic design to blend technology with elegance.

Personalized Leather Wallet

Personalize the Derrick Sliding 2-in-1 from Fossil

A high-quality leather wallet with his initials embossed adds a personal touch to an everyday essential. Choose a slim and functional design that accommodates his cards, ID, and cash.

Gourmet Whiskey or Wine Set

The Gentlemans Whisky Taster Pack from The Gourmet Basket

If he’s a connoisseur of fine drinks, consider a bottle of premium whiskey or wine. Pair it with accessories like a decanter, personalized glasses, or whiskey stones for an extra-special gift.

Comfortable House Slippers

RockDove Men’s Original Two-Tone Memory Foam Slipper on Amazon

Upgrade his at-home comfort with a pair of high-quality house slippers. Look for options made from materials like shearling or memory foam for ultimate coziness.

Weekend Getaway

Plan a weekend trip to a nearby destination he’s always wanted to visit. Whether it’s a serene cabin in the woods or a cozy bed-and-breakfast, this experience-based gift offers memories to cherish.

Customized Photo Book

Through the Years Photo Book on Shutterfly

Compile cherished memories into a professionally printed photo book. Include pictures of family, friends, and meaningful moments to create a sentimental keepsake.

High-Quality Coffee Maker

9-Cup Coffee Maker from OXO

For the coffee enthusiast, a premium coffee maker or espresso machine can elevate his morning routine. Include a bag of gourmet coffee beans or pods to complete the gift.

Read The Best 12 Gifts for Coffee Lovers.

Membership to a Craft Beer Club

The Original Craft Beer website

The Craft Beer Club is a subscription service delivering carefully curated craft beers from independent breweries across the United States. Each monthly shipment includes 12 beers along with a newsletter featuring brewery profiles, tasting notes, and food pairing ideas.

Massage Gun

Theragun Prime from Therabody

Help him ease sore muscles with a handheld massage gun. These devices are excellent for relaxing tense muscles and promoting recovery after physical activities.

Classic Timepiece

1940s Tudor 9ct Gold Small Seconds Mechanical Watch 

A classic wristwatch is a timeless gift that adds sophistication to any outfit. Go for a design that reflects his style, whether it’s sleek and modern or vintage-inspired.

Personalized Vinyl Record or Turntable

Automatic Wireless Belt-Drive Turntable and Speaker BundleAT-LP70XBT-BDL3X from Audio-Technica

If he’s a music enthusiast, gift him a turntable and a personalized vinyl record featuring his favorite songs or artists. This nostalgic yet functional gift can bring back fond memories while creating new ones.

Experience a Cooking Class Together

Online Cooking Classes at Sur la Table

Sign up for a cooking class that focuses on a cuisine he loves. Not only does this gift offer a chance to learn new skills, but it also provides quality time spent together creating delicious meals.

Custom Puzzle from a Favorite Photo

Personalized Jigsaw Puzzle from Jigsaw2order

Turn a cherished photo into a custom jigsaw puzzle. Whether it’s a family portrait, a scenic vacation spot, or a meaningful moment, this interactive gift can be both fun and sentimental.

Refillable Hand Warmer

Zippo 12-Hour Refillable Hand Warmer on Amazon

Keep him warm on cold days with a refillable hand warmer. Sleek and easy to carry, this practical gift is ideal for outdoor activities, from walking to fishing. Its refillable design ensures it can be used repeatedly, making it a sustainable and thoughtful choice.

Outdoor Fire Pit or Patio Heater

Master Forge Rancher 47.24-in W Black Steel Wood-Burning Fire Pit at Lowe’s

Enhance his outdoor living space with a compact fire pit or a patio heater. Perfect for chilly evenings, this gift encourages relaxation and can make gatherings even more enjoyable.

Valentine’s Day gifts for older men don’t have to be complicated. With these thoughtful and tailored ideas, you’re sure to make him feel appreciated and loved. The key is showing you care!

Read 11 Thoughtful 30th Wedding Anniversary Gifts.

Also, read 10 Gifts for Grandad for National Grandparents Day.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you have an older Valentine to get a gift for? What do you think your valentine would like to receive? Do you have any Valentine’s Day gift ideas for an older man? Share your ideas and tell us about it in the comments section below. 

Many of us share common fears as we enter retirement. We fear financial challenges, failing health and feelings of disconnectedness as we grow older. The good news is that there is one strategy which can help us effectively face all three – living with roommates.

Shared housing is an age-old concept that is becoming the latest housing trend. More than a third of Baby Boomers are single and most of those flying solo are female. The reason? Living alone is expensive and simply beyond the reach of many single retirees.

Living alone can also prove to be isolating and lonely. Neighbors don’t necessarily become support systems. Housemates often do. We all have fond memories of watching Blanche, Dorothy, Rose and Sophia bond (for better or worse) on The Golden Girls TV series in the late 1980’s.

Embracing the idea of retirement with roommates opens the door to affordable shared housing options. You’ve done it before (which is why you may be cringing as you think about being in a roommate situation again). Likely you gained something from that experience. Retiring with roommates makes sense on many levels.

The Benefits of Living with Roommates in Retirement

First and foremost, it is cheaper to live with other people. You share housing costs, utilities and often food. If you own a large home, you can offset the cost of maintaining it by taking on roommates. You get to age in place and your roommates gain a more affordable way to live.

There’s something to be said for having friendly faces around instead of empty rooms.

There will be other people to share chores and responsibilities and to provide a helping hand when needed.

It is more likely that someone will be around to help if you take a fall, to notice if you don’t come home or to call 9-1-1 when necessary. This can provide real peace of mind.

There is a sense of security that comes with having roommates – and not just when you hear a noise in the middle of the night. You gain companionship and people to potentially share holidays and special occasions with. Your circle will grow, as you meet the friends and family that roommates bring to the equation. Only you can decide if that is desirable or not.

A sense of community is good for your mind, body and spirit. We need people around us to offer advice or support, provide social interaction, get us out of the house and push us to try new things. Living with other people is one way to create such a valuable support circle.

The Challenges of Living with Others

There are, of course, challenges to living with other people. Collaboration and cooperation are key to a successful house sharing arrangement. People who live together need to maintain healthy boundaries and respect privacy.

Roommates are not surrogate spouses or friends. They are not caregivers, chauffeurs or home health providers. They are your partners in a living arrangement. Perspective is key.

An ability to respect other opinions, religions, world views and lifestyles is essential. Most of us have lived with a roommate at some point in our lives (at camp, college or in the military) and we know how challenging it can be. We’ve also learned from those experiences, and potentially have more to offer (and gain) in a shared housing arrangement as adults.

Making Shared Housing Work

A written (and signed) rental agreement is essential to outline house rules, shared responsibilities for rent, related bills and household chores and to help maintain harmony between housemates. Private and shared spaces in the home should be clearly outlined. Policies regarding visitors, overnight guests and quiet time are important.

Potential roommates should provide references and undergo a background check at minimum, and be introduced to their potential housemates if possible. People who interact well with each other in a social setting are more likely to get along as house partners.

As with many things in life, it’s the ingredients which lead to a successful outcome. The ideal roommates should share some similarities and interests, but also bring unique strengths to the table. Maintaining a home requires many different talents, including cooking, gardening, handyman skills, painting, pet sitting, bookkeeping or working with contractors.

Being able to make a unique contribution to the household will help each housemate feel needed and appreciated, and learning from each other can be a great bonding experience.

We all crave a sense of community in our lives. I write about different ways to “live alone, together” and create shared connections in my book, Retiring Solo.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Can you see yourself living with roommates at this point in your life? What is most appealing about having housemates in retirement? What challenges do you worry about and how could you work to overcome them? Do you have a roommate story to share? Please join the conversation.

As we age, our skin undergoes a myriad of changes that can lead to dryness, loss of elasticity, and an overall dull appearance. While there are countless skincare products and treatments available, one natural remedy that has gained attention is Dead Sea salt and a few drops of your favorite essential oil.

Renowned for its mineral-rich composition, Dead Sea salt has been used for centuries for its therapeutic properties. But how does it specifically benefit aging skin?

The Rich Composition of Dead Sea Salt

Dead Sea salt contains an impressive array of minerals, including magnesium, calcium, potassium, and bromide. These minerals are believed to play a vital role in skin health and function. Unlike regular sea salt, which primarily consists of sodium chloride, Dead Sea salt is packed with nutrients that can enhance skin hydration, improve cell function, and promote overall skin rejuvenation. You can create the perfect DIY by adding a few drops of your favorite essential oils to create the most relaxing bath. 

Hydration Is the Key

One of the primary benefits of Dead Sea salt is its ability to attract and retain moisture in the skin. Aging skin often struggles with moisture retention due to a decrease in natural oils and slower cell turnover. When Dead Sea salt is dissolved in warm water, it creates a saline solution that can help draw moisture into the skin, providing immediate hydration and relief from dryness.

Enhancing Skin Cell Function

Research suggests that the minerals found in Dead Sea salt can improve skin cell function, particularly in aging skin. Magnesium, for instance, is known to reduce inflammation and enhance the skin’s barrier function, which is crucial for maintaining moisture levels and protecting against environmental stressors. Calcium plays a role in cell regeneration, helping to promote healthier skin turnover. This can lead to a more vibrant and youthful appearance.

Detoxification and Healing

Soaking in a bath infused with Dead Sea salt can also aid in detoxification. The minerals can help draw out impurities from the skin, promoting clearer and healthier skin. For those dealing with skin conditions such as Psoriasis, Keratosis pilaris or Eczema, the anti-inflammatory properties of Dead Sea salt can provide soothing relief, reducing redness and irritation.

Incorporating Dead Sea Salt into Your Routine

To reap the benefits of Dead Sea salt for aging skin, consider incorporating it into your skincare routine in various ways:

Soaks and Baths

Add Dead Sea salt to your bathwater for a relaxing soak that hydrates and rejuvenates your skin. Aim for a 15–20-minute soak a few times a week.

Exfoliating Scrubs

Create a DIY scrub by mixing Dead Sea salt with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil. Gently exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells and promote circulation.

Facial Masks

Combine Dead Sea salt with natural ingredients like honey or yogurt to create a nourishing facial mask that hydrates and revitalizes the skin.

Skincare Products

Look for commercial skincare products that contain Dead Sea salt as an active ingredient. These can include cleansers, scrubs, and moisturizers designed specifically for aging skin.

Conclusion

As the quest for youthful, radiant skin continues, Dead Sea salt emerges as a powerful ally in aging beautifully. Its unique mineral composition not only hydrates and nourishes but also enhances skin cell function, making it a valuable addition to any skincare regimen. Whether through soothing baths, exfoliating treatments, or targeted skincare products, incorporating the power of Dead Sea salt and essential oils can lead to healthier, more resilient skin for those looking to embrace their age with grace and confidence. 

So why not take a dip into the ancient waters of the Dead Sea and unlock the secrets to ageless skin? Your skin deserves it to experience the power of natural minerals that work at cellular level. 

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you tried a Dead Sea salt bath? How did it feel on your skin? What benefits have you noticed? Which properties of Dead Sea salt would be most beneficial to you?