Avoid medical gaslighting, and check out a hidden retirement gem

It’s Wednesday, New Jersey!

☔Weather: A chance of rain showers between 10am and 4pm, then a slight chance of snow showers after 4pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 46.

👀What’s on tap today:

• Avoid medical gaslighting

• Check out a hidden retirement gem - in New Jersey!

• 2025 veterans’ discount book now available

Up first…

Hey friends, let's chat about something important that might be happening at your doctor's office without you even realizing it. It's called medical gaslighting, and it's when your doctor brushes off your health concerns or makes you feel like you're imagining things. Not cool, right?

So, what's the deal with medical gaslighting? Well, it's when your healthcare provider dismisses your symptoms or concerns, leaving you feeling confused, frustrated, or even doubting yourself. For example, you might go in with back pain, and they just say, "Oh, that's normal at your age." Spoiler alert: It's not always normal, and you deserve to be heard!

Now, why should you care? Because this kind of dismissal can lead to missed diagnoses, delayed treatments, and a whole lot of unnecessary suffering. Plus, let's be real - you know your body best!

Here's the kicker: ageism in healthcare is a real thing, folks. Some doctors might assume certain symptoms are just part of getting older, when they could be signs of treatable conditions. Don't let them write you off!

So, what can you do if you think you're being medically gaslit? Here are some tips:

1. Trust your gut. If something feels off, speak up!

2. Keep a symptom diary. Write down what you're experiencing and when.

3. Bring a buddy to appointments. Sometimes two heads are better than one.

4. Don't be afraid to get a second opinion. Or a third!

5. Consider seeing a geriatrician. They specialize in older adult health and might have more time for you.

Remember, you're the expert on your own body. If your doc isn't listening, it might be time to find one who will. And hey, it's okay to be firm (but polite) with your healthcare team. Try saying something like, "I know I'm older, but I'm sharp as a tack and I need you to take my concerns seriously."

Bottom line: You deserve quality healthcare at any age. Don't let anyone make you feel otherwise. Keep advocating for yourself, and don't give up until you get the care you need.

Stay healthy and keep speaking up, New Jersey! Your well-being is worth it.

Mays Landing: New Jersey's Hidden Retirement Paradise

🏡 Here’s a hidden gem for retirement: Mays Landing! GoBankingRates.com recently released a report on the best places to retire in each state, and the small historic town of Mays Landing took the top spot in New Jersey. Here’s why.

Affordable Living

• Average monthly living cost: Just $1,828

• Average home price: $332,000

• Mortgage costs about $200 less than national average

Location, Location, Location

• Half-hour from Atlantic City

• Close to Great Egg Harbor River

• Perfect for fishing, kayaking, and bird-watching

• Lake Lenape Park offers 2,000 acres of outdoor fun

Senior-Friendly Community

• Over 20% of population is 65+

• Multiple retirement communities

• Plenty of assisted living facilities

• Tons of opportunities to stay active and social

Bonus Perks

• Adorable downtown with family-owned shops

• Historic buildings

• Easy day trips to Philadelphia (under an hour)

• Several public golf courses

Retirement Highlights

• Low-stress environment

• Affordable housing

• Outdoor recreation

• Close-knit community

Pro tip: New Jersey doesn't tax Social Security benefits, and residents 65+ might qualify for tax-exempt retirement income. How's that for a sweet deal? 💰The bottom line? Mays Landing isn't just a town – it's your potential retirement paradise! 🌴🏡 

Caregiver's Daily Lift 🌈

"You are not just caring for someone, you are holding their world together with your love, patience, and strength. Every small act of kindness is a profound gift." 🤲✨

Self-Care Tip: Think about one thing you are grateful for and take 5 deep breaths before starting your day. 🧘‍♀️

Free upcoming events in the parks

Wondrous Winter Walks
Wednesday, February 5 from 10-11:30 a.m.
Manasquan Reservoir, Howell – Meet in the Environmental Center Parking Lot.
Wednesday, February 19 from 10-11:30 a.m.
Big Brook Park, Marlboro – Meet in the Lower Pond Parking Lot.

Toss on your winter gear and tag along with a Park System Naturalist as you explore the serenity that is nature in the wintertime. Open to all ages; under 18 with adult. Please note that sturdy footwear is recommended; trails used may have inclines or tree roots to step over. FREE!

Nature Lecture: Grey Squirrels of Monmouth County
Saturday, February 8 from 3-4 p.m.
Freneau Woods Park Visitor Center, Aberdeen

Learn about these furry critters and some other species of squirrels that call New Jersey home during this talk by a Park System Naturalist. FREE!

Winter Beach Walk
Sunday, February 9 from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area, Manasquan

Take a Park System Naturalist guided walk along the beach collecting and identifying some of the ocean’s natural treasures. Dress in warm clothing and bring along something to carry shells in. FREE!

Historical Valentines
Sunday, February 9 from 1-3 p.m.
Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold

Take the grandkids! Discover how penmanship has changed as we view letters and valentines from the 18th and 19th centuries. Create a valentine of your own or write a letter to a to a friend using historically inspired materials. FREE!

To learn more about these Park System activities, please visit www.MonmouthCountyParks.com or call the
Park System at 732-842-4000.

Events happening around the state

February 1 – Atlantic City Wing Fest (Atlantic City, Atlantic County)
February 1 – Cumberland County Winter Eagle Festival (Mauricetown, Cumberland County)
February 1 – The 3 Kings Ultimate Elvis Experience (Atlantic City, Atlantic County)
February 1 – Meadowlands Winter Chili Cook-Off (East Rutherford, Bergen County)
February 1 & 2 – Unionville Vineyard’s Winter Artisan Market (Ringoes, Hunterdon County)
February 1 & 2 – Maple Sugaring at the Environmental Education Center (Basking Ridge, Somerset County)
February 1 & 2 – Winter Fire & Ice Festival (New Egypt, Ocean County)
February 1 & 2 – Holy Trinity 17th Annual Winter Feast (Egg Harbor Twp, Atlantic County)
February 2 – Porta Valentine’s Pop Up (Asbury Park, Monmouth County)
February 2 – Highland’s Annual Beef and Brew (Highlands, Monmouth County)
February 2 – Beach Haus 2nd Annual Chili Cook-Off (Belmar, Monmouth County)
February 2 – Lambertville / New Hope Winter Festival Chili Cook Off 2025 (Lambertville, Hunterdon County)

🏘️ 55+ Home Hunt: New Jersey Retirement Community Listings

Looking for a new place to call home in one of New Jersey’s 55+ communities? Let's take a peek at what's on the market this week:

1. A home in Holiday City at Berkeley

   • Price range: Mid $200ks - Mid $400ks

   • Community has 10,636 homes (60 currently for sale)

2. A property in Renaissance at Manchester

   • Price range: High $300ks - Mid $600ks

   • Community has 1,904 homes (11 currently for sale)

3. A home in Leisure Village West, Manchester

   • Price range: Mid $100ks - High $300ks

   • Community has 2,692 homes (31 currently for sale)

4. A listing in Westlake Golf and Country Club in Jackson

   • Price range: High $400ks - High $700ks

   • Community has 1,421 homes (15 currently for sale)

5. A property in Clearbrook in Monroe

   • Price range: High $100ks - Low $500ks

   • Community has 2,026 homes (31 currently for sale)

6. A home in Concordia in Monroe

   • Price range: High $200ks - Low $500ks

   • Community has 1,757 homes (19 currently for sale)

Remember, folks, this is just a snapshot of what's out there. The 55+ community market in New Jersey is hopping! 🏡✨

Pro tip: When you're house hunting, don't just look at the property – check out the community amenities too. Many of these places offer fantastic perks like fitness centers, pools, and social clubs. It's not just about finding a house; it's about finding your new lifestyle! Happy house hunting, and may your new home be filled with sunshine and laughter! 🌞

News & Notes

Discount book for veterans released: Clerk Christine Giordano Hanlon and the Monmouth County Clerk's Office are proud to present the 2025 Discount Book for Veterans and Gold Star Family members! The updated edition contains more than 260 businesses throughout the area now offering veteran discounts! If you are a business owner who would like participate, signing up is easy and a great way to honor our veterans for their service and sacrifice!  Learn more here.

Monmouth County kicked off its America's 250th Anniversary celebration with a dynamic "250 Summit" hosted by Clerk Christine Giordano Hanlon and County Commissioner Director Tom Arnone. The event drew an impressive gathering of local officials who received commemorative plaques for their municipalities' "250 Resolutions," signaling a robust commitment to honoring the nation's upcoming semiquincentennial milestone in 2026. With plans to showcase the county's rich Revolutionary War history and highlight New Jersey's pivotal role in American independence, the summit marks the beginning of a multi-year celebration designed to be the most inclusive anniversary observance in U.S. history. The event underscores Monmouth County's dedication to preserving and celebrating American heritage, promising a series of educational programs, historical site events, and community engagement initiatives that will bring the spirit of 1776 to life for current and future generations. Learn more here. 🎉

Planning an international adventure? The U.S. Department of State offers a free service that could be a game-changer for your travel safety. The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) allows U.S. citizens and nationals traveling or living abroad to register their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. By enrolling, travelers receive real-time safety and security updates for their destination, helping them make informed decisions about their travel plans. STEP also facilitates emergency contact with travelers in case of natural disasters, civil unrest, or family emergencies. For those needing passport services before their trip, the Monmouth County Clerk's offices in Freehold and Neptune offer convenient passport processing, including photo services. Remember, staying informed and prepared is key to a safe and enjoyable international experience. Learn more here.

Today’s birthdays

🎉 Happy 78th Birthday, Allison Henry of Brick! ✨ May your day sparkle with joy, your heart glow with love ❤️, and your year ahead bloom with laughter, cherished moments, and all the sweetness life can bring! 🎂🌸 

A few other notable people sharing a birthday today with Allison include Oprah Winfrey, 70, media mogul; Tom Selleck, 79, actor; Charlie Wilson, 71, R&B singer; Adam Lambert, 42, pop singer, and Heather Graham, 54, actress.

Thanks for reading: A special shout-out today goes to all the Monmouth County business who participate in the discount books for veterans. 🙌 Your support means everything to our local veterans. ❤️

Questions, feedback or news to share? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at [email protected].

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See you next week!