“We don’t deny our age. We deny the cultural scripts about what it means to be an older person.” That’s Mary Pipher, clinical psychologist and best-selling author of Reviving Ophelia, Another Country and her newest book, Women Rowing North: Navigating Life’s Currents and Flourishing As We Age.

There are so many seniors facing loneliness and isolation every day. Adult children may live across the country. Friends and neighbors have moved or passed on. It’s hard for fiercely independent people to reach out for support and senior services—especially if they don’t even know those support networks and services exist. 

Maybe you identify as a Baby Boomer. You might have kids in Gen X. That young person at the coffee shop is Gen Y. Don’t you sometimes think all of these generational labels just serve to keep people apart? 

Empty nest syndrome is not a vague, theoretical issue—it’s a real problem impacting millions. According to the Mayo Clinic, grown-up kids’ transition out of the home can lead to their parents feeling sadness, loss and disconnection.

On the other hand, this major life transition also represents opportunity to rediscover old hobbies, find new interests and make new connections. An active lifestyle is important at all stages of life, but even more critical if you’re an empty nester. It creates a foundation of mental and physical health that allows you to stay independent and in your home for years to come.

The majority of us have put a stake in the ground for anyone who cares to listen. We are going to age in our own homes. We will exercise our freedom to choose to age on our terms and in our own way. The term “Age in Place” shows up everywhere but no one tells us exactly what that means, how we can do this vibrantly, and how this choice affects our health as we move from our 50s to our 60s and our 70s.

This is my third go-round with being the long-distance sibling and I’ve learned quite a bit. Frankly, I made every mistake you could possibly make. And I know most of the experts!  So here are my personal tips on how to navigate the waters when you visit. Some of these may seem silly, but with family members – particularly your siblings – little things can turn into big issues really quickly.

Homesharing has been around for years and has inspired some of America’s most beloved TV and movie characters. Here are a few of our favorite housemates from over the years. Who are your favorites?

Keep It Juicy! is a half-hour weekly podcast hosted by journalist Helen Mitternight for those who are bold, passionate, and ready to squeeze every drop of juice out of life. They feature national experts on how to live a juicy life.

With all the stressors life has to offer, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and anxious. Unfortunately, it’s a more common problem than not.  However, with a little focus and patience, lasting change is achievable. How? By learning a few practical skills, you can manage your emotions and ease your thoughts.  Recognizing the present and seizing the moment, is just one of the many tools that help you find inner peace.    

Now is the perfect time to tackle that spare room or guest room that has become the receptacle of old wrapping paper, craft projects or “re-gifting” items—and turn it into a source of income. Cleaning your spare room is the first step toward turning your home into a source of income. Renting out that room can help you earn an extra $750 or so each month, and you might even develop a friendship with your new housemate. 

But taking the first step can be overwhelming, especially if that spare room is more than a little cluttered. Here are a few suggestions to help you get started.