Category: Living Life

  • How to Give Wisely

    Donating to charities can be a profoundly impactful and rewarding experience, but not all charities use donated funds responsibly. So here are three quick and easy tips to ensure your future contributions make a meaningful impact: ◆ Vet the charity: Quickly research the charities you plan to donate to. What is the charity’s BBB rating…

  • Use S.O.R.T. Approach for Decluttering

    Decluttering can bring a sense of peace, especially for seniors seeking to simplify their lives. The S.O.R.T method — Sell, Offer, Retain, Toss — provides an easy, step-by-step approach. Starting with less-used areas like storage rooms and guestrooms helps maintain momentum and make visible progress. Step 1: Sell Items like vintage pieces or furniture can…

  • The Heart of Chinese Culture & Cuisine

    China is the top rice-producing country in the world; it accounts for more than 144 million metric tons of the grain annually or 28% of the global output. The per-capita consumption of rice there is estimated to be a whopping 220 pounds per year, compared to 27 pounds for the average American and 100 pounds…

  • Kūpuna Movie Mornings at Hawaii Theatre

    In May 2024, Hawaii Theatre Center launched a partnership with the Hawai‘i LGBT Legacy Foundation to host Kūpuna Movie Mornings, a monthly “pay what you can” film series created to provide seniors, the LGBT community and cinema lovers in general the opportunity to socialize and watch a classic movie in a safe, welcoming environment at…

  • Popo’s Almond Cookies

    While delicious at any time of year, Chinese almond cookies are often made and shared during the Lunar New Year celebration. Symbolism plays an important role in the foods enjoyed during Chinese holidays; these round cookies are thought to resemble coins and signify wealth. Popo (grandma) made her Chinese almond cookies during other special occasions,…

  • Celebrating Chinese Influence in Hawai‘i

    People from all over the globe have made their homes in Hawai‘i. The first to migrate and settle here were the Polynesians from the Marquesas Islands and Tahiti about 1,500 years ago. Since then, Hawai‘i has continuously welcomed immigrants from every corner of the globe, cultivating and perpetuating a tapestry of diverse cultures. In this…

  • Should Seniors Purchase Travel Insurance?

    As we age, the desire to explore new destinations and enjoy life’s adventures often grows stronger. For kūpuna in Hawai‘i, traveling overseas offers the opportunity to experience different cultures, visit loved ones or simply relax in a new environment. While planning these trips, it’s crucial to consider potential risks and ensure you’re adequately protected. One…

  • Beware of Scams While Shopping Online

    Holiday shopping has shifted dramatically from in-person to online in recent years. Although this change gives us new opportunities for finding unique gifts while supporting small businesses — it also comes with risks. With 33.2 million small businesses now able to showcase their products online, you have infinite options at your fingertips. However, the rise…

  • A Labor of Love: Sweet & Sour Chicken

    This is one of my Grandma Goya’s recipes and one that my dad requests for Father’s Day or his birthday — it’s one of his favorite meals. My family loves eating this dish, as well. It is a labor of love because it takes a long time to make, but it sure is worth the…

  • Hilo’s Lyman Museum is Superb!

    I’m not the first to fall in love with Mauna Kea. Sarah Lyman — a missionary who came to Hawai‘i from New England in 1832 — wrote in her journal about the beauty of Mauna Kea when the clouds and rains cleared. You can hear readings of several journal entries in one of the exhibits…

  • Holidays Without Your Loved Ones

    Like birthdays and anniversaries, holidays are filled with loving memories of special times celebrated with family and friends. But when you have experienced the loss of a loved one and are grieving, it is sometimes difficult to authentically participate with others during the holidays. Your world has changed, often in profound and very personal ways.…

  • Transfer Seats Help Kūpuna On the Go

    Falls are a significant concern for our kūpuna, often leading to serious injuries and diminished quality of life. However, proactive measures can help prevent falls. First, maintaining physical strength and balance is crucial. Gentle exercises like tai chi, yoga or strength training enhance stability. Simple daily activities like walking or using a stationary bike can…