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Seniors

FDA OKs first new sunscreen ingredient in 25 years

WASHINGTON (AP) — Federal health regulators on Tuesday signed off on the first new sunscreen ingredient for the U.S. market in more than 25 years, giving Americans access to a skin-protecting chemical long used in Europe and other parts of the world. The Food and Drug Administration says the ingredient, bemotrizinol, met the agency’s standards for protecting from dangerous ultraviolet rays while causing little irritation or absorption into the skin. The ingredient is safe for adults and children 6 months and older, the agency stated in a release. Bemotrizinol will initially be ...

Simple to build a cash cushion

An important job in the two or so years leading up to retirement — right up there with figuring out your healthcare coverage and winding down your work activities — is building up a cash cushion. In addition to being there as a source of funding when you eventually retire, cash has the salutary effect of providing a buffer if you retire earlier than you expected due to unforeseen circumstances. As you build out your Bucket portfolio, here’s some guidance on the amount, source, and location of those liquid reserves. Rightsizing Bucket 1 Your cash bucket should consist of one to ...

Science explains why scratching bug bites a bad idea

WASHINGTON — You’ve likely heard it since childhood: Don’t scratch that bug bite or rash, you’ll make it worse. But why would something that feels so good be bad? A lot of things can cause itchiness, sometimes serious diseases. Whatever the cause, doctors have long warned that ...

Kozeska’s path shows how to overcome obstacles

Life is rarely a straight path. Career, family, education and fitness goals often require detours, and economic, social or physical challenges can significantly affect us. Successful adults learn to navigate setbacks and keep moving forward, even when outcomes differ from their plans. This ...

What to do when medical bills pile up

Dear Savvy Senior, I’m 63 and recently had a hospital stay that left me with bills I can’t afford to pay. I had Affordable Care Act health insurance, but after my premiums went up in January, I had to drop my coverage. Now I’m overwhelmed by medical bills. What can I do? — Struggling Patient Dear Struggling, You’re definitely not alone. Medical debt is very common. About 1 in 12 Americans are dealing with it, and many had insurance when the bills started piling up. The good news is there are ways to reduce what you owe and make it more manageable. Here are some steps that ...