Retiredom

These U.S. States Tax Social Security Benefits

September 18, 2025 by Ron Clendenin

A closer look at states that impose taxes on Social Security and implications for retirees

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While Social Security benefits are generally exempt from federal income tax up to certain limits, some U.S. states choose to tax these benefits partially or fully. This state-level taxation varies widely, depending on each state’s income thresholds, tax brackets, and exemptions. For retirees, understanding how state policies interact with other retirement income is essential to accurately plan and minimize their tax liability.

11 Subtle Tactics Adult Children Use to Make Their Parents Feel Guilty

September 18, 2025 by Barrie Davenport

Adult children often use indirect methods to evoke guilt and influence their parents’ feelings.

Wooded park, two women, mid-action candid, daytime natural light, documentary style, people visible. — ©Image license via iStock

Understanding the subtle ways adult children can induce guilt helps parents navigate complex family dynamics with clarity and compassion. These indirect tactics, ranging from bringing up past sacrifices to implying misplaced priorities, often create unseen emotional pressures. Recognizing these behaviors enables parents to set healthy boundaries, foster open communication, and protect their emotional wellbeing in relationships that can sometimes feel fraught with unspoken expectations and unresolved tensions.

11 Part-Time Jobs That Reward Senior Expertise

September 18, 2025 by Barrie Davenport

Explore flexible part-time jobs that honor seniors’ skills and enrich their retirement years

Cozy living room, man in plaid shirt writing, centered mid-shot, daytime natural light, documentary style, one person. — ©Image license via iStock

Finding part-time work that taps into a senior’s deep reservoir of experience can be both fulfilling and practical. Many positions offer flexible schedules tailored to physical and cognitive needs, ensuring comfort while maintaining engagement. From consulting and mentoring to community-focused roles like tutoring or volunteer guiding, seniors can select opportunities that match their passions and skills, enhancing both purpose and income during retirement.

201 Heartfelt Birthday Wishes for Your Precious Granddaughter to Make Her Feel Special

September 17, 2025 by Ron Clendenin

Birthday party table, girl blowing cake candles centered, warm indoor light, documentary style, two adults celebrating.

Finding the perfect words to wish your beloved granddaughter a happy birthday can be challenging, but this comprehensive collection of 175 birthday messages has you covered!

With heartwarming wishes for every age, funny quips to make her laugh, and sentimental phrases to cherish, you’ll find just the right way to make her smile on her special day.

From her very first to her eighteenth and beyond, these birthday blessings tailored just for your granddaughter will show her how much you care.

Old Habits Die Hard: 11 Things Boomers Refuse to Stop Buying

September 17, 2025 by Ron Clendenin

Boomers still spend money on these things while younger generations move on.

Boomers grew up in a world where certain expenses were just a part of life, but many of those costs have disappeared for younger generations. While Millennials and Gen Z embrace digital alternatives, subscriptions, and convenience-driven services, Boomers continue paying for things that seem outdated or unnecessary today. Whether it’s paper checks or cable TV, these spending habits set Boomers apart.

Here’s a look at 11 things Boomers still pay for that younger generations have abandoned.

Frustrating Reasons You’re Still Waiting for Senior Husband to Take The Lead

September 17, 2025 by Ron Clendenin

You’re tired of waiting, but he still hasn’t stepped up.

You thought marriage would be a partnership, but somewhere along the way, you found yourself doing most of the heavy lifting. You’re making the plans, handling the responsibilities, and leading the way while he lingers in the background, seemingly oblivious.

Maybe you’ve convinced yourself he just needs more time, or you’ve learned to accept things as they are. But deep down, there’s still a part of you wondering when he’ll finally take charge.

If these signs feel all too familiar, it might be time to ask yourself—how much longer are you willing to wait?

13 Signs Integrity Is Slipping Away in American Society

September 17, 2025 by Barrie Davenport

The values we once held sacred are fading fast—these 13 signs prove integrity isn’t what it used to be.

Remember when a handshake actually meant something? These days, promises are broken as easily as they’re made, and doing the right thing often takes a backseat to doing what’s convenient. It’s not just about a few bad apples—something bigger is happening. Integrity, once a core value, is quietly slipping away, replaced by a culture of shortcuts, excuses, and self-interest.

People used to take pride in honesty and accountability. Now, bending the truth, dodging responsibility, and chasing personal gain seem more acceptable than ever. Some call it progress, others call it moral decay, but one thing is clear: society’s standards have shifted. The signs are all around, woven into daily interactions, business practices, and even relationships. If it feels like people care less about doing what’s right, it’s because, in many cases, they actually do.

Workplace Etiquette in the 1960s That Would Never Fly Today

September 17, 2025 by Ron Clendenin

Many 1960s workplace norms would be unthinkable in today’s offices.

The workplace has come a long way since the 1960s. Back then, office environments were worlds apart from what we see today, with practices that would now trigger lawsuits, social media outrage, or at the very least, some serious HR interventions. What was once considered normal—like smoking at your desk or blatantly discriminatory policies—is now viewed as outdated, unsafe, or downright unacceptable.

The cultural and legal shifts over the decades have redefined what is acceptable in professional settings, focusing on safety, equality, and respect. It’s a fascinating (and sometimes cringeworthy) look back at how much has changed—and a reminder of how much better off we are today.

Smart Seniors Know What’s Coming— Stockpile These 13 Things to Survive a Market Collapse

September 17, 2025 by Ron Clendenin

Smart seniors know how to prepare long before everyone else panics.

A market crash doesn’t give much notice. One minute everything looks stable, and the next, banks are freezing withdrawals, grocery store shelves are bare, and everyone’s suddenly an expert in bartering. Seniors who’ve lived through economic downturns before know the importance of having essentials on hand before panic sets in.

Being prepared isn’t about fear—it’s about peace of mind. It’s about knowing you can keep your independence, care for your health, and protect your loved ones, no matter what Wall Street decides to do next. These aren’t doomsday prepper ideas. They’re just smart moves for anyone who’s been around long enough to see how quickly things can unravel. If the market tanks again, you’ll be glad you thought ahead.

13 Traditional Chivalry Scripts That Should Not Have Been Cancelled

September 17, 2025 by Ron Clendenin

Some traditions weren’t toxic—they were just thoughtful.

A lot of old-school chivalry gets mocked or dismissed these days, especially by folks who think every gesture of politeness must carry an outdated power dynamic. But not everything wrapped in tradition is oppressive. Sometimes it’s just good manners dressed in vintage clothing. There’s something comforting and even kind about small rituals that used to show care, respect, and attention—especially in romantic or social settings.

Plenty of “cancelled” chivalry scripts never deserved the backlash. They were about generosity, not domination. And while culture always evolves, tossing out every form of gentlemanly (or gentlewomanly) behavior hasn’t made things warmer or more connected. In fact, some of those lost scripts left behind a kind of emptiness—like we forgot how to show up for each other in subtle but meaningful ways. These aren’t rules to force on anyone, just reminders of gestures worth remembering.

The Great Escape—11 Reasons Small Towns Are Attracting Big City Refugees

September 17, 2025 by Ron Clendenin

Small towns are winning over city dwellers who are tired of noise, stress, and sky-high prices.

There’s a new kind of migration happening in America—and it’s not about chasing jobs or following trends. People who’ve spent years in high-rise apartments and traffic jams are quietly packing up and heading to places with fewer people, fewer rules, and way more breathing room.

It’s not just retirees, either. Remote workers, young families, and even entrepreneurs are falling in love with the slower pace, stronger sense of community, and the chance to actually afford a decent home. It’s a cultural shift that’s gaining serious momentum—and the reasons might surprise you.

American Dream to Lockout: 13 Ways Young Workers Manage False Hopes Today

September 17, 2025 by Ron Clendenin

Is the American dream is dead? Gen Z isn’t buying in.

Older generations love to say that hard work and determination are the keys to success, but Gen Z isn’t falling for it. They’ve watched their parents work themselves into exhaustion, only to end up drowning in debt, stuck in jobs they hate, and unable to afford basic necessities. The idea that buying a house, climbing the corporate ladder, and retiring comfortably is still achievable?

Laughable. To them, the so-called “American Dream” looks more like a rigged game, and they’re playing by their own rules.

11 Unexpected Things Your Spouse Wants to Hear More Than ‘I Love You’

September 17, 2025 by Barrie Davenport

Saying “I love you” is great, but these 11 unexpected phrases will make your spouse feel truly valued.

You might think “I love you” is the ultimate phrase in a marriage, but after years together, it starts to lose its punch. Not because it doesn’t matter, but because love in a long-term relationship is about so much more than just words. It’s about feeling seen, appreciated, and truly understood.

And sometimes, the right phrase at the right moment can mean everything. If you really want to make your spouse’s heart swell, start using these unexpected expressions.

If You Want to Get Smarter as You Age, Start Doing These 12 Habits

September 17, 2025 by Ron Clendenin

Your brain is shrinking, but these 12 habits can stop it.

Aging doesn’t mean losing your mental edge—it means sharpening it. But here’s the catch: your brain needs the right fuel to keep firing on all cylinders. Every day, small decisions either push you toward mental decline or propel you toward sharper thinking, quicker recall, and lifelong learning. If you want to stay ahead of the curve and keep your cognitive skills razor-sharp, it’s time to adopt these science-backed habits.

They’re simple, effective, and incredibly fun. Stick with them, and you’ll not only get smarter—you’ll make your golden years your most brilliant yet.