AARP Oregon

March is Women’s History Month — a time to focus not just on the past, but on the challenges women continue to face. Nearly 60 percent of the people receiving Social Security benefits are women, and in the 21st century, more women work, pay Social Security taxes, and earn credit toward monthly retirement income than at any other time in our nation’s history. Knowing this, you can be the author of your own rich and independent history, with a little preparation.

The Eugene Spring Home Show was a great place to talk to enthusiastic locals and folks from surrounding communities. Saturday, March 11, AARP staff asked visitors, “What would you do to build a community for people of all ages? People were hesitant at first, then often would come back and share their thoughts.

"Fake news" and "alternative facts" have gotten a lot of attention lately. They show how prevalent news hoaxes have become in today's media landscape - and how dangerous it can be to rely on bogus information.

What do you do when your family members’ situation dramatically changes so that they cannot maintain their independence without assistance? What if it happens to a friend or neighbor? In what ways can we create more interdependent communities?

Enjoying a comfortable retirement is everyone’s dream. For over 80 years, Social Security has been helping people realize those dreams, assisting people through life’s journey with a variety of benefits. It’s up to you as to when you can start retirement benefits. You could start them a little earlier or wait until your “full retirement age.” There are benefits to either decision, pun intended.

We ALF residents were all in our places waiting for dinner when the announcement was made explaining that several areas of our abode would be painted including the laundry rooms (don’t try to do your wash and if the staff does it for you, it won’t be done) the stairwell (take the elevator and don’t slide down the banister) and the hallway walls (close your doors or plug your noses).

Join AARP Oregon Volunteer State President Elaine Friesen-Strang for some coffee and conversation. Come share your thoughts and hear about the issues AARP is working on this year. Meet other area volunteers and learn about the projects, programs and events you can get involved in.

Tax time is fast approaching. Preparing your documents can seem overwhelming. Some forms and paperwork might be difficult to track down. Social Security has made it easy to track down your annual Benefit Statement.

Just about everyone wants their community to be "livable." But what does that mean exactly? AARP defines it as a community that is built for people of all ages. The formula for what makes a community livable is not complex, but there are nuances that help create a people-friendly environment, one that is safe and accessible and is a great place to live. With that in mind, test your knowledge about livability. If you picked up a questions sheet at a local event, you'll find the answers below.

Newberg is making it easier for people of all people of all ages and abilities to live and thrive in the city as Newberg becomes Oregon’s fourth community to join the AARP National and WHO Global Network of Age-Friendly Communities. The other four Age-Friendly Oregon communities are: Portland, Multnomah County and Springfield.