Synergy Group

05/08/2026

Your retirement outlook probably covers income, investments, and Social Security.

But does it answer this question: if your health changes at 82, who coordinates your care, how is it paid for, and what burden does it place on the people you love? 👇

That's the conversation most families aren't having early enough.

A few numbers that put it in perspective:

✅ 70 percent of adults who reach 65 will need some form of long-term care.

✅ A semi-private nursing home room now costs a median of $114,975 per year, and that number is climbing fast.

✅ Projected out 20 years, nursing home care could approach $186,000 annually.

✅ Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) offer an alternative: move in while independent, with access to assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing on one campus as needs change.

✅ A portion of CCRC entrance fees and monthly fees may have tax considerations since they can be classified as a medical expense. Most people don't know this.

The biggest mistake we see?

Waiting.

CCRCs require applicants to be healthy enough to live independently. Many have waitlists.

"I'll just stay in my house" feels like the safest option. But it's only safe if you've stress-tested what happens when care needs escalate.

Have you started this conversation with your family or your financial professional? 👇

05/07/2026

When stock prices drop, some investors start asking questions about whether to remain invested. But as 2025 illustrates, market timing can be very expensive even if it means missing just a few days.

05/06/2026

A newly introduced tax deduction aimed at older Americans could reduce taxable income for millions of households.

Under the proposal, individuals age 65 and older could claim an additional $6,000 deduction on their federal taxes. Lawmakers say the measure is designed to provide relief for retirees facing rising living costs.

If enacted, the deduction could apply to both single filers and married couples who meet income requirements. Supporters argue that the change may help offset later-in-life expenses for housing, healthcare, and everyday costs.

Because the proposal is still moving through the legislative process, details, which include eligibility thresholds and how the deduction would be phased in, could still change.

Tax rules can be complex, so it may be helpful to review any updates with a qualified tax professional.


Source:

A new tax deduction for senior citizens is kicking in this tax season, potentially providing bigger refunds to millions, the AARP says.

05/05/2026

🌼Check out the May Senior Activities Calendar!!🌼

All activities are held at the White Oak Community Center
1798 Lower Heckman Road

05/05/2026

Meet the Team!

Meet Erin,

Erin has been a Client Services Specialist at Synergy for three years.

She starts her day with a coffee—lately, pistachio lattes have been her favorite.☕

On the weekends, Erin enjoys spending time with her dogs: Lucius, Leroy, and Marta!🐶🐾

05/04/2026

To all who celebrate!

05/04/2026

A recent study suggests that maintaining a healthy diet may contribute to keeping your brain younger and potentially slowing cognitive aging. 🍎🥦

The research highlights the benefits of nutritious eating habits on brain health, emphasizing the importance of diet in supporting mental wellness and longevity. As we explore ways to promote healthy aging, understanding the role of nutrition in cognitive function becomes increasingly significant.

Incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet could be a key factor in preserving brain health as you age.

Source:

A new study that tracked brain changes in more than 1,600 adults over 12 years found that eating may help keep the brain younger.

05/04/2026

Big Tech is shifting—are you keeping up? This week on Laux On Your Retirement, Roy and Jason Laux from Synergy Group break down the “Magnificent 7” stocks and how their changing performance could impact your portfolio. They’ll discuss what these trends mean for investors, the potential risks ahead, and why smart, proactive planning is key to protecting your retirement savings. Tune in Saturday at 7:30 AM and Sunday at 6:30 AM on WISH 99.7.

05/03/2026

Some retirees describe the first few months as a honeymoon phase.

Travel. Projects. Rest. Catching up on everything that was postponed.

And then something shifts.

After the glow wears off, deeper questions start to surface:
▪️How do I want to spend my time?
▪️What feels meaningful now?

That transition is normal.

Retirement creates space. The first year is about deciding what deserves it.

05/02/2026

There's a moment early in retirement that catches many people off guard.

You wake up… and there's nowhere you need to be.

At first, that quiet feels wonderful. After years of deadlines and responsibility, it's a relief.

And then the question comes:

Now what?

If that feels familiar, you're not alone. Retirement isn't just a schedule change. For many people, it's an identity shift.

The first year isn't about having everything figured out. It's about finding your rhythm.

05/01/2026

Here's a tip most students miss: when you file the FAFSA for state aid, you're automatically filing for federal aid too — so there's no reason to wait for the federal deadline.

State deadlines are often much earlier than the federal cutoff, sometimes arriving as early as February or March. Many states also set hard deadlines or use priority dates for first consideration.

Either way, students who file during the first few months tend to receive significantly more grant funding, on average, than those who file later.

The bottom line: aim for the earliest deadline on your list, whether that's your state's or your school's. That single submission covers you for all aid opportunities.

👉 Look up your state's specific FAFSA deadline at studentaid.gov and file as early as you can. Future-you will be glad you did.