Language Learning for Brain Health, Living Well with Diabetes, and Smarter Charitable Giving

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Retirement is often described as a time to slow down — but your brain still loves a challenge. One of the most rewarding ways to keep it sharp is by learning a new language. Beyond opening doors to travel and culture, it keeps your mind active in ways that can actually improve memory, focus, and even mood.

When you practice a new language, your brain builds new pathways — the same kind that keep cognitive decline at bay. Studies show that language learners often have better attention spans, stronger multitasking abilities, and improved memory recall. It’s like exercise for the mind: you might stumble at first, but every word and phrase strengthens your mental “muscles.”

Unlike studying in school, language learning in retirement can be entirely on your own terms. You can take online classes, use language apps, join conversation groups, or simply listen to music or audiobooks in your target language. Even ten minutes a day adds up over time. And because it’s social, interactive, and creative, it can also lift mood and reduce isolation — benefits that matter just as much as brain health.

There’s no rush and no grades — just curiosity and progress that’s entirely your own.

If you’d like to see how fun (and surprisingly easy) it can be, reply “learn Spanish” for a free introductory Spanish lesson designed especially for older adults.

💌 If you found these ideas helpful, forward this newsletter to a friend — it’s always more fun to learn a new language together.

“The Wooden Bridge”
From the life overview of Harold C., 83, Portland, ME. Shared with permission.

On the wooden bridge over the creek behind our house, I discovered the thrill of minor risks. The planks were weathered, slick with morning dew, and the nails sometimes protruded just enough to catch your shoelaces. As a child, I spent hours walking back and forth, imagining the water below as a swirling ocean filled with sea monsters.

One late summer afternoon, my younger sister joined me. We balanced together on the bridge, arms outstretched, daring each other to step faster, then slower, testing the weight of the wood beneath our feet. The sun shimmered on the creek, turning the ripples golden, and the smell of wet grass and pine hung in the air. We laughed when a frog leaped from the bank into the water with a plop, and our laughter echoed across the trees.

I’ve long since moved away from that house, and the bridge is gone—replaced by a concrete path that no longer creaks or sways. Sometimes I picture it in my mind: the worn planks, the sunlight glinting on the creek, and the leaves drifting like tiny boats. I can still hear my laughter along with that of my sister, recalling the rush of water beneath our feet and the thrill of daring one another across a narrow plank.

Even without the bridge, those memories carry me. I’ve realized that some places leave more than wood and nails behind—they leave a sense of balance, courage, and wonder that travels with you, no matter where you live. Whenever life feels uncertain, I close my eyes and walk across that bridge again, feeling the sway underfoot as I imagine the world below, sparkling and full of possibility.

***

The Poetry Archive: Listen to Poets
The Poetry Archive offers recordings of poets reading their own work, creating a direct connection between voice, language, and meaning. The collection spans many styles and eras, and the site’s simple layout makes it easy to explore at your own pace. It’s a calming place to spend a few minutes with well-crafted words.

NASA Earth Observatory: Image Stories
These short, image-centered articles use satellite photography to explain natural events, landscapes, and weather patterns. The writing is clear and measured, and each entry pairs striking visuals with thoughtful context. It’s a grounding way to see the planet from a wider perspective.

National Film Board of Canada – Interactive Projects
This collection blends documentary, storytelling, and visual art in a format you can explore at your own rhythm. Topics range from memory and culture to nature and place, with each project designed to be both engaging and contemplative. Many are free to access and offer a quiet, creative experience unlike traditional video.

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Staying updated on local news and weather no longer requires cable. Many stations now stream their broadcasts free or at low cost, and it takes only a few steps to get reliable information on your phone, tablet, computer, or smart TV. Below is a clear guide for both beginners and those who already feel comfortable with technology.

Most local TV stations offer a free livestream on their official websites. Search for your station (for example: “WRAL live stream” or “ABC11 live stream”) and look for a page titled Live, Watch Now, or News. You can watch directly in your web browser without downloading anything.

Another simple option is an app like Local Now, which provides local news, weather, and forecasts based on your ZIP code. It’s free and works on phones, tablets, Roku, Fire TV, and smart TVs. If you prefer a familiar TV-style guide, Pluto TV offers several 24/7 local weather channels, also at no cost.

If your station has its own app—such as WRAL News App or ABC11 Eyewitness News App—you can watch live news and get alerts for breaking weather updates.

If you already use streaming services, you can add live local channels without switching platforms. YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and DirecTV Stream include your local ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX stations with full DVR capability. This lets you record weather alerts, morning news, or special reports to watch later.

A more flexible option is HDHomeRun combined with a small indoor antenna. This setup streams your local over-the-air channels through your home Wi-Fi, so you can watch live local TV from any device in your house without juggling cables.

Finally, if you like receiving weather alerts instantly, consider pairing live news streaming with the NOAA Weather App or your local station’s weather app for radar, storm tracks, and warnings tailored to your location.

This combination of livestreams, apps, and optional advanced tools makes it easy to stay informed—without needing cable at all.

Cruise deal of the day: 5 Nights Bahamas Cruise - departing January 10, from $240

Unmissable American gem: Bainbridge Island attracts senior visitors with its scenic ferry ride, quiet waterfront parks, art-filled downtown, and relaxed pace perfect for easy exploration.

Unscramble the letters to find a famous person, event, or object! Be the first to reply with the correct answer, and we’ll send you a free gift in the mail.

Today’s clue: Political unraveling that led to a presidential resignation.

TAEGAWTERA ACDSNL

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