Articles from Brandpoint

(BPT) - Every year, roughly 20-30% of older Americans head to warmer climates for the colder winter months. Snowbirds are often retirees on fixed incomes, though flexible work environments now provide more opportunities for anyone to spend several months escaping the chill. Whether on a fixed income or an empty nester with disposable income, consumers are interested in saving money where they can. With this in mind, snowbirds can look to their AARP membership to take advantage of relevant discounts and offerings as they fluff their feathers and get ready for takeoff.

(BPT) - The new year is a good time to reset. From a fresh start on lifestyle choices, hobbies or pursuits, to the less exciting - but no less important - aspects of life, like memberships, contracts and even health insurance. Health insurance deductibles reset in the new year, so it's a good idea to keep that in mind as you plan for healthcare expenses. Any changes made to your health insurance plan during open enrollment go into effect as well.

(BPT) - From wearables to apps, New Year's fitness resolutions are getting a tech boost that's catching on, with T-Mobile customers spending 23% more time on average on fitness-related apps in the last year.

(BPT) - With all the talk about the economy lately, how did the 2024 holiday shopping season shake out? Were people buying? If so, how did their spending compare to past years? What and where were they buying?

(BPT) - For those living with paralysis and their loved ones, receiving sufficient support, meaningful connection and useful information are all crucial elements in order to thrive. Thanks to the leadership and vision of Dana Reeve, the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation's National Paralysis Resource Center (NPRC) opened its doors in 2002, and continues today to serve as a free, comprehensive, international source of informational support for people living with paralysis and their caregivers.

(BPT) - By Rob Williams, Managing Director, Financial Planning, Retirement Income and Wealth Management, Schwab Center for Financial Research

(BPT) - The kitchen is the heart of the home. It's where you gather with loved ones for meals and conversations and make memories and traditions. To achieve these connections (while still making delicious meals), warmth and welcome are key.

(BPT) - With the weather turning colder, you may think there's not much more you can do to protect your outdoor surfaces from damage caused by the elements. The good news is, it's not too late to ensure that any unprotected patios, driveways, pool decks, paths, sidewalks or other exterior concrete surfaces on your property are safe from flaking, cracking, spalling or staining. Depending on the current climate conditions where you live, there still may be plenty of time for you to tackle this crucial outdoor project before the worst winter weather.

(BPT) - Finding the perfect gift for all your loved ones can be daunting. However, choosing a thoughtful present that matches each person's hobbies and interests doesn't have to be difficult. Check out this curated list of tech gifts that will make the movie lovers, jetsetters, holiday hosts, gamers and students in your life feel the spirit of the season this winter and beyond.

(BPT) - The new year is dawning. Are your resolutions in line? It's the same every year, right? You set lofty goals - get up an hour earlier to exercise, eat healthier, organize your life, save money, whatever it may be. And by the end of January, those high-minded goals have slipped away. Sound familiar? Time magazine reports that a mere 8% of people who set New Year's resolutions actually follow through on them.

(BPT) - While this may be the most wonderful time of the year in many ways, it's not ideal for your skin. Between frigid temps, brisk wind outside and ultra-dry, overheated air inside - not to mention holiday busyness and stress - your face may not be glowing along with the season.

(BPT) - The following story was prepared and sponsored by Novo Nordisk. Calvin, Patrice, and Cam Ward are paid spokespersons of Novo Nordisk.

(BPT) - By Michael J. Sutherland, MD, MBA, FACS

(BPT) - The holidays are in full swing, and with that comes a range of emotions-you may be cramming in last-minute shopping or you might already be laying back and sipping hot cocoa.

(BPT) - Sponsored by Pfizer Inc. and Genmab A/S

(BPT) - The "silver tsunami" of people 65 and older combined with the uptick in surgeries during the winter months is creating the perfect storm for a sometimes-overlooked issue - postoperative delirium. More common in older people, postoperative delirium can cause symptoms such as confusion, memory problems or agitation that are usually temporary, but can lead to longer hospital stays and is associated with postoperative cognitive decline. However, if you or a loved one are 65 or older and having surgery, there are ways to reduce the risk, starting with talking to your anesthesiologist before the procedure.

(BPT) - Winter is in full swing. It's a beautiful season, but as the temperature drops and the snow, ice and cold approach, there's always the possibility of a power outage. When it's cold outside and your home is plunged into darkness, it can be more than just an inconvenience. It can mean not being able to keep your family warm, to work if your power is out, even to get water if your pipes freeze.

(BPT) - If you're just starting out and don't have much credit history, the holiday season maxed out your current credit card, or unforeseen circumstances lowered your credit score, this is the perfect time to make New Year's resolutions to improve your credit rating. Learning how to obtain and use credit cards wisely can make a difference in your lifestyle and future goals.

(BPT) - Americans are spending more time in their outdoor spaces - and want to maximize those spaces. Studies show that nearly 90% of homeowners consider their outdoor areas to be important to their health and well-being. Design trends reflect that people are showing more interest in connecting with nature in their own backyard and enjoying the comforts of indoor living while gathering outdoors. This means creating environments that are comfortable, multifunctional and cost-effective.

(BPT) - By Venessa Yates, senior vice president and general manager of Walmart+

(BPT) - As you get older, we may sometimes feel less of a sense of community and connection. If you've experienced loss, are living apart from family or have challenges due to chronic medical conditions, the holiday season can be even more challenging.

(BPT) - When most people think of advanced melanoma treatment, their first thought likely includes chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. Immuno-oncology (IO), also known as immunotherapy, has changed how advanced melanoma can be treated.

(BPT) - The summer spike in COVID-19 infections, triggered in part by a rise in new variants of the virus, was an unpleasant reminder that COVID-19 is here to stay. As we brace for an anticipated larger wave of COVID-19 cases during the fall and winter respiratory season, healthcare professionals want to remind the public that the virus does not affect everyone equally; some people, because of their age or overall health, may be at greater risk for severe illness.1,2

(BPT) - The state of California has not raised auto liability coverage limits for more than 50 years, but that is set to change beginning next year. The new legislation, introduced in 2022 to keep pace with rising medical and repair costs, will require higher liability coverage limits for drivers and will take effect on Jan. 1, 2025. As we approach the new year, Mercury Insurance wants to help consumers better understand what these new limits entail.

(BPT) - Did you know that if you're on a Medicare Advantage plan, you most likely have an over-the-counter (OTC) allowance to help offset the costs of everyday healthcare items? Millions of Medicare Advantage beneficiaries have access to this key benefit, but most don't use it. According to a study by The Consumer Healthcare Products Association, 70% of OTC benefits are never used, leaving billions of dollars on the table. They also found that on average, every dollar spent on OTC medicines saves the U.S. healthcare system $7.33, resulting in an overall annual savings of $167.1 billion. It is time to double-check your health care plan and make sure you're taking advantage of all your benefits and supporting your everyday care routines.

(BPT) - The last days of holiday shopping are here! You've made your wish list, and now you're checking it twice to ensure your friends and family (and, on occasion, yourself) receive the best gifts possible. If you haven't wrapped up your shopping yet and are on the hunt for a gift that's fun and functional, look no further than the latest cutting-edge laptops as the ultimate choice for anyone on your list.

(BPT) - By Brandpoint

(BPT) - When you look at your 5-to-10-year life plan, is a new car, wedding, or buying your first home on your vision board? There is one key behind the scenes that you need to unlock access to funds to reach these goals: a good credit score.

(BPT) - The holiday season is the time for hosts and home chefs to shine. Of course, cooking a holiday feast for friends and family is time-consuming, and with so many moving parts, accidents do happen. However, for this year's feasts, you can perfectly cook your holiday dishes and save time using sous vide, the preferred cooking method by Michelin-starred chefs from around the world.

(BPT) - A holiday gathering wouldn't be complete without a feast. Sharing a meal with friends and family encourages conversation and bonding, not to mention the opportunity to show off your culinary skills. However, it's important to keep in mind that large holiday meals can easily produce food waste.

(BPT) - The beginning of a new year is a time when many people take stock of their lives, addressing important tasks like getting wellness exams or scheduling home maintenance. To help protect your home and property, these two steps should be at the top of your list: Getting an annual insurance check, and taking a home inventory. These steps can help you have peace of mind that you've got the coverage you need, should the unthinkable happen.

(BPT) - As you look ahead to the new year, you may think about ways to help your kids succeed in life as they navigate their way through school - whether that means elementary school, high school or college - and eventually into adulthood. While money can be a tricky topic to navigate, especially if it was a taboo topic when you were younger, start the conversation to help them benefit from your experiences. Finding tools together that can help kids learn how to best manage their own finances as they grow and mature will help set them up for financial success in the years to come.

(BPT) - The holiday season inspires us to reflect on what we have, and what we can do for others. And while U.S. Army Soldiers have dedicated their careers to service, many still find other ways to give back and positively impact their communities - from addressing food insecurity to mentoring the next generation of female leaders.

(BPT) - Nothing brings folks together during the holiday season like food. Whether you're hosting a low-key gathering or throwing a festive party, choosing and preparing the right food can make the difference between a good and a great event.

(BPT) - By Craig Fugate, former Administrator of FEMA and a lifelong advocate for all-hazards preparedness

(BPT) - In 2024, more than 100,000 people will be diagnosed with melanoma, a form of skin cancer characterized by the uncontrolled growth of pigment-producing cells called melanocytes located in the skin. When melanoma spreads beyond the surface of the skin to other organs (also known as advancing), it can become deadly, which is why it is important to understand the available treatment options if you or a loved one are facing a melanoma diagnosis.

(BPT) - When you're planning festive get-togethers, it seems like there's never enough time. Between menu planning, shopping, prepping and cooking, holiday hosting stress can take some of the fun out of your celebrations. But what if there were ways to help you relax and enjoy every occasion?

(BPT) - Most people in the United States - 65% according to Harvard Health - have a general understanding of first aid, the Heimlich maneuver and CPR. That's great! We should all know what to do if someone needs help.

(BPT) - Like many sisters, 15-year-old Lila and her two sisters share a lot of things, including their love for their family. But unfortunately, all three of them also share the experience of being diagnosed with the same respiratory disorder, which has disrupted their young lives.

(BPT) - For your friends and loved ones who are all about their personal style, you'll want to give them holiday gifts that not only celebrate their passion for fashion, but truly enhance their everyday life, making it easy for them to look their best every day.

(BPT) - This article was sponsored and developed by Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc.

(BPT) - By Mary Hines Droesch, Head of Consumer, Small Business & Wealth Management Banking and Lending Products at Bank of America

(BPT) - When you pick up a bag of pet food from the store or click "add to cart" online, you deserve peace of mind knowing that the product you are buying is a safe and high-quality food.

(BPT) - The holiday season is a big, joyous whirlwind of hustle and bustle. By getting (and staying) organized, you'll have your home feeling like an efficient holiday hub to not only make life easier, but leave you with time to enjoy the holiday spirit.

(BPT) - It was a day that 6-year-old Abbey and her parents will never forget. Abbey, from San Lorenzo, California, has leukemia. But she got to take some time off from hospitals, treatments and procedures to be a princess, complete with a unicorn companion, just for a day.

(BPT) - Expecting mothers have countless preparations to make before their little ones arrive, from decorating the nursery and installing a car seat to picking a pediatrician and thinking about maternal immunizations. For mom and actress Chloe Bridges, who is partnering with Pfizer, navigating pregnancy - and the choices that come along with it - was a little overwhelming.

(BPT) - Looking forward to having some extra days off between the Christmas and New Year holidays? That week may be full of festivities and celebrations - but it can also be the perfect time to indulge in a little relaxation and rejuvenation, with a wintry twist.

(BPT) - Twelve-year-old Lucas has always loved everything connected with aviation - and learning more about planes is one of the things that keeps him feeling strong and joyful, even when he is dealing with the daily challenges of having congenital heart disease. This chronic health condition affects the way his blood flows through his heart and blood vessels, which can lead to fatigue, difficulty breathing and other serious symptoms that negatively impact his everyday life.

(BPT) - Content sponsored and provided by Pfizer. Ashley partnered with Pfizer to share her experience living with moderate to severe rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

(BPT) - When Matthew and Michele Jones decided to renovate their disabled son's basement so their adult grandson could move in to care for him, they didn't expect a toilet nightmare.

(BPT) - Consumers are facing increasing costs on virtually every purchase these days and auto insurance is no exception. While skyrocketing costs of this auto-related expense can be attributed to everything from parts replacement to service - even health costs as a result of accidents - consumers can better manage these increases with thoughtful study and attention to detail.

(BPT) - Diego Serna's life changed forever in January 2020 when what seemed like a normal Saturday morning playing video games turned into a medical emergency for the then 13-year-old. After a frightening discovery of swollen, painful hands led to a devastating leukemia diagnosis, Diego and his family faced not just one challenge, but a series of them-including a heartbreaking relapse nine months into treatment. For Diego and his family, cancer has been more than a medical journey-it has been a battle that has impacted every aspect of their lives.

(BPT) - The holiday season is a festive, joyous time of year but it can pack a one-two punch. With all of the holiday baking, get-togethers and big meals, people tend to overindulge in rich foods, sweet treats and more. All of that has the potential to disrupt your gut, which can make you feel sluggish and also weaken your immune system. Here's where that one-two punch comes in. This time of year is also the height of the cold and flu season, when you need your immune system to be super charged.

(BPT) - The world's oceans are a magical, beautiful ecosystem ... and they also need help - urgently. According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, by 2050, there will be more plastic by weight than fish in the ocean. Let that sink in.

(BPT) - Nobody wants to feel sick during the holiday season. From the hustle and bustle of office parties, school programs, holiday concerts, parades and gatherings with loved ones, the festivities are endless. But just as our calendars fill up, cold and flu season hits, creating a perfect storm of germs when we most want to stay healthy.

(BPT) - Every holiday season, finding the perfect gifts for your loved ones can feel overwhelming. This year, let Lowe's simplify the process with unique, thoughtful options that bring joy and creativity to your celebrations. Whether you're shopping for kids, the DIY enthusiast, or even that hard-to-buy-for relative, Lowe's has you covered with an exciting lineup of gifts and services designed to make your holiday stress-free.

(BPT) - For students with college in their future plans, summers are ideal for exploring academic and personal development opportunities. During the school year, students can feel overloaded with classwork and extracurricular activities, but the summer months offer time to delve into one academic interest in greater depth. The College Board recommends that students who intend to go on to college after high school attend advanced summer enrichment programs throughout their high school years to help provide an idea of what to expect from college-level coursework.

(BPT) - The end of the year provides a natural moment for reflection. Millions of individuals take this time to make resolutions and set themselves up for a productive new year, and your business can benefit from the same approach. An annual review of your business can set the stage for a successful year ahead. From assessing goals and staffing needs to reviewing processes and identifying potential gaps, the new year is an ideal time for strategic alignment and planning.

(BPT) - Sponsored by Boston Scientific

(BPT) - As the holidays approach, gift giving can be a thoughtful way to spread the holiday spirit and let a loved one know you are thinking of them. While there are many unique gift ideas, there is one type of gift giving that is often overlooked - the gift of learning.

(BPT) - AI, drones, and e-commerce technology advancements, increasingly global supply chains, and today's instant delivery expectations are changing the way businesses manage their inventory. To meet and exceed customer expectations and effectively control costs, business leaders must constantly improve the tracking and accounting of product at physical locations to ensure counts are synchronized across e-commerce sites, backend warehouse management, and accounting systems. It is becoming increasingly critical for revenue growth and cost management for any retail, manufacturing, or fulfillment business, that inventory optimization is achieved through accurate forecasting, inventory cycle counts, and removing manual processes from the work of warehouse and logistics staff.

(BPT) - The most wonderful time of the year is here, and with it comes the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Between juggling year-end deadlines and festive celebrations, many families are managing to-do lists as long as Santa's. And if you're in the habit of last-minute shopping, it's easy to feel like you're on the naughty list as you dash through the aisles.

(BPT) - Winter weather brings with it numerous activities that inspire curiosity in adults and children alike. In fact, many snow day activities can even help with child development. As snowflakes begin to fall in several states across the country, parents can use this time as an opportunity to ignite their child's curious mind and engage their imaginations.

(BPT) - The creator economy has revolutionized the way individuals monetize their content, skills and passions. To thrive in this dynamic landscape, creators must adopt strategies that enhance productivity, streamline financial management and foster engagement.

(BPT) - In 1987, President Ronald Reagan boldly stood before one of the iconic symbols of the Cold War and, in words that shape his legacy, demanded from the Soviet leader, "Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall."

(BPT) - Chilly temperatures and winter weather aren't the only burden that comes with this time of year - it's also the peak of cold and flu season. Cold and flu germs can lurk on hundreds of common surfaces we encounter daily, and according to the CDC, the flu virus can live and potentially infect a person for up to 48 hours after being deposited on a surface.

(BPT) - If you had told me at 16 years old, a recent high school drop-out, that I would one day have a successful career with a C-suite title, I wouldn't have believed you. I spent years struggling to figure out my path - completing my GED, serving in the Army and working as a police officer - until tragedy struck. Following the sudden death of my sister, I knew I wanted to do more with my life and needed a career that provided more opportunity, which is when I turned to nursing.

(BPT) - Winter can be a joyous season - full of sledding, skating, skiing and all the other fun and exciting activities that come along with it. But it can also be a season of accidents, and they can happen to anyone, including you, your partner, and especially active kids.

(BPT) - The holiday shopping season is here, with more gifts expected to be purchased than ever before. Packing and shipping those gifts may feel like one more item on the to-do list, but with the right help, it can be quick and simple - leaving more time for holiday celebrations. The UPS Store® retail locations are a convenient, one-stop solution when it comes to holiday to-dos.

(BPT) - It's the most wonderful time of the year, and as family and friends gather to mark the festivities, more often than not, they'll be doing so around the table. Each feast is an opportunity to create new memories, traditions and favorite go-to dishes. Just a few smart purchases can please guests with a wide variety of delicious, homemade-tasting meals that are ready in a fraction of the time.

(BPT) - Are you into the growing "bleisure travel" trend, AKA going on a "workcation"? For business travelers everywhere, it makes sense to balance work and play during business trips, whether you're headed to a high-stakes meeting or participating in an industry conference. When you're in a bustling city like Toronto, Canada's largest city, it's easy to impress guests and business partners with top-notch meals and entertainment, rejuvenate your team with transformative bonding experiences or simply relax doing something you love, so you're refreshed and ready to get back to business.

(BPT) - If you're currently living in a smaller home, apartment or condo, you may be looking for smart, space-saving laundry solutions that can make your life easier - and actually turn doing your laundry into a pleasure. The good news is, there are new options available that can maximize your small space, improve energy efficiency and still deliver the great results you want, so you can enjoy caring for your clothes even better than before.

(BPT) - Technology is impacting every aspect of our lives - including our cars. And as technology reshapes the automotive industry, from the advancements in electric vehicles (EVs) to increasingly sophisticated safety features like blind-spot sensors and lane-keeping assistance, American drivers' relationships with their vehicles are evolving in distinct ways. Hankook Tire's latest Gauge Index Survey combines new data from 2024 findings with a decade of insights to reveal key trends shaping the modern driving experience, focusing on evolving perceptions of EVs, how car safety technology boosts confidence on the road, and consumers' increasing confidence in vehicle maintenance.

(BPT) - Is your home drafty? Are your windows sticking or hard to open and close? Do you get fogging between the windowpanes? Energy bills creeping higher and higher? These are all signs your windows may need to be replaced. It's a major undertaking and can be a confusing one. You'll find a wide array of styles, materials and more out there. How should you go about choosing the best windows for your home? It's a combination of form and function, according to Kate Land, vice president - product and innovation at Cornerstone Building Brands - a leading manufacturer of exterior building products in North America, including Simonton® Windows & Doors.

(BPT) - Your eyes can tell you a lot about your health, and this is especially true for those living with thyroid eye disease (TED). TED occurs when the immune system mistakenly targets the tissues around the eyes, leading to symptoms like swelling, bulging and discomfort. During the active phase of TED, when these symptoms are most pronounced, people often experience redness, pain, and inflammation, which can impact daily life.