Senior Active Living Fall 2025

The North Shore's
longest-running
Senior
Resource Guide
FALL
2025
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SENIOR ACTIVE LIVING

2 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP SENIOR ACTIVE LIVING FALL 2025
Tips for protecting yourself from deepfake fraud
StatePoint
You answer the phone and hear a
familiar voice, but are you sure you
know who it is on the other end of the
line? The correct answer should be
“no.”
Rapid advancement of artificial
intelligence (AI) has armed bad
actors with sophisticated tools to
enable impersonation fraud using
deepfakes. A deepfake can consist of
audio, video or imagery that has either
been created or altered using AI. The
danger is that with a simple sample of
audio or video or even a few images,
a criminal can create a deepfake that
is almost impossible to detect.
A National Institutes of Health
study in 2023 found that even when
individuals were given a warning that
one out of five videos for them to
review was a deepfake, only 21.6%
were able to correctly identify the
fraudulent option.
In today’s technological climate,
the risks are too high to trust the
naked eye to determine truth. Luckily,
there are certain things you can
do to help reduce your likelihood
of getting duped, and they don’t
require specialized skills or technical
aptitude.
One important one is never
assuming that someone contacting
you is legitimate, even if they share
a seemingly legitimate image or
video, have a familiar voice, or come
under the guise of someone known
and trusted. Creating safe words with
close family members and friends is
also a good idea. That means you have
a secret code word only they know. If
the caller doesn’t know it, that is an
easy and effective way to identify a
fraud.
Just as important if not more than
picking out deepfakes, is protecting
your identity against being exploited
to create a deepfake. Here are some
measures that could help mitigate the
risk:
Social Media Management: Don’t
over-post your face or voice and
limit who can view your content by
tightening up privacy settings on your
accounts.
Watermarks on Images: Consider
putting watermarks on imagery you
post online to discourage repurposing
of it.
Stronger Identity Protection:
Subscribe to identity monitoring
services that will send alerts if your
personal information appears on the
dark web where criminals buy and sell
stolen credentials.
Limited Voice Exposure: Screen
phone calls and only answer when
they come from a known number. It’s
also recommended to use the factory
setting voicemail message rather than
recording an outgoing message using
your own voice.
Prompt Reporting: If you are
contacted by someone you believe is
leveraging a deepfake to impersonate
a person or brand, report it
immediately to that person or brand.
They will want to work with the
authorities and time is of the essence.
To learn more about tools and
techniques to help protect your
identity and respond to fraud, visit
PNC’s Security & Privacy Center.
Technology is providing criminals
more sophisticated technologies to
commit fraud, but good, old-fashioned
caution and common sense are still
the best protection, and that applies to
deepfakes, too.
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SENIOR ACTIVE LIVING FALL 2025 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP 3
Cough not going away?
Learn these top facts about bronchiectasis.
StatePoint
Getting the correct treatment
for bronchiectasis, a chronic lung
condition affecting 350,000 to
500,000 adults nationwide, is
necessary to slow disease progression
and help prevent further damage to
the airways.
The American Lung Association,
with support from Boehringer
Ingelheim, is raising awareness about
the need for early diagnosis and
treatment of bronchiectasis. Here are
the top things to know:
Bronchiectasis is chronic.
Bronchiectasis is a lifelong,
progressive lung condition where
the walls of your airways (bronchi)
are permanently damaged, becoming
widened and thickened from
inflammation and infection. Getting
the correct treatment as early as
possible can help improve health
outcomes and quality of life.
Diagnosis is often delayed. Two of
bronchiectasis’s hallmark symptoms
are daily cough and daily production
of mucus. Because these symptoms,
along with shortness of breath, fatigue
and chest pain, can mirror that of
other lung conditions, bronchiectasis
may have a delayed diagnosis. Further
complicating matters, people often
have bronchiectasis along with other
lung conditions. However, it requires
a separate diagnosis and its own
specialized treatment plan. Nellie R.
has had asthma since childhood and
started having repeated infections
as an adult. “After being prescribed
inhalers and other medications
to treat infections, I realized that
something wasn’t right. Having my
bronchiectasis mistaken for other lung
conditions made me realize that you
have to advocate for yourself when
you know you aren’t getting better
with your current treatment plan,” she
says.
Disease management is critical.
People with bronchiectasis
often fall into a cycle where a
respiratory infection triggers airway
inflammation, which then causes
further lung damage. To interrupt this
cycle, follow your treatment plan:
take medication as prescribed, utilize
learned airway clearance techniques
and take steps to reduce flare-up risk.
Jean R. was diagnosed with
bronchiectasis after already living
with and being treated for COPD.
When it comes to managing both she
says, “I manage my COPD, see my
pulmonologist regularly and check in
to make sure that my bronchiectasis is
not progressing.”
You can decrease your risk of
fl a r e - u p s . W h i l e y o u c a n ’ t c o n t r o l
everything about your environment
and health, there are steps you can
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4 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP SENIOR ACTIVE LIVING FALL 2025
take to help prevent bronchiectasis
fl a r e - u p s . T h e s e i n c l u d e :
• Avoiding exposure to toxic fumes
• Staying healthy by avoiding
those sick with respiratory infections
and keeping up to date with
recommended vaccinations
• Staying hydrated to help thin
your mucus
• Following your treatment plan
• Leading a healthy lifestyle
Nellie works closely with her
pulmonologist to stay on top of
her treatment plan, stating, “It’s
important to find out from your
specialist what your medications are
and why they are important to take.
I am able to stay active and do the
things I enjoy because I follow my
treatment plan.”
There are many causes. Although
the cause of bronchiectasis is not
known in about 40% of cases, it is
often brought on by damage from
another condition that affects the
lungs. An airway blockage, like
a growth or noncancerous tumor,
can lead to bronchiectasis. Often
linked to cystic fibrosis, many other
conditions can trigger bronchiectasis,
such as autoimmune disease,
immunodeficiency disorders, COPD,
inflammatory bowel diseases and
recurring infections like pneumonia,
tuberculosis, pertussis and fungal
infections.
Bronchiectasis resources,
including information about
symptoms, diagnosis and treatment,
can be found by visiting lung.org/
bronchiectasis.
While there is no cure for
bronchiectasis, working closely with
your pulmonologist to address needs
specific to this condition can help you
breathe better.
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SENIOR ACTIVE LIVING FALL 2025 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP 5
Explore jaw-dropping scenery
and Kentucky’s coal mining heritage
StatePoint
Kentucky is known the world over
for its bourbon, horse racing and its
jaw-dropping scenery, however on a
deeper level there is so much more to
the Bluegrass State. Literally.
Much of the coal that helped fuel
the nation and the world in the last 200
years was mined and processed in the
heart of Kentucky.
As coal helped to build the nation, a
unique and vibrant culture sprang up in
the communities in which it was mined.
A culture that lives on.
Several destinations in Kentucky
offer a way to remember and
celebrate the spirit of those Kentucky
communities. Destinations such as
Portal 31 Coal Mine.
Located in Lynch, barely a mile from
the Kentucky-Virginia border, the Portal
31 Underground Mine Tour offers a
truly immersive experience. This isn’t a
museum; it’s a preserved, historic coal
mine where visitors can tour the tunnels
and get a sense of the authentic miner
experience by boarding a rail car and
journeying deep into the earth, where
animated exhibits and narration bring
the demanding work and the history of
the site to life.
Founded in 1917 as a coal camp,
Lynch grew into one the biggest mining
operations in the world, setting records
for single-shift coal production in
1923. The original 1920s lamphouse
and bathhouse at Portal 31, as well
as a historic train depot and loadout
system have been preserved. A walking
tour provides context and explains the
significance of the various structures.
As a bonus, Portal 31 is a notable stop
on the Kentucky African American
Heritage Trail, highlighting the oftenoverlooked
contributions of Black
miners to the region.
Those who want to combine
Kentucky’s gorgeous scenery and
learning about the state’s coal history
can check out the Big South Fork
Scenic Railway.
This excursion on the historic
Kentucky & Tennessee Railway line
offers a picturesque 90-minute round
trip to Blue Heron. Visitors can explore
the beautiful and historic scenery,
including a narration and history of
the area on a ride through the scenic
mountains of Southern Kentucky and
stop at the historic Blue Heron Mining
Camp. The Big South Fork Scenic
Railway takes a 14-mile trip down to
Blue Heron, the largest interpretive
collection of historic coal mining in the
United States.
For more information on these
unique experiences and countless
others, visit www.kentuckytourism.com.
By looking below the surface,
visitors to Kentucky can discover so
much more.

6 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP SENIOR ACTIVE LIVING FALL 2025
Empower Wellness, lness Embrace m Life
f
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Reach out today to explore a variety of options and resources.
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Locations In Chelsea & Peabody
To Learn More or Schedule a Tour,
Contact Jill Hemeon at 857-337-8850
or jhemeon@legacylifecare.org

SENIOR ACTIVE LIVING FALL 2025 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP 7
Wondering how to protect your assets?
The Law Office of Julie Low can help
The Law Office of Julie Low
practices exclusively in elder law,
estate planning, probate and estate
administration, and special-needs
planning.
The firm designs customized,
comprehensive will-based and trustbased
estate plans to meet each client’s
unique needs. Whether your goal is to
protect assets from future long-term
care costs, minimize estate taxes and
administration fees, ensure a legacy
for your descendants, provide for your
needs in the event of incapacity or
protect and provide for a family member
with special needs, the Law Office of
Julie Low can design an estate plan that
meets your objectives.
Attorney Low opened her
Beverlybased firm because she had
a vision for the way law should be
practiced — with a focus on the client
instead of billable hours.
She believes in creating an inviting,
personable atmosphere where clients
feel comfortable discussing very
personal subjects. Attorney Low fully
engages her clients in the design
process, educating and guiding them
to make informed decisions. The
end result is a comprehensive plan
clients understand, rather than a set
of documents that have little personal
meaning.
The firm charges fixed prices instead
of traditional hourly rates for estate
planning. Attorney Low believes clients
appreciate knowing the cost of services
up front and the open communication
such an approach fosters.
Client meetings are centered around
important issues — not the clock
— and are handled with a touch of
lightheartedness, when appropriate,
"because contemplating disability,
incapacity or death is not a delightful or
pleasant experience for most."
Clients are invited to contact Julie, or
a team member, with questions, without
worrying about being billed for extra
time.
One of the firm’s specialties is the
creation of Long-Term Care Plans to
help clients navigate the complicated
regulations of Medicaid, Veterans
Benefits and other government
programs.
Because Julie is knowledgeable in
planning for both types of Medicaid
(traditional nursing home and the lesser
known, but unbelievably beneficial,
community programs), she reviews
her clients’ options with an eye to all
programs to ensure each plan provides
later flexibility.
Julie is a member of
WealthCounsel, ElderCounsel,
The National Academy of Elder Law
Attorneys (NAELA), and The
Academy of Special Needs Planners.
She graduated cum laude from
Western New England University
School of Law in 2007.
In her free time, Julie volunteers with
North Shore Elder Services’ Money
Management Program, assisting local
seniors with paying bills and budgeting,
and on Northeast ARC’s Human Rights
Committee.
The Law Office of Julie Low
provides complimentary workshops on
the basics of estate planning and long
term care.
Call the Law Office of Julie Low
today to sign up for the next workshop
or register on their website.
For peace of mind, for those you love, estate planning!
Special Needs Planning
Estate Planning
& Elder Law
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Estate Planning Workshop schedule
Saturday
November 8
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Tuesday
November 18
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Medicaid Workshop schedule
Thursday
December 11
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Saturdsay
December 6
10 a.m. - noon
266 Cabot St., Suite 1, Beverly • www.lawofficeofjulielow.com

8 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP SENIOR ACTIVE LIVING FALL 2025
Community water fluoridation is
a popular and proven dental health benefit
StatePoint
In a May 2025 national poll by
the Consumer Healthcare Products
Association in cooperation with the
American Dental Association (ADA),
more than 4 out of 5 survey takers
said they are familiar with fluoride’s
role in oral health and that fluoride is
particularly important for children,
while more than 2 out of 3 said they
are comfortable with fluoride in their
tap water.
Fluoride, a mineral that naturally
occurs in water sources such as rivers,
lakes and oceans, helps prevent tooth
decay by making the surface of teeth
stronger and more cavity-resistant. It’s
often the “active ingredient” in cavityfighting
toothpastes. Adding fluoride
to tap water is like adding vitamins
and minerals to foods and drinks,
helping people access important
nutrients for their oral and overall
health. So why has it become such a
focus of conversation lately?
Misleading data from countries
with fluoride levels that can reach
30 times the amount in U.S. public
water systems have created a flurry of
misinformation, yet still, this survey
shows that people know and trust in
fluoride’s power to help prevent tooth
decay at optimal levels. If community
water fluoridation is being debated
in your hometown, here’s what
America’s dentists want you to know.
Fluoride in water saves you pain
and money: Cavities are the most
common chronic childhood disease,
and community water fluoridation is
proven to do two important things:
reduce tooth decay by 25% in children
and adults and reduce the costs and
complications of severe cavities. The
ADA Health Policy Institute estimates
removing fluoride from all U.S.
community water systems would cost
$46 billion over five years because of
increased dental care costs.
Estimates aside, present-day
proof exists. When Calgary, Alberta;
Windsor, Ontario; and Juneau, Alaska
stopped adding fluoride to their water,
dental disease and its associated
costs rose in children and adults.
Five years after the ban in Windsor
was implemented, a dental health
report found that the rate of children
with tooth decay and/or requiring
urgent care for untreated dental health
issues increased by 51%. Windsor
and Calgary have since resumed
community water fluoridation.
Bans don’t help fight dental
disease: Community water
fluoridation is simply the adjustment
of naturally occurring fluoride in
drinking water to an optimal level
to prevent tooth decay. Almost all
U.S. water sources naturally contain
FLUORIDATION, PAGE 10

SENIOR ACTIVE LIVING FALL 2025 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP 9
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10 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP SENIOR ACTIVE LIVING FALL 2025
Community water fluoridation is
a popular and proven dental health benefit
FLUORIDATION
From Page 8
fluoride, but often not enough to be effective
in preventing cavities.
When a state bans fluoridation — as Utah
and Florida did recently — communities
that were adding fluoride to their water lose
access to a proven dental health benefit, while
others lose the opportunity to start. While
someone who lives in an area with fluoridated
public water can easily access water without
fluoride if they choose — through purified
bottled water or at-home water filtration —
someone who wants fluoridated water where
it’s been banned has had their choice taken
away without valid alternatives offered. This
is especially harmful to rural and low-income
communities and those who lack regular
access to dental care.
“Fluoridated water is a simple, inexpensive
way to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities,”
said ADA dentist, Scott L. Tomar, D.M.D.,
Dr.P.H. “Take away that access, and we know
the risk for cavities increases.”
The bottom line is that fluoride is popular
and good for your dental health. For more
information about fluoride in water, visit
MouthHealthy.org/fluoridation and ADA.org/
fluoride.
“The freedom to access optimally
fluoridated public water and receive its dental
health benefits should not be denied because
of misinformed policy decisions that ignore
community needs and majority support for
fluoride,” said Dr. Tomar. “Community water
fluoridation is the popular and proven choice.”
GLSS
Serving Greater Lynn and beyond...
Help at
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Health &
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Greater Lynn Senior Services
8 Silsbee Street Lynn, MA 01901 www.glss.net
GLSS nurses, case managers, social workers, and counselors are here
to help older adults and people of all ages living with disabilities
access the resources they need to live independently.
Meals &
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Caregiver
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Call us today at (781) 599-0110
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We can help if you or a family
member is experiencing challenges
to aging-in-place at home. Our varied
programs and services help older
adults, and people of all ages living
with disabilities, remain independent –
safely, and with dignity.
Navigating the elder care network to
find resources, support, and answers to
all your questions can be complicated,
but GLSS is here to help.
Please call us!
You will speak with our Information
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Our staff can help you:
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Information and Referral is a free
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SENIOR ACTIVE LIVING FALL 2025 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP 11
Get more from your retirement
More amenities. More value. More priceless peace of mind.
At Brooksby Village®, the North
Shore’s premier senior living community,
getting more from retirement is a way
of life for our residents. Enjoy active,
maintenance-free living with everything
you need just steps from your door.
Don’t just take our word for it.
Community residents Eli and Carol B. say,
“We looked at other places, but they didn’t
compare. Brooksby offers everything we
wanted, from security to convenience.”
Here are just a few reasons why seniors
are making the move to Brooksby Village.
More Resort-Style Amenities
From multiple on-site dining venues
to a fitness center and swimming pool—
you’ll never run out of things to do at
Brooksby Village. “There’s so much to do
here!” says resident Beth M. “It’s such a
wonderful place to live.” Whether your
passion is art, reading, fitness, or more,
you’ll find what you need to maintain an
active and independent lifestyle.
More From a Great Location
Enjoy a dynamic lifestyle in the perfect
place with the comfort and convenience
of a small town close to shopping, dining,
and entertainment. You’ll have access
to an array of amenities and services all
while remaining close to friends, family,
and the community you love.
“It was getting to be too much for me,
taking care of a big, seven-room cottage
all alone,” explains resident Patricia K.
“When I visited Brooksby, I quickly
realized that this is the place for me. I’m
very happy here.”
More Freedom From Everyday
Maintenance and Surprise Costs
and unexpected bills. Here, you don’t
just gain a stylish residence with
contemporary layouts and finishes. You
gain a maintenance-free home with the
predictable spending of a Monthly Service
Package that includes day-to-day expenses
like maintenance, utilities, Wi-Fi, and so
much more.
“Moving to Brooksby positively
impacted our expenses,” Brooksby Village
resident Stan S. agrees. “Why drive
somewhere when you can walk, indoors,
to a fitness center? So many of these
amenities offer tremendous value.”
“There’s so many benefits to living in a
vibrant community where you don’t have
to worry about handling repairs,” adds
Sally P. “Things get done for you, so you
have more time for all the activities.
More Peace of Mind
Say goodbye to costly home repairs Residents of Brooksby enjoy
We Offer MORE Than Other
Senior Living Communities.
convenient access to an on-site medical
center staffed by full-time providers who
understand the unique needs of seniors
like you. The community also includes
multiple levels of continuing care for
additional peace of mind.
Constance P. says, “I find that it’s very
easy and convenient to go to the medical
center, then to walk across the hall and
get my prescription filled at the pharmacy.
Everything is right here.”
Plus, Brooksby Village is managed by
Erickson Senior Living, ® a nationally
recognized leader among continuing care
retirement communities.
Don’t Wait for Your
Worry-Free Retirement
Learn even more reasons to choose
Brooksby Village. Call 1-888-246-3596 or
visit BrooksbyVillage.com for your FREE
brochure.
MORE For Your Money • MORE Peace of Mind
MORE Amenities and Services
Learn MORE reasons to choose retirement
living at Brooksby Village.® Call 1-888-246-3596
or visit BrooksbyVillage.com for your
FREE brochure.
North Shore
BrooksbyVillage.com
1580200

12 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP SENIOR ACTIVE LIVING FALL 2025
How precise diagnostic tools support
personalized bladder cancer care
StatePoint
Every bladder cancer journey is
different, and no single treatment
or diagnostic path fits everyone.
According to patients who have
experienced bladder cancer, the
best care for you will depend on
your personal situation.
“After experiencing recurring
bladder cancer, I learned that
understanding my path forward
meant looking beyond general
statistics and seeking out more
precise care based on my
individual case,” says Michael F.
A More Complete Picture
Because doctors often tailor
treatment decisions, it’s best that
the diagnostic procedures they
use give them the most complete
picture possible. One option your
doctor may offer is Blue Light
Cystoscopy (BLC), a diagnostic
procedure designed to help your
urologic surgeon better visualize
tumors in your bladder.
BLC involves placing a special
imaging agent into the bladder
at least one hour before the
procedure. During the procedure,
the surgeon will examine the
bladder lining using regular
white light, then switch on a
special blue light. The imaging
agent causes the tumors to glow
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Sales volume calculated by multiplying the number of buyer and/or seller sides by sales price. One unit equals one side of a transaction (buyer or seller). Source data is deemed reliable
but not guaranteed. Not intended as a solicitation if your property is already listed by another broker. Affiliated real estate agents are independent contractor sales associates, not
employees. ©2025 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System
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bright pink in the special blue
light. The enhanced visibility
helps define the edges of visible
tumors and reveals a certain type
of flat, cancerous lesion that can
otherwise be difficult to detect.
BLC is currently used during
TURBT (transurethral resection
of bladder tumor) procedures
and can also be used during
cystoscopies to monitor progress
during surveillance visits. Your
doctor might recommend BLC to
provide a more detailed view of
your bladder and to help gather
tissue samples that can provide
information that aids in diagnosis
and treatment planning. Having

SENIOR ACTIVE LIVING FALL 2025 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP 13
a better understanding of the
underwent 10–11 cystoscopies
are a few questions you might ask:
bladder cancer journey can help
characteristics of your bladder
cancer can help your doctor
determine or adjust your treatment
plan, and choose an appropriate
follow-up approach for you.
“Once my doctors began using
blue light, it became a standard
part of my cystoscopies, allowing
them to identify areas of concern
that had not been visible before,”
says Michael F.
Michael F’s recurring bladder
cancer required multiple
rounds of treatment, including
immunotherapy, chemotherapy
and eventually gene therapy. Over
the course of his treatments, he
— most of which utilized BLC
to identify suspicious cells that
were otherwise undetectable.
“With my robust form of cancer,
the enhanced cystoscopies were
able to reveal suspicious cells that
turned out to be pre-cancerous.
This helped my care team respond
faster and more efficiently,” he
says.
Asking About Your Options
Your urologist will consider
many factors when recommending
diagnostics, and not every tool
is right for every bladder cancer
case. When discussing your care
with your urologic surgeon, here
1. “Would Blue Light
Cystoscopy be helpful in my
case?”
2. “What are the options for
getting an enhanced view of my
bladder?”
3. “How do you personalize
care plans for someone with my
diagnosis?”
Michael F. often reminds others
that statistics are general, not
personal, and encourages speaking
up when something doesn’t seem
right. “Staying informed of your
care options, as well as being
honest, open and proactive with
your care team throughout your
you get precise, personalized
care,” he says.
If you are interested in
exploring BLC, speak with your
urologist. For information about
locations that offer BLC, visit
https://rebrand.ly/BLClocations.
Every cancer care path is unique
— and so are the tools that
may be used along the way. BLC
is one diagnostic option your
urologic oncologist may use
to help visualize your bladder
more clearly, and provide timely,
tailored treatment.
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14 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP SENIOR ACTIVE LIVING FALL 2025
How to upgrade your home for multi-generational living
StatePoint
Multi-generational living is
becoming increasingly common.
However, as families grow and
change, so must their homes.
Danielle DeBoe Harper, senior
creative style manager at Moen, a
leader in water experiences in the
home, shares three ways to develop
aesthetically pleasing spaces that
cater to everyone’s needs.
Create a Connected Kitchen
The kitchen is a place where
everyone seems to gather. When
planning your space, focus on a
layout that fosters interaction. A
large island can become a center for
conversation, homework and meal
prep, while a spacious dining area
easily accommodates the whole
family. Incorporate booster seats or
highchairs for young children and
consider seat cushions or chairs with
armrests to ensure comfort and ease
for older family members.
“Prioritize an environment where
daily tasks become effortless for
everyone,” says DeBoe Harper.
“Products like pot fillers above
the stove eliminate the strain of
carrying heavy pots of water for
younger family members or those
with mobility challenges, and
touchless faucets help reduce the
spread of germs – important in a
large household, especially one with
children. Plus, hands-free fixtures
don’t require turning or twisting a
knob to activate, simplifying the
task for kids as well as household
members with limited dexterity or
arthritis.”
Transform Bathrooms
A well-designed bathroom should
function for all family members.
Grab bars in the shower and near the
toilet add accessibility and an extra
layer of safety for older relatives,
pregnant women or those with
mobility challenges. The good news
is that you can choose decorative
fixtures that blend effortlessly
with different design styles, from
traditional to transitional and even
contemporary industrial.
“Even the smallest changes make
a difference,” says DeBoe Harper.
“Beyond grab bars, a small bench
or seating area benefits those with
mobility limitations and provides
a spot for kids to sit while parents
get ready. Dual vanities and
mirrors mean less fighting over the
bathroom in the mornings! And
furniture with spacious drawers
or recessed shelving help keep the
space organized.”
When selecting shower fixtures,
consider installing a multi-spray
showerhead for a customizable
showering experience. The Moen
Verso Combination Shower with
Infiniti Dial is ideal for multigenerational
homes as it’s easy for
all dexterity levels to operate. It

SENIOR ACTIVE LIVING FALL 2025 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP 15
combines a pivoting rainshower
with a handshower, perfect for
rinsing hair when bathing small
children, or helping those with
limited flexibility shower more
easily or while seated. The Infiniti
Dial provides personalized spray
and coverage choices, too.
Design a Dynamic Living Room
Flexibility is key for everyday
living, so invest in furniture that
adapts to different needs. Think
extendable dining tables for large
family meals, or modular sofas and
ottomans that easily maneuver to
create more play space or to seat
extra guests during a party. Many
ottomans even offer built-in storage,
perfect for tucking away toys and
books. You also can utilize an extra
table or credenza as a craft station
or homework spot, with ample room
to store supplies.
“The living room is like an art
canvas, and each family member can
contribute something meaningful to
bring this space to life,” says DeBoe
Harper. “Dedicate a wall area to
hang children’s artwork or family
photos. It’s also a great spot to
weave in family heirlooms or items
that hold sentimental value, so you
can infuse the room with warmth
and family history.”
Visit Moen.com for more multigenerational
design tips in the home.
By focusing on functionality,
comfort and thoughtful design in
key areas, you can develop a setting
that seamlessly embraces loved ones
of all ages for years to come.
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warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. ©2025 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is
comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC and franchised offices which are in- dependently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and
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16 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP SENIOR ACTIVE LIVING FALL 2025
Steps to create a budget that empowers you
StatePoint
According to personal finance
experts, it may be time to rewrite
your relationship with budgeting,
particularly if your associations with
the task are negative.
“Budgeting isn’t about having
less—it’s about making more of
what you have,” says David Chubak,
principal, head of Wealth Management
& Field Engagement at Edward Jones.
“When executed effectively, it’s the
roadmap that turns financial chaos
into clarity.”
To help you align your finances
with your goals and values, Edward
Jones is sharing these budgeting steps:
Track income and expenses:
Discover what’s being earned and
what’s being spent. To get a clear
picture, consider delving into detailed
spending categories, such as housing,
groceries, childcare, entertainment,
savings and debt. Be sure to factor in
annual and semiannual expenses like
insurance premiums. Whether you
use a spreadsheet, a list or an app,
remember that the most important
thing is consistency, so find a tool that
will make you stick with the habit.
Use the 50/30/20 rule as a guide:
Not sure how to appropriate your
money? Many financial advisors
suggest the 50/30/20 rule as a guide.
This means using 50% of your income
for needs, 30% for wants and 20% for
savings and debt repayment.
Set your initial target budget: You
may learn that your current spending
exceeds your income, or that it’s
not allowing you to achieve your
financial goals. If this is the case,
look for budget items that could be
cut or swapped for less expensive
alternatives. To make additional
room in your budget, you could also
generate more income by pursuing
a side hustle, seeking out a higher
paying position or asking for a raise.
If you’re still not balancing your
budget after these measures, it might
be time to reprioritize your goals.
Build an emergency fund: Even
a solid budget can be derailed by
unexpected circumstances. Be sure
that your budget includes a line item
for building an emergency fund to
prepare you for everything from job
loss and housing repairs to medical
expenses. After you’ve amassed what
you’d need to weather three to six
months of a financial emergency,
leave this rainy-day fund untouched
and concentrate on other budget
items, such as paying down debt or
investing.
Monitor your budget: Schedule
periodic check-ins to ensure you’re
staying on track and that your initial
budget was accurate. For example, if
you missed an annual subscription fee
or miscalculated an expense, now’s
the time to make adjustments.
Review your budget: Every three
to five years, review your budget to
see if it still makes sense or whether
a redo is necessary. You should also
do a budgetary pause and reset after
major life changes, such as marriage,
divorce, birth or the loss of a loved
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Strength training and balance
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SENIOR LIVING ACTIVE WINTER LIVING FALL 20152025 ESSEX THE MEDIA DAILY GROUP ITEM 17
one, or when there are big changes
to your income and expenses. For
example, you should complete a
budget overhaul after events like a
home purchase or big promotion.
For more budgeting tips,
or to connect with a financial
advisor who can work with you to
review your finances and create
a budgeting strategy that allows
you to reach your goals, visit
edwardjones.com.
“Budgeting can be hard work,
so make it enjoyable. Whether
you’re tackling the numbers solo
or with a partner, pair budgeting
with something you enjoy, like a
nice meal at home or your favorite
treat. And be sure your attention
is focused not only on budget
cuts, but also on what goals and
priorities you’re working toward,”
says Chubak.
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18 SENIOR ESSEX LIVING MEDIA WINTER GROUP 2015 SENIOR ACTIVE THE LIVING DAILY FALL ITEM 2025 18
Where Compassion Meets Care, Every Step of the Way
Amid volatility,
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StatePoint
Three quarters of Americans (74%)
are optimistic about their financial
futures despite recent market volatility
and uncertainty, according to new
research.
Capturing the goals, challenges
and feelings of North Americans
regarding their finances, research
for “The Pulse of North America”
report was conducted by Edward
Jones and Cerulli Associates during
April’s increased market volatility.
An encouraging 79% of respondents
indicated they are on track to achieve
or have already achieved a financially
fulfilled life.
“Sentiment from our own clients
confirms this,” said David Gunn,
principal, head of U.S. and Canada
Business Units at Edward Jones.
“In the half a million conversations
our financial advisors have had with
clients in the past five months, only
a quarter of our clients highlight
fi n a n c i a l s t r e s s . T h i s r e fl e c t s t h e
power of deep, personal, trusting
relationships and holistic financial
advice.”
Recent volatility impacts, but does
not derail, financial fulfillment
Despite 49% of respondents
indicating that inflation is a source
of financial stress, Americans remain
steadfast in the pursuit of financial
fulfillment. They define fulfillment
as having the freedom to pursue their
passions (46%), make a better life for
themselves and their families (42%),
and have security and protection from
unforeseen events (41%).
To become more financially
fulfilled, Americans are most willing
to change their discretionary spending
habits (45%), pay off their debt
(33%), and improve their financial
literacy (28%). This flexibility will
help them tackle potential obstacles,
including rising living costs (59%),
unexpected financial setbacks
(35%), and insufficient income or
savings (27%). Nearly two-thirds of
respondents (63%) indicated they
would need to earn a $150,000-plus
salary annually to achieve financial
freedom.
Americans report optimism
and progress relative to personal
benchmarks
When it comes to tracking financial
progress, only 18% of Americans
benchmark themselves against their
own goals and plans rather than
those of others, while 33% primarily
compare themselves to their peers,
22% to their significant others, and
19% to their colleagues.
Respondents indicated that they are
tracking confidently against financial
and other life goals, reporting that
they are on par with or ahead of others
when it comes to specific objectives,
such as achieving financial stability
(88%), travel goals (84%), financial
literacy (83%), saving for retirement
(80%), and achieving homeownership
(78%).
“Even with heightened market
volatility and economic uncertainty,
American investors have stayed
the course with their portfolios and
long-term plans,” added Gunn. “They
are making meaningful progress by
keeping the future in mind, while
expressing willingness to pivot in
real time with the help of a financial
professional.”

SENIOR LIVING ACTIVE WINTER LIVING FALL 20152025 ESSEX THE MEDIA DAILY GROUP ITEM 19
The role of financial advisors in
pursuing financial fulfilment
While 57% of DIY investors have
a financial plan, this number increases
to 77% for Americans who regularly
engage with a financial advisor.
Those working with a financial
advisor are doing so to manage
financial risk (28%), seek a second
opinion on financial decisions (26%),
or based on recommendations from
family members or other professionals
(25%). Americans who regularly
work with a financial advisor are
more likely to feel optimistic about
their financial future than those who
manage their finances on their own
(79% vs 71% respectively).
For more research insights, visit
www.edwardjones.com/pulse.
Despite uncertainty, Americans
are feeling confident about their
finances, especially those who rely on
professional advice.
What should you pay
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As a consumer it can be
provides best practices for
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supplier of the device. When
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evaluating the options there
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are two essential questions that
our patients through their
need to be addressed: How are
entire hearing journey, not
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20 SENIOR ESSEX LIVING MEDIA WINTER GROUP 2015 SENIOR ACTIVE THE LIVING DAILY FALL ITEM 2025
Mayo Clinic News Network
Stem cells may offer new hope for
end-stage kidney disease treatment
More than 4 million people
worldwide have end-stage kidney
disease that requires hemodialysis, a
treatment in which a machine filters
waste from the blood. Hemodialysis
is a precursor to kidney transplant.
To prepare for it, patients typically
undergo surgery to connect an artery
and a vein in the arm, creating an
arteriovenous fistula (AVF) that
allows blood to flow through the vein
for treatment. However, AVF fails
about 60 percent of the time due to
vein narrowing. This is a major barrier
to effective treatment.
Mayo Clinic researchers found
that transplanting patients' own stem
cells from fat cells into the vein often
helped prevent inflammation and vein
narrowing. This could help millions of
people with end-stage kidney disease
tolerate dialysis longer, extending
the time before they require a kidney
transplant.
That is because these adult stem
cells called mesenchymal stem cells
secrete healing growth factors that
appear to be effective for certain
patients with an AVF, according to
Sanjay Misra, M.D., a Mayo Clinic
interventional radiologist and senior
author of the study published in
Science Translational Medicine.
"Mesenchymal stem cells have
anti-inflammatory properties," he
says. "Inflammation is a significant
problem, especially in Western
society, because it's a hallmark of a lot
of medical problems: heart disease,
vascular disease, hypertension, high
cholesterol and cancer. They are all
Stem cells may offer new hope for end-stage kidney disease treatment.
driven by inflammation."
In this study, 21 participants
Dr. Misra collaborates with other received AVFs as part of a phase I
physicians and researchers to explore clinical trial. Eleven participants were
stem cell therapies for a variety of injected with their own fat-derived
diseases, from inflammatory bowel mesenchymal stem cells before AVF
disease to osteoarthritis. However, surgery; 10 were part of the control
his lab's primary focus is on the group. The AVFs healed faster and
mechanisms that lead to the failure were more durable in most of those
of hemodialysis graft, a surgical who received the stem cells. However,
procedure that creates a permanent not everyone responded to them.
access point in the bloodstream for "We were surprised by these
hemodialysis.
differences in response to the
Improving kidney disease treatment mesenchymal stem cells. This spurred
options
us to delve further into our research
TNS PHOTO | JAN BRUDER
and include preclinical models and
RNA sequencing technology," says
lead author Sreenivasulu Kilari, Ph.D.
The researchers identified specific
anti-inflammatory gene factors in
those who responded well to the
stem cells. They say these genetic
biomarkers could help predict which
patients are most likely to benefit
from this stem cell application and
help inform personalized treatment
options. The researchers hope to
garner more information through
larger clinical trials.

SENIOR LIVING ACTIVE WINTER LIVING FALL 20152025 ESSEX THE MEDIA DAILY GROUP ITEM 21
StatePoint
3 Things every older adult should do
for their health this fall
For older adults, fall is an
important time to focus on health and
wellness.
According to Ryan Kocher,
who leads Medicare growth for
HealthSpring, the new brand for
Health Care Service Corporation’s
Medicare business, formerly owned
by the Cigna Group, the following
three tasks are essential for seniors to
complete as cool weather sets in.
Get a Flu Shot
An influenza vaccine can help
prevent serious illness due to flu.
As immune defense diminishes with
age, older adults are increasingly
susceptible to flu complications.
The Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC) recommends the
use of higher dose flu vaccines for
people 65 years and older. This fall,
in advance of flu season, visit your
healthcare provider or pharmacist to
get the right vaccine for you. This
is also a good time to catch up on
any other immunizations that your
provider recommends.
Review Medicare Coverage
Medicare is the government health
insurance program for Americans 65
and older and others who qualify.
Many Medicare beneficiaries choose
or change their plans during the
Medicare Annual Enrollment Period
(AEP), which takes place between
Oct. 15 and Dec. 7. HealthSpring is
offering a host of Medicare options
your plan every AEP, especially if
you’ve experienced changes to your
health, lifestyle or finances. It’s
especially important to read your
Annual Notice of Change (ANOC)
letter – delivered every September –
to find out about any modifications to
your current plan.
• Dig into the details: A good plan
is one that includes your favorite
providers and specialists and covers
the medications you currently take.
When reviewing plans, take these
everything Original Medicare does, so
do your research to see if these plans
will work for you.
• Learn more: Before enrolling
in a particular plan, be sure you
understand the details. Call Medicare
at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-
4227) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week;
TTY users can call 1-877-486-
2048. Or, visit the Medicare Plan
Finder website at Medicare.gov/
plan-compare. For local assistance,
refer to the State Health Insurance
for more information. For example,
HealthSpring’s website is www.
healthspring.com.
Use Your Health Care Benefits
Annual enrollment also serves as
a good reminder to take advantage of
all your Medicare benefits. Preventive
care and a healthy lifestyle can help
you maintain your independence and
vitality as you age. Tap into what your
plan offers so you can actively engage
in your health and well-being.
By checking a few important items
for 2026. The company provides these
factors into consideration.
Assistance Program website at www.
off your to-do list during autumn, you
tips for selecting a plan:
• Consider all your options:
shiptacenter.org. You can also visit
can ensure you’re well-positioned for
• Check for plan changes: Review
Medicare Advantage plans cover
individual Medicare plans’ websites
a healthy winter and 2026.

22 SENIOR ESSEX LIVING MEDIA WINTER GROUP 2015 SENIOR ACTIVE THE LIVING DAILY FALL ITEM 2025 22
Rewinding history: Why cassettes are making a comeback
Samuel Long
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
PITTSBURGH — Though Gabriel
Dominic-Dunlap didn't grow up with
cassettes, he's now a collector who
can be seen sporting a personal tape
player.
The 20-year-old Duquesne
University student only discovered an
enthusiasm for the format, which hit
peak popularity in the 1980s, within
the past few months. He carries tapes
from his small collection with him to
listen on his way to class and while
walking around town.
"The retro aspect is kind of
cool, but it's definitely just the
feeling of being able to take out a
cassette album, flipping it around
and the sound of it closing in,"
Dominic-Dunlap said. "You hear the
mechanisms turning when you first
play it and fall in love with it."
Similar to the resurgence of vinyl
records — though to a lesser degree,
sales-wise — the two-spooled,
magnetic cassette tape hasn't quite
stayed in the past. Though a more
portable option than vinyl, tapes are
imperfect — degrading with time and,
even when new, blanketing music
with a warm hiss.
And alongside current artists
including Taylor Swift and Bad Bunny
releasing new music on cassette,
some Pittsburgh record store owners
are seeing an uptick in interest in the
format. Their theories as to why range
from user sentimentality to a desire,
in this age of streaming, to again be
able to physically hold music that's
actually owned.
The Attic in Millvale recently
started offering a collection of tapes,
which now fills two floor-to-ceiling
shelves. Enough are being sold to
make their curation worth it, said
51-year-old owner Fred Bohn Jr., of
Three tape decks sit in the Attic in Millvale.
Shaler.
Noticing heightened interest for the
format around a year ago, Bohn said
the store has since been able to buy
entire cassette collections and resell
them at a small profit.
"It was just a huge response.
People started coming out of the
woodwork just to see what cassettes
we had," Bohn said.
Data show that Bohn isn't the only
person seeing an increase in cassette
sales and interest.
Sales increased by 28% in 2022,
per music industry tracker Luminate,
with 440,000 cassettes sold, up from
343,000 the year prior. It's a small
slice, with total sales of physical
albums — cassettes, CDs and vinyl —
at 79.9 million in 2022.
The top album of 2024 on cassette,
according to Luminate, was Taylor
Swift's new "The Tortured Poets
Department," with 25,000 sold. Not
far behind, with 23,000 sold, was
"Guardians of the Galaxy: Awesome
Mix Vol. 1," originally released in
2014.
Other big-name music artists
and labels are also selling cassettes.
TNS PHOTO | SAMUEL LONG
On Amazon, you can order Sabrina
Carpenter's most recent album "Man's
Best Friend," released in late August,
on cassette for $15.97. A new tape of
Nirvana's "Nevermind" is available
for a similar price. You can even order
the soundtrack for the popular video
game Minecraft, "Volume Alpha," on
the format.
But there are plenty of used
cassettes available as well. And for
fans of the format who are wanting to
make their own mixtapes or physical
audio journals, Jerry's Records in
Squirrel Hill also sells blank cassettes.

SENIOR LIVING ACTIVE WINTER LIVING FALL 20152025 ESSEX THE MEDIA DAILY GROUP ITEM 23
Used cassettes make up a chunk
of Eric Stevens' collection; the
Greenfield resident has kept the
format close his entire life.
Stevens, who runs a cassette tapebased
record label called Michi Tapes,
grew up with cassettes through the
1990s and early 2000s, listening to the
likes of "(What's the Story) Morning
Glory?" by Oasis and "Harvest
Moon" by Neil Young. As an eighth
grader at Saint Marys Area Middle
School, he remembers queueing up
a cassette of "Dazed and Confused"
by Led Zeppelin for a music analysis
presentation.
At 34, he boasts a collection of
nearly 300 tapes, around 100 of which
are 90-minute mixtapes recorded from
the radio. The other 200 are made up
of local bands, some recorded through
his Michi Tapes label, in addition
to other genres such as jazz and
classical.
"I feel like the sliding scale of
disintegration of sound is a little more
subtle. It feels like just the highs get
shaved off, but you can still listen to a
tape that's aging and being worn over
the years," Stevens said. "Obviously,
it's not as good as if it's a fresh tape
or something, but I think as far as
listenability it's a little smoother even
if it's messed up."
Chris Grauzer, a 42-year-old
Swissvale resident who owns Jerry's
Records, hasn't quite been able to pin
down the reason behind this reigniting
of cassette culture. He said people
his age seem to be interested in VHS
tapes because of nostalgia, and the
same could apply to an increase in a
passion for cassettes.
But the demographic of cassette
tape customers he's used to seeing
skews even younger.
"I'm seeing 20-year-olds, 25-yearolds,
people that were born after 2000
that are into cassettes," Grauzer said.
"And that's wild to me, because it's
clearly not a nostalgia thing. They
didn't grow up with them."
Bohn's cassette customers, he said,
similarly tend to be in their early 20s.
Perhaps the younger generations
are more interested in formats that are
tangible, that they can hold, Grauzer
said. He theorized that some may be
"fed up" with the digital world and
streaming services that provide access
to artists' music — rather than the
ability to own it.
Dominic-Dunlap said he enjoys
that physical aspect of cassettes, and
that once he purchases the music he
owns it forever.
"More and more it seems like you
gotta buy a subscription of this or pay
for a monthly or yearly subscription
of that just to own what you paid
for, for a limited amount of time," he
explained. "That's why a lot of people
are going back to physical media."
There's also the presence of
cassette culture in popular media to
consider, Grauzer said. In "Guardians
of the Galaxy" (2014), main character
Peter Quill (played by Chris Pratt)
wears a Sony Walkman TPS-L2 — the
original Sony cassette player released
in 1979 — on his hip and sports
orange-padded headphones.
Grauzer saw a surge of people
coming into Jerry's asking about
cassettes in relation to the movie, and
a similar spike in interest followed the
release of "Stranger Things" Season 4
in 2022. In that series, Max Mayfield
(Sadie Sink) wears a Sony Walkman
WM-8 and listens to Kate Bush's
"Running Up That Hill." The song
protected her from succumbing to the
main antagonist, culminating in an
epic scene with an orchestral rendition
of the song.
The vinyl of the LP with "Running
Up That Hill," on Kate Bush's fifth
studio album "Hounds of Love"
(1985), surged in price to over $100,
Grauzer recalled.
Online prices for the Sony
Walkman WM-8 also increased,
and many used models on eBay
are currently listed for hundreds of
dollars.
"If I had a nickel for every time
someone asked me for 'Running Up
That Hill,' I'd be a rich man," Grauzer
said.
Dominic-Dunlap said finding his
player was a difficult process. He
originally looked into buying an old
Sony Walkman but couldn't justify
the cost. So he took to an online hunt,
and ended up with an RTM Industries
player.
"There aren't enough players. We
have none currently," Grauzer said.
There are some small companies
making new versions of portable
cassette players, including Retrospekt
in Milwaukee, with its CP-81 model,
and We Are Rewind in Paris. There
are units available on Amazon for
between $30 and $60, and stereo
cassette decks available for between
$150 and $400. Dominic-Dunlap
bought his cassette player from
France-based Recording the Masters,
an analog audio company.
Secondhand players, however,
are usually broken and need to be
repaired, Bohn said.
Due to the cost of those repairs,
Galaxie Electronics owner Vince
Bomba said he'll no longer work
on older cassette decks or portable
players.
A non-functional cassette deck or
portable player that may have been
purchased for around $20 can quickly
turn into a fix costing hundreds of
dollars, due to mechanical issues and
the availability of parts, Bomba said.
Some sellers on eBay will 3D print
parts, but those versions often don't
last long either, said Bomba.
Still, at Galaxie Electronics,
which is housed in the same building
as Jerry's Records, still stocks the
Sony TC-WE305 cassette deck on its
shelves, which was released in the
mid-1990s.
"They're easy to get parts for, so
the die-hard cassette people, I try
to keep them on the shelf for those
guys," Bomba said.
Retrospekt sells refurbished
secondhand portable cassette players,
including the iconic Walkman. Prices
for these players range from $119
for a Panasonic player to $999 for
the Sony Walkman TPS-L2 used in
"Guardians of the Galaxy."
The ability to repair these players
is dependent on their condition, said
owner Adam Fuerst. Retrospekt works
with manufacturers to order new
parts for certain units after analyzing
specifications and determining what
needs to be fixed.
"What I like about cassettes
in particular is the lack of what it
is. It's not perfect," he said. "And
the imperfection is what makes it
appealing in some ways because
everything's artificially perfect now."
He compared buying into cassette
culture to buying a "worn and lived
in" house, where accidents like a pet
scratching the doors won't take away
from the building's established charm.
"It's just a much more casual
listening experience, and it feels like
you can finally take a breath and just
enjoy the music and not worry about
your child coming up to the table and
bumping it and scratching your record
that you spent $60 on," Fuerst said.

24 ESSEX MEDIA GROUP SENIOR ACTIVE LIVING FALL 2025
Senior Real Estate
Specialist Designation
Marjorie Youngren
781.580.9357
MarjorieY@cbrealty.com