Why Should You Trust Your Money to an Investment Firm?

Scam alert: Baby boomer investors beware

"You are making an investment?"

There are an increasing number of scams on the Internet. As baby boomers begin to spend more time on the Internet, they will receive e-mails advising them of large amounts of money, that they supposedly will receive.

Imagine, for a moment, a group of baby boomers talking about their e-mails and phone calls. Many of them may not realize that they cannot invest money this way.

Contacting an investment firm may be a good idea.

"I just won fifteen million dollars in a UK lottery! I did not purchase a ticket, but it says that my e-mail address qualifies!"

"I got an e-mail about thirty one million dollars I inherited from someone who died in 2002! I am his sole beneficiary. I have never heard of the guy."

"Over the past few years, one e-mail after another has arrived in my mailbox, advising me of all of the money that I have won."

"Maybe they are scams? I just delete them."

"Here is another sixteen million dollars, in this e-mail! This lady is dying and wants me to help her to give it to the poor!"

"This is wonderful and so exiting! Five million dollars! It is a fantastic gift. I can hardly believe it! I have to send them money to so they can transfer it to my personal savings account, right away!"

"All I have to do to get mine is to send them all of my banking information!"

"Now what am I going to do with all of that money? I could go overseas, like I always wanted to do. Maybe I could go on a cruise?"

"Twenty five million in Euros, is on its way to me, as soon as I let them know where I live."

"How should I invest it? I don't know how to invest money."

"This person invited me to visit him in Ghana."

"I have one guy that that wants me to be his partner! He sounded mean. I hung up the phone on him."

"There must be something the matter with my bank, as they won't touch it!"

"I tried three banks in town and none of them want anything to do with it!"

"In my mind, I already have it all invested! Let's see. I am ordering a new car and I am buying that three million dollar home on the outskirts of town, immediately. In fact, I already put an offer in on it. It cost me my life savings to do that."

"My e-mail said that all I have to do is to setup an offshore account and they will look after the rest. They are sending me an ATM card, so that I can take fifteen thousand dollars out, every day."

"Oh, they only asked me for twenty five hundred dollars, to arrange the transfer of my funds to my bank account."

"This one says that all of the money is already in the county and all I have to do is contact the delivery company. They already paid part of it. I just have to pay the rest. I guess I will have to do it, because I won't be able to reach them for three months."

"I have somebody lady that wants to move in with me, while we get all of the money invested."

"This guy told me to send my rent money. He says I will get it back." 

"Why should you trust your money to an investment firm?"

Hopefully, an investment firm will be able to advise the baby boomers that this is not really money to be invested.

Baby boomer investors, beware!

Tips for New College Students

Tips for baby boomers going to college

If you are a new student or a baby boomer heading for college, this article is for you.  

Here are ten tips for college students that may be of help.

Academic probation:

As a new student or baby boomer, if you have been out of school for some time, you may still be allowed to attend college. If you are told you can enroll, but that you may be placed on academic probation, for the first six months; do not be alarmed. That means that the college has relatively high standards and they want to be certain that you, as a new student or an adult learner, are at an academic level where you can succeed. You may need to upgrade first, in order to qualify for entrance into certain courses. For example, you might need to do some upgrading in English, mathematics or chemistry. Colleges welcome adult learners.

Consider becoming a part time student:

Since you may not have not taken courses for a number of years, you may find it difficult to take a full, course load. Consider entering college as a part time student initially, rather than entering college, as a full time student. You may be able to sit in on a class for a while, before you need to enroll. You can also take a course that is on an interest level rather than one in which you have to do all the assignments, in order to receive a credit. This is easier if you are not certain about the academic direction you want to go. Start with a course like pottery, flower arranging or art classes. These are fun and you will enjoy learning some new skills. Let your creativity flow.

Purchase a laptop:

Purchase a laptop computer, if possible. If you have a desk top computer at home, it may suffice, but a laptop computer is more convenient and you can take it to class. A printer is a good investment. Depending upon what course you are taking, you may be able to work directly from home, rather than having to attend sessions in the college. Keep hard copies of everything you submit to your professors or instructors. You may be able to obtain your course outline online and take online tests. Find out if there is a computer network setup for the classroom, or if you are expected to operate your laptop with batteries. Learn where you can get technical support, at a reasonable cost. The college will be able to give you appropriate guidelines for laptops.

Plan to upgrade your computer and computer skills, first:

Spend some time upgrading your computer and computer skills, before you head for college. Learn how to use the Internet properly. Find a current Word program and practice your writing, typing and graphic skills, as you may not have time to do that once you are involved in your course. Make certain that you have the programs that you need on your computer. Many of them can be downloaded, at no cost. Find out how to use these programs properly, if you are not familiar with them.

Speak with your professors about your course:

Speaking with your professor ahead of time about your course can prevent problems later. Find out exactly what his or her expectations are, as the course may not be what you thought you would be taking. He or she will be able to advise you of specific course requirements. If you are an adult learner, there may be a tutor who will assist you. Don't hesitate to enroll in a different course, if the one that you have been considering is not what you want to take.

Browse in the bookstore

Find out ahead of time what your required textbooks are and do serious browsing in the college bookstore. You may be able to obtain all of your textbooks, immediately. The bookstore may order them for you, if necessary. You might also be able to pick up used or second hand textbooks, which will be less expensive. Learn where you can purchase books on the Internet. You may be able to borrow copies of books you will need from a local library. In the bookstore, you should be able to purchase other things that you need, at a reasonable price. 

Talk to other college students:

If you have not been attending a college for some time, remember there are always changes taking place in colleges. Spend some time talking with other students. They will give you college updates and basic information about college life, events, appropriate attire and how to avoid pitfalls. You will enjoy getting to know them too.

Invest in a backpack:

Investing in a good backpack can make carrying your lunch, books and laptop, easier. You may be assigned a locker, but lockers in large colleges can be located in out of the way places. It might be easier to take everything with you, but do not plan to carry things that you do not need, as you may have to walk farther than you expect. Purchase a good pair of walking shoes or runners, just in case.

Learn the layout of the college:

Before your classes start, spend a few hours visiting the college, so that you know its layout rather than having to ask someone or try to figure it out, at the last moment. You need to be able to find the registrar's office, library, bookstore, cafeteria, coffee shop, washroom facilities, other labs and gymnasiums. 

Register for your course

When you go to register for your course find out the exact date, time and location of the course. Be prepared to take a course offered at an unusual time, including evenings or even Saturdays. When you are registering for your course, make certain you find out about the parking facilities, special needs facilities, as well as additional costs or fees, so that you do not have a surprises, at a later date. Picking up a college calendar is a good idea too, as it will contain a road map for the college.

Following these ten tips will make going to college easier. Expect to see students, new and old, as well as other  baby boomers. You are going to make a whole collection of new acquaintances and encounter challenges. That, in itself is fun.

Go to college with an attitude of eager anticipation. More than likely, you will enjoy every moment of your college experience.

When the State of the Economy Hits Home

Time to panic or time to pray: A message of hope

When the state of the economy hits home is when you and those you love start to feel it. When it affects those you love, it really hits home, hard. Is it time to panic?

In the western world, the majority of young people have never lived through extremely difficult, financial times. The elderly seniors of today and many of the older baby boomers have known hard times, over the course of their lives. Their parents and grandparents have related numerous experiences of extremely hard times, far beyond what people are going through today.

Looking realistically at the economy, one must realize that the decline in the global economy is still not as severe or anywhere near as serious in most countries, as it could become in the future. The global economy may never hit the same kinds of financial lows that have taken place, in the past. Look at what happened in the last one hundred years or go back even prior to that time.

Of course, there are some countries that are affected adversely by the declining economy, in conjunction with other factors like war, natural disasters, over-population and changing weather patterns. Somehow, people managed to survive during the difficult times of the past. Many people thrived because of their unique beliefs, ingenuity, educational status and excellent, financial management principles.

These people were builders, who took advantage of every opportunity they had to do something positive and constructive for themselves and their families. They worked hard to improve their own situations and that of their neighbors. They succeeded in making changes in their communities and their countries. They made major changes for the better, throughout the entire world, in spite of extremely hard times.

What was the basic principle that united them? 

Underlying the state of the economy in every part of the world, there is always another factor that comes into play, whether people are aware of it or not. In times of wealth, people may forget about basic principles of morality. They may choose to ignore God and deny His existence entirely, because they think that belief in God is compatible with their standards of morality, which may be on the decline, as well. They may be too busy enjoying their lives to care about their morals. What happens to other people and their families, may not be of concern to them, either.

They may not realize that the only reason that they can do what they do or live the way that they live, is because they have been blessed financially or otherwise, in one way or another. Perhaps it was their parents and grandparents who laid the groundwork, for their wealth. In many instances, these people are reaping the benefits of years of hard work, sown by their predecessors.

In our era, suddenly the bottom appears to be falling out of the economy. Is there anyone there to hear the cry for help? Remember that those at the top of the financial pillars have the farthest to fall and will cry the loudest. The poor are accustomed to being poor and many of them are resigned to the reality of poverty. They may become even poorer, during hard times.

At the same time, there is an all seeing, all knowing, omnipotent and omnipresent God, who hears all things, including every cry for help, whether it is from the rich or the poor. Whether anyone realizes it or not, God is still in control. His basic principle of morality has always been applicable in the past and it is still valid for this era.

The Ten Commandments, in conjunction with the Biblical mandate, "Love of God and one another," is a basic, moral principle for people to live by. This includes every Christian community or nation, all around the world and should include those who are not Christian. While people of other cultures deny God, they may still believe in the divine and divine providence. Regardless of religious beliefs, both Christians and non-Christians have one factor in common and that is love.

In our era, when people are in need of financial help, because of the declining economic status of the country, an atheistic challenge of probability has arisen this past year, in the United Kingdom. What is this issue of probability all about?

Probability signs are posted on city buses.

The complete slogan reads: "There's probably no God. Now stop worrying and enjoy your life." (1)

Obviously, this is not something that true Christians would approve of or accept. Should it even be allowed? More importantly, what does this say about the state of the economy or the state of the nation as a whole?

"The atheist posters are the idea of the British Humanist Association (BHA) and have been supported by prominent atheist Professor Richard Dawkins." (2)

Be aware that atheistic thought always denies God, plus all of His blessings, including His blessings on the economy of a nation and the world.

“No God slogans for city's buses." (3) 

This article, from the BBC News website, dated Tuesday, October 28, 2008, suggested that thirty "bendy-buses" were going to be carrying this sign for four weeks. (4)

"There's probably no God."

Challenge that statement, with these three statements.

"There's probably a God."

"There is a God."

"God exists."

Which of these four statements would be of the most help to people, who are suffering, from the declining global economy?

If the initial statement "There's probably no God," is truly valid, then there is absolutely no need for concern about anything or anyone and life goes on as usual, at least for the wealthy. Meanwhile, the poor continue to suffer. There is no divine help for anyone.

But, if the other three statements are valid, woe to those who stand to lose everything, as the economy continues to decline even further. Those who will feel it the most, will be the ones who have the most to lose. They will be hit the hardest.

According to the Bible, "Blessed are the poor in spirit" Matthew 5:3.

There will be a leveling of the playing field.

Unbelievers always say no to God, not realizing that they are saying no to everything else that His existence includes, as well. Believers say yes to God, but in conjunction with His moral values, based upon the Ten Commandments and His Biblical mandate for people to "Love God and one another."

Ask yourself this question. If you were God, would you prefer to bless those who deny your existence and refuse to live according to your basic, moral principles and mandate or would you bless those who believe in you?

There probably is a God. There is a God. God is.

This is not a probability issue, but rather, a faith issue. There are always going to be those who say 'yes, no or maybe so', to God. That is part of the nature of man and his free will, according to the Bible. God has created human beings in such a way, that they can choose who or what they believe in. Either you believe in God, or you don't. You choose either for or against Him. Ultimately, there are consequences that follow the choice that you make.

For everyone who is currently suffering economic woes, why not turn to God for help? Don't panic; instead, pray. You have everything to gain and nothing to lose by doing that. Pray for the economy and the probability thinkers, too. Make an active choice for God, not against Him.

Make a proactive choice between panic and prayer. There is no point in giving your time to panic, as panic is always rooted and grounded in fear. Should fear control our lives or destinies? No. 

Give your time to prayer. Prayer is rooted and grounded in the "Love of God and one another." Love is the guiding and controlling principle of life. "Perfect love casts out fear." 1 John 4:8

Ultimately, this is a message of hope, not hopelessness.

When the state of the economy hits home, pray! Pray for your families, communities, countries and the world, as well as the global economy. Consider this a call to prayer.

1. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/london/7681914.stm

2. Ibid.

3. Ibid.

4. Ibid.

Baby Boomers: Potential Caregivers for Elderly Seniors

To baby boomers seeking other employment

Are you a baby boomer who is currently looking for other employment? Maybe you left your previous job. Perhaps you did not want to leave, but you had no choice. You may be a baby boomer, who prefers to continue working, but with high unemployment rates everywhere, you are having a difficult time finding other employment.

Consider this option, as it may offer a valid solution to your employment problem. As a baby boomer, would you be interested in and able to assume the care of an elderly, senior citizen? With dramatic increases in the numbers of baby boomers, entering into their retirement years and the tremendous number of elderly, senior citizens in need of care, it would appear that there is the possibility that you, as a baby boomer, might be able to help fill one of the huge gaps, in the current health care system. At this time, there are simply not enough trained health caregivers on any level, including the younger age bracket, to meet the current needs and demands of our elderly senior citizens. Elderly senior citizens should never be left without proper care.

What does this suggest for baby boomers? In reality, there are hundreds of baby boomers like you, who need to have additional income after retirement from years of full time employment. This is reality. Many baby boomers need to find other work after retiring to supplement their incomes. A retirement pension may not be adequate. Many baby boomers may not be able to obtain any employment after retirement, because of their age. Many baby boomers are capable of working, in some capacity. Many baby boomers want to work in order to have something positive and constructive to do with their time. Some baby boomers may not be able to work any longer or may need to be cared for by others.

Perhaps you are a baby boomer, who does not want to retire at this time, in spite of the fact that you are forced to do so, because of age restrictions related to your current job or other factors calculated into the employment equation. 

Some people may argue that baby boomers are not properly trained to be caregivers to elderly seniors. This may be true in some instances, as elderly seniors may have specific health care needs. Others may suggest that having baby boomers as caregivers for elderly seniors, could present potential problems, if baby boomers attempt to assume the role without being properly trained by professional care givers.

At the same time, it is possible that many baby boomers could be properly trained to give the elderly seniors the essential care that they require. Obviously, training is one obstacle that could be overcome. It might be feasible to establish a program that offers appropriate training and recognition for baby boomers as care givers for elderly seniors.

Would you as a baby boomer, be interested in pursuing such a program? Once you complete the program, you would receive appropriate recognition, as part of a new class of baby boomer care givers.

You may be a baby boomer who has elderly parents or immediate family members in need of care, even now. Perhaps you have decided that you want to assume the role of caregiver for them or feel that you do not have the strength, energy or desire and do not want to take on the burden of re-training, even though you need someone to fill the role of caregiver for an elderly senior.

Whatever your feelings are, ask yourself this question. If there was appropriate, financial remuneration with respect to caring for elderly seniors, would you change your mind and become seriously interested and get involved in this kind of a project? Baby boomers should receive appropriate financial remuneration for assuming the care and responsibility of elderly seniors, even when they are family members. 

There are no easy answers with regard to elderly senior care, as one might ask where the income could, should or would come from. You may suggest that the government should assume the responsibility for it or more specifically, the health care system. Maybe it should come from one designated part of the health care system. Many people object strongly to the funding for elderly senior care coming directly from them or their families. Some elderly seniors have insurance coverage, but many do not.

It would appear at this time, that because of the global economic recession, the government is not in a position to fund elderly care. It appears that the health care system is financially over-burdened. All businesses appear to operate on a deficit. The general consensus is that all businesses can operate legitimately, on a deficit. One wonders how large that deficit can be or become, before alarm bells begin to ring. When it comes to caring for elderly parents and grandparents, beyond the baby boomer generation, can it be resolved on a business level where the business operates on a deficit. On must ask whether the business deficit for elderly senior care would be real or imagined?

One must suggest that "the love of God and one another", must take priority over any government or health care budget deficits, particularly when it comes to caring for one's own, elderly family members. Should this not be the same for others too? It appears that baby boomers may be forced to assume the responsibility for the care of their own elderly family members, whether there is financial remuneration accorded for this or not. As caring, compassionate and committed human beings, we need to have answers to these issues now, solutions based upon human love and compassion, not on a real or imagined deficit.

Perhaps you are one of many baby boomers, who are already care givers for elderly seniors and you plan to continue being a care giver until such a time as you need to be cared for yourself. The majority of baby boomers were raised, trained and educated by parents and others, who showed marked care, compassion and commitment to others. Baby boomers know how to show or offer compassion to others. Perhaps you are an elderly, senior citizen who is currently looking for a caregiver or maybe you know someone who is. Hiring a baby boomer as a caregiver, might present a solution to your personal dilemma.

Having baby boomers as care givers for elderly seniors, may help to resolve what could turn out to be a major crisis for many elderly senior citizens. While no one is going to single handedly resolve the pending health care crisis, there is still strength in numbers, when standing together as baby boomers. 

As a baby boomer, what do you think about all of this? Maybe you could offer some positive, constructive feedback on this article and become an effective problem solver and caregiver too. Employing baby boomers, trained to fill the role of potential caregivers for elderly seniors, would appear to be one possible solution to the health care crisis.

Baby Boomers: Hearing, Health and the Art of Listening

The art of listening is a gift

You are listening, but are you really listening? Is it active listening or passive listening? Do you know the difference? Do you hear what is going on around you or what others are saying? Do you hear their cries for help? Do you just listen or do you respond to what you hear? Is the sound muffled in the wind? Or has it been smothered by the busyness of your day? Maybe your day-to-day business is taking precedence to your listening?

The art of listening is something that most baby boomers have learned over the years, but there are some who have forgotten what it really means to really listen to others. Paying attention to those who speak to us, or cry out to us is vital, particularly in this time of global economic decline. We have not become stone gods who do not hear others or an all-knowing God, who chooses to not listen to His children. Listening to others, on the divine level and listening on a human level can be totally different. On the level of the divine, it would be perfect listening, the ideal kind of listening. On a human level, it would be less than divine and less than perfect.

Here are some secrets with regard to the art of listening. Pay attention to whoever is speaking to you, whether it is God or man. Listen closely to all of those around you. Make a point of recalling or repeating to yourself or others, what you have heard. It will help you to improve your listening skills, as well as your short term memory. You may find that you have excellent hearing, but less than perfect listening skills. You may have excellent listening skills, but you have become hard of hearing. Is it really hard of hearing or do you a have hardening of your heart? Perhaps you have hardening of the arteries. That would not be an uncommon problem for a baby boomer. Yes, it could affect your hearing, but it should not interfere with your listening skills.

Immediately forgetting what you hear could be symptomatic of short term memory loss. While this could be the result of a physical illness, it may be something that can be resolved by medical treatment. It could be related to poor circulation, medication or a lack of vitamins. Smoking or using drugs like marijuana can bring on short term memory loss. It can be related to stress, fatigue or depression. In a more serious scenario, it may indicate pending Alzheimer's disease or dementia, if it appears to be in conjunction with the loss of touch with reality.

Selective hearing allows us to hear some things and not to hear others. This could be associated with alcohol, nicotine or drug abuse. It could have something to do with your range of hearing diminishing, as you grow older. Perhaps the background noise is drowning out the voices of people, when you listen to your television. If you find that you are having hearing problems and can only hear certain ranges, tones or levels of sound, it may be a good idea to have your hearing checked. Ask your physician for a referral to an audiologist. Some kinds of hearing problems can be resolved by using hearing aids.

If you are showing a marked loss of hearing, you may need further tests or examinations, to be certain that there are not other physical problems present. Do you have ringing your ears? That may be associated with an overdose of a medication, like aspirin. Do you have other physical symptoms that you are worried about? It may be time for a complete, physical examination.

The art of listening is something beyond the actual physical hearing of sounds. The art of listening is a gift; some have that gift, while others do not. Perhaps you remember your mother or father always listening and responding appropriately to everything you said, as a child. Even your grandparents understood when you tried to tell them something, in spite of their obvious hearing problems. Your friends and neighbors listened to you too, as you related the tales about your adventures, your school projects or special hobbies and various interests. They listened.

In our era, there are too many over-bearing sounds. We are bombarded in every direction with excessive volumes of an extremely wide, range of sounds. Sometimes, it is simply noise of various kinds that we are continually confronted with. Attempting to hear anything can be difficult, especially when there is too much noise. Trying to listen to anyone when it is too noisy, can be even harder.

Can you remember the last time when you heard the sound of geese honking overhead, as they headed back north for the winter? Do you recall the chirping of robins, as they began building their nests? Do you remember the sound of the babbling brook? Can you think of a time when the crunch of leaves and twigs under your feet as you hiked, was something that gave you pleasure? Perhaps you even heard the sound of a fluttering butterfly? Nature has such wonderful sounds.

Do you recall how wonderful it was to have someone whisper a secret in your ear? The words, "I love you," were something that meant a lot to you, no matter who said them. Do you remember happy sounds of children laughing as they played in the yard? You listened to all of those sounds and you heard them.

Now the sound of planes, trains and buses, as well as trucks and cars on freeways, tends to drown those kinds of sounds out. How about motorboats, snowmobiles and lawnmowers?

The art of listening has not been lost; it can be re-learned. In order to really listen, it may be necessary to turn off the television, turn down the loud music and claim back your real world. Take an extra moment to listen to everyone around you. Are they speaking too loud and too fast? Are the sounds happy or unhappy? Perhaps others need to claim back the quiet calm of the day and night, too. Silence can be a blessing, but closing our ears to others in order to attain silence, is never something that should be a priority for us, at any time, day or night. Earplugs help to drown out loud noises, but should be used to keep us from listening to others.

"Be still and know that I am God," the Bible tells us. In the midst of all of the toils of the day, take time to listen to God. He will guide you with regard to both listening and hearing others. You might even hear yourself think for a change. Take some time to re-develop the art of listening. Don't settle for just hearing noise. Listening is so much more fun.

How to Start a Group Home for Baby Boomers

Potential business plan: A group home for baby boomers

As a baby boomer leader on the move, why not think about starting a baby boomer group home, as a potential entrepreneurial project? Perhaps you could establish a group home for baby boomers as a new, small business that would generate some extra income. Living in a baby boomer group home might be the perfect answer for any baby boomer, in urgent need of a place to live.

To start a group home for baby boomers requires a business plan proposal. This would be subject to change, at any time. Consider some of the initial questions that must be considered with regard to developing a basic business plan for a group home, designated for baby boomers.

Is there a need for group homes for baby boomers? Yes, there is definitely a need for group homes for baby boomers, in many parts of the country. It appears that many more baby boomers will require a place to live, in the near future.

Why is this kind of a business appropriate, at this time? A baby boomer group home, as a small business project, is particularly appropriate at this time, because many baby boomers are being displaced, as the direct result of the rapidly rising numbers of mortgage delinquencies and foreclosures, as well as the increasing rate of unemployment for baby boomers. Numerous baby boomers have already lost their homes, because of the current recession.

Why would a group home be an appropriate project for a baby boomer leader, in a time of severe economic decline? Many baby boomer leaders have the ability to take on this kind of a project because they are busy, active and productive citizens, who are not ready to retire yet. Many others want something interesting to do, because of early retirement from their previous jobs. Baby boomers have strong entrepreneurial spirits and this kind of a project could present a challenge for them. Numerous baby boomers possess excellent financial, managerial and project development skills. Some baby boomers are in an excellent financial position to start a new business. A lot of baby boomers have varying degrees of expertise in different fields. They could draw from their background experience, in order to succeed in this kind of a business venture. 

Many baby boomers are caring and compassionate people, who want to help others baby boomers.

What about the current cost of real estate, with regard to establishing a group home for baby boomers? The cost of real estate is currently on the decline everywhere. Interest rates are relatively low, so investing in a piece of property for a baby boomer group home, would appear to be an excellent investment.

Where would the baby boomer group home be located? The ideal baby boomer group home could be located in any city, village or in a country setting.

What would be needed in a group home for baby boomers? Baby boomers require the same, basic essentials needed in any home. This could vary, depending upon who was going to reside in the baby boomer group home. It would also depend upon how many baby boomers or others, lived there.

What is the current status of baby boomers? The majority of baby boomers are relatively happy, healthy and independent people. They do not require supervision and would not need to have anyone in constant attendance. Many baby boomers are health and fitness oriented and do not require nursing care. What they do need is a comfortable place to live. An extended family group home would help to meet many of their mental, emotional, physical and spiritual needs, as well.

Define what a group home for baby boomers would be like. A group home for baby boomers would be like any other home in the community. It would not appear different, in any way.

Describe a typical group of baby boomers living in a group home. The baby boomers living in a group home would be loving and caring people, who are approximately the same age. They may be employable or still employed. They could come from different backgrounds with regard to race, creed or culture or have various academic backgrounds.

What would be the primary criterion for selecting baby boomers to live in a group home? The age of the baby boomer would be the primary criterion for residency in a baby boomer group home. Baby boomers, born between 1945 and 1960, the first fifteen years after World War II, should qualify as potential residents. That could be extended, if it was deemed to be appropriate.

What other criteria for baby boomers should be taken into consideration? Initially, the health status of each baby boomer would be assessed by a physician. Baby boomers would also need to demonstrate a willingness to live and participate in a group home setting. Compatibility with other baby boomers as an extended family, would be important. Appropriate references would be required.

What kinds of rules and regulations would the baby boomers be subjected to in a group home environment? As adults, baby boomers would be able to come and go, as they please. A group home setting could prove to be ideal for them, but like any other family home, some regulations would have to be established. This could include concerns like drinking, smoking and gambling. Other issues may need to be regulated like the number of visitors allowed or the use of parking facilities.

What is the potential target group for candidates to live in a baby boomer group home? The target group for a baby boomer group home would be single baby boomers. This could be extended to include couples. For instance, the owners of the baby boomer group home might be a couple, who live on the premises. Or the proprietor could have his or her own residence on the same property, or elsewhere.

Why would baby boomers want to live in a group home? Many baby boomers are currently down-sizing or selling their homes, because they have lost their spouses or perhaps their children have grown up and moved away. Some baby boomers do not have families. Many baby boomers would be happy, living in a group home with other baby boomers, as their extended family.

How large should a baby boomer group home be? The size of the group home for baby boomers would depend upon how many people were going to live there. On a small scale, this could be a four bedroom house, inhabited by three baby boomers and the owner or four baby boomers. It could also be a larger home with more baby boomers, as extended family members.

What would be the anticipated cost to the baby boomers, while living in a baby boomer group home? The cost of living in a group home would be less than baby boomers have to pay, in order to live in their own homes or apartments. Initially, the cost would be worked out between the owner of the group home and individual baby boomers. It would be calculated to cover the cost of maintaining and running the baby boomer group home efficiently and profitably. Normally, approximately one third of a person's income is designated for shelter or housing. The cost would take into consideration special needs of baby boomers.

What would be the anticipated owner's expenditures with regard to establishing and operating a group home for baby boomers? Initially, the prospective baby boomer group homeowner would pay the cost of registering the group home, as a business. He or she would be a sole proprietor. A license to operate a group home may be required, depending upon the location of the group home. Establishing a group home for baby boomers, would entail the purchase of a suitable home, in an appropriate area. This would require real estate fees, a title search, a down payment, a monthly mortgage payment and property taxes. It may be possible to rent a piece of property deemed suitable for a baby boomer group home. Home insurance and liability insurance would be paid quarterly or monthly. Heat and hydro would be paid bi-monthly. Telephone, long distance telephone service, Internet service or cable would be paid monthly. Other costs like water, maintenance and garbage disposal would be paid, as required. A bookkeeper, lawyer and accountant may be needed, depending upon the proprietor's degree of expertise, in these areas. The cost of a vehicle, insurance coverage, gas and maintenance could be included in the expenses of a group home. Advertising costs may be needed, but this kind of business often functions well on word- of-mouth advertising.

How would a home for baby boomers be financed? This kind of a business could be financed through a mortgage company, a bank or credit union, an organization or a private lender.

How would the group home generate income? The owner of the baby boomer group home would assume the responsibility for the mortgage payments or rent, taxes and utilities. The money would be derived from the monthly payments received from the baby boomer extended family. Each baby boomer would pay a monthly fee based upon his or her income to cover the monthly and annual expenses of the group home. Ideally, a financial safety net would be established.

Would there be additional expenses for the baby boomers? Each baby boomer would be expected to provide his or her food and clothing, as well as personal life insurance, medical, dental or other health care coverage. Each baby boomer would be responsible for his or her transportation, unless a group home vehicle was provided. Some individual baby boomers might prefer to provide their own furniture or other luxury items and would assume the cost for these.

What are some of the potential benefits of a baby boomer group homes? An extended family setting in a group home would be appropriate for many baby boomers who are alone. Baby boomers could offer peer support to each other. This would benefit each one as they adjust to changes in life style, retirement, living as singles and transitions in the economy. Individual baby boomers could work on their own specific projects and participate in designated group projects. These might include special events like parties, picnics and fund raising events for group home improvements.

Who would run a baby boomer group home? A baby boomer group home would be an ideal, small business for a retired professional person or a couple. A registered nurse, teacher or counselor, would be able to manage a baby boomer group home effectively.

Could a counseling facility be part of a baby boomer group home? Counseling could provide another source of income for the potential owner of a baby boomer group home. This might include counseling for specific issues or concerns, like weight loss and management, fitness training, financial counseling and Christian counseling. If the baby boomer group home was owned by a professional person who was a qualified counselor, many of the baby boomer issues could be resolved without requiring additional counseling facilities.

Are there any group homes for baby boomers in existence, at this time? The concept of a baby boomer group home appears to be new. This could offer a solution regarding housing for single baby boomers. There are no currently no known group homes, designated as specific for baby boomers only.

Why establish a group home that is specific for baby boomers? Baby boomers may not qualify for kinds of housing available for others with special needs, like the handicapped, disabled, veterans or seniors.

How would the baby boomer group home function? The baby boomer group home would function like any other home, with the baby boomers gradually becoming part of a larger, extended baby boomer family. The baby boomers would share the responsibility for the baby boomer family, basic tasks like cooking, cleaning, housework, laundry, gardening and yard work. How this is regulated could be determined by the baby boomer extended family, based upon what each individual baby boomer wanted to assume the responsibility for, or what he or she was able to do.

In conclusion, one might suggest that establishing a group home for baby boomers appears to be an excellent idea. It is a unique and different concept. This business plan is partly based upon the assumption that the majority of baby boomers would be willing to live and work together with other baby boomers, in order to create an appropriate home environment and provide a baby boomer extended family for everyone. Baby boomer group homes could help to resolve the pending housing crisis for many homeless baby boomers. This covers a number of basic issues and concerns with regard to the establishment of a business plan for a baby boomer group home.

In reality, establishing group homes for baby boomers may be the ideal investment of our era. This project may offer some entrepreneurial baby boomer leaders a golden opportunity to make a profitable investment. Starting a baby boomer group home does not appear to be that difficult and could be welcomed as a new trend in housing.

How Baby Boomers Can Become Caregivers for Elderly Senioors

Baby boomers as potential caregivers for elderly seniors: Helping hands

There is always a shortage of helping hands, when it comes to taking care of elderly seniors. Every pair of helping hands is needed.  Your helping hands could meet a legitimate need, somewhere. Are you are a baby boomer, who is willing and able to become a caregiver for an elderly senior, but you do not know where or how to start? Many baby boomers are capable of becoming caregivers, although they are semi-retired or unable to work at their previous jobs, for various reasons.

Consider the following suggestions:

Start seeing yourself as a potential caregiver and find an elderly senior, who you think may be in need of care. Perhaps you know a family member, neighbor or an acquaintance, who is an elderly senior. He or she needs care and would benefit from your help. Take the time to get to know him or her and offer assistance, on a regular basis. If this does not work out as employment, you may find that you have a good friend. You will have obtained valuable experience with respect to the care of elderly seniors.

Spend time doing research on the Internet with regard to caring for elderly seniors. There are many things about care giving that you will not be aware of, if you have never had experience in caring for elderly seniors. Learn what is involved. For example, find out what seniors need, expect and want from caregivers and how these needs can and should be met.

What you will learn is that what elderly seniors want most is to have someone to love and someone who loves them. Find out about the different kinds of problems you might encounter when attempting to care for elderly seniors. Do research into safety issues or concerns that pertain to elderly seniors, individually and collectively. Know what to expect from those who have health problems of different kinds. Look into dietary management for elderly seniors. Research will help you to decide if being a caregiver for elderly seniors is a realistic occupation for you to pursue, at this time in your life.

Inquire about different agencies in your area, that may be looking for caregivers for elderly seniors. Ask yourself if you would be willing and able to meet a potential client or patient in need of care, if someone was to find an elderly senior for you to look after.There are numerous agencies that employ caregivers on various levels. Some of them are looking for professional caregivers, like registered nurses or they may prefer to hire non-professional caregivers and personal support workers. Some agencies may be interested in training caregivers. Others are looking for people, who care about others and are willing to volunteer time and effort to assist with the the care of elderly seniors.

Decide how much time you would be willing to work as a caregiver, for an elderly senior. You may want to work full time, but that may not be possible, at this time in your life. Have a physical first and discuss your possible return to work as a caregiver for elderly seniors, with your physician. He or she may be able to help you to decide how many hours a week you could or should work. Remember that you may want to engage in other activities, as well.

Take a course on how to administer quality care to an elderly senior. There are numerous courses at universities or colleges available for potential caregivers. Obtain a calendar that lists their courses and course outlines, so you know what to expect. For instance, you may be able to take a course on foot care or massage therapy, which would be of benefit to elderly seniors.

Find local community programs that focus on care giving for elderly seniors. There are numerous community programs offered for different kinds of caregivers, so check local newspapers. Watch for flyers related to care giving for seniors. You could become a regular driver for patients in need of transportation for doctor's appointments. Maybe you could deliver meals to elderly seniors.

Contact local hospitals or agencies, regarding their current needs for caregivers for elderly seniors. Most local hospitals and nursing homes, need more caregivers than they have, particularly at different times, during the day or in the evening. Assist with feeding patients in a local hospital or nursing home, at lunchtime or dinnertime. Patients love to go for walks. Maybe there is an elderly senior, who does not have any family or friends. You might enjoy talking to him or her, for an hour or so a day.

Do you need income from employment? Sometimes, care giving becomes a time-versus-money situation. Maybe you have lots of money, but not much time or vice versa. You may need immediate income, because of forced layoff or early retirement. When you are seeking employment, determine how much actual income you need or want.

Find a program that will pay you to train. There are academic programs provide income in the form of student loans. These programs can help to supplement your income, while you train to become a qualified caregiver for elderly seniors. Enroll in a program until you find employment. You may obtain placement with a specific agency, while you are involved in a training programs. Obtaining certification as a caregiver could help you to get future employment. You might prefer to take courses pertaining to elderly seniors, on an interest level.

Offer to volunteer for organizations that provide care for elderly seniors. You could volunteer for various organizations, if additional income is not your primary concern. Volunteer work as a caregiver, in a hospital or nursing home setting, could be a rewarding experience. It will give you contact with people, who may refer you for future employment. Volunteers often receive certificates for the work they do.

Give high quality to care to a person in your own family or community. Once you have found someone who is in need of care in your own home or community, administering a high quality of care to them, at all times, will enable others to see that you are a truly caring, caregiver. Baby boomers, who offer quality care to elderly seniors will always be in demand.

Think seriously about what is important to you, in terms of care giving. How would you like to be cared for personally, if you were in need of care? Talk to elderly seniors and see what they think about their care and their current caregivers. You may be surprised. Many elderly seniors come to love their caring caregivers.

Baby boomers usually relate well to elderly seniors. They have the distinct advantage of being old enough to understand the concerns of the elderly seniors of today. They relate well to them, because seniors are the age of their own parents. Many of those in the younger generation will not be able to relate to them, in the same way. You might be someone who could read or write letters for elderly seniors. Perhaps you could do other things for them, like assisting them with their personal shopping. Maybe help them with their daily exercises or take them on different kinds of outings, now and then.

Of course, there are different levels of care giving, all the way from professional care by registered nurses, to other levels of care. What interests you might depend upon your background and experience. There are numerous options for employment, even for baby boomers unable to do heavy lifting. Sometimes, just sitting with elderly patients is needed.

Compile a resume as a caring caregiver. Make a summary of all of the care giving experiences you have acquired and prepare your resume. Employment agencies will assist you in that regard. When you have your resume ready, apply for specific jobs. You may be asked to e-mail your resume to potential employers, so make certain that you retain a copy of it on your computer.

Place applications for employment as a caregiver for elderly seniors, wherever you think you may be able to work. Specify the kind of work you prefer. Take a copy of your resume with you, whenever you are called for job interviews.

Do not fret if you are rejected by any agencies, hospitals or organizations. Keep on applying and you will find employment. Continue to expand your caregiver horizon by learning new skills. You could set up a self-employment program to assist elderly seniors and this may provide future employment for others, too.

As a baby boomer, consider all of your possible options and know that every extra pair of helping hands is important, when it comes to caring for elderly seniors.