Whether you or a loved one is facing the need for long-term care, the planning and choices of care services can make for some tough decisions. Since about 60% of people aged 65 and older will need some type of long-term care in their lifetimes, planning and being prepared are essential.

The US Department of Health and Human Services has announced a new website as a clearinghouse for information about long-term care. The site covers the definitions and costs of long-term care as well as tips on planning and the options available to pay for long-term care.

Visit the National Clearinghouse for Long-Term Care Information site and sign up to receive an “Own Your Future” planning kit. The kit is free and can be ordered or downloaded by following this link.

Who remembers Phil Hill, Formula 1 motor racing World Champion in 1961? Phil is one of the great characters of motor sport and is still taking an active part in historic events. His latest idea is a winner, I think.

The plan is to build a residential development in Georgia with a race track attached for the sole use of the residents. This will work in similar fashion to the existing developments centered on golf courses. Most residents of such schemes are retired, of course, and the availability of sporting facilities for their exclusive use is a strong attraction.

At first sight, one might think Phil’s idea a little optimistic; there aren’t all that many retired racing drivers around, after all. But think of how many people must have longed to have a go in their younger days but never had the time or the cash. I am prepared to bet that there will be plenty of takers for the chance to re-kindle old dreams on the race track.

And I love the way this blows apart all those stereotypes of retirement. Just because we have reached the age of retirement doesn’t mean we’re ready to give up on life and settle into the shadows. I can imagine how much fun races on such a track would be, fun for the oldies for a change!

If the idea succeeds and this kind of development spreads, there might even be races between the residential schemes across the country, perhaps even a championship for retirees. That would be our chance to show the youngsters how it’s done!

So I wish Phil every success in his venture. A brilliant idea that deserves to win, just as he did all those years ago.

Ralph Waldo McBurney is a beekeeper. He believes that you have to keep active because, what is the alternative?

At 104, Waldo is “America’s Oldest Worker”. Waldo works every day at his honey business and when he isn’t working he fills orders for copies of his books, signing each one before mailing it out. The title of his autobiography? My First 100 Years.

CBS news has an article about Waldo here. And you can watch the entire interview with Waldo here

Transportation is an important factor in everyone’s life. But for older adults, it is an essential part of independent living. Being able to go to doctor’s appointments, do the grocery shopping or go to the bank is something that many take for granted. But for seniors who do not drive or have transportation, a ride can be hard to come by.

Transportation systems across the country offer low and discounted fares to seniors as well as some special accomodations such as low-floor vehicles, that make it easier and more affordable to travel.

In addition, many communities have transportation service programs for seniors that can be called upon for rides to essential appointments and for necessary errands.

The AARP website has a State-by-State Guide to Transportation Assistance that seniors can access to find out what services are available in their area.

Just because you don’t drive or can’t use public transportation does not mean you cannot get where you are going. Check out the transportation guide and find the ride in your area.