Franklin Financial Group

11/06/2023

We are excited to join HUB International as their Baltimore retirement, wealth management, and employee benefits agency.

HUB International Boosts Employee Benefits and Wealth Management Services with Acquisition of the Assets of Franklin Financial Group in Maryland Chicago, November 3, 2023 - Hub International Limited (Hub), a leading full-service global insurance brokerage and financial services firm, announced toda...

10/18/2023

Where Are the Germiest Places?
Germs are a part of life—and they’re everywhere. The dry air associated with fall and winter also makes it easier for germs to spread and linger in the air. Here are some germ hot spots:
• Home—Remote controls, kitchen counters, bathroom fixtures and handles, sponges and toothbrush holders
• Workplace—Desktops, keyboard, mouse, chair armrests, writing tools, handles, switches and doorknobs
• School—Water fountains, doorknobs, desks and tables, shared school supplies, cafeterias and playgrounds
Hand-washing is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of germs, especially after sneezing, coughing or blowing your nose.

10/04/2023

What to Know About This Year’s Flu Season

Influenza (flu) season lasts from October through May in the United States, with peak flu activity between December and March. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the timing and duration of flu activity have been unpredictable. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported early increases in seasonal flu last year. The Southern Hemisphere also experienced an early surge of flu activity this year, which may indicate what’s to come in the United States.
Furthermore, health experts anticipate another wave of respiratory viral infections this fall, namely from the flu, the virus that causes COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Fortunately, vaccines for all three viruses will be available for the first time in the fall. Vaccinations have been shown to reduce hospitalizations and death and may be particularly beneficial for those with compromised health.

Tips for Staying Healthy
The flu can cause serious complications for people of any age, but children and older adults are especially vulnerable. To help keep your household healthy this flu season, consider the following suggestions:

• Get vaccinated. Being vaccinated against the flu is your best chance of preventing the illness. The CDC recommends that anyone 6 months and older get a flu shot every year. The flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be given at the same visit.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick, and stay away from others when you feel unwell. Because flu and COVID-19 symptoms are similar, doctors say it’s best to get tested to know what you have.
• Wash your hands often using soap and warm water to protect against germs. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes to prevent the spread of germs.
• Sleep well, stay active and drink plenty of water to keep your immune system strong.
• Eat a nutritious diet of healthy grains, fruits, vegetables and fiber.
September and October are the best months to get vaccinated against the flu, so don’t delay getting your shot. Contact your doctor today to learn more about vaccines.

09/13/2023

How Often Do You Need to Exercise for Optimal Heart Health?

The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes or more of moderate to vigorous physical activity each week but doesn’t specify an optimal pattern. New research published in The Journal of the American Medical Association suggests that “weekend warriors” may realize the same cardiovascular health benefits as those who work out multiple times a week. A weekend warrior fits a week’s worth of exercise into a couple of days.

The study found that working out at least 150 minutes each week can help cut one’s risk of stroke, heart attack and atrial fibrillation (also known as AFib)—and those minutes can be split equally across the week or concentrated into the weekend. As long as you’re hitting 150 minutes, you can reap cardiovascular benefits. The weekend warrior schedule could be an option if you’re short on time during the week. Talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise regimen.

08/31/2023

Health care costs are expected to grow 7% in 2024 due to rising pharmaceutical expenses driven by specialty drugs and insurers increasing rates in response to inflation, according to an annual report from professional services firm PricewaterhouseCoopers. This News Brief explains further.

Health care costs are expected to grow 7% in 2024 due to rising pharmaceutical expenses driven by specialty drugs and insurers increasing rates in response to inflation, according to an annual report from professional services firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). This trend is higher than 2022’s and...

08/31/2023

Women provide incredibly valuable contributions at work and home, yet they're still comparatively underinsured. Contact me today to start planning for a more secure future.

08/30/2023

Wearable Health Care Tech and You

A recent study by data analytics firm AnalyticsIQ found that the use of wearable health care devices doubled from 2020 to 2021. Nearly half (46%) of Americans surveyed used at least one type of wearable device. Many reported frequent use, with most smartwatch users reporting daily usage. Other popular devices, such as fitness trackers and wearable monitors, were often utilized weekly.
Given their rising popularity, you may wonder if wearable technology does any good for you and your health. Such devices can monitor progress with a new exercise routine or weight loss program. They can also count steps, monitor your heart rate, count calories and track sleep. Whether you’re just starting on a healthy living journey or are well on your way, using a device may be beneficial for you.

08/28/2023

Employers are embracing comprehensive fertility benefits to create a more inclusive and supportive workplace. From fertility treatments to adoption assistance and educational support, these benefits are transforming lives and boosting employee satisfaction!

Employers are embracing comprehensive fertility benefits to create a more inclusive and supportive workplace. From fertility treatments to adoption assistanc...

08/24/2023

Ana and Brenda purchased the same amount of life insurance, in the same year, at the same age. More than 40 years later, their results were very different. Learn why! https://bit.ly/3KYDbdl.

08/24/2023

You should consider the strength of a financial institution when deciding whom to partner with in your retirement planning. Let’s connect and discuss what those ratings mean. https://blog.massmutual.com/insurance/financial-ratings-insurance.

08/23/2023

Did you know infertility is recognized as a disease? 1 in 6 couples in the U.S. face fertility challenges. Read our latest article to learn more about fertility benefits and their significance!

Did you know that in 2017 the American Medical Association and the World Health Organization recognized infertility as a disease? Approximately 17.5% - roughly one in six couples- are affected by infertility in the U.S. As societal norms and employee expectations continue to evolve, companies