Southeast Florida, Spring & Summer 2025

Ormond Beach, Florida – March 21st, 2025 – OurSeniors.net Magazine, a leading publication dedicated to serving the senior community, is excited to announce a major step forward in its commitment to providing valuable content to readers. OurSeniors.net Magazine is now fully digital, offering a more interactive and accessible platform for its audience.

With the transition to a digital format, OurSeniors.net Magazine seeks to adapt to the evolving needs of its readership while continuing to deliver high-quality content that seniors rely on. The digital magazine will feature a user-friendly interface, enhanced multimedia elements, and a seamless online reading experience for seniors and caregivers alike.

“We are thrilled to take this digital leap and bring OurSeniors.net Magazine into the digital age,” said Julian G. Cantillo, President and Founder of OurSeniors.net Magazine. “This transformation will allow us to reach a broader audience, deliver timely and relevant content, and connect with our readers in a more engaging way.”

Readers can now access OurSeniors.net Magazine online via the publication’s website at www.ourseniors.net. Subscribers will have the convenience of reading each issue digitally on their preferred devices, ensuring they stay informed on topics that matter most to them.

For more information about OurSeniors.net Magazine and to stay updated on the latest news and updates, visit www.ourseniors.net .

Contact:
Cynthia Fermento
Sales Director
OurSeniors.net
cynthia@ourseniors.net
386-516-3969 Ext. 22

Operation Support OurSeniors.org is a fundraising program aimed at helping offset the costs associated with the valuable services we offer to elderly individuals. As a nonprofit organization recognized under 501 C (3), OurSeniors.org has long provided free services to seniors. The goal is to deliver essential information and support to seniors and their families.

For years, OurSeniors has been distributing their magazine, OurSeniors.Net Magazine, both in print and online, without charge to readers. Senior audiences have found inspiration, pleasure, and practical guidance in this exceptional magazine, which is released quarterly. The core mission is to support seniors, along with their families, friends, and caregivers, now and in the future.

The Lunch and Learn Event series has provided seniors with the opportunity to gain valuable information and skills while engaging with peers. This ability for seniors to connect with others is a vital component of the services offered. OurSeniors Team often visits nursing homes and assisted living centers to help elderly residents combat loneliness, which can adversely affect their mental and physical health.

Maintaining a network of vetted businesses and professional service providers is a central objective of OurSeniors’ operations. These entities have committed to uphold a strict set of standards when assisting seniors. They offer not only products but also professional services, including legal and medical advice. All approved vendors are dedicated to following the OurSeniors Code of Ethics, ensuring transparent and ethical dealings with elderly clients.

OurSeniors.org deliberately seeks to connect the requirements of seniors with the resources accessible to them. We are requesting monthly contributions to make sure these resources continue to be available at no cost to our senior population.

Your support is essential in continuing our dedication to this mission. Donations made to nonprofit organizations classified as 501 C (3), like OurSeniors, are often tax-deductible for donors. Please visit the website www.ourseniors.org/donate/ or call us at 386-516-3969 Ext. 1 to help in our efforts to support seniors. We appreciate your contribution to this cause.

We are excited to announce that OurSeniors.net Magazine has welcomed Sunrise Bank in Ormond Beach as its newest Approved Vendor. This partnership marks a significant collaboration between two organizations committed to serving the community and providing valuable resources to seniors in the Ormond Beach area.

Sunrise Bank, known for its dedication to personalized customer service and community involvement, has been an integral part of the Ormond Beach community for years. Their commitment to excellence and building long-lasting relationships aligns perfectly with the values upheld by OurSeniors.net Magazine.

As an Approved Vendor with OurSeniors.net, Sunrise Bank will have the opportunity to connect with a wider audience of senior citizens and their families. Through this collaboration, OurSeniors.net aims to provide its readers with access to reliable financial services that prioritize their specific needs and preferences.

The partnership with Sunrise Bank signifies OurSeniors.net’s ongoing dedication to fostering strong relationships with businesses that share their commitment to serving the senior community. By welcoming Sunrise Bank as an Approved Vendor, OurSeniors.net reaffirms its mission to connect seniors with reputable, trusted businesses that enhance their quality of life.

We encourage all seniors and their families in the Ormond Beach area to explore the offerings provided by Sunrise Bank, a trusted institution with a demonstrated commitment to serving the unique needs of the senior community.
Join us in extending a warm welcome to Sunrise Bank as our newest Approved Vendor. We look forward to the positive impact this partnership will have on the lives of seniors in Ormond Beach and beyond. Visit Sunrise Bank at 299 W. Granada Blvd, Ste C, Ormond Beach, FL 32174 – 386-676-2222 or www.sunrisebank.com. For more information about OurSeniors.net and the latest updates on Approved Vendors, be sure to visit www.ourseniors.net and check out our newly released Mobile App on Google Play Store or iPhone App Store.

Lifegrip Solutions is excited to announce its partnership with OurSeniors.net as an approved vendor, marking a significant step in its commitment to serving the senior community. OurSeniors.net, a trusted resource for senior citizens and their families, has added Lifegrip Solutions to its network of approved vendors, enabling them to provide their innovative products and services to a wider audience.

As an approved vendor of OurSeniors.net, Lifegrip Solutions will have the opportunity to showcase its cutting-edge solutions to an extensive network of seniors and their caregivers. By joining forces with OurSeniors.net, Lifegrip Solutions aims to enhance the lives of seniors by offering products designed to promote safety, independence, and overall well-being.

“Our partnership with OurSeniors.net represents an exciting opportunity for us to expand our reach and impact within the senior community,” said Samuel Horinka, CEO of Lifegrip Solutions. “We are thrilled to be able to connect with more seniors and their loved ones through this collaboration and look forward to making a positive difference in their lives.”

Through its partnership with OurSeniors.net, Lifegrip Solutions will be able to leverage the platform’s extensive resources and network to engage with seniors and provide them with essential products and services tailored to their needs. This collaboration reflects both organizations’ shared commitment to empowering seniors to live fulfilling, independent lives.

“OurSeniors.net is dedicated to connecting seniors with high-quality vendors that cater to their unique needs, and we are delighted to welcome Lifegrip Solutions as a valued member of our network,” said Julian G. Cantillo, President and Founder of OurSeniors.net. “We are confident that our partnership will bring immense value to the seniors we serve and contribute to their overall well-being.”

Lifegrip Solutions and OurSeniors.net are poised to make a meaningful impact on the lives of seniors through this collaboration, providing them with reliable solutions that promote safety, convenience, and peace of mind.

For more information about Lifegrip Solutions and its products, please call 386-627-9238.

One of the major obstacles’ older individuals encounter is keeping both their minds and bodies motivated to maintain healthy lifestyles. Numerous factors can hinder this, like worries about safety, independence, health, and social engagement. There are around 49 million people in the United States aged 65 and above, and it’s estimated that many can sustain healthy living into their 80s. The primary challenge is their willingness and commitment to remain socially and physically active in various ways to enhance their overall well-being.

Safe Ways to Begin Being Active

You might be eager to dive into an activity that will get you moving. However, it’s important to think about starting gradually. Even if you feel physically capable, there may be hidden risks that could lead to injuries. Begin with short sessions a few times per day, a few days a week. Taking it slow can help you avoid muscle strains, ankle injuries, and falls. Aim to achieve at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day, then gradually increase your workout time over a few weeks. Whichever activity you decide to begin with, taking your time will help you transition safely to a healthier way of living.

Fun Ways for Seniors to Enjoy Exercise

One effective way for seniors to look forward to starting an exercise routine is to engage in group activities. Some exercises can be done with just one other person (like walking, hiking, or playing tennis), but many activities are more enjoyable in larger groups. Exercising with at least one partner can benefit your mental health by promoting connection through conversation. You can motivate each other, push one another’s limits, and make stronger commitments for future meetings. Exercising in a group can also allow you to meet new individuals, making your workouts even more rewarding.

How to Keep Yourself Motivated and Focused

You might be familiar with the saying “Variety is the spice of life.” This saying applies to nearly all daily activities, including exercise. Try to change your daily routine. If you’re exercising with a partner or a group, you might enjoy various activities with different individuals. This is a wonderful way to socialize and expand your friend circle. Set personal goals as well as group goals, reward yourselves for achievements, and be open to varying the timing and location of your workouts. Varying your routine will help prevent boredom, allowing you to appreciate your time and feel like you’re discovering new things with every meeting.

Exercises to Begin With

Engaging in regular physical activity several times each week is essential for older adults. However, figuring out how to begin can be challenging. If you haven’t been active for some time, it’s best to ease into it with some simple, safe exercises while paying attention to how your body reacts and recovers. Here are some options that you can do by yourself or in a group setting that you may want to try:

Chair Stretching – These gentle exercises provide numerous benefits. They can enhance balance, flexibility, mobility, and strengthen muscles. Additionally, they can boost your mental well-being, improve sleep quality, and reduce stress. You can practice these alone at home or join a class. Joining a class is usually more enjoyable as you can meet new people while staying in shape.
Resistance Band Workouts – If you’re unable to lift weights but want to include strength training in your routine, resistance bands are an excellent choice. They are particularly suitable for beginners and are quite affordable. Various resistance levels are available to help target different muscle groups. Some safe and popular exercises for older adults include: bicep curls, triceps presses, pull aparts, lateral raises, and leg presses.
Water Aerobics – This form of exercise suits people of all ages, but it’s especially beneficial for seniors due to the lower risk of injury while still enhancing balance, flexibility, and strength. Exercising in water reduces strain on the joints, making it ideal for those suffering from joint pain linked to certain types of arthritis or injuries.

It’s always recommended that you consult your doctor before starting any exercise program. Always heed your doctor’s recommendations and discuss how your body feels to know if you’re ready to increase your regular activity levels.

We appreciate your visit to www.OurSeniors.Net check out our Facebook page, and Blog. Our aim is to provide valuable information that we believe will benefit you. We invite you to check out our other articles to discover more about the advantages of leading a healthier and more fulfilling life.

As we go through life, it’s easy to get caught up in our own daily demands, responsibilities, and pursuits. But amidst all the chaos, it’s important not to lose sight of the people who have supported us since day one – our parents. They were there for us when we needed guidance, love, and care. Now, it’s our turn to reciprocate and be there for them, especially as they age and may require more support.

Caring for aging parents is not just a matter of duty; it’s a profound expression of love and gratitude. Our parents raised us, gave us the knowledge and skills to navigate the world, and provided us with a foundation of support. Now, it’s our turn to ensure that they feel safe, loved, and valued.

Here are a few essential ways to take care of and be there for your parents:

Regular Communication: Maintaining open lines of communication with your parents is essential, even if you live far away. Schedule regular phone calls or video chats to catch up, check on their well-being, and discuss any important matters.
Assist with Daily Tasks: As our parents age, they may begin to struggle with everyday tasks such as household chores, grocery shopping, or managing their finances. Offering to help with these duties can alleviate their stress and show that you care.
Medical Support: Accompanying your parents to medical appointments and helping them manage their medications can ensure they receive proper medical care and attention.
Emotional Support: Aging parents may experience feelings of isolation, anxiety, or sadness. Being there to listen, provide comfort, and offer emotional support can make a world of difference.
Respect Their Independence: While it’s essential to offer support, it’s also crucial to respect your parents’ independence and decision-making abilities. Encourage them to maintain a sense of autonomy and control over their lives.
Quality Time: Spending quality time with your parents, engaging in activities they enjoy, and creating meaningful memories together can enrich their lives and strengthen your bond.
Plan for the Future: It’s important to have conversations about your parents’ future plans, including their living arrangements, financial security, and end-of-life wishes. Being proactive and involved in these discussions can provide them with peace of mind.
Be there for your Parents: It’s crucial to recognize that caring for your parents can be emotionally, physically, and financially demanding. Seeking help from other family members, professional caregivers, or support groups can provide you with the support you need to navigate this journey.

In conclusion, being there for your parents as they age, is a noble and rewarding responsibility. By offering love, support, and care, we can ensure that our parents feel cherished and valued in their later years. Remember, the time and effort you invest in caring for your parents can have a profound impact on their well-being and the quality of their lives. Let’s make sure that they feel as loved and supported as they have made us feel throughout our lives. Finally, if you feel you need assistance with the day to day such as housekeeping, groceries, appointments etc. then look no further and call Lisa at All in 1 Companion Services at 386-871-0715 or call Tuscan Gardens at 386-597-1588 and schedule a tour.

For seniors, the idea of downsizing can often be filled with mixed emotions. On one hand, it can feel daunting to let go of a home filled with memories and sentimental belongings. On the other hand, downsizing can offer a sense of freedom, simplicity, and a chance to start a new chapter in life.

But when is the right time for seniors to begin sizing down? The answer may vary for each individual, but there are some common signs that it may be time to consider downsizing:

Empty Nest – Empty nest syndrome is a common feeling among seniors whose children have grown up and moved out of the family home. With extra space no longer needed, downsizing to a smaller home or apartment can save on maintenance costs and utility bills.
Maintenance Becomes Overwhelming – As we age, tasks like yard work, cleaning, and home repairs can become more physically demanding. If maintaining a large home has become overwhelming or if mobility issues are making it difficult to navigate the space, downsizing to a more manageable living situation can make life easier and safer.
Financial Considerations – For many seniors, downsizing can offer a financial benefit. Selling a larger home and moving to a smaller, less expensive property can free up cash for retirement or help reduce monthly expenses.
Health and Accessibility Needs – If mobility issues or health concerns are making it difficult to navigate stairs or maintain a large home, downsizing to a more accessible living space can improve quality of life and ensure safety.
Desire for a Simplified Lifestyle – Many seniors find that downsizing offers a chance to simplify their lives. With less space to fill, there is a natural incentive to declutter and prioritize only the belongings that truly matter.

Deciding when to downsize is a personal decision that should be made thoughtfully and with careful consideration of individual circumstances. While the prospect of downsizing may feel overwhelming, it can also be a liberating and positive step towards a new chapter in life.

Ultimately, the key is to listen to your instincts, assess your needs, and take the time to plan and prepare for the transition. In doing so, downsizing can be a rewarding and empowering process that leads to a more manageable and enjoyable living situation for seniors. Dulce Monahan, Realtor and Approved Vendor, can take care of all your needs whether you’re buyer or seller Dulce can take care of your needs. Feel free to contact Dulce at 386 852-9420.

Many individuals understand that they should plan for their death, but don’t know where to start. They have heard that they need a will or a trust, but they don’t know which is the best option for them. That decision should be made after considering both the assets they have, and the beneficiaries to whom they are leaving their assets.

With respect to assets, not all assets can be titled in the name of a trust. Retirement benefits such as an IRA or 401K must be held by an individual based on federal law. Therefore, those assets may not be held in trust. However, the trust can be named as a beneficiary of those assets. If the trust holds those assets, then the trust should have special language regarding retirement assets. However, other assets such as regular bank accounts and brokerage accounts can be held in trust.

For those with a trust, it makes sense to deed the homestead into the trust to avoid having to probate the homestead. Other real property can also be transferred into the trust. However, if the other real property is rented out, it is recommended to have that rental property placed in a separate business entity before it is transferred into the trust for liability reasons.

If individuals have multiple properties and properties in other states, then a trust is often the best way to go about caring for their property during their lifetime and after their death. Without a trust or some other instrument, it is very likely that those properties would need to go through probate.

With respect to considering beneficiaries, there are certain types of beneficiaries where a trust is the best way to manage the distribution of their assets. When dealing with a minor beneficiary, it is especially important to make provisions for the assets of the minor. When assets are distributed to a minor child, if the assets are over Fifteen Thousand Dollars ($15,000.00), then a Guardian of the Property needs to be appointed. If the assets are held in trust, then a guardianship is not necessary.

Another type of beneficiary who would benefit from a trust is an individual with special needs who is collecting government benefits. If the assets are distributed directly to an individual collecting government benefits, then that individual could lose those benefits. It is best to keep the assets in trust to preserve those benefits.

Finally, beneficiaries with substance abuse issues or inability to manage finances benefit when their assets are left in trust. Some beneficiaries, if given a lump sum, would spend those assets in a brief period. If the assets are held in trust, the appointed trustee can ensure that those funds are distributed in such a way as to have the assets benefit the beneficiary as long as possible.

Many individuals don’t realize that even if they have a trust, they still need a will. The most common type of will that individuals with trusts have is a pour over will. The purpose of the will is to pour assets into the trust in the event the settlors (persons who created the trust) forgot to title certain assets in the trust, and those assets did not have direct beneficiaries.

For individuals who do not have the need for a trust, we recommend a will along with an Enhanced Life Estate Deed (“Lady Bird Deed”). The will is deposited with the Clerk of Court upon death. To avoid probate, individuals would need to name beneficiaries on all financial accounts. If that is done, then probate can be avoided on those financial assets. That leaves the homestead should a homestead be owned.

Regarding the homestead, a probate would be necessary on a homestead or other real property to transfer that property to beneficiaries unless the owner engages in estate planning to avoid a probate. For individuals who own a home, if they have a trust, then usually that homestead is transferred into the trust. For individuals who don’t have a trust, they can execute a Lady Bird Deed. The Lady Bird Deed allows the owners to stay in the home for the rest of their lives if they so wish. Upon the death of the owners, the property is immediately owned by the beneficiaries, and they only need to record the death certificate of the owners.

To determine the best estate plan for you and your family, you should consult with an attorney. Please feel free to contact Mara Law, P.A. at 386-672-8081 where we focus on protecting you, your family, and your assets.

The tale of two young lovers illustrates the bond between our Incredible Seniors, Joan Riccio and Doug Wiedman. Hailing from New Jersey, they grew up in the same neighborhood, attending the same elementary school and spending time with local friends on hikes, roller-skating, and watching movies. When high school came, Joan enrolled in a girls’ school called St. Vincent’s Academy, while Doug went to Bloomfield High School. At that point, his family moved to her street, and they became close companions. Doug escorted her to all her school dances, including the Junior Prom, and she cheered him on at his football games.

Their relationship took a turn after they graduated high school. Doug was drafted into the Army, where he served for two years, before going to Farleigh Dickenson, while Joan went to Washington Secretarial School. Joan got a job as an office manager at an insurance firm, and Doug worked in property management, eventually becoming an assistant tax assessor. Both of them married others they met during this time; Joan had three children, and Doug also had three. They lost sight of each other for 42 years. Despite living just one town apart, they never interacted, as their children attended different schools and churches. In 1986, Doug’s wife passed away, and Joan’s husband died in 1992.

By chance, a cousin of Joan’s worked at a church that Doug attended. She gave Doug Joan’s phone number, and as Joan says, “the rest is history.” They tied the knot in 1996 and later retired, moving to Port Orange, Florida. Their families merged, resulting in 12 grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and one on the way. They thrive in Florida, building friendships and meeting up for lunch with people before the pandemic hit. They also joined various senior groups like Sociable Seniors at their church, Sensational Seniors, and OurSeniors.net. These organizations enabled them to connect with many others and travel to several destinations. They have explored places like Europe, Hawaii, Alaska, the Caribbean, Mexico, Panama, and numerous U.S. states. In their downtime at home, Doug likes working on jigsaw puzzles, while Joan enjoys reading, knitting, and crocheting.

They are convinced that God has a purpose for everyone and that their reunion at the right moment was His doing. It was a period when they both needed support after losing their partners. Joan wants other seniors to understand that “life is unpredictable, so it is vital to live each day to its maximum and to never lose hope.” She and Doug have been happily married for 29 years and are both 91 years young.

Scammers are notorious for plying their deadly trade prior to and after a disaster. Floridians are especially vulnerable and often targeted; especially during the hurricane season. According to a September 12, 2017 article in the Washington Post (https://www.washingtonpost.com) Florida has 1,600 mobile home communities and 828000 mobile homes – and less than one-third were built to survive a hurricane. Pulling this thread even further, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), mobile homes in Florida are safe, but only if they were built to code and are properly secured.

Tactics scammers often use during emergencies:

Scammers showing up unannounced (I was in the neighborhood)
Scammers claiming they don’t need to be licensed. In Florida most contractors require a license. Further information can be found at – myfloridalicense.com.
Scammers promising a discount, but only if you sign a contract right away.
Scammers telling you to sign over your insurance check.
Scammers asking you to pay up front.
Scammers insisting you pay by wire transfer, gift card, payment app, cryptocurrency or in cash.
Scammers asking you to sign a “blank contract.”
Scammers suggesting you borrow money from a lender they know.
Scammers claiming they can help you qualify for FEMA relief ― for a fee.

Contractor scam avoidance tips:

Always be skeptical of scammers who often pretend to be someone you trust, like a family member, government official, or company you think you know.
Always be skeptical of scammers who pressure you.
Always be skeptical of unrealistic work-related estimates.
Always verify a contractor’s experience, references, licensing, and insurance coverage.
Always be skeptical of contractors who refuse to furnish their website address, business card, e-mail address, business and mobile telephone numbers.
Always be skeptical of a contractor who claims that they know what your insurance will and/or will not cover
Always check with the Better Business Bureau
Always consider using referral agencies such as Angi’s list, etc.
Never pay up front for services.
Always obtain multiple work estimates from different contractors.
Always obtain a written contract and make sure that the contract does not contain any blank spaces.
Always read all contracts carefully before signing them.
Always ask for detailed descriptions of all repairs to be done, including materials, model numbers, etc.?
Always pay by check or credit card.
Always try to work with local business in your immediate area.
Always avoid sharing personal confidential information if possible.
Always ascertain whether building permits are needed and who will be obtaining them?
Always ascertain project start and a completion dates?
Always ascertain whether sub-contractors will be used – and whether the primary contractor will be responsible for all sub-contractor’s work?
Ascertain project cancellation specifics.
Always obtain work-related photographs.
Always save all project documentation (brochures, photos, business cards, etc.) for future reference.

General scam avoidance tips:

Fraud scam prevention advocates suggest that one of the best ways to avoid being scammed is to trust your first impressions and follow your instincts. Scammers know that Florida is the mobile home capital of the country and that mobile haciendas are more prone to external and internal storm-related damage. One of the most effective strategies to curtail this weather-related thievery spiral is to always stay up-to-date on scams happening in and around your community. Loging onto the Federal Emergency Management Agency website (https://www.fema.gov/) — “Rumor Control Page” is where this information can be found.

Conclusion:

It is said that “out of need springs desire, out of desire, springs innovation”. Scam prevention begins with four basic principles:

Never blindly trust, without verifying.
If it defies logic, don’t engage.
Always follow your instincts.
Consider following some of the scam prevention tips offered herein.

Since fraudsters and crooks take advantage of dire times to scam the anxious, it’s imperative that we seize the moment and stop these miscreants dead in their tracks. As Walt Disney was quoted as saying “The way to get started is to stop talking, and start doing”. The best day to begin; is any day that ends in a “Y”!

Important Website Addresses:

Contractor Licensing – Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (www.myfloridalicense.com)
Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org)

About the author

Anthony J. Luizzo, PHD, CFE is a published author and a former detective specialist with the New York City Police Department’s Crime Prevention Division. Doctor Luizzo is a volunteer Investigative sleuth / lecturer with the Seniors vs Crime Project (a special program of the Florida Attorney General’s Office) — Volusia County office.