(StatePoint) When it comes to saving money, it helps to cut out smaller expenses that add up over time – like frequent lunch dates, unused gym memberships or online subscriptions. But if you really want to make a dent in your budget, you need think bigger.

(StatePoint) During the holidays, there are endless ways to show the humans around you how much you love them. Finding ways to extend the joy of the season to pets who are a part of the family takes a bit more creativity.

(StatePoint) Among mask mandates, social distancing, outspoken political views and personal challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a heightened risk for public spaces turning into places of conflict.

(StatePoint) The new normal and natural disasters are dominating the headlines. At the same time, consumers have embraced socially distant adventure travel. Whatever your reasons for wanting to be prepared, easy to carry, functional gear will prepare you for what’s to come. Here’s how:

(StatePoint) Social distancing guidelines across the country have made visiting a conventional movie theater difficult, if not impossible. However, what was once a relic of the past has now become an innovation in entertainment, the drive-in movie theater.

(StatePoint) Patient volumes are hitting only 74 percent of pre-pandemic levels, according to the American Dental Association. With many people delaying dentist office visits, at-home oral care routines are more important than ever.

(StatePoint) Amid the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic, with hospitals and health care workers already overburdened, medical experts say it’s more important than ever to slow the spread of the flu. In a typical year, the flu causes tens of millions of illnesses, hundreds of thousands of hospitalizations, and tens of thousands of deaths in the U.S.

(StatePoint) While you may take electricity for granted in today’s world, you might not in the future -- that is, if current trends continue. As a new report highlights, the U.S. electrical workforce is aging out and not being sufficiently replaced -- a trend which could have potentially devastating and far-reaching impacts nationwide. The report’s authors say that the time to fill the pipeline of new electrical workers and invest in training and retention is now.

(StatePoint) Children look forward to opening their holiday presents all year. However, there are some things to keep in mind to make sure gifts are safe and appropriate.

(StatePoint) Each American throws out about 4.5 pounds of trash per day, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. By incorporating the “Three Rs” (Reduce, Reuse and Recycle) into routines, you can help divert some of this waste away from landfills to help protect the environment.

(StatePoint) Finding a prescription drug plan that meets your budget and needs is especially important during this year’s Medicare Open Enrollment -- which takes place between Oct. 15 and Dec. 7, 2020.

(StatePoint) With more of life centered at home due to cool weather and social distancing, it’s time to ensure the space where your family spends the majority of its time is healthy and safe.

(StatePoint) Students are the greatest hope for the future, but for many, their plans are threatened due to burdens posed by COVID-19. Here are just a few of the issues students and families face today, and steps being taken to address these concerns:

(StatePoint) Americans love the great outdoors and are venturing out to trails, rivers, lakes and campsites more often for a breath of fresh air from the COVID-19 restrictions in place across the country.

(StatePoint) Whether you’re a parent managing your kids’ remote-learning or a teacher working to maintain a safe and welcoming environment for those in the classroom, there is a cost-effective secret weapon that can be used for countless projects: shelf liner.

(StatePoint) Our homes are our sanctuaries. It’s more important than ever to ensure your home is a safe and healthy environment for you and your family. Indoor air quality can have a negative effect on your health, and the air inside your home is oftentimes more polluted than the air outside. Explore five effective wellness design principles that can lead to better indoor air quality and on overall healthier home.

(StatePoint) Across the U.S., the COVID-19 crisis is financially impacting people in many ways, including their ability to pay for their medicines.

(StatePoint) Hispanic communities have been making vital contributions to the American cultural landscape and the national economy for decades.

(StatePoint) Your neighbor is selling fashion masks. Your uncle – expert at everything – wears a sophisticated respirator with a valve. Your dental hygienist wears a medical mask. Your kid is running off to sports practice in a team-supplied neck gaiter. Is there a difference between these face coverings?

(StatePoint) Screen time is on the rise for kids and teens as a result of remote learning and social distancing measures. At the same time, cyberbullying and hate speech are reaching new heights amid the current crisis, according to analysts.

(StatePoint) The economic downturn caused by the pandemic has created widespread housing insecurity for both renters and homeowners. However, advocates say that free and low-cost legal assistance and other support is helping people remain in their homes.

(StatePoint) With a little creativity, having fun while following social distancing guidelines can be an opportunity to carve out brand new experiences.

(StatePoint) Sponsored by Amgen. Did you know that 25 percent of the 805,000 heart attacks per year in the U.S. are recurrent heart attacks? The American Heart Association reports that once you’ve experienced a heart attack, your chances of having another one is higher. In fact, nearly one in five patients who’ve had a heart attack will have another cardiovascular event, such as a heart attack or stroke, within one year.

(StatePoint) Less than 30 percent of the world’s researchers are women, according to the UNESCO Institute for Statistics. However, one team fighting against COVID-19 is not only leading the charge to save lives, but also in empowering women in science, encouraging the next generation of girls and young women to pursue STEM education.

(StatePoint) As more of life is centered around home, good design can help you augment and replace natural light, while creating a beautiful, productive, safe haven during the darker, shorter days of fall and winter.

(StatePoint) The typical routine a school year brings has been lost this year, as students adjust to hybrid or fully remote learning models and ever-changing reopening plans. According to McKinsey, 75% of the 50 largest school districts in the country have decided to start remotely, and the UN estimates that 94% of the world’s student population has been impacted.

(StatePoint) It’s never fun to think about the possibility of getting sick or hurt, losing a home, needing extended medical care, or even dying, but these are extremely important topics to confront when planning your financial future.

(StatePoint) Electrical fires often occur unexpectedly in locations that may be hidden from view. As the second most common type of home fire in the U.S., more than 40,000 electrical fires occur in American homes every year, resulting in hundreds of deaths, over 1,000 injuries and more than $1 billion in property damage, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

(StatePoint) When it comes to your skin and hair care routine, it can be all too easy to forget the scalp. After time though, this neglect can take a toll on the health of your hair, according to experts.

(StatePoint) According to a new survey from Boston Scientific of more than 500 people with chronic  pain, 60 percent aren’t satisfied with their current treatment or therapies. Professional golfer Grant Waite can relate.

(StatePoint) Football season is here (sort of), and for many, tailgating is a main event. While there will be nothing traditional about tailgating this year, that doesn’t mean you can’t grill delicious food and enjoy a few beers before game time in the comfort of your own backyard or driveway.

(StatePoint) Recent historic economic downturns and significant unemployment numbers and job losses have created considerable financial worries for families across the country. Health and safety concerns about returning to schools, childcare facilities, and office settings have only added to the uncertainty and stress that Americans are currently feeling.

(StatePoint) A camping trip is not only fun and relaxing, it can be the perfect opportunity to test out new skills and acquire more knowledge. Here are five ways to make your next camping trip a learning experience for family members of all ages:

(StatePoint) Hitting the trail for a hike is good for the mind and body. Fortunately, there are still plenty of opportunities to get out and do so this fall. As you plan your next outdoor adventure, consider supporting your journey with the following tech tools and gear:

(StatePoint) More Americans are investing their time and energy in the pursuit of fitness these days, with the percentage of people belonging to gyms and health clubs nearly doubling from 2000-2017, according to Statista. Beyond casual workouts, participation in extreme sports and endurance events has grown exponentially in the past 25 years. Whether you’ve recently started exercising, are ramping up your efforts or have always been an avid sports enthusiast, you’ve probably dealt with soreness and fatigue after a tough workout.

(StatePoint) The negative effects of social media have been much discussed as of late, thanks to the recently released documentary on Netflix, “The Social Dilemma.”

(StatePoint) One of the keys to encouraging children to develop the healthy habit of regular exercise is to make fitness a priority in the home. With cooler weather and changing scenery to enjoy, autumn can be an ideal time to try new outdoor activities.

(StatePoint) Many people deal with foot and ankle concerns by simply ignoring them, hoping the problem goes away. However, certain symptoms could be a sign of a serious condition, warn experts.

(StatePoint) You likely hear the same word of advice every fall: review your Medicare Part D plan. While you may be tempted to stick with what you have, it’s important to remember that plan specifics change annually, your health needs are always evolving, and as this year has shown, unexpected global events can impact your health and finances. For all these reasons, doing your homework is not only important, it has the power to substantially reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

(StatePoint) Every year, eligible individuals can shop for a health plan during Medicare’s Annual Election Period (AEP), which runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7. Doing so can potentially improve your coverage, lower your costs or both. The options are many, including Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage (MA) plans, Medicare Supplement plans and Prescription Drug Plans.

(StatePoint) When it comes to showing teachers appreciation for all that they do, a personal gift is always appreciated. However, sometimes what they really want is the proper tools to help them in the classroom.

(StatePoint) It is not always easy to tell how your charitable dollars are going to be used, especially during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

(StatePoint) Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, many Americans are looking into new life insurance coverage or taking a closer look at their existing coverage to make potential updates, according to a new survey.

(StatePoint) While spending more time at home, you may have noticed the little things that need to be fixed, and small ways you can improve the appearance and functionality of your home. So why not use this time to test your skills with a few DIY projects?

(StatePoint) As American families continue to track developments of the pandemic, many are opting for regional travel experiences this fall.

(StatePoint) While the current health and economic crisis has impacted Americans nationwide, it has disproportionately affected the Native American/Alaska Native (NA/AN) community. Not only have chronic economic inequalities and systemic lack of infrastructure in many Indigenous territories put tribes at high risk, but these problems have been exacerbated by the loss of revenue experienced by tribal businesses shuttering their doors.

(StatePoint) As the seasons change and the weather cools, you may be naturally inclined to pay less attention to the health and appearance of your skin. However, experts say that falling temperatures should not coincide with ditching your skin protection routine.

(StatePoint) Between schoolwork, socialization and gaming, kids will likely be online more than ever this year, especially with many students continuing to learn remotely. Families are yet again facing the challenge of ensuring children’s online usage is balanced, healthy, and safe. Here are a few of the issues around increased screen time:

(StatePoint) While the COVID-19 crisis continues to be top of mind for many Americans, it’s important to remember that other disasters can still occur with little or no warning, making it vital to prepare.

(StatePoint) While some of the traditions of a typical birthday are not possible these days, parents can find new ways to celebrate these important milestones. Here are a few ideas for making your child’s upcoming birthday feel special:

(StatePoint) Along with the fall season comes a range of outdoor chores for homeowners nationwide, from clearing trees and branches after wicked weather strikes to gathering autumn leaves. Here are a few things to consider as you go about fueling your chainsaws, leaf blowers and other lawn care equipment:

(StatePoint) Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), causes numerous cysts to grow in the kidneys and for those affected by this condition, nearly 50% will experience End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) by age 60. According to the National Kidney Foundation, autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) accounts for as many as 90% of all polycystic kidney disease cases.

(StatePoint) If your effort to reduce your personal plastic use has fallen by the wayside in recent months, you’re not alone -- reusable bags and containers have gotten a bad rap during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, a new report shows that they can be a safe, effective way to tackle the global plastic pollution crisis.

(StatePoint) Whether your child is learning in a classroom or digitally, establishing a steady family dynamic is essential to a successful school year.

(StatePoint) While this academic year looks a little different from previous years, some things don’t change. Busy families are still in need of smart tips to save time and money on weekday meals and school supplies.

(StatePoint) Whether kids are in the classroom, learning remotely, or a mix of both, you can help them stay organized and motivated all school year in the following ways: 

(StatePoint) COVID-19 has significantly impacted our lives in many ways. It has even led some people to start reconsidering the importance of life insurance to protect loved ones who would be left behind should something happen.

(StatePoint) Managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is always important, and especially so right now, as individuals living with a chronic lung disease are at a higher risk of severe illness and complications from COVID-19. However, misinformation about COVID-19 has made it hard for people with chronic conditions to determine how to stay safe.

(StatePoint) Kicking a smoking habit is a gift that keeps on giving. Your body will experience health benefits almost immediately and in the years to come. While quitting is often easier said than done, relying on tools and support can help. Here are a few tips to help you quit for good:

(StatePoint) Like many Americans, the recent pandemic may have you thinking a lot about your current living space and about buying a home. If you’re a military service member, veteran or family member, both new and tried-and-true tools and resources can streamline the process.

(StatePoint) Regular eye exams are essential for kids. Not only will an eye exam help a child see more clearly, but this essential visit can also detect a broad range of issues related to eye health and overall wellness.

(StatePoint) The fall season is the ideal time of year to dine outdoors. To create a healthy and sustainable outdoor dining experience, consider these tips:

(StatePoint) New data reveals that in uncertain times, consumers and businesses need even greater vigilance when it comes to their cybersecurity.

(StatePoint) What might seem like one little pest sighting can be a much more extensive invasion than you realize. For starters, a single roach can lay up to 50 eggs at one time!

(StatePoint) With families spending more time at home, messes are on repeat and cleanups are often an hourly routine. At the same time, many households are looking to reduce their environmental impact affordably.

(StatePoint) Whether you’re building a new home or making exterior updates, there are many decisions you’ll have to make. Perhaps topping the list in importance is what materials you select for your roofing and siding. Not only do your selections impact your home’s curb appeal, but some choices have the potential to save you money and help increase your family’s safety.

(StatePoint) Your 65th birthday is an important milestone. That’s when you become eligible for the federal Medicare health insurance program.

(StatePoint) For those with diabetes, a seemingly insignificant foot problem can produce dangerous consequences. Experts say that managing this risk is an important part of diabetes care.

(StatePoint) A new COVID-19 study is currently enrolling patients, and researchers believe it has the potential to change the course of the virus around the world.

(StatePoint) Many Americans are feeling things like their health, job and retirement savings are at risk. 

(StatePoint) As businesses and services reopen nationwide, the death toll from COVID-19 continues to rise, and experts warn that Americans must continue taking precautions to help stop the spread of the virus.

(StatePoint) In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, learning about cross-bore is important, as certain lifestyle changes you may have made over the past few months could turn an existing cross-bore condition into a potentially dangerous situation. Fortunately, unlike many items on your list of concerns these days, cross-bore is something that you can do something about besides just worry.

(StatePoint) Weather impacts a range of decisions we make throughout the day, from what to wear, whether to bring an umbrella, when to head out for a jog, or even if you should evacuate the area in an emergency.

(StatePoint) One in five kids aged 12 to 18 has encountered bullying, according to StopBullying.gov. It can happen in person, online or even by text.

(StatePoint) As schools nationwide decide how they’ll reopen for the fall semester, it’s important to schedule your child’s dental visit to ensure they’re in good oral health.

(StatePoint) Caring for a baby can be very rewarding. It can also be exhausting. Along with those amazing first-year milestones can arise teething misery that disrupts the entire household.

(StatePoint) Even avid nature lovers will agree that not all aspects of the outdoors belong inside one’s home. While bugs, mud and allergens will sneak their way into interior spaces, the steps you take to manage these elements can keep your home more comfortable.

(StatePoint) Plasma donations are essential. Used to produce life-saving medicines that treat rare and serious diseases, your plasma donation can help save lives. Experts say that during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s not only safe to donate plasma, but that doing so is vital. By donating plasma today, you can help make a difference not only for patients that need plasma therapies, but to your local community.  

(StatePoint) After months spent indoors at home due to the coronavirus pandemic, it’s clear that many people are itching to get back out there and take a vacation. This is with good reason. Staying isolated for too long can take a substantial toll on one’s mental health and well-being, according to the American Psychological Association.

(StatePoint) Camping is always a great time, but especially when you’re well-equipped. Here’s what to take along with you on your next overnight into the great outdoors: