Social Connection When Living Alone, Understanding Age-Related Macular Degeneration, and Charitable Giving for High-Net-Worth Retirees

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Living alone can offer independence and ease, but it also requires being intentional about staying socially engaged. Strong social connections support emotional well-being, reduce loneliness, and even improve physical health. The key is building routines that help you stay in touch with others in ways that feel natural and enjoyable.

Start by setting up small, dependable routines. A weekly phone call with a friend or family member, a standing coffee meetup, or a regular class — such as tai chi, art, or book discussions — creates structure and gives you something to look forward to. Community centers, libraries, and faith communities often host low-cost programs designed to help people meet others with similar interests. If mobility is a concern, friendly-caller programs, virtual discussion groups, and library-led online workshops can be excellent alternatives. Even brief, positive interactions with neighbors, local shop owners, or walking-group members help strengthen your sense of connection.

Choose activities that match your energy and personality. Some people thrive in group settings, while others prefer one-on-one conversations or volunteering roles that offer steady companionship. If transportation is a barrier, ask about shuttle services from senior centers or use ride-sharing apps that offer senior-friendly features. Keep your calendar manageable — two or three regular touchpoints each week can make a significant difference without feeling overwhelming. And if you ever feel unsure where to begin, many local organizations have coordinators who can help match you with programs, clubs, or volunteer opportunities suited to your interests.

💌 If you found these ideas helpful, forward this newsletter to a friend. Staying connected is easier — and far more enjoyable — when it’s something you build together.

“The Pie That Was Too Good”
From the life overview of Linda S., 84, Macon, GA. Shared with permission.

When I was twelve, my grandmother kept a peach tree behind her house. The fruit that came from the tree was so fragrant that you could smell it from the porch steps. Every July, my grandmother would haul a folding table out to the yard. Then she’d set a bowl the size of a washtub at the center of the table and tell me to “start peeling like you mean it.” My fingers would get sticky almost immediately, and the sweet juice ran down to my elbows as the cicadas buzzed like an audience approving our work. She never measured anything—not the sugar, not the butter, and certainly not the pinch of cinnamon she dropped in with a wink. “Pies know when they’re loved,” she’d say, tapping the crust into place.

One summer afternoon, my grandmother surprised me by entering our pie in the county fair. I didn’t think much of it until we walked into the pavilion and saw rows of gleaming desserts, each looking more polished and perfect than the one that we brought. Our dessert sat slightly lopsided on its paper plate, juices bubbling out the side like something was trying to escape. I was sure that people would laugh at us, but when one of the judges took a bite, he paused and let out a quiet “Well, now.” Another followed suit, then another, each nodding slowly as if trying to place a half-forgotten memory.

We didn’t win first place—we didn’t place at all—but as we walked home, Grandma carried that empty plate with a proud little smile. “They ate every crumb,” she said. “That’s better than any ribbon.” And she was right. I realized then that the best things in life aren’t always the prettiest—they’re the ones that disappear too quickly to show off.

***

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The Acoustic Atlas at Montana State University
An archive of natural sound recordings from the American West—birds, rivers, storms, and quiet environments seldom captured elsewhere. The interface is simple, and each clip includes brief, clear context. It’s an easy way to bring the outdoors into your day without any extra effort.

The David Rumsey Historical Map Collection
A large, well-organized digital library of historical maps from around the world. You can zoom in closely, compare eras, or browse by region. The presentation is straightforward, making it a useful resource for anyone interested in geography, history, or the slow evolution of place.

The Biodiversity Heritage Library: “Field Notes” Collection
A curated set of handwritten notebooks from naturalists, botanists, and explorers documenting what they observed in the field. Entries are short, direct, and often accompanied by simple sketches or measurements. It’s an approachable way to see how people once recorded the natural world in real time, with no polish—just careful attention.

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Take a few minutes to jot down your thoughts. Even a few sentences are a memory preserved for loved ones.

“Find My” apps are powerful tools that help you locate your phone, tablet, laptop, keys, luggage, or even a wallet—whether they’re lost at home or left behind somewhere else. They work quietly in the background and can save you a great deal of time (and stress). Here’s a clear, practical guide to using them confidently.

If you use an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, the built-in Apple Find My app is already installed. Open it, sign in with your Apple ID, and you’ll see a list of your devices. Tap a device to view its location on a map, play a sound to help find it in your home, or mark it as lost. “Lost Mode” is especially helpful—it locks your device and displays a message (like your phone number) so someone can return it.

Android users can use Google’s Find My Device. Sign in with your Google account to see your phone or tablet on a map. From there you can ring it, lock it, or erase it if it’s missing and you’re concerned about security.

If you want to track everyday items like keys or bags, you can pair your phone with a small Bluetooth tracker such as Apple AirTag (for iPhone users) or Tile (works with both Apple and Android). Attach one to whatever you frequently misplace, and the app will show you the item’s last known location.

Apple users can take advantage of Precision Finding, which uses directional arrows to guide you to an AirTag with remarkable accuracy. If you share devices or travel with others, you can also set up Shared Location features so family members can help track missing items.

Android users who travel often may appreciate Google’s secure network of nearby Android devices that can help locate a lost phone even when it’s offline. You can also set audible alerts when a tracker is left behind—useful for keys, backpacks, and even pets’ collars.

For extra peace of mind, consider enabling automatic backups on iCloud or Google One so your data stays protected even if a device is lost.

Once set up, these tools run quietly and reliably, offering reassurance each time you walk out the door.

Cruise deal of the day: 3 Nights Western Mediterranean Cruise - departing January 24, from $188

Unmissable American gem: Saugatuck, Michigan offers seniors a peaceful blend of lakeshore scenery, art-filled streets, gentle dune rides, and easygoing waterfront dining that makes for a relaxed and charming getaway.

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: Adventure game series about Link saving a princess.

HTE EENDGL FO DZAEL

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