Empowering Seniors For Safer Online Experiences: 6 Practical Safety Tips For Caregivers And Families By Family Features Mar 26, 2026 Today's Seniors Aren't Shying Away From A World That Has Become Increasingly Reliant On Technology. Quite The Opposite, In Fact, As Recent Survey Findings Suggest Adults Ages 65 And Older Are More Digitally Active And Self-Assured Than Ever Before. Nearly all seniors surveyed as part of the "Connecting the Digital Dots: Online Habits and Safety Concerns Across Three Generations" survey from Cox Mobile consider themselves digitally literate, using devices for shopping, banking, Social Media and entertainment. With older adults spending a significant amount of time connected to the digital world - 41% of those surveyed reported spending five or more hours online daily - they're also more at-risk for scams, viruses like malware and data breaches. Even though 61% of seniors who encountered digital threats were able to mitigate the issues themselves, showing their growing digital capability, increased online engagement brings new challenges and responsibilities for caregivers, who often play a crucial role in supporting seniors' digital journeys. To help support older loved ones' safety and confidence as they navigate an evolving digital landscape, Cox Mobile, in partnership with Common Sense Media, offers educational materials on digital safety, smart device use and media literacy for all ages. In addition, these practical safety strategies can help empower seniors to make informed, safe choices online. Encourage Strong Passwords: Simple passwords, like number sequences, keyboard patterns or personal information - such as variations of your name, birthdate, address or names of pets or loved ones - are easily guessable and may lead to issues. While the survey found 70% of seniors already create strong, unique passwords, encouraging them to avoid reusing passwords across sites. Recommend a password manager app to safely store passwords and eliminate the need to write them all down, which could lead to a breach if not stored properly. Promote Security Software: If devices aren't protected, even the most careful users are susceptible to viruses. Though 63% of those surveyed have security software installed, it's important to regularly make sure it's up to date (or that automatic updates are enabled) and covers all devices, including laptops, tablets and smartphones. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication: A simple and effective way to stop most attempts at unauthorized account access, 60% of seniors are already using multi-factor authentication as an extra layer of protection. Some seniors, however, may need assistance setting up the safeguard, which typically sends a code to a phone number or email address as part of the login process, for online banking, email or Social Media accounts. Review Apps and Channels: Over time, it can be easy to accumulate apps on smartphones and tablets. While 51% of surveyed seniors remove unsafe apps, make it a habit to regularly check loved ones' devices for unfamiliar or suspicious applications and delete them. Also keep an eye out for unauthorized charges, data sharing or browser extensions. Utilize Built-In Safety Features: Explore privacy controls on individual devices (and apps) and check with your loved ones' internet service provider to ensure security features are being utilized like the 43% of those surveyed who are already taking advantage of their devices' safety settings. Included privacy protections may include limiting data sharing, disabling location tracking, blocking pop-ups and restricting other unwanted communication. Discuss Online Safety Regularly: Because technology is ever-changing, it's important for caregivers to talk with senior loved ones about online safety. Open, ongoing conversations, like those one-third of seniors are already having several times a week or even daily, can help build trust and awareness of current scams, suspicious texts or emails, commonly used apps and more. By fostering open dialogue, sharing practical safety strategies and leveraging trusted resources, caregivers can help their loved ones thrive and stay safe. Visit your local Cox Mobile store or go to: https://CoxMobileSafety.com to find more tips, guides and full survey results. Source: Cox Communications Previous Next

Medicaid Enrollment Is Set To Plummet: Here's What Beneficiaries Need To Know By Janet Trautwein June 15, 2023 Share Millions of Americans will soon lose Medicaid Coverage, as some Pandemic-Era Provisions that kept people continuously enrolled in the program expire. But those who find themselves newly ineligible for Medicaid have plenty of other options for Affordable Coverage. Licensed, Professional Agents and Brokers can ensure they secure Health Plans that meet their needs and budget. The looming exodus from Medicaid is a product of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, which Congress passed in March 2020. It offered additional Federal Funding for Medicaid as long as states did not disenroll anyone from the program for the duration of the Public health emergency. This continuous Coverage Provisions, and the enhanced Federal Funding, swelled Medicaid's arolls. Total enrollment in December 2022 was 85 million -- up from approximately 64 million in February 2020. This past December, Congress gave states the green light to review the Eligibility Status of people enrolled in their Medicaid Programs beginning in April. States have 12 months to return to "normal," Pre-Pandemic Eligibility and enrollment rules. The Federal Government will gradually scale back the extra Medicaid Dollars it has been sending to the states -- until that enhanced match disappears entirely at the end of this year. As a result, millions of people may have to find new health plans. The Department of Health and Human Services estimates that up to 15 million people may lose Medicaid and CHIP Coverage. About 45% of this group -- 6.8 million people -- will likely remain eligible for Medicaid. They'll just need to reconfirm their eligibility for the program with their state Medicaid Agency. Many beneficiaries are unaware of this requirement. They may ignore phone calls or letters from the state seeking to verify their eligibility. Or they may have moved and neglected to update their address with the state. In the end, they can be purged from Medicaid without knowing. About 8.2 million Medicaid enrollees will need to find Replacement Coverage. Many will be able to do so through work. HHS Projects that about 5 million will migrate from Medicaid to Employer-Sponsored Insurance. Another 2.7 million will likely be able to get Subsidized Coverage through the Affordable Care Act's Exchanges. More than 60% of that group, HHS estimates, could qualify for Zero-Premium Plans. Of course, it can be difficult to wade through all the Insurance options on the exchanges -- or to figure out how to Confirm Eligibility for Medicaid. Licensed, Professional Agents and Brokers can help these millions of folks weigh their Health Insurance options. They have the knowledge and expertise to assist people with Re-Enrolling in Medicaid, if eligible -- or to claim all the subsidies to which they may be entitled through the exchanges. Better yet, their services are generally free for consumers. According to the most recent data from the Centers For Medicare And Medicaid Services, Agents and Brokers account for 71% of Exchange Enrollees. Consumers find their advice extremely valuable. A study from the Urban Institute found that 80% of adults who received external information about the exchanges said Insurance Agents and Brokers were more helpful than other resources. As states begin to cull their Medicaid Rolls, it's critical that those who have relied on the program over the last few years understand all the Affordable Health Insurance options that remain available to them. Agents and Brokers can ensure that they do. Janet Trautwein is CEO of The National Association Of Benefits And Insurance Professionals and for more information, please visit: www.nabip.org < Previous News Next News >

We Want to Hear From You! Take The City of Hollywood Community Survey August 24, 2023 Share The City of Hollywood Community Development Division is conducting a community survey to develop the Consolidated Plan and subsequent One-Year Action Plans that identify eligible activities for uses of federal funding. The Consolidated Plan (Con Plan) is a five-year plan, describing the City’s development needs, resources, priorities and proposed activities to be undertaken under certain U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) programs including Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnership (HOME). These federal funds are used to address affordable housing needs, homelessness, supportive housing services and community development needs for programs which either directly or indirectly benefit low- and moderate-income households. The Community Development Block Grant The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program provides annual grants on a formula basis to states, cities, and counties to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment, and by expanding economic opportunities, principally for low-and moderate-income persons. The program is authorized under Title 1 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974. The program was designed to reinforce several important values and principles of community development: • CDBG's flexibility empowers people and communities to design and implement strategies tailored to their own needs and priorities. • CDBG's emphasis on consolidated planning expands and strengthens partnerships among all levels of government and the private sector in enhancing community development. • CDBG's technical assistance activities and set-aside for grantees builds the capacity of these partners. HOME Investment Partnership The HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) provides formula grants to states and localities that communities use - often in partnership with local nonprofit groups - to fund a wide range of activities including building, buying, and/or rehabilitating affordable housing for rent or homeownership or providing direct rental assistance to low-income people. HOME is the largest federal block grant to state and local governments designed exclusively to create affordable housing for low-income households. HOME funds are awarded annually as formula grants to participating jurisdictions (PJs). The program’s flexibility allows states and local governments to use HOME funds for grants, direct loans, loan guarantees or other forms of credit enhancements, or rental assistance or security deposits. The program reinforces several important values and principles of community development: • Flexibility empowers people and communities to design and implement strategies tailored to their own needs and priorities. • Emphasis on consolidated planning expands and strengthens partnerships among all levels of government and the private sector in the development of affordable housing. • Technical assistance activities and set-aside for qualified community-based nonprofit housing groups builds the capacity of these partners. • Requirement that participating jurisdictions match 25 cents of every dollar in program funds mobilizes community resources in support of affordable housing. Complete The Survey Please take a moment to complete the survey online at: www.hollywoodfl.org under “Hollywood Happenings” or pick one up at your local community center to complete and leave with staff to provide to our office. If you require assistance in completing the survey, please call: 954.921.3271. < Previous News Next News >

It's That Time Of Year: Be Ready For Your Upcoming Condominium HOA Annual Meeting Wed Dec 20 2023 05:12:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

The Sterling Aventura Hosts City of Aventura Mayor: The Tri-County Senior Network Event Was An Informative Success May 15, 2024 Share The Sterling Aventura and The Tri-County Senior Network held a networking event this month to host Aventura Mayor Howard Weinberg. Mayor Weinberg discussed the positive changes happening in the City. School growth, and transportation issues for residents are important topics that were covered and the City Commission is implementing many changes. The Mayor even described how the Freebee service came about in the city. The question and answer session was also informative and the mayor is always open to discuss topics to better the city. The Sterling Aventura At The Sterling Aventura, they want you to live well. The team at their assisted living and memory care community supports individual growth amid a network of neighbors and friendly staff. Build on your legacy and experience a nurturing, stimulating environment where you can live purposefully. Their Florida senior living community caters to those in pursuit of exceptional lives, which is why they offer enrichment programs aimed to stimulate the mind, body and spirit through holistic approaches and compassionate care. With a full team supporting your wellness and growth journey, their community is the ideal place to explore new hobbies and skills. Preserve Your Individuality Find personalized care at The Sterling Aventura. Every resident is unique, so they design programs based around each individual. Discover a community that respects and cares for you, that wants to get to know you better. They encourage you to make your Aventura senior housing space your own and to invite your friends and family to come visit as much as possible. They’ll be there to support you throughout your wellness journey with physical, emotional, social and spiritual support that will help you flourish. Through their specialty programs, you can preserve your individuality while exploring new pursuits with ease. Relaxing Location The Sterling Aventura is located on Northeast 183rd Street in Aventura with many nearby area attractions. You or your loved one can enjoy a community just minutes from the water with a lovely campus featuring walking paths and a shaded courtyard. Their peaceful campus is the perfect place to relax, read, focus on goals and take time to enjoy nature. In addition to on-site nature trails, community members can explore Founders Park and the Don Soffer Exercise Trail nearby. Love shopping and the arts? Just minutes away is the Aventura Mall and the Aventura Arts and Cultural Center. Of course, sandy beaches are just around the corner where you can sign up for City Programs to stay active and meet new friends. To learn more about The Sterling Aventura, and amenities and personalized care programs, call: (786) 751-6564. See the entire event here: https://issuu.com/suntimesnewspaper/docs/may_avd_-_2024_web/24?fr=sMjA0MDczNjE3MjQ < Previous News Next News >

Jack & Jill Center: Strengthening Children And Families Through Innovative Education Thu Aug 08 2024 16:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

‘Tis The Season! Symphony In Lights Arrives at Gulfstream Park Village! South Florida’s Ultimate Home Store, Entertainment And Restaurant Destination Dazzles Under 250,000 LED lights November 16, 2022 Share Ring in the holidays at Gulfstream Park Village! Running nightly now through December 31st, 2022, families are invited to come and see the free seasonal lights display in the open-air lifestyle center. The property will be illuminated in more than 250,000 LED lights, all set to the sounds of holiday favorites and popular music from yesterday and today. A 10-minute light show will begin at the top of every hour from 6:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. Gulfstream Park is excited to share that this year is even more special because there is a brand-new Christmas tree along with new experiences at every turn! Keep an eye out for a new Santa chair, elegant street light post ornaments, LED entrance lighting, a show-stopping tree topper and archway to Santa’s chair. “We are excited to welcome the community back to this holiday tradition,” said Alex Schreer, Director of Experiential Marketing for Madison Marquette, the management company for Gulfstream Park Village. “This year’s Symphony in Lights has grown to be even bigger and better with a new tree and new programming that includes eight languages that wish guests a happy holiday and joyous new year. Symphony In Lights captures all the magic of the holiday season and inspire friends and families to spend time together during one of the most wonderful times of the year.” Symphony in Lights is not only the perfect opportunity to experience some holiday magic, but also to enjoy shopping, dining and boundless entertainment at Gulfstream Park Village’s open-air setting. Gulfstream’s eleven distinct home stores, including Crate & Barrel, Williams-Sonoma, West Elm, Pottery Barn, Z Gallerie, The Container Store, Bang & Olufsen and its newest addition BoConcept, offer the very best in holiday décor, entertaining and holiday gifts. Dining destinations, including Yard House, Texas de Brazil, Christine Lee’s, Pastry Is Art, Häagen-Dazs and more offer a delicious break from holiday shopping. A full directory of shops, restaurants and entertainment can be viewed at: www.gulfstreampark.com . For more information on Symphony In Lights, visit: https://www.gulfstreampark.com/event/entertainment/tis-the-season-gulfstream-park-village-to-host-its-annual-symphony-in-lights About Gulfstream Park Gulfstream Park is South Florida’s Premier Entertainment, Dining and Restaurant Destination, located between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, anchored by the legendary Gulfstream Park Racetrack. Gulfstream Park not only offers world-class Thoroughbred horse racing but is also home to a casino and family-friendly venues including over 15 restaurants, outdoor cafes, art galleries, fashion retailers, state-of-the-art bowling alley, and a renowned selection of signature home stores. Gulfstream Park, voted a 2020 Top Travelers' Choice Winner by TripAdvisor, is located at 901 South Federal Highway in Hallandale Beach, Florida, just two miles east of I-95. Valet service and complimentary self-parking are available. Gulfstream Park is open seven days a week. For hours, schedules, upcoming events and additional info, visit: www.gulfstreampark.com Or call: (954) 454-7000. < Previous News Next News >

FPL Engineer Chases Gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics Thu Aug 01 2024 16:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Teeing Up Opportunities: Get Your Clubs Out For A Great Cause Thu Mar 21 2024 16:19:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Resort Style Senior Living Community Treats Residents like Family By Austin Torres July 28, 2021 Share Mariposa, a high-end luxurious senior living community that prides itself on treating its residents with compassion and the utmost care, celebrated its grand opening on June 26th. Recently taken over by Discovery senior living, Mariposa is a facility that prides itself on treating its residents like family. Executive Director, Judy Rotenberg, has been working in senior living for five years and has personally been managing Mariposa for the last two years, and her job has proven to be one of the most rewarding experiences in her life. “I love giving seniors the best life ever. They’ve chosen to live the rest of their days with us and I love making sure that they have the most exceptional experience ever,” said Judy. For Judy, as well as the rest of the staff at Mariposa, serving the community and assuring that each guest is fully taken care of is not so much a job but a gift and a blessing. Each day that staff members and residents are able to spend together is another opportunity to brighten someone’s day. “Our residents don’t live where we work. We work where they live,” says Judy. Discovery Senior Living, who now manages Mariposa, prides itself on encouraging a system where residents are able to pick and choose how they want their facility to be; ranging from the type of food that is served to the activities offered on a weekly basis. “I love the philosophy of Discovery because they really look to my team to run the community,” said Judy, “what’s great about it is it’s not a top-down management style.” While many senior living communities are dictated by corporate offices who force them to have the same meal plans and activities, Mariposa has a more participatory culture wherein residents are able to communicate their wants and needs and actively choose what they eat and how they spend their time. This is just one of the many unique aspects of Mariposa’s approach to senior living. The community itself is beautifully maintained, with Spanish style architecture, and breathtaking scenery. As soon as you enter the palatial lobby, you will notice lovely Spanish tile adorning the floors, a stunning ceiling overhead and an abundance of decorations, tastefully chosen to evoke comfort, relaxation, and a space of total serenity. The Spanish motif extends to the stately courtyard and resort style pool and the surrounding area are perfect for spending your warm sunny days. Also included in the community is a full-sized movie theater, outside lanai, a stately auditorium for activities, full fitness center with a multitude of machines and free weights to choose from, card rooms, and not one but two full-service restaurants as well as a bistro. Restaurants range from casual to upscale and offer full service with a complete menu and specials included. Each meal is full course from appetizer to dessert, and you can even have breakfast at lunch time which is a major plus for many residents. Mariposa also has a fitness coordinator who manages all the fitness activities for residents depending on their own personal fitness levels. Depending on a residents’ own capability and comfort level, they might opt to participate in yoga classes or bar exercises. Routines are customized depending on the skill level of residents. Residents can stay active with Mariposa’s Dimensions Health and Wellness program, which incorporates a variety of activities to promote health across every major aspect of life including: physical, intellectual, medical, emotional, social, and spiritual. All of these features are catered to the specific wants and needs of residents and are thoughtfully implemented to ensure a wonderful experience for everyone. “We listen to what they want and give them their best life,” said Judy. Activities that residents can enjoy range from coffee and current events, to muffins and Mimosa’s pool side, as well as live entertainment and speakers. Physical activities such as silver sneakers, and water aerobics are included too. There is no shortage of fun things to do at this lovely community. No matter what your interests are, you can find something exciting and fun to do at Mariposa, where the recurring motif, is new beginnings. “We are now Mariposa, and the reason we chose that name is because it means butterfly and it’s a new beginning for us,” said Judy. Perhaps one of the greatest programs at Mariposa is the Resident Ambassador Program; residents who have lived at the community for a while volunteer to meet and acclimate new residents. The program has received an enormous amount of positive feedback. “It’s kind of like a buddy program, we’ve received a lot of positive feedback,” says Judy. Mariposa is a community that is setting a new standard for senior living. The amount of time, compassion, and empathy, that the staff puts into assuring a paradisal atmosphere at this uniquely comforting community, makes Mariposa a place worthy of calling it home. Mariposa is located at 9130 Hypoluxo Rd. Lake Worth, FL 33467. For more information you can schedule a tour online at https://www.discovermariposa.com or contact them at: 561.725.7818. < Previous News Next News >

Family Entertainment Theater Thu Sep 16 2021 04:04:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Aventura Offers Summer Soccer Classes June 13, 2022 Share The City of Aventura will be offering summer soccer classes for children at Founders Park and Waterways Park. Children will have the opportunity to continue to improve their soccer skills during summer break! Travel Soccer Skills & Drills Children ages 6-16 will train on advanced soccer skills and drills to develop their soccer IQ, decision making and improve each players specific positioning on the field. Players will train in areas such as but not limited to, conditioning, ball mastery, shooting, possession, pattern play passing, and tactical positioning. Activity: Travel Soccer Skills & Drills Location: Waterways Park Time: 5:30pm - 7pm Tues,Thurs,Fri from July 12 to Aug 5 at Waterways Park Fee: $150 Resident / $202.50 Non-Resident Date Range: 07/12 - 08/05 Phone: 305-466-8008 Age: 6 - 16 Instructor: Aventura Sports Registration: https://secure.rec1.com/FL/aventura-fl/catalog Registration is open and spots are limited. All participants must be registered prior to attending. Registration can be completed exclusively online only with a valid and existing account at cityofaventura.com/ors, the City’s Online Registration System (ORS). Founders Park is located at: 3105 NE 190 St and Waterways Park is located at 3301 NE 213 St. For more information, contact Founders Park at: 305-466-0183 or: parksrec@cityofaventura.com About Aventura Sports Aventura Sports specializes in running youth sports leagues in Basketball, Flag Football, Soccer, and Cheerleading to all Dade County residents ages 5-15. Aventura Sports utilizes the City of Aventura Recreation Center gymnasium, Founders Park, and Waterways Park for practices and games. They offer after school programs and weekend leagues that cater to the demands of participants and parents. With its focus on fun, safety, convenience, and good sportsmanship, Aventura Sports is helping to reinvent the youth sports experience for families all across South Florida. < Previous News Next News >