Carolina Family Estate Planning - February 2022

Carolina Family Estate Planning - February 2022

ESTATE & ASSET PROTECTION PLANNING NEWS FROM CAROLINA FAMILY ESTATE PLANNING

919.694.4437

CAROLINAFEP.COM

FEBRUARY 2022

WHY IT’S IMPORTANT FOR WOMEN TO GET AN ESTATE PLAN

For the past 111 years, people across the world have been celebrating a holiday that doesn’t get as much media attention as it should: International Women’s Day on March 8. It’s a day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The first International Women’s Day took place in 1911 and saw over 1 million supporters show up that day. In the spirit of this holiday, I’d like to draw your attention to something that greatly affects women in their later years: estate planning. Women are disproportionately impacted by having no estate planning and long- term care planning, and those who do often still struggle because the estate plan is subpar. According to research published by the Statista Research Department, men in America have a life expectancy of 76 years whereas women have a life expectancy of 81 years. Additionally, women are also more likely to be single or widowed throughout their later years of life, which can also mean greater financial needs during retirement. This is not just due to needing to cover the cost of living for a longer period of time, but also due to a higher likelihood of needing to pay for health care and extended care because there is no spouse to be their caregiver. Since women tend to live slightly longer, wives are more likely to be caregivers for husbands when their health starts failing. Not only do women become caregivers for their husbands, but they are also more likely to be caregivers for aging parents. Unfortunately, the costs to be a caregiver can be absolutely staggering. From a financial perspective, it usually totals hundreds of thousands of dollars between lost wages from leaving the workforce or reducing work hours, which then snowballs into reduced retirement savings, Social Security checks, and pension payments during their own retirements — not to mention all of the “hidden” or “forgotten” expenses such as picking things up at the store. But there are also incalculable costs to their health and emotional well-being.

Many caregivers forgo or delay their own medical care. Plus the tremendous stress of providing care adds its own health impacts. Factor in feelings of frustration and resentment that other family members aren’t “doing their share,” and there’s irreparable family damage that can happen. I’ve seen this play out time and time again with our clients and with my own family. In my own family, I saw my stepmother become a caregiver for her mother who had Alzheimer’s for almost 30 years after her father passed away. I also saw my aunt serve as the primary caregiver for my grandfather for several years. In both instances, these families have been damaged and the siblings no longer speak to one another. They both faced incredible amounts of emotional and physical stress. If you don’t currently have an estate plan or long-term care plan in place, you are doing yourself a disservice. For those who do not have a plan or haven’t updated their plan in a while, give our office a call. We would love the opportunity to help you properly prepare and put an estate plan into place or make any necessary adjustments.

–Jackie Bedard CAROLINAFEP.COM

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THE PERFECT BOOK GENRE

Based on Your Zodiac Sign

Zodiac signs — they tell us our moods, our values, our personality traits, and our best relationship partners. But what about our book genre choices? Whether you trust the astrology behind the Zodiac or scoff at it, you should give these picks a try!

Aries Notoriously, those born under the Aries sign are bold and ambitious. For a book that matches your ferocity, an action, adventure, or good drama would suit you the best. Taurus If you’re a Taurus, you rely on stability and likely have the patience to get through a classic novel. Alternately, a mystery is a great way to deviate from the norm and get some mayhem in your life! Gemini Geminis are considered to be social creatures, so short story collections offer a great read. This way, you can pop in and out of the book as you please without compromising the story.

Capricorn Capricorns are extremely realistic and strong-willed. Thus, true stories are usually a home run! If nonfiction doesn’t do it for you, feed your goal- oriented side and dive into some self- help books. Sagittarius Sagittarians love to have a good time and laugh, and you can never go wrong with a humorous novel. Or, if you’re feeling a little more serious, you can embrace your inner wanderer and opt for a book that involves adventure. Scorpio Scorpios are mysterious and even take pleasure in being spooked. The chilling emotions that come along with a good horror book are enough to keep you hooked. Libra Libras enjoy balance and intellect and may enjoy finding the messages behind the lines of poetry or diving into literary fiction for an escape. Virgo If you are a Virgo, you’re probably very factual and analytical. A book that dishes out all the facts is sure to capture your attention, so give nonfiction a try! Leo Leos sometimes have a hard time revealing their true emotions, but they love a grand story. To tickle your fancy, a romance or high fantasy novel is a great choice. While our signs may not define us as individuals, it’s still fun to see if they have any accuracy in picking out a good read!

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for adults. Let your kids know they are the most important loves in your life with these sweet, inexpensive ideas that the whole family can enjoy! Your children will remember these traditions for years to come. Make a special Valentine’s Day breakfast. Guess what? Pink pancakes, pink milk, and even pink eggs are a thing! With strawberry milk, food coloring and strawberries in the pancakes, and food coloring in the eggs, you’ll have an effortless and special breakfast for the little ones. CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S DAY WITH YOUR LITTLE SWEETHEARTS

Tip: Set the table the night before after the kids go to bed to make serving Valentine’s Day breakfast easier the next morning.

Cancer Cancers can be curious,

Create Valentine’s Day cards for each kid. Tell your children all of your favorite things about them with their own personalized cards. There are so many ways you can get crafty with construction paper and glitter. Your kids are sure to love getting mommy-made or daddy-made one-of-a-kind valentines. Bake Valentine’s Day goodies together. What’s better than baking with your little ones? If you are short on time, you can find premade dough, usually with a Valentine’s Day theme. Or, you can try out your skills with heart-shaped cookie cutters and sprinkles. It can get messy, but it’s certainly worth it! Wrap up a small Valentine’s Day gift. Whether it’s a Valentine’s Day outfit, candy, a teddy bear, or a necklace, it doesn’t have to be big or costly! Your children will enjoy feeling the love, and they’ll be excited to get something new. Don’t forget to have fun with the wrapping! Most stores have Valentine’s Day gift bags and wrapping paper around this time of year.

compassionate, and extremely sensitive. They often spend time thinking about the past and might enjoy a good history read. Pisces If you’re a Pisces, you likely have a vivid imagination that can run away with itself sometimes. Embrace that with a good fantasy or magical realism book for a bit of a dreamy escape. Aquarius Those who are an Aquarius are known to be innovative and independent thinkers. If this is you, science fiction genres will hit the spot.

Your baby valentines have stolen your heart — make sure they know it by spreading the love! Happy Valentine’s Day!

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THE ROOT OF THE PROBLEM Combating Hair Loss Naturally

Believe in coconut oil. These days, it seems like everything can benefit from a little coconut oil — your hair is no exception. Coconut oil’s fatty acids help prevent protein loss within each strand of your hair, strengthening it from the inside. Depending on your hair type, coconut oil can be used before or after you wash your hair.

Our hair is beneficial for our confidence and appearance as well as our overall hygiene. But hormonal shifts, diet, and medical conditions can all lead to hair loss. While a doctor can help, there are a few ways to promote healthy and natural hair growth and regrowth while preventing hair loss.

Massage your scalp. If your patience (and hairline) is wearing thin, take the time to massage your scalp every day. This rhythmic movement on your head increases blood flow to your hair follicles, which stimulates hair growth and can even improve your hair thickness and density.

Whisk up an egg hair mask. It sounds a little strange, but trust the process! An egg hair mask (raw egg and olive oil) works magic for your hair. Like coconut oil, eggs contain proteins that both strengthen and rebuild your hair. Leave the mask on for about 10 minutes and repeat again every week or so! Preventing and reversing hair loss takes diligence and consistency, and you won’t see results overnight. Any treatment you use may take a few weeks to take effect, but don’t lose hope! It is possible to combat hair loss with these natural solutions, but if you find yourself stressed over your locks, try to stay positive and practice self-care to encourage optimal growth and regrowth.

3 SECRETS TO PROTECT YOUR FAMILY FREE ONLINE SEMINAR Give aloe vera a try. Aloe vera has been used to treat hair loss by soothing and calming a damaged scalp. By applying aloe vera a few times a week, your scalp becomes a healthier environment for hair growth to take place. It can even reduce dandruff and oil that could be blocking your hair follicles and stunting hair growth. Attend this powerful, FREE online seminar to discover: • Why your power of attorney may be powerless to protect you and your family ... and what you must do about it • How to avoid having your life savings wiped out by nursing home costs • How to provide for your children or grandchildren for years to come • How to protect the inheritance you leave behind from greedy in-laws or creditors

For Introducing Your Friends and Family to Carolina Family Estate Planning! We’re devoted to delivering first-class service. As a result, our valued clients, partners, and friends refer their friends, family, and associates to us. As our way of paying it forward, we make a charitable donation for each referral our office receives.

Christopher Cherico, Guardian Tax Solutions

Kathleen Freeman

Trish and Lyle Graham

Melissa Flanagan, Fuquay-Varina Family Law

Coastal Federal Credit Union

Charles Solediki

Phillip Sielatycki, Ameriprise

Brenda Hairston

3SecretsSeminar.com

Justin Clark

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INSIDE Why It’s Important for Women to Get an Estate Plan 1

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Celebrate Valentine’s Day With Your Kids

Best Book Genre Based on Your Zodiac

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Natural Hair Loss Solutions

3 Secrets to Help Protect Your Family

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Health Benefits of Being in Love

THE POWER OF L ❤ VE

Love Really Can Be a Drug

It’s crazy to think that being head over heels, madly in love with someone can benefit your body in the same way that broccoli can, but it’s true! Science has proven that being in love comes with myriad health benefits. Fewer colds and natural pain control? Yes, please!

levels, and mentally, you’re happy, healthy, and positive. As the relationship matures, oxytocin, also known as the bonding hormone, blends with dopamine and reduces stress. We all know that stress can lead to a number of health complications, so the less stress, the better! New research has found that just being around someone you love can act as a natural pain reliever. Research has also determined that married people complain less about headaches and back pain. When your mind is happy, your immune system is stronger, making you less prone to getting a cold or stomach bug. Some research has even shown that happily married couples live longer than those who are not happily married. The hormone vasopressin helps to control your blood pressure. Being in love releases vasopressin into your body, keeping your blood pressure at a healthy level. Both your heart and lungs are also impacted by the love you have for another. If you aren’t in love, you can still reap the benefits through a strong and healthy social support system. When you have friends who bring you joy and happiness, even just a hug may help to release positive hormones and keep your health on track. Take time to invest in positive relationships to keep your heart and body healthy and happy, both literally and figuratively.

Love triggers the “feel good” hormone, dopamine. When you first fall in love — and the butterflies are flying uncontrollably — dopamine is at very high

So, what are you waiting for? Let the love flow!

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