(StatePoint) Financial decisions can have a big impact on your future and the future of your loved ones. Good financial decisions you make on your own can save thousands of dollars, but according to experts, there are some decisions that may be better left to the professionals.

(StatePoint) While lighting is an essential piece of new home design; it’s often selected and installed at the end of the building process. What’s more, statement-making decorative lighting is often not part of the initial design at all. 

(StatePoint) You may not think about it often, but wild birds use your lawn as a rest stop and place to call home. As you spruce up your lawn and garden for the season, there are simple steps you can take to protect them and help them thrive.

(StatePoint) When warmer weather arrives, it’s all about spending time in your home’s outdoor spaces. Here are a few new ideas for transforming your porch, deck or yard into an oasis of relaxation.

(StatePoint) Getting young children acquainted and comfortable with digital devices and their interfaces is essential in today’s tech-driven world.

(StatePoint) Over half of U.S. adults say financial stress negatively impacted their personal health and work performance in 2018, according to new research from Lincoln Financial Group. When it comes to tax season, preparation is key to easing anxiety, according to experts.

(StatePoint) While the majority of the more than 25 million Americans living with asthma enjoy active, healthy lives, for others, severe symptoms are part of daily life, despite using high dose asthma medicines and avoiding triggers.

(StatePoint) Screen time is a hot topic for parents and researchers alike. While digital devices are the norm, and children can certainly use them to their benefit, parents can also help children learn healthy digital habits.

(StatePoint) Indigestion is on the rise worldwide and is especially prevalent in the U.S. According to the American College of Gastroenterology, 60 million Americans suffer from heartburn at least once a month. While it’s a common issue for older people due to aging, it’s now a growing problem for younger adults as well, who report increasing bouts of indigestion, upset stomach, and anxious stomach, which may be linked to stress and hectic lifestyles

(StatePoint) When looking for a financial planner who can bring all the pieces of your financial life together and put you in the driver’s seat of your own financial future, experts say it’s important to look beyond his or her resume.

(StatePoint) Has your family discussed money concerns?

(StatePoint) The first months of the year are a great time to build a plan to achieve your financial health goals. Here are some tips to help you get started:

(StatePoint) Financial experts agree that no one is completely immune from risk when a recession occurs, and that an economic downturn can have a significant impact on your personal and financial situation. However, they also agree that it is important to avoid panicking and to remain focused on your long-term financial plans and strategies.

(StatePoint) Pi Day, is not only an annual opportunity to celebrate math, it’s also a day to honor the renowned scientist and mathematician, Albert Einstein, born on March 14.

(StatePoint) From fitness apps monitoring daily activity to calendar apps that send appointment reminders, having high-quality, real-time information in the palm of your hand can be an effective way to stay accountable to your goals. So if you’re looking to better manage your money, it may be time to consider how an app can help.

(StatePoint) Decisions about spending money are often driven by emotions, even if what your heart is telling you goes against logic. Emotional financial choices may provide you with short-term happiness, but they are just as likely to result in long-term regret or debt.

(StatePoint) In an age of instant messages, video chats and social media, the art of letter writing has become rare. But sitting down to write correspondence by hand can be a much more personal way to connect than some of the modern modes of communication. Not only does it give you ample opportunity to express yourself, it gives your recipient something tangible to hold onto and revisit.

(StatePoint) Economic analysts increasingly predict that the U.S. will soon experience a recession, and a recent survey by CFP Board/Morning Consult shows many Americans agree: 55 percent of respondents believe a recession will occur in the next year. Roughly three quarters of respondents said an economic downturn would affect their household, with more than a third projecting it would have a major impact.

(StatePoint) The latest financial planning trends anticipated by industry experts will have important implications for consumers.

(StatePoint) For many, the new year is about establishing goals for the year ahead. But where should you start? As we age, an increasing number of us link our emotional and physical well-being to our overall health. After all, you can’t do the things you’d like if you aren’t healthy.

(StatePoint) If you’re like most people, you’ve spent more time than you’re willing to admit troubleshooting a technology issue with any one of the many devices in your connected home. Did you know that the average person owns at least 10 connected devices from Macs and PCs, smartphones, tablets and printers, to voice assistants, video doorbells and even home automation systems? 

(StatePoint) What tops most New Year’s resolutions lists? You guessed it. Greater health and happiness. But what most Americans don’t consider is that financial health can be equally, if not more important to overall happiness than other resolutions, such as starting a new diet or joining a gym.

(StatePoint) Cutting-edge technologies have long been used in classrooms to help students engage with material and better grasp tough concepts. And now, many of these same technologies are becoming available for use at home.

(StatePoint) The health benefits of regular exercise are undeniable, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends 30 minutes of exercise at least five times per week. However, high-impact exercises like running and weight training can lead to joint pain, especially if you have a joint condition. The good news is that smart exercises with low impact can alleviate joint pain and deliver the same health benefits.

(StatePoint) From custom-designed sneakers to tailor-made sunglasses, the trend of personalization is going head-to-toe, and for good reason, making its way to the world of weight loss and wellness.

(StatePoint) With the demand for skilled trade workers growing nationwide, you may be looking to launch your career, change professional paths, or hone current skills in order to advance in your industry.

(StatePoint) When it comes to financial goals, a new survey suggests that creating a plan to pay for college should be top of mind for more families.

(StatePoint) Starting a business? One of the first things you’ll need to do is build a website. Today a website is not only your brand, but it also provides the tools you need to operate your business, and is the central point for you to communicate with your customers.

(StatePoint) Setting healthy habits and intentions should make you feel good -- that’s the whole point, right? So, consider this twist on the standard goal format: opt for a few, small lifestyle wins with clear start and end points rather than mounting an all-out assault on your current habits -- more goal-lite if you will.

(StatePoint) Experts agree that periods of economic downturn, or recessions, are unavoidable and often follow a period of market growth. However, experts also acknowledge that it is difficult to predict exactly when the next recession will begin.

(StatePoint) Taxes are an unavoidable fact of life. Unfortunately, they can be somewhat overwhelming, which can cause people to put the task off and miss the deadline. Use these tips for a stress-free tax season:

(StatePoint) The beginning of the new year is a natural time to think about refreshing the look of your home, and in 2020, “cozy” and “warm” are trending keywords for interior design, according to experts, with luxurious textiles, inviting color palettes, and warm mixed metals found across all design styles.

(StatePoint) From the Big Game to awards shows, you’ll want to ensure that you are prepared to host all the greatest television events of the season.

(StatePoint) Getting all the vitamins and nutrients you need each day is one of the most important things you can do to feel your best.

(StatePoint) Credit cards are a useful tool for managing personal finances and building credit, but they also expose you to a number of risks -- including identity theft and credit card fraud. Thankfully, experts say there are many simple, proactive steps you can take to help protect yourself when using a credit card. Here are seven tips for guarding your credit.

(StatePoint) Think back on some of your favorite family meals over the years and it’s likely that Campbell Soup Company played a role during those important moments around the table. An American icon, Campbell recently celebrated its 150th anniversary.  

(StatePoint) Planning to follow a trendy diet like keto or simply want to eat right? There’s good news -- grilling can be a great option for you to kickstart eating healthier. Indeed, the American Heart Association recommends it. 

(StatePoint) Chances are you’ve heard of the keto diet. Its popularity has soared in recent years, adding it to the list of diets many people try. The keto diet is founded on the belief that when your body is in a state of nutritional ketosis -- a metabolic state in which fat provides most of the fuel for the body -- you will lose weight. But what if you could take a less drastic approach?

(StatePoint) In our grab-and-go culture, plastic is pervasive at the grocery store. But as more supermarkets worldwide adopt smart strategies for reducing single-use plastic packaging, experts say that these same changes are possible here in the U.S., so long as retailers, companies and individuals commit to making them a reality.

(StatePoint) Want to save more money, boost your credit score and better manage your finances? To help get you started, Experian Boost ambassador, actor and financial empowerment activist, Hill Harper is providing these money tips:

(StatePoint) Four in 10 adults in the U.S. have two or more chronic diseases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While certain conditions and risk factors are beyond one’s control, there is no shortage of lifestyle choices you can make for improved health.

(StatePoint) If you are like many people, your winter wardrobe requires a bit of extra care. Between fine cashmere sweaters, favorite woolen outerwear and your snazziest cocktail attire, your special care garments should look as crisp at the end of the season as they do today.

(StatePoint) While everyone wants to make the most of their vacation, travel can do a number on one’s health, and during flu season, the risk of feeling unwell is even higher. Feel your best with these tips:

(StatePoint) Have you always wanted to play the piano but never took that first step in getting started? If you need any more motivation than the fact that making music is a fun and rewarding activity, consider that this is one hobby with many surprising positive benefits for your health.

(StatePoint) While vacations sound like the best chance to unwind, planning a trip out of town -- and getting there – can sometimes be more hassle than it’s worth.

(StatePoint) Americans are taking proactive steps to keep holiday spending in check and be financially ready for next year, according to an Experian national consumer survey.

(StatePoint) Hosting houseguests? For happier guests and hosts alike, you’ll want to be sure you’re equipped to accommodate all your overnighters. Here are a few pointers:

(StatePoint) Ending a tobacco addiction can be tough. While many smokers may think that e-cigarettes are a quit-smoking product, the American Lung Association is reminding people that e-cigarettes are a tobacco product and that switching to vaping is not the same as quitting.

(StatePoint) After paying monthly student loan minimums, many Americans have just enough to cover basic living expenses, which means that when unexpected expenses arise, they often end up defaulting on their student loans. 

(StatePoint) With speculation swirling that the U.S. economy is heading for another recession, you might be wondering what you can do to protect yourself from feeling the pinch of a slowing economy.

(StatePoint) Science has consistently shown that the first three years of life are vital to a child’s developing brain, and new research confirms that families play an important role in language development and educational readiness.

(StatePoint) You are likely doing more of your shopping online than ever before. When making purchases online, be sure to protect yourself from becoming a victim of identity theft -- it’s more common than you may think.

(StatePoint) As young adults establish their financial independence, they may be overwhelmed with enticing credit card offers. Free airfare, cashback and special introductory rates may be tempting, but choosing the right card is more important than snagging some fun freebies.

(StatePoint) More than one in three Americans -- over 84 million people -- have prediabetes, which is a serious condition that often leads to type 2 diabetes and other significant health problems, such as heart disease and stroke. Despite its prevalence, nearly 90 percent of people with the condition don’t know they have it. The good news is that prediabetes can often be reversed. The first step is learning your risk, say experts.

(StatePoint) In 2019, researchers discovered meaningful insights into the causes, risk factors and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Here are five of their important discoveries:

(StatePoint) While all the gear, clothes and toys your kids possess are signs of a joyful childhood, keeping it all organized is essential for health, safety and even fun.

(StatePoint) Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in men and in women in the U.S., making screening one of the most important preventive health measures to take as an adult. While no one relishes cancer screenings, new recommendations can help those of average risk for colorectal cancer learn more about the importance of screenings, and the most effective strategy for completing them.

(StatePoint) Today, American Indians, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians (AIAN) serve in the U.S. military at one of the highest rates per capita of all population groups, according to the Smithsonian Institution. In fact, the AIAN veteran cohort served in the Pre-9/11 period of service in a higher percentage than veterans of other races (19.9 percent vs. 13.3 percent, respectively).

(StatePoint) As the population of older U.S. adults grows, more Americans are taking on long-term caregiving duties for loved ones. An estimated 43.5 million adults in the U.S. have provided unpaid care in the past 12 months, according to AARP.

(StatePoint) Dietary supplements help people get the nutrients they need to thrive, and 77 percent of Americans take them, according to the Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN). However, experts say that in order to make smart choices down the line, it is necessary to understand changes being made to product labels.

(StatePoint) Want to maximize your productivity when working in your home office? Here are five essentials to build out the space:

(StatePoint) There are plenty of distractions and temptations that cause people to skip a workout. Here’s how you can stay focused on fitness.

(StatePoint) While visiting a new place is exciting and fun, it’s often no match for jetlag. Here are four ways to make the most of your trip and avoid grogginess and lost sleep.

(StatePoint) Parents spend nearly the same amount of time with devices as they do with their kids, according to new research from The Genius of Play, a nonprofit initiative dedicated to raising awareness of play’s vital role in child development.

(StatePoint) Today, there are over 18 million U.S. veterans, many of whom are seeking civilian jobs. Experts say that the caregiving industry -- which is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years due to an aging population -- is particularly well-suited to the skills and experience of those who’ve served their country.

(StatePoint) From encouraging dialogue on mental health to initiating grassroots fundraising efforts for pediatric cancer, students across the country are choosing issues they’re passionate about and generating real change. Parents, educators and community members may ask a pertinent question: how can we develop this initiative in every child?

(StatePoint) For young and old alike, books make great gifts. To wow your favorite readers on the next birthday or special occasion, consider the following titles, which will allow them to become armchair explorers, travel back in time, or even take an inner journey to learn more about themselves.

(StatePoint) Wow your friends and family by using a wood pellet grill and smoker to create every dish on your dinner party menu.

(StatePoint) Debbie, 63, and Doug Chambers, 72, had always been a social couple, enjoying travel, dinners with friends and going to the movies. But their active lifestyle began to change in 2016 when Doug’s gait became slower and he had difficulty concentrating. He was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease soon thereafter.

(StatePoint) Wow your friends and family by using a wood pellet grill and smoker to create every dish on your holiday party menu this season.

(StatePoint) Lifelong learners know that it’s never too late to broaden one’s personal and professional skills. Here are four cool ideas for doing so:

(StatePoint) Millennials are no strangers to watching numbers. Lives today are affected by a vast number of online and social media statistics -- likes, followers, scores and ratings. However, a new survey suggests that despite the time and attention this generation devotes to social media, they are more focused on the importance of a very different number: their credit scores.

(StatePoint) Once the domain of lawnmowers and gardening tools, today’s backyard sheds are being repurposed into unique, functional spaces (think: she-shed, bunkhouse or even a bar pub) complete with plumbing and electricity.

(StatePoint) As America’s opioid epidemic continues to impact communities large and small, new trends are raising new challenges for doctors and policymakers.

(StatePoint) Childhood is a time for imaginations to run wild. But when children’s schedules are filled to the brim with too many structured classes and extra-curricular activities, it can limit self-expression.

(StatePoint) When walking up the stairs and playing golf started to become difficult even on a good day, retired Navy Captain Allen Brady attributed the change to aging. Having spent six years as a prisoner of war, Brady was no stranger to living with a challenge. But, when he couldn’t finish a round of golf without feeling fatigued and short of breath, he and his wife knew something was wrong and decided to visit a cardiologist. Brady was diagnosed with a severe form of aortic stenosis, the most common valvular heart disease affecting an estimated 1.5 million Americans.

(StatePoint) When you see a product labeled “eco-friendly,” or “environmentally sustainable,” it can be tempting to take this at face-value and feel good about your purchase. However, a new report shows that while many major companies are making claims that they are tackling the plastic pollution crisis, there are reasons to be skeptical.

(StatePoint) While most people care about their vision, fewer people take steps to protect their eye health. 

(StatePoint) Candy and sweets are fun to eat, but too much can take a toll on dental health. Families can do some damage control with a check-in to make sure everyone’s dental health routine is up to par.

(StatePoint) Approximately 30 million people in the U.S. have some form of liver disease, which occurs in people for many different reasons. Some common types and causes of liver disease include hepatitis, caused by viruses A, B, and C, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is caused by too much fat in the liver cells, and alcohol-related liver disease, caused by consuming too much alcohol. Having liver disease over a long period of time can result in cirrhosis, an advanced chronic liver disease, which then puts a patient at risk for hepatic encephalopathy (HE) – a serious complication of advanced liver disease.

(StatePoint) Along with the joy of bringing a baby into the world, physical changes from pregnancy and postpartum conditions may cause unexpected effects on the body. It’s important to proactively discuss these topics with friends and physicians to stay informed, know you aren’t alone and understand what effective solutions are available.

(StatePoint) Consumers face major financial decisions at every stage of life. But experts say a basic understanding of financial concepts can help you make better decisions related to money management and reduce your stress at the same time.

(StatePoint) Sleep is essential to good health. Unfortunately, over a third of Americans are not getting enough sleep, according to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Over time, sleep deprivation can take a toll on one’s overall wellness.

(StatePoint) Recognizing and taking steps to address the warning signs of Alzheimer’s and other dementias can be extremely challenging -- especially in the early stages. It’s easy and common to dismiss cognitive changes in oneself or a family member as “normal aging.”

(StatePoint) Medicare Advantage (MA) plans are increasingly popular, offering robust benefits to supplement Medicare coverage, including vision, health, dental, drug coverage and more for more than 22 million people nationwide.

(StatePoint) There’s no doubt about it -- what you do each day for work can make a huge impact on your overall well-being. According to a Society for Human Resource Management survey, key job satisfaction aspects include job security, respect, trust and a positive and healthy environment. If you don’t have these things in your workplace, you may be considering making a career shift.

(StatePoint) There are more than 300,000 professional financial advisors in the U.S. It’s fair to say that a majority are dedicated to helping their clients achieve their financial goals. However, some unethical individuals seek to take advantage of clients’ trust and lack of financial knowledge to benefit themselves.

(StatePoint) Whatever industry you work in and no matter what your role is, it’s possible you have wondered how emerging technologies will affect your job in the years to come or whether you’ll even have to switch careers entirely at some point.

(StatePoint) PMI, APR, LTV…these unfamiliar acronyms don’t need to bewilder or intimidate uninitiated homebuyers.

(StatePoint) For many people, getting married and buying a house is still part of the American Dream. That’s reflected in the numbers. The homeownership rate among married couples in the U.S. is 80 percent, according to recent data reported by Statista. But what if something were to happen to you or your spouse? Would the person left behind still be able to afford the mortgage?

(StatePoint) With the right games, toys and activities on-hand, playtime can pull double duty, being an opportunity both to have fun and help kids reach important milestones.

(StatePoint) Do you have a favorite pair of jeans sitting in your closet with the hopes that one day they will fit again? You’re not alone!

(StatePoint) As more states nationwide adopt laws requiring high schools to offer personal finance classes, a new survey suggests that generation Z is on board with the trend.

(StatePoint) As you prepare your young adult for college and beyond, it’s important to talk about the road to financial independence, which includes building healthy credit. This is vital for big life moments like getting a car, apartment, house or job, and your child’s credit report will be the financial resume necessary to help him or her achieve these goals.

(StatePoint) Enrollment in Medicare Part D is on the rise. Having increased 12 percent since 2017, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the popularity of this prescription drug benefit may be due to the decline in the cost of basic premiums, which dropped for the third year in a row in 2020.

(StatePoint) In today’s workplace, many employers have abandoned strict dress code policies, providing employees with more flexibility to dress casually.

(StatePoint) While you can’t choose your family, you can choose how close you live to them. A new survey suggests some healthy boundaries between parents and in-laws make for a happier family relationship -- something to keep in mind when shopping for a home.  

(StatePoint) Whether your life revolves around cubby holes and recess or rolling campus hills and term papers, helpful hacks can ensure students, teachers and families are organized in dorm rooms, classrooms and households.

(StatePoint) The transition from childhood to adolescence is a complex time for kids, but it’s also a complex time for you, and you may find yourself unsure how to give your children more independence and when to stay involved. But when it comes to doctor’s visits, medical experts emphasize the importance of empowering teens to talk to their doctors one-on-one.

(StatePoint) Play is important for everyone, no matter their age --- and when grandparents, parents and children play together, that’s where the real benefits of unstructured fun are discovered.

(StatePoint) As housing prices soar nationwide, a growing number of Americans are unable to find affordable housing. Experts say that the problem has reached a crisis point, and is harming the welfare not only of individuals and families, but of communities and the economy at-large.  

(StatePoint) A baby’s skin is extra sensitive, and if you’re like many parents, you may be looking for ways to reduce your child’s exposure to potential irritants while maximizing skin health. This can be particularly difficult when the products you see on store shelves contain the very ingredients you prefer to avoid: namely, petroleum, brighteners, artificial fragrances, fillers and synthetics.

(StatePoint) Considering a career in financial planning? Those in the industry point out that financial planning provides opportunities to chart one’s own path, maximize growth potential, and maintain work-life balance.

(StatePoint) With more people nationwide opting to create their own businesses or work for their employer remotely, the home office has become one of the most used spaces of the house, with many people spending more than eight hours a day in this room. If you’re one of these people, the kitchen table just won’t cut it if you’re looking to get serious and organized.

(StatePoint) While a pest problem can cause embarrassment and concern, you can take comfort in the fact that not only is the problem is more common than you may think, but there are new ways of dealing with insects that can help you manage the problem without using harsh chemicals.