The Power of Pets (Family Features) Love. Community. Belonging. Pets offer people the chance to explore friendships and connections they didn’t always think were possible. Pets provide companionship and help bring people together. In fact, according to Mars’ “Pets Connect Us” report 73% of pet parents have made connections despite generational, cultural or ethnic differences because of their four-legged pals. Learn more about the report, which leveraged consumer insights to shed light on the future of pet parenthood in the U.S. and Canada, at BetterCitiesForPets.com/2023report. SOURCE: Mars ..read more

Level Up Brunch Spreads with Natural Sweetness (Family Features) Breezy spring days can lead you on nearly any adventure, and they can happen in your own backyard, on a short road trip or during a full-blown beach vacation. No matter where you are when those warmer days arrive, you can put outdoor meals on the menu and take advantage of perfect opportunities for fresh brunch spreads to share with loved ones. Whether you’re enjoying spring sunshine at home or traveling with friends and family, Florida Orange Juice can be a delicious, nutritious addition to your outdoor plans. By delivering a p ..read more

Combatting Loneliness in Older Adults (Family Features) The bonds found in friendships and other relationships are an important factor in health and wellness – even science says so. According to the American Psychological Association, forming and maintaining social connections at any age is one of the most reliable predictors of a healthy, happy and long life. Studies show having strong and supportive friendships can fend off depression and anxiety, lower blood pressure and heart rates in stressful situations and change the way people perceive daunting tasks. However, statistics show approxim ..read more

Easy Ideas to Stretch Your Retirement Budget: Ways seniors can save on enjoyable activities (Family Features) Retirement may mean you have unlimited time to enjoy each day, but it doesn’t mean you have a budget to match. You probably already know staying active is essential for aging with grace, so instead of letting limited funds keep you at home, explore some ways you can enjoy your leisure time without breaking the bank. Hit the Gym Many fitness centers offer special rates and programs for older adults. Hitting the track or joining a group fitness class are easy ways to socialize while get ..read more

7 Smart Home Solutions that Enhance Convenience and Security (Family Features) Devices that allow you to stay connected to your home from virtually anywhere are all the rage. If you’re looking to seamlessly integrate innovative solutions into your home for added convenience, security and peace of mind, you’ll need smart tech with the right features. The experts at Masonite, a global industry leader in interior and exterior doors and door systems, share these seven smart home solutions. Garage Door Leave behind that nagging feeling that you forgot to shut the garage door when you’re a block aw ..read more

Understanding the Impacts of LDL Cholesterol (Family Features) About 38% of American adults have high cholesterol, which can be caused by poor lifestyle habits or genetics, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Having a high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol number – considered “bad” cholesterol – can contribute to fatty buildups (plaque) and narrowing of the arteries. LDL cholesterol is also the type of total cholesterol most closely associated with an increased risk for a heart attack or stroke. In fact, 75% of heart attack and stroke survivors reported having ..read more

4 Tips for Feeding Picky Pets (Family Features) Similar to humans, dogs can also experience digestive discomfort, picky palates and sensitive stomachs and it can be hard for pet parents to anticipate their pets’ changing diets and needs. If your four-legged friends are picky eaters or showing signs of sensitive stomachs, consider these tips from the experts at Solid Gold. Consult a Veterinarian A visit to a trained veterinarian is one of the best resources for getting recommendations and advice specific to your pet’s diet, conditions and needs. Sensitive stomachs can arise from a variety of c ..read more

Be Ready to Save a Life: Understanding the 2 steps of Hands-Only CPR (Family Features) Every year, 350,000 people die from cardiac arrest in the United States. However, hands-on emergency intervention like cardiopulmonary resuscitation – or CPR – from a bystander can make the difference between life and death in sudden cardiac arrest emergencies. In fact, immediate CPR can double or triple a cardiac arrest victim’s chance of survival, according to the American Heart Association. During the first few minutes an individual is suffering from cardiac arrest, chest compressions can help keep blood ..read more

A Delicious Way to Support Your Immune System (Family Features) Bolstering your immune system during winter, when coughs and colds seem to take control, is a must for the entire family. Supporting your wellness can start in a simple place – with the foods you eat and drink. Consider an easy choice for any season like Florida Orange Juice, which can help you and your loved ones get the vitamins and minerals you need all winter long. With 100% of the daily recommended value of vitamin C in every 8-ounce serving along with key nutrients like potassium and magnesium, there’s a reason it’s referre ..read more

3 Health Reasons Men’s Travel Plans Take a Back Seat (Family Features) Taking a road trip is an enjoyable pastime for many. However, if you are making too many pit stops along the way, it might be time to talk to a doctor. Men over the age of 45 who frequently experience urinary symptoms may be facing challenges that extend beyond the restroom. Urinary symptoms such as a frequent or urgent need to urinate may be indicators of an enlarged prostate, commonly known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).1,2 BPH symptoms can contribute to interrupted sleep, reduced productivity and feelings of dep ..read more